At the NFL's midseason mark, we identify and applaud key contributors who leveled up in the first...

At the NFL's midseason mark, we identify and applaud key contributors who leveled up in the first half of the schedule. The All-Riser lineup doesn't include rookies or past Pro Bowlers, instead saluting 11 players who toiled in the league before they rocketed to relevance or stardom.Quarterback: Sam Darnold, Vikings<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754086/cropped_GettyImages-2176196114.jpg?ts=1731005714" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754086/w220xh124_GettyImages-2176196114.jpg?ts=1731005714 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754086/w320xh180_GettyImages-2176196114.jpg?ts=1731005714 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754086/w640xh360_GettyImages-2176196114.jpg?ts=1731005714 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754086/w768xh432_GettyImages-2176196114.jpg?ts=1731005714 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754086/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2176196114.jpg?ts=1731005714 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Stacy Revere / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Losing Kirk Cousins in free agency and rookie J.J. McCarthy to a preseason meniscus tear weakened Minnesota's quarterback room. Darnold silenced worries by blossoming with his fourth team. He ranks in the top 10 in completion percentage (69.5%), passing touchdowns (17 against seven interceptions), and completed air yards (1,187 out of his total of 1,900), signaling he can efficiently propel the ball downfield.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>In his first six seasons, Darnold compiled a 59.7% completion rate, 63-56 TD-INT split, and 21-35 record between the Jets, Panthers, and 49ers. He was memeified with the <a href="https://x.com/bubbaprog/status/1173999883621228544">mononucleosis graphic</a> and pigeonholed as a draft bust and second-choice QB. Darnold's dramatic improvement positioned the 6-2 Vikings to compete for first place in the stacked NFC North.Running back: Jordan Mason, 49ers<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754089/cropped_GettyImages-2178149473.jpg?ts=1731005951" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754089/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178149473.jpg?ts=1731005951 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754089/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178149473.jpg?ts=1731005951 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754089/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178149473.jpg?ts=1731005951 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754089/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178149473.jpg?ts=1731005951 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754089/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178149473.jpg?ts=1731005951 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Steph Chambers / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Injury breeds opportunity, and Mason compensated for Christian McCaffrey's long absence by shining as the Niners' featured back. He exclusively trails huge names (Derrick Henry, Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs) on the NFL rushing leaderboard. His 685 yards equate to 85.6 per game and 5.1 per carry, which aren't far off McCaffrey's career highs.Mason wasn't completely obscure before this season: A 55-yard, win-sealing run against the 2022 Seahawks put him on the map as a rookie undrafted free agent. Three 100-yard, one-touchdown efforts in September showcased his power and vision. He isn't a major receiving threat, and his numbers began to tail off ahead of McCaffrey's anticipated return, but Mason fit in with and complemented Brock Purdy's wide array of playmakers.Wide receiver: Nico Collins, TexansFive spectacular showings assured Collins of his place in this lineup before he bowed out of action for the past month with a hamstring problem. He totaled 32 catches for 567 receiving yards and exceeded the century mark in three of the 6-3 Texans' early wins.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
W🤯W 📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/NFLonCBS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NFLonCBS</a> / <a href="https://twitter.com/paramountplus?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@paramountplus</a> <a href="https://t.co/7k4hPMvWD2">pic.twitter.com/7k4hPMvWD2</a>— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) <a href="https://twitter.com/HoustonTexans/status/1832836894930968992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Besides Ja'Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson, no NFL wideout is within 20 yards of Collins' colossal per-game average (113.4). C.J. Stroud found him for a 67-yard <a href="https://x.com/theScore/status/1842984292890349655">breakaway touchdown</a> and a 55-yard twirling grab in double coverage. Eight of his receptions were 20-plus-yard explosive plays, and a whopping 27 moved the chains, suggesting that activating Collins should revive Houston's pass attack following a few quiet weeks.Tight end: Trey McBride, Cardinals<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754094/cropped_GettyImages-2173785315.jpg?ts=1731006192" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754094/w220xh124_GettyImages-2173785315.jpg?ts=1731006192 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754094/w320xh180_GettyImages-2173785315.jpg?ts=1731006192 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754094/w640xh360_GettyImages-2173785315.jpg?ts=1731006192 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754094/w768xh432_GettyImages-2173785315.jpg?ts=1731006192 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754094/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2173785315.jpg?ts=1731006192 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Christian Petersen / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Kyler Murray's main weapon leads the surging Cardinals in targets (60), catches (45), and receiving yards (481) for a second straight season while Marvin Harrison Jr. flits in and out of the game plan. McBride is an All-Riser because he was already good but now produces like a star at his position.McBride ranks third among tight ends in receptions. He closely trails George Kittle, Brock Bowers, and Dallas Goedert in yards per game with 60.1, up from 48.5 last year. He's gained 23 first downs without a drop or fumble and offset his surprising lack of a receiving touchdown with a two-yard <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9RSc4oGoeHQ">rushing major</a>, a <a href="https://www.nfl.com/videos/trey-mcbride-recovers-conner-s-fumble-in-end-zone-for-td-in-right-place-right-time">fumble recovery</a> in the end zone, and nine 15-plus-yard grabs on various Arizona scoring drives.Offensive lineman: Charles Cross, SeahawksSeattle's left tackle has given up one lone sack and three quarterback hits in 427 pass-blocking snaps, per <a href="https://www.pff.com/">PFF</a>. That permitted Geno Smith to pace the NFL in pass attempts, completions, and yards through Week 9 and keep the 4-5 Seahawks in certain games despite their anemic rush attack and defensive shortcomings.Cross fulfills a demanding role. Going off PFF's player grades, no other Seahawks offensive lineman is one of the top 15 performers at his position. Cross' 84.6 grade is the fourth best for a left tackle - he's a smidge ahead of perennial All-Pro Trent Williams - and dwarfs his 67.6 mark from last season when a toe sprain slowed him.Interior defensive lineman: Grover Stewart, ColtsStewart's 2023 campaign was derailed by a six-week suspension for violating the NFL's PED policy. The eighth-year Colt jumpstarted his redemption arc with a clutch <a href="https://www.colts.com/video/highlight-caleb-williams-fumbles-grover-stewart-recovers">fumble recovery</a> in a close win over the Bears. As part of his first career multi-sack game, he bowled over Minnesota's center last weekend to strip Darnold and spring Kenny Moore for a 38-yard score.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Fumble six! Grover Stewart forced the ball out and Kenny Moore II scoops it up and scores for the <a href="https://twitter.com/Colts?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Colts</a>! 📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INDvsMIN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INDvsMIN</a> on NBC/Peacock 📱: Stream on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NFLPlus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NFLPlus</a> <a href="https://t.co/PSgU0G9Px1">pic.twitter.com/PSgU0G9Px1</a>— NFL (@NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1853256615014945193?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 4, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Stewart plugs gaps in the trenches and has recorded 13 rush stops, defined as tackles that seal a failure for the offense. No interior lineman with at least 10 tackles has a superior average depth of tackle against the run (0.7 yards past scrimmage), per PFF. Handoffs go nowhere when he swallows the ball carrier.Edge rusher: Will McDonald, Jets<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754097/cropped_GettyImages-2182400096.jpg?ts=1731006396" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754097/w220xh124_GettyImages-2182400096.jpg?ts=1731006396 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754097/w320xh180_GettyImages-2182400096.jpg?ts=1731006396 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754097/w640xh360_GettyImages-2182400096.jpg?ts=1731006396 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754097/w768xh432_GettyImages-2182400096.jpg?ts=1731006396 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754097/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2182400096.jpg?ts=1731006396 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Mundane production in 2023 (three sacks, 12 total QB pressures, 19% defensive snap percentage) earned McDonald a "D" grade in theScore's end-of-season <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2805625" href="https://thescore.com/news/2805625">rookie report card</a>. That damning evaluation is a distant memory for the NFL's third-leading sack artist.Five of McDonald's eight QB takedowns came in quick succession in September as Gang Green topped the Titans and held the Patriots to 139 offensive yards - the second-lowest yield around the league this season. His 34 pressures, two forced fumbles, and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3WUZfAS2TY">red-zone takeaway</a> against the Texans have helped fuel a valiant defensive effort. The 3-6 Jets rank 25th in scoring but are fourth in yards allowed, second in pass yards allowed, and second in sacks.Linebacker: Zack Baun, Eagles<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754098/cropped_GettyImages-2173029471.jpg?ts=1731006712" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754098/w220xh124_GettyImages-2173029471.jpg?ts=1731006712 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754098/w320xh180_GettyImages-2173029471.jpg?ts=1731006712 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754098/w640xh360_GettyImages-2173029471.jpg?ts=1731006712 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754098/w768xh432_GettyImages-2173029471.jpg?ts=1731006712 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/754098/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2173029471.jpg?ts=1731006712 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Cooper Neill / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Baun's padded the stat sheet as the league leader in stops (37) and graced the highlight reel with splash plays. He's one of five linebackers with multiple sacks, a forced fumble, and an <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8n5QdLKixw">interception</a>, which gifted the Eagles a short field last weekend ahead of a pivotal touchdown drive.The savvy signing of Baun, a four-year backup with the Saints, fortified the middle of Philadelphia's defense. In pass coverage, he's allowed no TDs and the fourth-fewest yards per reception (6.2) among qualified linebackers. He plays every down (96% snap count) alongside Nakobe Dean, whose own acrobatic <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gvvfbjYDvEc">pick</a> in the end zone Sunday snuffed out the Jaguars' comeback hopes.Cornerback: Zyon McCollum, BuccaneersMcCollum's glow-up in his third season contrasts the slippage of the Bucs' 30th-ranked defense, the only unit that's surrendered 500 yards twice. In that unsupportive environment, their top cornerback netted his first two NFL interceptions, six pass breakups, and an eye-popping fumble recovery.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
ALMOST AN INSANE SCOOP &amp; SCORE 🤯 Zyon McCollum was ruled down by contact before the fumble return. <a href="https://t.co/CHDwWDNZ0p">pic.twitter.com/CHDwWDNZ0p</a>— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) <a href="https://twitter.com/ClutchPoints/status/1848554864978038997?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 22, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>His underlying metrics impress. McCollum's played the second-most coverage snaps (380) but faced the 27th-most targets (41) at his position because QBs balk at testing him. While taking only one penalty, he's limited opponents to a 51.2% catch rate, fifth best among the 50 corners with the most snaps. Patrick Mahomes picked on McCollum's teammates in last Monday's overtime thriller but gained a mere 8 yards on throws in his direction, per PFF.Safety: Kerby Joseph, LionsDetroit's safeties - Joseph and Brian Branch - slam passing windows shut and have combined to snatch more interceptions (10) than 26 entire teams. Joseph's sixth takeaway and first career pick-6, which widened a halftime lead over the Packers, counterbalanced Branch's targeting ejection in an emphatic divisional win.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Kerby Joseph with his SIXTH INT of the season 📡 <a href="https://t.co/I8H2JHjg1R">pic.twitter.com/I8H2JHjg1R</a>— PFF (@PFF) <a href="https://twitter.com/PFF/status/1853206212252246465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 3, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Joseph's allowed the second-lowest opponent passer rating (31.6) and fifth-lowest catch rate (47.4%) out of 77 safeties who've faced at least 10 targets, per PFF. He cut his missed tackle rate to 8.7%, down from 14.9% last season, and hasn't been penalized. His picks hand possession to a supercharged offense that recorded more touchdowns than incompletions over the Lions' six-win hot streak, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3064055" href="https://thescore.com/news/3064055">theScore's Dan Wilkins</a> pointed out.Kicker: Austin Seibert, CommandersCut loose by the Jets at the end of training camp, Seibert became Cade York's performance replacement in Washington and promptly climbed to the NFL lead in made field goals with 25. He's perfect from inside 50 yards, scored all 21 Commanders points in his victorious debut, and nailed four key kicks in the Hail Mary defeat of the Bears.A five-team journeyman, Seibert finally actualized the promise of his 2019 rookie season, which was the last time he played more than six games. His 97 points through eight outings put him on pace to rewrite LaDainian Tomlinson's long-held scoring record of 186 in 2006. He's even closer to David Akers' points record for a kicker: 166 in 2011.Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.

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The All-Riser team: 11 breakout players surging in 2024

In each year of the NFL's expanded, seven-team postseason format, one stacked division has sent t...

In each year of the NFL's expanded, seven-team postseason format, one stacked division has sent three clubs to the dance.Some fourth-place finishers almost managed to crash the party. Last season's 9-8 Bengals weathered the loss of Joe Burrow to a serious wrist injury and stayed afloat in the playoff race until New Year's Eve. In 2022, the 8-8-1 Commanders would have forced a convoluted four-way tiebreaker for two wild-card spots had they beaten - rather than tied - the Giants on the road.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="⭐️ Stacked divisions" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-xDDLm" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/xDDLm/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="217" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>This fall, the nexus of competitiveness is the NFC North. Its members field good quarterbacks, steal the ball on defense, and own the conference's second-best through fifth-best point differentials, trailing only Washington.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The 5-1 Lions, 5-2 Vikings, 5-2 Packers, and 4-2 Bears boast a combined 19-7 record. They're 10-3 against other NFC opponents and 7-2 against the AFC. None have glaring weaknesses. Except for Chicago's offense, which wobbled in Caleb Williams' first couple of weeks, each squad ranks in the top 10 in scoring on both sides of the ball.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🏈 Tale of the tape" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-VtwfB" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/VtwfB/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="481" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>Teams want their rivals to fail, but last week's frantic finishes strengthened the quartet's collective chance to make history. Late field goals lifted the Packers over the Texans and helped the Lions neutralize a Vikings comeback, signaling they'll all battle for divisional supremacy. The Bears, who coasted into their bye on a three-win hot streak, seem capable of sneaking into the playoffs even if they place last in the North.It would be an NFL first, and it necessitates smoking competition outside of the division with only so many wins within it available to split. Week 8 is important for this group: After the Vikings fell to the Rams on Thursday night, Sunday's slate features Lions-Titans, Packers-Jaguars, and Bears-Commanders matchups.All of them can win 10 or more games to maximize the odds they'll sweep the wild-card berths if some key trends improve or persist.One for the Vikings is late bloomer Sam Darnold's ability to make the big play.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751312/cropped_GettyImages-2178861007.jpg?ts=1729707465" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751312/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178861007.jpg?ts=1729707465 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751312/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178861007.jpg?ts=1729707465 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751312/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178861007.jpg?ts=1729707465 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751312/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178861007.jpg?ts=1729707465 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751312/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178861007.jpg?ts=1729707465 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Kevin Sabitus / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Launching the ball for his fourth franchise, Darnold ranks in the top five among qualified quarterbacks in big-time throws (12), intended air yards per attempt (8.9), air yards per completion (7.8), and completion rate on deep shots that travel at least 20 yards (57.7%), per <a href="https://premium.pff.com/nfl/positions/2024/REGPO/passing?position=QB&amp;minimum=20p">PFF</a> and <a href="https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2024/passing_advanced.htm">Pro Football Reference</a>.He's shown he can find Justin Jefferson (five receiving scores, 92.3 yards per game) and has helped Minnesota race to leads by outscoring foes 72-10 in first quarters. Darnold needs to go shot for shot with savvy veterans like Jared Goff and Matthew Stafford, who each diced up the Vikings' defensive looks over a five-day span.The Lions must generate pressure without singular edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson, whose leg fracture in Week 6 derailed his push for Defensive Player of the Year. Hutchinson's 7.5 sacks and eight additional QB hits lessened the strain on a pass defense that sprung leaks throughout Detroit's rise to championship contention.Three Lions sacks on the fringe of the red zone forced Minnesota to settle for field goals. A fourth thwarted Darnold's last-ditch Hail Mary attempt. Swarming QBs as a committee - defensive end Josh Paschal and three linebackers took down Darnold - could help Brian Branch, the acrobatic Lions safety with four interceptions, snare more overthrown passes or jump balls.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751313/cropped_GettyImages-2178287954.jpg?ts=1729707886" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751313/w220xh124_GettyImages-2178287954.jpg?ts=1729707886 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751313/w320xh180_GettyImages-2178287954.jpg?ts=1729707886 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751313/w640xh360_GettyImages-2178287954.jpg?ts=1729707886 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751313/w768xh432_GettyImages-2178287954.jpg?ts=1729707886 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/751313/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2178287954.jpg?ts=1729707886 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Stacy Revere / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>The Packers lead the league with 17 takeaways but could enlarge their plus-six turnover differential with improved ball protection. The key is to let Jordan Love cook (15 touchdown passes in five starts, NFL-high 8.4% TD rate) while reducing his hurtful plays (eight interceptions, 4.5% INT rate).Channeling Brett Favre, the gunslinging Love's gotten into trouble when he's telegraphed throws, missed his target, or made reckless choices <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8wM6XCZlL0A">while falling</a> in the end zone. He offset his two picks against Houston with a touchdown dart to tight end Tucker Kraft - which eluded an airborne defender's <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KM6Es4G9CjM">fingertips</a> - and another to wideout Dontayvion Wicks. Think of the havoc Green Bay's surplus of playmakers could wreak if Love was slightly more precise.Chicago's priority is to keep Williams clean. The prized rookie was sacked 11 times in two early losses but absorbed just nine across four wins. The Bears gave up 50 sacks in 2023 as they scuffled to a 7-10 record and waited to draft Williams with Carolina's No. 1 pick.His passer rating when pressured is poor (54.0, per <a href="https://premium.pff.com/nfl/positions/2024/REGPO/passing-pressure?position=QB&amp;split=pressure&amp;minimum=20p">PFF</a>), but Williams is in command when routes have time to develop. He fired three 30-plus-yard touchdowns from a calm pocket in recent weeks, once after <a href="https://www.youtube.com/shorts/zIiHsnb_dTA">pump-faking</a> a lone threatening pass-rusher. His stats sparkled (74.1% completion rate, 7-1 TD-INT split) as Chicago banked wins over the Rams and Panthers at home and topped the Jaguars in London.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🆚 Divisional clashes" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-KHTtu" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/KHTtu/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="618" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>Because their six divisional games come between Weeks 11-18, the Bears have the league's toughest remaining schedule, per <a href="https://www.tankathon.com/nfl/remaining_schedule_strength">Tankathon</a>. A rude awakening may await, but not until after Williams faces three more exploitable pass defenses - those of the Commanders, Cardinals, and Patriots.Getting to 10 wins would almost guarantee a playoff appearance.Between 2002-19, when 12 of 32 clubs reached the NFL postseason, nine 10-win teams and the 11-win 2008 Patriots failed to qualify, meaning a contender was often shafted.Since the field expanded, only one of 46 double-digit win teams - the 2020 Dolphins - suffered the same fate, per <a href="https://stathead.com/tiny/NxiZw">Stathead</a>. Every 10-7 team, plus eight nine-win squads, grabbed a playoff spot in the first three 17-game years.The balance in the NFC North is unusual: 2012 was the last time three members enjoyed simultaneous winning seasons. Over 22 years since divisional realignment, the group produced one Super Bowl winner (the 2010 Packers as the No. 6 seed), another Super Bowl finalist (2006 Bears as the No. 1 seed), and the loser of nine NFC title games, with three of those defeats inflicted in overtime.Months of football remain but, if all four teams hang in the postseason chase, they might do something unprecedented.Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.

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How the powerful NFC North can sweep 4 playoff berths

Big numbers pop off the page beside Derrick Henry's name on the NFL stats leaderboard. Through We...

Big numbers pop off the page beside Derrick Henry's name on the NFL stats leaderboard. Through Week 5, he owned the most rushing yards (572), scrimmage yards (621), and scrimmage touchdowns (seven). He also had the longest run, an 87-yard sprint on the Ravens' first snap in a rout of the Bills.Henry is 30 years old, which borders on geriatric for a modern running back. Despite taking lumps for nine years at the least forgiving skill position, he defies the aging curve. The former Titans legend who moved on in free agency is enjoying a renaissance with Baltimore, an unstoppable rushing team.This wasn't certain to happen. Baltimore gambled by paying Henry $16 million over two years. The bruising rusher's inefficiency in 2023 - Henry gained just 68.6 yards per game despite leading the league in carries for a fourth time - signaled he'd be washed soon.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Instead, Henry scored in five straight games and ran amok in wins over the Cowboys (151 yards) and Bills (199) that helped the 3-2 Ravens avoid a nightmarish start. He surpassed 10,000 career yards, housed his 100th career TD (96th on the ground), and set up the knockout blow of the Bengals in last weekend's cinematic, 41-38 overtime triumph.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749379/cropped_GettyImages-2175680918.jpg?ts=1728593054" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749379/w220xh124_GettyImages-2175680918.jpg?ts=1728593054 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749379/w320xh180_GettyImages-2175680918.jpg?ts=1728593054 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749379/w640xh360_GettyImages-2175680918.jpg?ts=1728593054 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749379/w768xh432_GettyImages-2175680918.jpg?ts=1728593054 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749379/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2175680918.jpg?ts=1728593054 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Michael Owens / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Aging gracefully is difficult. Henry has turned back the clock as some older running backs battle injuries (28-year-old Christian McCaffrey has yet to play) and others drop off the map (29-year-old Ezekiel Elliott has 98 rushing yards for Dallas). Veteran pass-catchers like Travis Kelce, Cooper Kupp, Amari Cooper, and Tyreek Hill have looked creaky, been banged up, or deteriorated in a weak offense.Within his cohort, Henry's a major outlier.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="👴 Grizzled playmakers" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-S7kIM" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/S7kIM/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="669" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>His five-game heater holds up historically, too. It's been more than a decade since any skill player in his 30s was this productive to start a season.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="⭐️ Golden oldies" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-p12d9" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/p12d9/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="521" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>Henry's worn and torn, but his mileage hasn't hindered him. He's the active leader in carries with 2,125 and is on pace to record his fourth 300-carry season, tied for second most by a running back who debuted this century, per <a href="https://stathead.com/tiny/UvqBw">Stathead</a>. He trucks tacklers, possessing a massive lead among active rushers in yards gained after contact (5,455, or 54% of his career output).He went from the one-man battering ram who sparked the Titans to playoff upsets, including over Baltimore in 2019, to a vital cog in the Ravens' powerhouse offense. They've averaged 211.2 rushing yards - 32.8 more per game than the second-place Commanders - and rank second in scoring behind Washington, their Week 6 opponent.Certain touchdown drives highlighted Henry's synergy with Lamar Jackson, the rushing leader among quarterbacks.In Week 3, Henry stiff-armed and sidestepped some Cowboys to pick up 29 and 26 yards on either end of Jackson's 16-yard designed keeper. Following a Bills turnover in Week 4, Henry's 25-yard outside run and Justice Hill's slippery 17-yard screen catch positioned Jackson to find the end zone from 9 yards out.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
DERRICK HENRY ARE YOU KIDDING ME?! 🤯 (🎥: <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravens?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Ravens</a>) <a href="https://t.co/RIrcnLr4VB">pic.twitter.com/RIrcnLr4VB</a>— theScore (@theScore) <a href="https://twitter.com/theScore/status/1840550566679744992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 30, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Henry ran 87 yards untouched to demoralize Buffalo, and he showcased his wheels and elusiveness in overtime at Cincinnati, ruthlessly juking cornerback DJ Turner as he set up the winning field goal.Henry's peak speed of 21.46 mph on that 51-yard getaway was the fourth fastest recorded across the league so far this season, according to <a href="https://nextgenstats.nfl.com/stats/top-plays/fastest-ball-carriers">Next Gen Stats</a>.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
DERRICK HENRY!!!! 📺: Sunday 1 pm on CBS <a href="https://t.co/7qKcVgBmF7">pic.twitter.com/7qKcVgBmF7</a>— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ravens/status/1843026856997757387?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 6, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>A healthy mix of yards amassed before contact (328) and after contact (244) lifted Henry to the top of the NFL in both categories through Week 5, per <a href="https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2024/rushing_advanced.htm">Pro Football Reference</a>. He achieved this even though most of his carries (55 of 95) gained no more than 3 yards.Crucially, Henry slugs homers, breaking free for the chunk rushes that keep the running game relevant in a pass-first league.His seven rushes for 25 or more yards led to five Ravens TDs and the kick that finished off the Bengals. His 52.9% breakaway percentage - a significant career high - denotes that most of Henry's yardage has come from explosive, 15-plus-yard gains, per <a href="https://premium.pff.com/nfl/positions/2024/REGPO/rushing?position=HB&amp;minimum=20p">PFF</a>. He still motors at his advanced age.Baltimore surrounds him with help. Henry earned an elite 90.1 PFF grade last season despite his statistical slippage and the lifelessness of Tennessee's 29th-ranked pass attack, which pressured him to do it all. In Baltimore, Jackson completes epic <a href="https://www.baltimoreravens.com/video/lamar-jackson-all-time-highlight-cincinnati-bengals-stiff-arm-touchdown-isaiah-likely-2024">backyard throws</a> and the Ravens boast PFF's No. 5 run-blocking grade, optimizing Henry's situation.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749377/cropped_GettyImages-2173105943.jpg?ts=1728592884" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749377/w220xh124_GettyImages-2173105943.jpg?ts=1728592884 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749377/w320xh180_GettyImages-2173105943.jpg?ts=1728592884 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749377/w640xh360_GettyImages-2173105943.jpg?ts=1728592884 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749377/w768xh432_GettyImages-2173105943.jpg?ts=1728592884 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/749377/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2173105943.jpg?ts=1728592884 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Matthew Pearce / Icon Sportswire / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>It's early, but Henry's seamless integration has improved Baltimore's playoff outlook. Around the AFC, the 1-4 Bengals are reeling, the 3-2 Bills are erratic, and the 4-1 Texans are green. The undefeated Chiefs seem a little more vulnerable to dethronement than when they edged the Ravens in a defensive slugfest to reach last year's Super Bowl.By expected points added per play, these Ravens rank second in rush offense, fifth in pass offense, and third in rush defense, according to <a href="https://rbsdm.com/stats/stats/?_inputs_&amp;qb_min=80&amp;qb_active=false&amp;exclude_to=false&amp;weeks=%5B1%2C18%5D&amp;wp=0&amp;range=%5B2024%2C2024%5D&amp;quarters=%5B%221%22%2C%222%22%2C%223%22%2C%224%22%2C%225%22%5D&amp;downs=%5B%221%22%2C%222%22%2C%223%22%2C%224%22%5D&amp;update=2&amp;navbar=%22Offense%22&amp;weeks_post=%5B%22None%22%2C%22None%22%5D">Ben Baldwin's database</a>. Their 25th-ranked pass defense is frail, but overall, they're close to complete, with no other team ranking in the top five in three categories.More milestones are imminent for Henry. He's a few prolific weeks away from becoming Baltimore's first 1,000-yard running back since 2019 - a rare achievement with Jackson in the backfield.On a grander scale, he needs four more rushing TDs to bag 100 for his career. Henry would be the eighth member of the hallowed 10,000-yard club to punch in that many scores.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🔝 All-time rushing leaders" aria-label="Scatter Plot" id="datawrapper-chart-lUiKe" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/lUiKe/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="590" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28633534/related

How Derrick Henry turned back the clock at 30 years old

By losing twice in Prague to open the NHL schedule, the Buffalo Sabres sank to the bottom of the ...

By losing twice in Prague to open the NHL schedule, the Buffalo Sabres sank to the bottom of the Atlantic Division.They're in a familiar hole. The Sabres last made the playoffs in 2011, meaning their infamous, all-time record drought is at risk of reaching 14 seasons. It's hard to swim upstream, complete a rebuild, and return to relevance in a division that resists change.Seven NHL squads have appeared in at least five straight postseasons, and four of those powerhouse teams rule the Atlantic. Every year, they box out Buffalo and two fellow perpetual rebuilders, the Detroit Red Wings and Ottawa Senators, who are desperate to break their dubious streaks.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>The efforts of Buffalo, Detroit, and Ottawa to unseat a playoff lock - be it the Boston Bruins, reigning champion Florida Panthers, Tampa Bay Lightning, or Toronto Maple Leafs - will help define the new season. Each combatant faces pressure to take the next step before the Montreal Canadiens, the Atlantic's current pushover, begin to rise in the standings. Not all of them will.Their three-way dogfight to play in May again - Detroit's playoff appearance drought is eight years old, and Ottawa's has lasted seven - has no precedent. Few NHL franchises spin their wheels for seven to 13 seasons, and they're the first set of division rivals to endure simultaneous droughts of this length.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🏒 Outside looking in" aria-label="Range Plot" id="datawrapper-chart-wHda4" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/wHda4/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="405" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>Just because an Atlantic shakeup's overdue doesn't mean it'll happen. Boston, Florida, Tampa Bay, and Toronto still boast major star talent after ranking in the top five in goals scored (Leafs, Lightning) or goals allowed (Panthers, Bruins) last season. This quartet won three Stanley Cups, accounted for six total Cup Final berths, and bullied the rest of the division in the years since the Senators detonated their roster.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🧐 Imbalance of power" aria-label="Bar Chart" id="datawrapper-chart-tOfNr" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/tOfNr/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="1039" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>To compete, Ottawa needs to stop the puck (32nd in save percentage in 2023-24) and quit wilting in adverse situations (1-14-1 record in Western Conference road games). Buffalo, the NHL's youngest team (average age: 25.3), brought back Lindy Ruff to coach a fledgling group that buried 50 fewer goals last year than in the high-flying 2022-23 season.Progress depends on how a few key players perform.The X-factors in Ottawa are <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3094941" href="https://thescore.com/news/3094941">newly extended</a> goaltender Linus Ullmark and second-line center Josh Norris, who can score 35 goals when his surgically repaired shoulder complies. A subtly crucial defenseman is Thomas Chabot, whose passing and puck-handling tilt the ice for the Senators when he isn't injured (sat out 68 games over the last three seasons) or forced to log huge, tiring minutes.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748916/cropped_GettyImages-2175675522.jpg?ts=1728325207" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748916/w220xh124_GettyImages-2175675522.jpg?ts=1728325207 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748916/w320xh180_GettyImages-2175675522.jpg?ts=1728325207 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748916/w640xh360_GettyImages-2175675522.jpg?ts=1728325207 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748916/w768xh432_GettyImages-2175675522.jpg?ts=1728325207 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748916/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2175675522.jpg?ts=1728325207 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Vincent Ethier / Icon Sportswire / Getty</figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748943/cropped_GettyImages-2175050496.jpg?ts=1728336724" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748943/w220xh124_GettyImages-2175050496.jpg?ts=1728336724 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748943/w320xh180_GettyImages-2175050496.jpg?ts=1728336724 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748943/w640xh360_GettyImages-2175050496.jpg?ts=1728336724 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748943/w768xh432_GettyImages-2175050496.jpg?ts=1728336724 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748943/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2175050496.jpg?ts=1728336724 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Ben Ludeman / NHL / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>There are swing players throughout Buffalo's forward corps. Compared to '22-23, lead sniper Tage Thompson put 39 fewer shots on net and was half as prolific last year from the high-danger area around the crease (11 goals versus 23), per <a href="https://edge.nhl.com/en/skater/20232024-regular-8479420">NHL EDGE</a>. The Sabres want good health for third-year winger Jack Quinn, an efficient point producer, and hope depth center Ryan McLeod's speed and defensive aptitude will justify his <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2936236" href="https://thescore.com/news/2936236">acquisition price</a>.The Red Wings are loaded with scorers but missed last year's postseason via tiebreaker despite an 11.6% team shooting percentage, the eighth-best mark of the salary-cap era. Regardless of whether that's repeatable, they need to stiffen defensively after ranking 24th in goals against and allowing 200 more dangerous scoring chances than they generated (1,007-807), according to <a href="https://www.naturalstattrick.com/teamtable.php?fromseason=20232024&amp;thruseason=20232024&amp;stype=2&amp;sit=all&amp;score=all&amp;rate=n&amp;team=all&amp;loc=B&amp;gpf=410&amp;fd=&amp;td=">Natural Stat Trick</a>.Subplots to track include top defenseman Moritz Seider's workload - <a href="https://puckiq.com/woodmoney?season=20232024&amp;tier=Elite&amp;positions=d&amp;group_by=player&amp;min_toi=10&amp;sort=ctoipct&amp;sort_direction=desc">PuckIQ</a> assessed that he played the league's toughest minutes last season - and 21-year-old Simon Edvinsson's readiness to shoulder a big role. These young guns strengthen Detroit's aging, middling hodgepodge of blue-liners and goalies.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🆚 Key showdowns" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-0G577" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/0G577/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="679" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>A dozen games are scheduled between Buffalo, Detroit, and Ottawa. Five happen before Christmas, and five arrive in a fast flurry after the March 7 trade deadline. Depending on who gains and drops points, these matchups could dictate which endless Atlantic skid finally, mercifully ends.Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/28612931/related

How 3 desperate teams can finally shake up the Atlantic

The NFL's reimagined kickoff rules, which aimed to spice up a stale play, have been live for one ...

The NFL's reimagined kickoff rules, which aimed to spice up a stale play, have been live for one month.Kickers pound dynamic kickoffs from the 35-yard line as every other player stands still in the receiving end. One return touchdown was scored - the Cardinals' DeeJay Dallas burned the Bills in Week 1 - and a tidal wave of touchbacks that were spotted at the 30 showed that coaches still love to play it safe.We analyzed data and game film to assess the new format's muted impact, implications for different teams, and the future of the rules. Here are 10 quick-hit findings.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Returns are barely up</h3>The 656 kickoffs taken across the league through Thursday produced 447 touchbacks (68% of kicks) and 191 returns (29%) for 5,009 return yards - an average of 26.2 yards, which would smash the existing high for a season of 23.8. A few errant kicks were penalized for drifting out of bounds or falling short of the 20-yard landing zone.The average team runs back 1.5 kickoffs per game. That's greater than last year's record low of 1.1 returns but translates to the second-lowest average in NFL history, per <a href="https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/NFL/returns.htm">Pro Football Reference</a>.Instead of dwindling with the new rules, a touchback rate that ballooned to 73% in 2023 hasn't come down as much as the league surely hoped.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🏈 Rate of return" aria-label="Interactive line chart" id="datawrapper-chart-Sdrxk" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/Sdrxk/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="468" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><h3>Teams want to avoid catastrophe</h3>The bulk of the NFL - 26 squads - has booted touchbacks on at least half of kickoffs. The 14 teams that aimed for the end zone at least 80% of the time instinctively opted to lock in their defensive starting field position.Only the Commanders, Saints, Panthers, Dolphins, Texans, and Raiders have welcomed risk to varying degrees by tending to invite returns.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="Playing it safe" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-UQDvq" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/UQDvq/3/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="663" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>In several markets, the revamped format's been a nonfactor.The Steelers and Packers returned one kickoff apiece in September for 13 and 24 yards, respectively. The Rams covered one kick and dialed up 20 touchbacks from punter Ethan Evans. The Bills' 94.4% touchback rate (17 of 18) in Weeks 2-4 was a response to being scored on and taking an out-of-bounds penalty in the season opener.Arizona's kickoff unit recorded 17 touchbacks, was flagged once for missing the landing zone, and surrendered two explosive plays (53-yard return <a href="http://www.nfl.com/videos/former-jet-brandon-codrington-takes-his-first-bills-kick-return-for-53-yard-pickup">from</a> the Bills' Brandon Codrington, 41-yarder <a href="http://www.nfl.com/videos/blake-corum-s-44-yard-return-on-opening-kickoff-sets-up-rams-nicely-to-start">from</a> the Rams' Blake Corum). Those slipups explain why the touchback's alluring.<h3>Huge returns are this valuable</h3>Dallas - the Cardinals' fourth-string running back and go-to kick returner - surged through a gap in the middle of the field and forced three simultaneous missed tackles on his historic 96-yard score against the Bills. It was one of six returns to date that exceeded 40 yards.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
THE FIRST DYNAMIC KICKOFF RETURN TOUCHDOWN. DEEJAY DALLAS. 96 YARDS. 📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AZvsBUF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AZvsBUF</a> on CBS/Paramount+ 📱: <a href="https://t.co/waVpO909ge">https://t.co/waVpO909ge</a> <a href="https://t.co/COYfonnYxR">pic.twitter.com/COYfonnYxR</a>— NFL (@NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1832865028808339666?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>In Week 1's Bears-Titans game, Chicago's blocking walled off seven defenders to let DeAndre Carter sprint down the right sideline. His 67-yard return was worth 3.31 expected points, according to Pro Football Reference's calculations, and it jumpstarted the Bears' comeback from a 17-0 deficit.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
DeAndre Carter returns the dynamic kickoff into Titans territory 🔥 📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TENvsCHI?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TENvsCHI</a> on FOX 📱: <a href="https://t.co/waVpO8ZBqG">https://t.co/waVpO8ZBqG</a> <a href="https://t.co/ge4qHarL4E">pic.twitter.com/ge4qHarL4E</a>— NFL (@NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1832845329017758086?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>In Week 3's Bengals-Commanders clash, Washington's Austin Ekeler scooped a one-hop line drive and swerved from left to right to escape the first wave of coverage. His 62-yard return was worth 3.38 expected points, and it set up a short touchdown drive in the Commanders' 38-33 upset win.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Austin Ekeler returns the second half kickoff 62 yards! 📺: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WASvsCIN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WASvsCIN</a> on ABC 📱: Stream on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NFLPlus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NFLPlus</a> and ESPN+ <a href="https://t.co/kLJRQXTIo5">pic.twitter.com/kLJRQXTIo5</a>— NFL (@NFL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFL/status/1838394303951049145?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>Two kickers are shining</h3>Signing Austin Seibert to replace Cade York after Week 1 - York missed two field goals and sent a kickoff out of bounds - helped Washington grab the NFC East lead.Seibert is 10-for-10 on field goals and invited returns on 16 of 21 kickoffs (23.8% touchback rate) during a three-game win streak. Against the Bengals, he landed five kickoffs between the goal line and 3-yard line, and none were run back beyond the 30. Opponents have had to drive far to expose the Commanders' weak defense.Blake Grupe's immaculate ball placement in Week 1 - he stuck nine straight kickoffs between the goal line and the 5 - helped the Saints trounce the Panthers, <a href="https://www.theringer.com/nfl/2024/9/12/24242868/nfl-2024-new-dynamic-kickoff-definitive-guide">The Ringer's Austin Gayle</a> pointed out. Grupe invited returns last month on 19 of 27 kickoffs (29.6% touchback rate), and only five crossed the 30. Special teams coordinator Darren Rizzi, who helped craft and implement the new format, trusts Grupe and his tacklers to execute.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748288/cropped_GettyImages-1883328615.jpg?ts=1727983372" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748288/w220xh124_GettyImages-1883328615.jpg?ts=1727983372 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748288/w320xh180_GettyImages-1883328615.jpg?ts=1727983372 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748288/w640xh360_GettyImages-1883328615.jpg?ts=1727983372 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748288/w768xh432_GettyImages-1883328615.jpg?ts=1727983372 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748288/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1883328615.jpg?ts=1727983372 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Ric Tapia / Getty Images</figcaption></figure><h3>One workhorse is overmatched</h3>Raheem Blackshear's league-high 12 returns for 310 yards, or 25.8 on average, haven't counterbalanced the Panthers' offensive and defensive woes.Blackshear's longest return topped out at 31 yards. Nine were stopped inside the 30. Drives following his 12 returns produced 17 points (1.4 per series), five punts, a turnover on downs, and three Bryce Young interceptions before the quarterback was benched. Kicking to Carolina, like Grupe kept doing in Week 1, is smart.<h3>Bouncing touchbacks are powerful</h3>Lions kicker Jake Bates pinned the Seahawks last Monday night following Jared Goff's startling touchdown catch. Bates' low, uncatchable, inch-perfect kickoff landed at Seattle's 1 before it caromed through the end zone, which spotted the ball at the 20, not the 30, under the intricacies of the touchback rule.Bates' precision cost Seattle 10 yards and subtracted 0.66 expected points (0.28 instead of 0.94) to start the offensive drive, per Pro Football Reference. It was the seventh touchback spotted at the 20 through four weeks.<h3>Kickers aren't hitting</h3>One kicker recorded a tackle in September, and it happened on the final kickoff of the month. Bates got credit for nudging Dee Williams out of bounds in Monday's fourth quarter even though a Seahawks blocker was flagged for holding.<a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3072445" href="https://thescore.com/news/3072445">Kickers aren't hitting</a> for a few reasons: They're walloping all those touchbacks; they not allowed to cross midfield until the ball lands, which distances them from the returner; and they've squandered tackling opportunities. Whiffs by Buffalo's Tyler Bass (spun around by Dallas), Arizona's Matt Prater (fell over and couldn't trip Codrington), and Cincinnati's Evan McPherson (jogged backward and didn't touch Ekeler) lengthened various big returns.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748291/cropped_GettyImages-2171147295.jpg?ts=1727983738" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748291/w220xh124_GettyImages-2171147295.jpg?ts=1727983738 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748291/w320xh180_GettyImages-2171147295.jpg?ts=1727983738 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748291/w640xh360_GettyImages-2171147295.jpg?ts=1727983738 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748291/w768xh432_GettyImages-2171147295.jpg?ts=1727983738 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/748291/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2171147295.jpg?ts=1727983738 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Bryan Bennett / Getty Images</figcaption></figure><h3>Defenders aren't kicking</h3>The idea that strong-legged safeties might initiate some kickoffs was floated before the season. Teams planned to leverage the skill sets of experienced tacklers who can stick kicks inside the landing zone.This quirk hasn't materialized: Kickers or punters took all 656 kickoffs. Most teams lean on one specialist. The Falcons split the work between punter Bradley Pinion and marksman Younghoe Koo, who took 13 kickoffs and nailed long, last-second field goals to win or force overtime in Weeks 4 and 5.If strategies shift, Kansas City's Justin Reid is one safety who may be tapped to kick. Reid booted five touchbacks on seven tries for the 2022 Chiefs when they experimented with lightening Harrison Butker's workload.<h3>Onside kicks have fizzled</h3>The surprise kick that <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upOmjohOvb4">once sparked the Saints</a> to Super Bowl glory was legislated out of the rulebook. Onside kicks are now reserved for trailing teams in the fourth quarter and must be declared in advance.Out of 10 declared onside kicks, the Cowboys recovered one when the Ravens bobbled Brandon Aubrey's slow dribbler along the turf. Dallas outscored Baltimore 19-0 in the fourth frame of an eventual three-point loss.Nine attempts failed despite some innovative efforts. The Vikings fell on Packers punter Daniel Whelan's drop-kick last weekend after it didn't bounce into the air. The Dolphins' onside punt following a Titans safety was penalized for sailing untouched beyond the designated setup zone, which confused people. (For clarity: Onside kicks <a href="https://operations.nfl.com/the-rules/nfl-rulebook/#article-6-onside-kick">can't travel</a> more than 25 yards from the spot of the kick.)<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The players, coaches, announcers and for a moment the officials had no idea what the rule was here. I guess it landed beyond the landing zone? <a href="https://t.co/8TWXVxLNce">pic.twitter.com/8TWXVxLNce</a>— Andrew Perloff (@andrewperloff) <a href="https://twitter.com/andrewperloff/status/1840944228211339769?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><h3>What could and should change</h3>Cold weather wreaks havoc on kicking, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3078715" href="https://thescore.com/news/3078715">theScore's Scott Stinson</a> noted recently. More field goals fly wide and fewer kickoffs reach the goal line as the wind whips and temperatures plummet. Come December, that could create more return scores, fumbles, chaos, and excitement.The league needs to consider two rule changes that relate to ball placement in the offseason.The NFL could move back the kickoff spot to the kicking team's 30 - 5 yards further away from the landing zone.Or it could disincentive touchbacks by spotting them at the opposing 35 - 5 yards closer to scoring territory. Roger Goodell acknowledged on NFL Network this week that moving touchbacks forward would be an immediate "game-changer."Either tweak could be adopted with a keystroke and replace dead plays with legitimately dynamic returns.Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.

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Chicago's Soldier Field hosted a stylistic clash of groundbreaking quarterbacks on Sept. 30, 1979. Big-armed Doug Williams, a classic dropback thrower, helmed the visiting, undefeated Buccaneers. The Bears countered with dual threat Vince Evans, whose explosive, 65-yard screen toss to Walter Payton lessened the home team's margin of defeat.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NAIjPNhJX5I?si=VnA6JHKQVnCOmbEH&amp;start=934" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure>A parallel between the passers made the game historic. Their matchup, the NFL's first between Black starting QBs, helped dispel the prejudice that players who looked like them couldn't be counted on to dissect a defense or lead.Williams and Evans were born during the same summer in the segregated American South at the outset of the civil rights movement. They weathered racist taunts, personal loss, and benchings to briefly dazzle under center and create chances for younger peers to flourish.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Their paths eventually split: Williams was MVP of Super Bowl XXII in 1988 - Washington, his second team, pounded the Broncos 42-10 - while Evans became a backup with the Raiders.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🏈 Career comparison" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-I6NEX" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/I6NEX/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="570" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>Their breakthroughs changed quarterbacking - almost half of NFL teams now field a Black starter - and inspired a new book, entitled "<a href="https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/louis-moore/the-great-black-hope/9781541705098/">The Great Black Hope</a>," by the race and sports scholar Louis Moore. He's a Grand Valley State University professor who studies how Black athletes shaped American history."So much of the struggle of the Black American was wondering whether promise would come to fruition: 'Am I really going to get an opportunity, or is my color going to continue to hold me back?'" Moore said."For Black fans (in the 1970s and '80s), the quarterback is the most important position in all of sports. It signals to them that guys will actually get a chance. If Doug and Vince make it - or, later, if Randall Cunningham or Warren Moon is going to make it - then I'm going to get a chance, too."Before Moore's book launched this week, the author spoke to theScore about Williams and Evans' triumphs, tribulations, NFL legacies, and resemblance to two active stars. The conversation's been edited for length and clarity.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745438/GreatBlackHope_300dpi.jpg?ts=1726496946" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745438/GreatBlackHope_300dpi.jpg?ts=1726496946 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745438/GreatBlackHope_300dpi.jpg?ts=1726496946 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745438/GreatBlackHope_300dpi.jpg?ts=1726496946 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745438/GreatBlackHope_300dpi.jpg?ts=1726496946 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745438/GreatBlackHope_300dpi.jpg?ts=1726496946 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Courtesy of PublicAffairs </figcaption></figure>theScore: Fans know about Williams' historic Super Bowl triumph. Evans didn't realize his potential, but you wrote that in his first few seasons, he represented the future of football. How so?Moore: It's the idea that you can have a true dual-threat quarterback - not a scrambler, but a guy who can have an offense built around his passing and running skills. The Bears were the first team to think about that. In 1980 (Evans' fourth NFL season), he does great as a backup, and he gets the starting role in '81.Those are the years when they're the first organization to say: "You know what? We have this Corvette. Are we going to test-drive it or keep it parked in the garage?"It doesn't go so well, because I think there's no blueprint for them. The college game is not the same as the pro game. The college game is the wishbone and triple options.Vince struggled because he was never a classic quarterback. But it sets the tone for things to come. A few years later, you're going to get Cunningham. You're going to get Steve McNair, Michael Vick, and Daunte Culpepper. You'll get Colin Kaepernick. Lamar Jackson. Jalen Hurts. All the guys today.Vince, to me, is that prototype. It just doesn't work out in real time.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745445/GettyImages-73923146.jpg?ts=1726498066" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745445/GettyImages-73923146.jpg?ts=1726498066 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745445/GettyImages-73923146.jpg?ts=1726498066 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745445/GettyImages-73923146.jpg?ts=1726498066 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745445/GettyImages-73923146.jpg?ts=1726498066 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/745445/GettyImages-73923146.jpg?ts=1726498066 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Evans with the Bears in 1980. Ronald C. Modra / Getty Images </figcaption></figure>In the 1950s and '60s, Black college QBs invariably got moved to receiver or cornerback in the NFL because of racial stereotypes. Teams thought they were fast but not brainy. They were seen as athletes but not leaders. What had changed by the time Williams and Evans turned pro?Williams is drafted in '78. Evans in '77. Nothing's changed. It's just that they were so good that it was hard to pass up.Williams ended his college career as the most prolific passer ever. How do you pass that up? The other thing that helped him was playing a few games against white teams. People see this. There's a Heisman run for him. It was clear that he was the best in college.Evans is playing on TV for USC in the Rose Bowl, and he's pretty good. There were two organizations that were willing to take a chance on them.Sept. 30, 1979: What did their head-to-head matchup in Chicago symbolize?It's the modern NFL. (On a recent Sunday), we had three games where Black quarterbacks went head-to-head. That's normal now, whereas at that time, it was the first instance in modern football. You start to see the shift.A decade before, it was unthinkable. There was one starting Black quarterback: James Harris for the Bills in 1969. It doesn't happen right away after the '79 season, but this is what the NFL came to look like, because these guys were electrifying, they could move, and the fans were starting to be receptive.Williams helped an awful Buccaneers expansion team quickly become a playoff contender. Evans showed flashes of brilliance in middling Bears offenses. How were they treated by those fan bases?For Doug, it was up and down. In 1970s America, the South is still coming to terms with integration. There's hate mail. His coach was called an "N-word lover."Black fans always supported him. That's a given. You also see how big of a star he was. He was the biggest drawing card in 1978. Fans would unfold signs that say, "Doug's cool."But when things went bad, they really went bad. He was never judged on being a quarterback. He was judged on being a Black quarterback. What that meant in the 1970s and '80s, you can't detach that from race and racism.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746667/GettyImages-640158936.jpg?ts=1727186951" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746667/GettyImages-640158936.jpg?ts=1727186951 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746667/GettyImages-640158936.jpg?ts=1727186951 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746667/GettyImages-640158936.jpg?ts=1727186951 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746667/GettyImages-640158936.jpg?ts=1727186951 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746667/GettyImages-640158936.jpg?ts=1727186951 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Williams passes for the Buccaneers in 1981. Focus on Sport / Getty Images </figcaption></figure>There was more fan support early on for Vince because he was a backup. I don't care what your color is - American fans love backup quarterbacks when the starter's awful, and the Bears had awful quarterbacks. As long as Vince was on the bench, they loved him. They thought he was fast, exciting, and electrifying. You see that in his first few games that he started where he's dropping 50-yard bombs for touchdowns.The problem comes when you struggle. That's when they turn on you. The alternative for him wasn’t necessarily the white guys who weren't good, but by the time you get to '82, rookie Jim McMahon. His time was pretty much over once that happened.Following stints in the USFL, returning to the NFL defined Williams and Evans as players. Doug got his crowning moment in the Super Bowl. Vince scuffled to become the Raiders' longtime backup. What adversity did they overcome and how did they exhibit resilience on the path to achieving those things?For Doug, there's the well-known stuff: He'd just married, had a baby, and he loses his wife in 1983 while trying to negotiate a contract. When he goes onto the USFL, he struggles a bit, and then the NFL doesn't call him. Luckily, Joe Gibbs, his coach in Washington, was his offensive coordinator for a year at Tampa Bay. He remembers him and brings him on.In the '86 season, he barely plays. That '87 season leading into the Super Bowl is up and down. He loses his starting job. It's rare that we see football players cry in press conferences, but he's crying. It's taken away from him, and all that he's been through - all the racism that he had to fight being a Black quarterback - is coming to his mind, and he can't control those emotions.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746676/cropped_GettyImages-455012336.jpg?ts=1727188636" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746676/w220xh124_GettyImages-455012336.jpg?ts=1727188636 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746676/w320xh180_GettyImages-455012336.jpg?ts=1727188636 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746676/w640xh360_GettyImages-455012336.jpg?ts=1727188636 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746676/w768xh432_GettyImages-455012336.jpg?ts=1727188636 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746676/w1080xh607_GettyImages-455012336.jpg?ts=1727188636 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Williams hands off the ball during Washington's blowout victory in Super Bowl XXII. Focus On Sport / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>But (replacement QB) Jay Schroeder's not that good, and so at the end of the season, they put (Williams) in. He wins the last game of the season, and his coach is like: "We're going to ride with you." And the rest is history - for that year. The next year, he struggles and gets hurt, and he's gone (from the NFL) within two years.Now, Vince, different story. Nobody wanted a piece of Vince Evans. The NFL was done with him, and then the strike came in 1987. Like a number of Black quarterbacks in the strikes of 1974 and '87, Vince took an opportunity and crossed the picket line. His teammates see him as a scab, but the Raiders and Al Davis like him. Al's a pretty open-minded guy. He was the first owner to sign a Black head coach in Art Shell.Vince makes it with the Raiders and, for the next eight years, on again and off again, gets cuts only to be brought back. That makes him the first career Black backup. There's no role for a Black backup quarterback at that time. You're either starting, out of the league, or at another position.The fact they let Vince stay on made room for guys today like Josh Johnson, who's probably in his 15th year as a career backup. Tyrod Taylor: career backup. Charlie Batch before them. Guys who are there just in case there's an emergency. That's who Vince Evans became.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746712/cropped_GettyImages-1359127558.jpg?ts=1727199703" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746712/w220xh124_GettyImages-1359127558.jpg?ts=1727199703 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746712/w320xh180_GettyImages-1359127558.jpg?ts=1727199703 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746712/w640xh360_GettyImages-1359127558.jpg?ts=1727199703 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746712/w768xh432_GettyImages-1359127558.jpg?ts=1727199703 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746712/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1359127558.jpg?ts=1727199703 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Evans scrambles for the Raiders in 1995. Scott Vlha, Contra Costa Times / MediaNews Group / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>A key person in the book is Eddie Robinson, the legendary Grambling coach. Sending Black quarterbacks to the NFL was a mission for Robinson. His sophisticated, pro-style dropback offense helped Williams become an attractive prospect. What did his role signify about the importance of coaching?One thing he didn't have to deal with was all the pushback, because he was at a Black school. But the fact you can build a system around a Black quarterback - nobody thought you could do that. Robinson proved that you can time and time again.He served as this mentor for guys like James Harris and Doug Williams. He urged them to stay the course, and never to complain. My guess is, in real time, Doug Williams and James Harris wanted to lash out in the face of racism. Because Robinson taught them to keep their cool and keep pushing ahead so the next guy has an opportunity to come up behind them, that's what you get.You mentioned Harris, the first Black full-time NFL starter. He mentored Evans and Williams when they were in college. All three in retirement started a group called the Field Generals to support younger Black QBs. What lessons and wisdom have been passed between generations?What Harris did was essential. There were only a handful of QBs at that time who'd ever experienced what they did. Harris was the older guy who could talk to them.You think about the guys who didn't get it. They struggled. Marlin Briscoe, who was the first one to start (a handful of games) in 1968, wound up having a drug problem a decade later. Joe Gilliam, who started in '74 for six games, wound up having a drug problem.Mentorship was huge to these guys. They realized moving forward, "We've gone through a lot of stuff." They could be there for others to make sure they can handle a blitz, and they can also handle the fans, GMs, and coaches.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746671/cropped_GettyImages-1811743484.jpg?ts=1727187618" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746671/w220xh124_GettyImages-1811743484.jpg?ts=1727187618 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746671/w320xh180_GettyImages-1811743484.jpg?ts=1727187618 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746671/w640xh360_GettyImages-1811743484.jpg?ts=1727187618 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746671/w768xh432_GettyImages-1811743484.jpg?ts=1727187618 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/746671/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1811743484.jpg?ts=1727187618 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts were the first Black quarterbacks to face off in a Super Bowl. David Eulitt / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>When you watch the NFL, which QBs make you think of Williams, and who reminds you of Evans?The best case is Super Bowl LVII (between the Chiefs and Eagles). You've got Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts.Hurts and Evans were very similar. They're short, they're compact, and they're fast with powerful arms. They're still trying to figure out precision passing.Williams and Mahomes are talented pocket quarterbacks, can move, and can make any throw. That's why they called Doug Williams the Rifleman. He's a gunslinger just like Mahomes. To me, it's the perfect comparison.Nowadays, Black QBs win MVP awards and championships. They headline the top of the draft. What will their accomplishments mean in the future?The future's Black. We're not even thinking about it anymore. Doug Williams wasn't a "Black quarterback" until he gets into this white space. The more we move on, it's going to be a Black position. The way the guys are playing today, it's a copycat league, and it's going to make it easier for the next guy.A great example is the past two drafts. Back-to-back first and second picks are Black quarterbacks. Last year, it was Bryce Young, C.J. Stroud, and then the fourth pick is Anthony Richardson. This year, it's Caleb Williams, it's Jayden Daniels, and Michael Penix Jr. goes early in the first round. Next year, probably Shedeur Sanders if he gets his stuff together. It's becoming the norm of what we see.Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.

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When the NFL overhauled kickoff rules to create more returns this season, the change had the pote...

When the NFL overhauled kickoff rules to create more returns this season, the change had the potential to revive a rare, electrifying play: the kicker tackle.Retired kickers like Shayne Graham racked up plenty of takedowns. His single-season record of 11 tackles for the 2005 Bengals included a clutch wrap-up of Josh Cribbs, the uncatchable Browns returner, in a tie game that Graham won for Cincinnati with a walk-off field goal."Guys slap you on the helmet, give you the chest bumps, and give you the things that you typically didn't get to experience after kicking a field goal," Graham reminisced about making a tackle in a recent interview. "If my jersey was dirty at the end of the game, it wasn't something that (fueled) the stereotype of kickers having the cleanest jersey and being kind of soft."<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744940/cropped_GettyImages-51325869.jpg?ts=1726245146" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744940/w220xh124_GettyImages-51325869.jpg?ts=1726245146 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744940/w320xh180_GettyImages-51325869.jpg?ts=1726245146 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744940/w640xh360_GettyImages-51325869.jpg?ts=1726245146 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744940/w768xh432_GettyImages-51325869.jpg?ts=1726245146 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744940/w1080xh607_GettyImages-51325869.jpg?ts=1726245146 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Shayne Graham. Andy Lyons / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Another bruiser at the position, Shaun Suisham, wore hockey shoulder pads with the Steelers to channel the ferocity of his childhood sport in Canada. The NFL's most physical kicker in 2011 (five tackles) and 2013 (seven), Suisham laid blows that delighted teammates in the heat of battle and during the following week's meetings."Mike Tomlin would roll back the film and replay it over and over again for the guys," Suisham said. "That made (tackling) pretty fun for me. A lot of really great moments when you feel like you're able to impact the game beyond just the kick."To rock a kick returner, the kicker first needs to put the ball in play, which happened less than ever in 2023. Returns cratered as a huge share of kickoffs - 73% - went into the end zone for touchbacks.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🏈 Rate of return" aria-label="Interactive line chart" id="datawrapper-chart-lggf0" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/lggf0/8/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="468" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>To combat tedium, reduce injuries, and make the kickoff relevant again, the league adapted the radical format used in recent years in the XFL.So-called dynamic kickoffs in the NFL are taken from the 35-yard line while the kicker's teammates stand in the opposing end, moving once the ball is caught or lands inside the 20. Touchbacks are spotted at the 30, while short kicks are penalized and spotted at the 40. Under the new rules, returns increased modestly in Week 1.There were no kicker tackles last week, though Tyler Bass' failure to stop DeeJay Dallas in the Bills-Cardinals game capped a series of breakdowns that led to the first dynamic return score.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
DEEJAY DALLAS OH MYYYYYY 🤯🤯🤯 <a href="https://t.co/sLx2L16aLV">pic.twitter.com/sLx2L16aLV</a>— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) <a href="https://twitter.com/AZCardinals/status/1832865113235398728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Practitioners of this lost art considered tackling a sporadic yet meaningful duty that showed off a kicker's athleticism, toughness, and devotion to the team. Depending on where they threw the body, their hits could pin the opponent deep, mute the excitement of a long return, or spoil a touchdown while firing up the sideline."When you got in on some contact, it felt good to do that because there is a stereotype that kickers aren't really part of the team and aren't really football players," Graham said. "Those of us who had a lot of tackles in our career really take pride in the fact that we were never looked at like that."Growing a tackle count is contingent on opportunity. The most accomplished kicker-hitters almost exclusively played during the 17 seasons (1994-2010) when the league booted kickoffs from the 30-yard line, not the 35, and there were fewer touchbacks.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="😤 Have leg, will hit" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-LkT4Q" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/LkT4Q/5/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="655" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>No kicker has recorded five tackles in a season since Arizona's Chandler Catanzaro in 2015, per <a href="https://stathead.com/tiny/fDzAi">Stathead</a>. Three kickers who notched two tackles in 2023 - Cleveland's Dustin Hopkins, Houston's Ka'imi Fairbairn, and Minnesota's Greg Joseph - co-led the league.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title=" 📉 Yearly high in tackles" aria-label="Column Chart" id="datawrapper-chart-gnLhY" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/gnLhY/2/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="366" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>Once upon a time, protecting the house gratified Matt Bosher, who averaged a tackle every five games and didn't allow a return touchdown over nine years as the Falcons' kickoff specialist."That was something I never wanted to give up. It's cheesy as all hell, but I named my boat No Returns. I didn't plan on changing it to One Return," Bosher said. "My thing was: I wasn't going to let you get past me. I'm going to grab you by your ankle, or I'm going to step up. Run me over - I don't care. I'm going to grab you, hold on, and go for a ride."Top kickoff hitters embraced contact in high school - Bosher moonlighted at right guard and defensive end - and confidently sought out hits in the NFL. Suisham found it easier to sprint forward to fill gaps in the initial wave of coverage than to try to trip a ball carrier while backpedaling at midfield. The approach <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HBVc0ZBloko&amp;t=11s">helped him floor</a> Lardarius Webb on the opening play when Pittsburgh edged Baltimore by a touchdown in the 2010 postseason.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744936/GettyImages-458088648.jpg?ts=1726244932" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744936/GettyImages-458088648.jpg?ts=1726244932 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744936/GettyImages-458088648.jpg?ts=1726244932 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744936/GettyImages-458088648.jpg?ts=1726244932 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744936/GettyImages-458088648.jpg?ts=1726244932 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744936/GettyImages-458088648.jpg?ts=1726244932 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Shaun Suisham. George Gojkovich / Getty Images </figcaption></figure>The Bengals deployed Graham aggressively. Special teams coach Darrin Simmons refined Graham's tackling technique in drills - "We weren't just diving at ankles like a lot of guys will do," Graham said - and shared tips on how to angle a returner toward the sideline or line up a hit in the middle of a crowd before he gained steam."I could make the tackle before he had a lot of open space down the field, where it was easy for him to make a quick move to try to get me off balance," Graham said. "I liked to be able to get them as they're breaking through a hole. That way, I could either wrap up on them or put a shoulder into them to have a little more influence in taking them down."Hitting mattered to a generation of kickers, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/27/sports/football/27kickers.html">The New York Times</a> wrote in a 2008 story that relayed colorful details about Jay Feely, the position's "most aggressive and perhaps craziest tackler." Feely, who wore gloves to tackle and run with the ball on trick plays, made friendly bets with kindred spirit Neil Rackers over who'd throw more hits in their head-to-head matchups.Rackers, the No. 1 career kicker tackler, shot the gap in his final NFL season with the Texans to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxbrKiWuPSI">truck</a> Marc Mariani before triumphantly punching the air. Feely <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mpVo-j2KWL8">wrestled</a> Eric Decker to the ground in a Cardinals win in which he outscored the Broncos by himself, tallying 25 points via five field goals, four PATs, and a rushing TD on a fake kick.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
He's made 27 game-winning kicks, two in the Super Bowl. But this might be the most impressive play of <a href="https://twitter.com/adamvinatieri?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@adamvinatieri</a>'s career... (Dec. 15, 1996) <a href="https://twitter.com/Patriots?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Patriots</a> <a href="https://t.co/BR7FGIjU0G">pic.twitter.com/BR7FGIjU0G</a>— NFL Legacy (@NFLLegacy) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFLLegacy/status/1053024796093505536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 18, 2018</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Kickoff tackles create lasting memories. Future Super Bowl hero Adam Vinatieri chased down Herschel Walker as a rookie with New England. Denver's Todd Sauerbrun <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FnkPO36MKHA&amp;t=189s">forced</a> a fumble against the dynastic Patriots in the 2005 divisional round. The Colts' Pat McAfee grew his celebrity on Sunday Night Football by causing 5-foot-5 returner Trindon Holliday to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrxLzq3h8EY">take flight</a>."Those moments don't happen very often. When they do, they're special. It's one of the only ways you can truly show your team that you're committed and willing to put your face right in it," Suisham said. "Those are elite athletes, and you found a way to get them in that moment. Most times, they're going to win that battle."<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
IS THAT <a href="https://twitter.com/MattBosher5?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MATTBOSHER5</a> OR <a href="https://twitter.com/Keanu_Neal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KEANU_NEAL</a>?!?!?!?! <a href="https://t.co/JDfly0zSrY">pic.twitter.com/JDfly0zSrY</a>— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) <a href="https://twitter.com/AtlantaFalcons/status/1076918345495076864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2018</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>In Bosher's post-playing business, some of his property management clients in South Florida have Googled, then phoned to rave about his body slam of Carolina's Kenjon Barner in 2018. It's a cool icebreaker, Bosher said, that even helped him and Barner connect when the returner signed with Atlanta the following season."He always said that his son had a funny joke," Bosher said. "(Barner) was telling his kid to take out the garbage. He was like: 'I'm not going to take it out. If you want me to take it out, go talk to Matt Bosher.'"<figure class="article-segment--embed"><center>                    </center></figure>The XFL's reimagination of the kickoff thrust kickers into the fray. After scouting the format in the offseason, Chiefs special teams coordinator Dave Toub said XFL kickers were involved in more than 25% of tackles, either by attempting them or forcing the returner to change direction.Expecting collisions to rise, Browns special teams coordinator Bubba Ventrone spoke to the club's secondary coaches about including kickers in tackling drills. Watching XFL clips inspired Ravens legend Justin Tucker, who has eight tackles in 196 career games, to lift more weights to prepare for contact."It is something you're going to think about, especially with this new, more dynamic kickoff," said Taylor Russolino, the kicker for the 2023 XFL champion Arlington Renegades. "If that returner hits the first hole pretty fast and it opens up quickly, that kicker's going to be approached in the blink of an eye."<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744945/cropped_GettyImages-136015138.jpg?ts=1726245766" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744945/w220xh124_GettyImages-136015138.jpg?ts=1726245766 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744945/w320xh180_GettyImages-136015138.jpg?ts=1726245766 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744945/w640xh360_GettyImages-136015138.jpg?ts=1726245766 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744945/w768xh432_GettyImages-136015138.jpg?ts=1726245766 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/744945/w1080xh607_GettyImages-136015138.jpg?ts=1726245766 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Neil Rackers leads all NFL kickers in career tackles. Sam Greenwood / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Key differences between the XFL and NFL rules may limit kicker hits. As XFL kickoff inventor Sam Schwartzstein <a href="https://x.com/schwartzsteins/status/1796256558340579641">emphasized</a>, NFL kickers can't cross midfield until the ball's caught, which distances them from the returner and slows their running start.Also, the NFL touchback rule isn't punitive, as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3064030" href="https://thescore.com/news/3064030">theScore's Dan Wilkins</a> observed after Week 1, when almost two-thirds of kickoffs (64.5%) died in the end zone. Teams mostly opted to start defending at the 30 instead of trying to stuff the returner or manipulate the ball's flight path to bounce or curve it away from him."If they (moved touchbacks to) the 35 or the 40, that would really force teams to kick it into that landing zone between the zero and the 20," Russolino told theScore in an interview ahead of Week 1. "This season, I think you'll see half the teams kick it through the end zone, and half the teams play around with different kicks."If strategies evolve this season, Suisham wondered whether teams will tap safeties with big legs to handle some kickoffs and be the last line of defense. That would put an 11th seasoned tackler on the field and lessen the kicker's exposure to injury, which can ruin seasons.Suisham suffered a noncontact ACL tear on his final NFL play while covering a kickoff in the preseason Hall of Fame Game. Following last year's XFL-USFL merger, kicker Donald De La Haye - known online as the popular YouTuber "Deestroying" - exhibited the risks of poor tackling form when he fractured his neck in the newly united spring league.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Get yourself a kicker who isn't afraid to HIT 💥<a href="https://twitter.com/Deestroying?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Deestroying</a> wasn't holding back on this one 😤 <a href="https://t.co/i1PVbWjGj0">pic.twitter.com/i1PVbWjGj0</a>— San Antonio Brahmas (@XFLBrahmas) <a href="https://twitter.com/XFLBrahmas/status/1776715389013266691?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 6, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>"The kickoff at full speed is a violent action. It's hard on your back. It's hard on your body, especially as you age and the season goes on," Suisham said. "I wouldn't be surprised if you see more (defensive players kicking off) to protect the kicker. They're going to be involved in a lot more plays, potentially. Everybody loves a kicker who makes tackles until it ends their career. That can happen."The geometry of the dynamic kickoff heightens a kicker's responsibilities. Being spread wide upfield makes it difficult for the coverage team to swarm or corner the returner in a thicket of bodies, Graham pointed out. The kicker can't cross the 50 prematurely, but he's the one defender who can take a direct, minimally impeded route to the ball.When contact is imminent, the worst thing to do is flinch or hesitate."For me, the biggest mentality was not being afraid," Graham said. "When you feel, 'Hey, I can deliver this tackle while being aggressive,' that's when you're more protected. You're in control of your body. You're able to try to execute a technique versus just throwing your body in the way."Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore

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Inside the lost art of the NFL kicker tackle

In the summer of 2020, Australia's National Rugby League sounded the alarm about a tackle that wa...

In the summer of 2020, Australia's National Rugby League sounded the alarm about a tackle that was ending players' seasons and jeopardizing careers.A memo to NRL teams pinpointed the problem:<blockquote>"The concern arises when a defending player heavily impacts the lower legs and feet of attacking players by dropping their body weight on the exposed limbs using their hips, legs, and/or buttocks. This action traps, twists, and contorts muscles, tendons, and joints in an unnatural way."</blockquote>The hip-drop tackle surfaced in rugby league as a convenient, hazardous way for trailing defenders to floor a speeding ball carrier, whose bones and ligaments buckled under the tackler's dead weight. The NRL classified the play as "dangerous contact" punishable during matches by a penalty kick, a 10-minute trip to the "sin bin," or an ejection, plus a possible suspension or hefty fine.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>"We had a pretty steely determination to eliminate it from the game as much as humanly possible," Graham Annesley, the NRL's head of football operations and author of the 2020 memo, told theScore in a recent phone interview.The NFL, dealing with similar injuries from these tackles, sought guidance from half a world away. League officials consulted with the NRL about how to define and scrap the hip-drop when it started endangering playmakers in the open field.Over the past two years, hip-drop tackles dinged up Tyreek Hill, Patrick Mahomes, and Geno Smith and broke the fibulas of Mark Andrews and Tony Pollard, who was carted off the field during a Cowboys playoff loss. Jets rookie quarterback Jordan Travis is still recovering from a reckless takedown that <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sLw4wNTD4bQ">cut short</a> his college tenure at Florida State and helped wreck the Seminoles' perfect season and national championship hopes.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The play on which Ravens’ TE Mark Andrews went down and then limped off: <a href="https://t.co/UQfYDmZXTT">pic.twitter.com/UQfYDmZXTT</a>— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/1725324319629222125?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2023</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Hip drop tackles are an unacceptable risk to player health and safety. More than 20K tackles were reviewed from the past two seasons to identify the type of play this rule addresses, below are examples ⬇️🎥 <a href="https://t.co/ihEwWbR516">pic.twitter.com/ihEwWbR516</a>— NFL Football Operations (@NFLFootballOps) <a href="https://twitter.com/NFLFootballOps/status/1773345523728289990?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 28, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Deciding the risks were excessive, and with rugby league's example in mind, NFL clubs outlawed the hip-drop by unanimous vote in March. A defender who throws his weight at a runner's lower legs can be flagged for 15 yards and an automatic first down, the standard penalty for a personal foul. How the league polices the new rule and how defenses adapt to it is one of the 2024 season's big storylines.The ban fanned fierce debate, and it split opinion within teams.Supporters of a hip-drop crackdown, like John Harbaugh, Andrews' head coach in Baltimore, argued that tacklers shouldn't use such a risky technique. Former Ravens linebacker Patrick Queen joined a chorus of critics who think it overly constrains the defense and will hasten the NFL's metamorphosis into a no-contact game."I hate that Mark is hurt. Prayers for him. But at the end of the day, we play football," Queen said after Andrews was injured last season, per <a href="https://www.baltimoreravens.com/news/hip-drop-tackle-mark-andrews-logan-wilson-injury-lamar-jackson-under-microscope">Ravens team reporter Ryan Mink</a>. "I don't think a hip-drop tackle is that bad of a thing. How else do you want us to tackle? Just let the guy run past you?"<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
2 hand touch gone be next lmao— 🦈 (@Patrickqueen_) <a href="https://twitter.com/Patrickqueen_/status/1772290459710194134?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Just fast forward to the belts with flags on them… <a href="https://t.co/yToh5XKVMS">https://t.co/yToh5XKVMS</a>— JJ Watt (@JJWatt) <a href="https://twitter.com/JJWatt/status/1772280695156625417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Breaking news: Tackling Banned— Jev (@quickdrawjev) <a href="https://twitter.com/quickdrawjev/status/1772280257187311844?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Competition committee doesn’t care about defense. Every year they make it harder for us to succeed 🤦🏾‍♂️— Joshua Metellus (@NoExcuses_23) <a href="https://twitter.com/NoExcuses_23/status/1772276587389702232?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>The view in Australia is that the NRL product didn't suffer. Serious injuries declined as tacklers continued to grip the ball carrier and swivel their weight toward his body but adjusted to hit the grass first before contacting the opponent's legs. The NRL's three-part definition of a hip-drop tackle - a grab, a twist, and a drop - singled out the third element as the threat to player safety."It became apparent to us that there were certain attributes of these tackles that could be prevented," Annesley said. "What we're trying to avoid is the bulk of the body weight falling directly onto the leg as the first point of contact. If the body weight hits the ground before the leg, it means the ground absorbs most of the weight."<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5KJ9mCbS3rU?si=bxdGLwVR_TY9vzQX" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure>Trends in football and rugby league - the 13-player game resembles but is distinct from rugby union - made hip-drop tackles useful. It helped NFL defenders avoid penalties for helmet hits, <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5367020/2024/03/25/nfl-hip-drop-tackle-ban/">The Athletic's Mike Jones</a> pointed out. Increases in size and strength throughout rugby mean even fleet-footed wingers are massive nowadays and hard to haul down, said Brien Seeney, an independent NRL injury analyst and musculoskeletal sports physiotherapist in Brisbane.The outcry about the NFL ban was understandable. Defenders don't want to lose access to a tactic that stops a runner in his tracks."But that's true for every dangerous tackle," said Seeney, who breaks down rugby injuries on his popular @nrlphysio social media accounts. "In rugby, we have high tackle bans where you can't hit a player in the head. Sometimes, the easy option to stop a player from scoring a try, or a touchdown in the NFL, would be to hit them in the head or do a horse-collar tackle. Just because it's the easiest way doesn't mean it's the only way."<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Jye Gray ruled out at half time after succumbing to an ankle injury. Hip drop tackle mechanism - contact causes foot to turn out bringing concern for a syndesmosis injury. Moderate to high grade sprain would be at least 3-4 weeks recovery so hopefully not as bad as it looks. <a href="https://t.co/OoFuRJl1W0">pic.twitter.com/OoFuRJl1W0</a>— NRL PHYSIO (@nrlphysio) <a href="https://twitter.com/nrlphysio/status/1785988746653155338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Hip-drops cause awkward, painful pileups. The NFL's analysis of tens of thousands of plays from the past two seasons showed they injure lower extremities "at a rate 20 times higher than other tackles," the league <a href="https://operations.nfl.com/updates/the-rules/nfl-clubs-approve-rule-to-remove-hip-drop-tackle-from-the-game/">noted</a> when approving the ban. The review found 15 players, or close to one a week, missed time in 2023 with a hip-drop injury.Before removing the hip-drop, the NFL contacted Annesley to ask questions about rugby league's process, rules, and results.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743933/cropped_GettyImages-2149049561.jpg?ts=1725633811" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743933/w220xh124_GettyImages-2149049561.jpg?ts=1725633811 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743933/w320xh180_GettyImages-2149049561.jpg?ts=1725633811 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743933/w640xh360_GettyImages-2149049561.jpg?ts=1725633811 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743933/w768xh432_GettyImages-2149049561.jpg?ts=1725633811 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743933/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2149049561.jpg?ts=1725633811 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">NRL executive Graham Annesley. Albert Perez / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>The NRL described the hip-drop's three simple steps - the grab, twist, and drop - in all communications with clubs and fans to hammer home how it could be avoided. To change tackling habits, some coaches emphasized leading with a shoulder and driving through the ball carrier's body.Seeney said hip-drops in Australia were widely considered worth banning because of a rash of long-term injuries, though skeptics initially wondered how the NRL would distinguish and define the tackle. Detractors, including ex-players in the media, framed those injuries as an acceptable consequence of play."There were people who felt - and maybe still do, in some cases, probably in the minority - that this was just an unfortunate aspect of playing the game, and when you're trying to tackle players and stop their forward progress, there are things that can go wrong that are nothing more than accidents," Annesley said.In response, he added, "We can't eliminate all injuries because it is a tough, physical game. But we as administrators have a responsibility to make the game as safe as possible."<figure class="article-segment--embed"><center>                    </center></figure>The NRL's oldest teams were founded in Sydney more than a century ago when rugby league, a British creation, was introduced to Australia, where it's now the most-watched sport on TV. The ongoing NRL season kicked off in March with a first-of-its-kind doubleheader at Allegiant Stadium, home of the Las Vegas Raiders. Next season will open in Vegas, too.Football and rugby league are both ferocious, share a common goal (elude tackles to reach the end zone), and sporadically inspire career changes.Eagles left tackle Jordan Mailata was an NRL South Sydney Rabbitohs youth prospect before he switched sports at age 20 through the NFL international pathway program. Two-time NRL MVP Jarryd Hayne, who played on offense and special teams for the 49ers in 2015, infamously <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8r7pSBccAB0">muffed</a> his first punt return.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743931/cropped_GettyImages-1942392988.jpg?ts=1725633072" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743931/w220xh124_GettyImages-1942392988.jpg?ts=1725633072 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743931/w320xh180_GettyImages-1942392988.jpg?ts=1725633072 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743931/w640xh360_GettyImages-1942392988.jpg?ts=1725633072 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743931/w768xh432_GettyImages-1942392988.jpg?ts=1725633072 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743931/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1942392988.jpg?ts=1725633072 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Jordan Mailata. Perry Knotts / Getty Images</figcaption></figure><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743932/cropped_GettyImages-2054540362.jpg?ts=1725633559" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743932/w220xh124_GettyImages-2054540362.jpg?ts=1725633559 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743932/w320xh180_GettyImages-2054540362.jpg?ts=1725633559 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743932/w640xh360_GettyImages-2054540362.jpg?ts=1725633559 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743932/w768xh432_GettyImages-2054540362.jpg?ts=1725633559 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743932/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2054540362.jpg?ts=1725633559 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">The South Sydney Rabbitohs (scoring try) and Manly Warringah Sea Eagles clashed in Las Vegas in March. Ezra Shaw / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>The differences between the games are obvious: Rugby doesn't have helmets, pads, forward passes, timeouts, or constant lengthy pauses. Rugby league players attack and defend with duties changing as possession does, which happens when the defensive team records six tackles or the offense punts the ball to swing field position.After a completed tackle, all but two defenders must retreat 10 meters (11 yards) before pursuing the ball again. Stopping the offense's progress is key to victories. One effect of the hip-drop ban, which NFL tacklers will hate, is that runners gain a little extra distance when they're wrapped up cleanly and fall forward."I don't think anyone who pays attention to this denies that it'll make life harder for the defending player. It will," said Seeney, an NFL fan who follows along as closely as possible from Brisbane. "(But) it hasn't killed the game over here. They're two very different games in terms of the way players tackle, but the (NRL) game still exists. It hasn't resulted in the game being wholly different, and I doubt it will for the NFL."The NFLPA objected to a hip-drop ban based on concerns ranging from a lack of player input to a distaste for fines to the fear that it would confuse everyone in the stadium, including officiating crews.Falcons CEO Rich McKay, the NFL competition committee co-chairman, acknowledged it'd be difficult to spot and flag the tackle accurately in real time.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Rich McKay: “Do we have a problem? The answer was yes.” “This will be a hard one to call on the field, you have to see every element of it. We want to make it a rule so we can deal on the discipline during the week.” <a href="https://t.co/84Ny0FEq8s">https://t.co/84Ny0FEq8s</a>— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) <a href="https://twitter.com/RapSheet/status/1772284458885947818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 25, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>Rugby referees benefit from a second set of eyes. Off-site match officials at the NRL's "<a href="https://www.nrl.com/operations/the-officials/bunker/">bunker</a>," a centralized office in Sydney, review tackles from all angles in high definition and speak to referees during game stoppages to flag overlooked offenses. Like most penalties, hip-drop calls in the NFL aren't subject to challenges or instant replay.Annesley said he'd keenly observe the start of the NFL season to see how the crackdown plays out, conceding controversies will be inevitable. He thinks his league swayed the opinion of wary Australians over the past few years, and he was pleased to share takeaways from the experience."I'd be happy if we played some small role in making the game of the NFL safer," Annesley said. "Hopefully, the players are the beneficiaries of that. That's the sole intent: try to keep the players on the field, able to perform for the fans, and not have them sitting on the sideline recovering from injuries."Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore

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How rugby's hip-drop ban became a model for the NFL

Ahead of Thursday's season opener, we identify 32 NFL players and club personnel who'll make news...

Ahead of Thursday's season opener, we identify 32 NFL players and club personnel who'll make news, dazzle or disappoint fans, and influence each team's fate in 2024. Names are sorted alphabetically.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743595/cropped_GettyImages-1915432333.jpg?ts=1725370106" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743595/w220xh124_GettyImages-1915432333.jpg?ts=1725370106 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743595/w320xh180_GettyImages-1915432333.jpg?ts=1725370106 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743595/w640xh360_GettyImages-1915432333.jpg?ts=1725370106 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743595/w768xh432_GettyImages-1915432333.jpg?ts=1725370106 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743595/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1915432333.jpg?ts=1725370106 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Robin Alam / ISI Photos / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Brandon Aiyuk, 49ers WR: The extension agreement that ended Aiyuk's contract stalemate and silenced months of trade chatter was huge for the 49ers, who face an arduous road to rule the NFC again. Only one Super Bowl loser in the past 30 years managed to return to the game the following season (2017 Patriots). Brock Purdy's No. 1 receiver needs to hit the ground running.Joe Brady, Bills OC: Reducing turnovers during Brady's stint as interim offensive coordinator helped the 2023 Bills, a .500 team in mid-November, surge to the top of the AFC East. His promotion to permanent OC comes with more adversity. Buffalo's offseason cap crunch eroded Josh Allen's support on both sides of the ball and will force unproven playmakers to step up.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>Joe Burrow, Bengals QB: The pain of injury or crushing defeat, be it in the Super Bowl or AFC title game, brought each of Burrow's first four seasons to an abrupt end. He once said the Bengals' championship window would span "my whole career." Suddenly, he's running out of chances to win with star receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, a pending free agent.Jadeveon Clowney, Panthers DE: The 2014 No. 1 draft pick out of South Carolina grew up about 25 miles south of Bank of America Stadium, where he'll suit up for Carolina after tying his career high in sacks (9.5) last season with the Ravens. While the Panthers still face a long trek in their rebuild, Clowney should bolster a defense that finished last in the NFL in sacks (27).<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742888/cropped_GettyImages-2168881386.jpg?ts=1724873528" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742888/w220xh124_GettyImages-2168881386.jpg?ts=1724873528 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742888/w320xh180_GettyImages-2168881386.jpg?ts=1724873528 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742888/w640xh360_GettyImages-2168881386.jpg?ts=1724873528 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742888/w768xh432_GettyImages-2168881386.jpg?ts=1724873528 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742888/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2168881386.jpg?ts=1724873528 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Todd Kirkland / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Kirk Cousins, Falcons QB: Tired of relying on shaky quarterbacks, the Falcons paid big bucks to sign Cousins for four years, then wasted no time drafting his future replacement, first-rounder Michael Penix Jr. The awkward sequence didn't dim their rosy outlook. If his Achilles holds up, Cousins' accuracy and veteran know-how will aid the growth of Atlanta's young talent.Maxx Crosby, Raiders DE: Crosby led the NFL in tackles for loss over the past two seasons (45), ranked second in QB hits (67), and was fourth in sacks (27). He was about as destructive as Nick Bosa and Myles Garrett, the last two Defensive Players of the Year. Partnering him with Christian Wilkins, a top defensive tackle, seems unfair.Stefon Diggs, Texans WR: Houston's quickly evolved from laughingstock to borderline contender largely thanks to second-year QB C.J. Stroud. Diggs, who turns 31 in November, is playing on a restructured one-year, $22.52-million deal. He’ll seek another payday next offseason, and the connection he establishes with Stroud could determine how much Diggs eventually makes. It's also worth remembering the Bills were comfortable eating $31.096 million in 2024 dead money to trade Diggs, along with a 2024 fourth-round and 2025 fifth-round pick, to the Texans.Brian Flores, Vikings DC: Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa recently railed against Flores, his former head coach. Flores' struggles handling and navigating interpersonal relationships ultimately contributed to his Miami firing, but he remains respected by league decision-makers. Flores enters his second season leading the Vikings defense, but many wonder: Will he ever be a NFL head coach again?<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742889/cropped_GettyImages-2166484307.jpg?ts=1724873680" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742889/w220xh124_GettyImages-2166484307.jpg?ts=1724873680 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742889/w320xh180_GettyImages-2166484307.jpg?ts=1724873680 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742889/w640xh360_GettyImages-2166484307.jpg?ts=1724873680 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742889/w768xh432_GettyImages-2166484307.jpg?ts=1724873680 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742889/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2166484307.jpg?ts=1724873680 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Ric Tapia / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Jim Harbaugh, Chargers head coach: He's back. Fresh off winning a national championship with Michigan, the former Bears QB and 49ers head coach will now attempt to establish and cultivate a new culture with the Chargers. The team's offensive personnel lacks experience, but Harbaugh has a long history of bringing teams together.Marvin Harrison Jr., Cardinals WR: The son of Colts Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison will look to establish his own legacy for a Cardinals offense longing for more firepower and production. Arizona, which was without QB Kyler Murray for nine games last season, finished 26th in passing yards per game (184.9).Derrick Henry, Ravens RB: The Ravens outgained every team on the ground over the past five years despite fielding one lone 1,000-yard running back in the span (Mark Ingram in 2019). Lamar Jackson's keepers magnetize the defense's attention. That may allow Henry, whose workload with the Titans was immense, to rush efficiently and age gracefully in Baltimore's backfield.Tyreek Hill, Dolphins WR: Between Mike McDaniel, Tagovailoa, and Hill, the Dolphins are a blistering offensive machine, and Hill serves as the wheels that keep on churning. Rightfully nicknamed "Cheetah," Hill's the first player in NFL history to have multiple seasons with at least 1,700 receiving yards. After posting 1,799 last season, it won't be shocking if Hill becomes the first receiver to reach 2,000 yards.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742890/cropped_GettyImages-1806869019.jpg?ts=1724873866" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742890/w220xh124_GettyImages-1806869019.jpg?ts=1724873866 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742890/w320xh180_GettyImages-1806869019.jpg?ts=1724873866 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742890/w640xh360_GettyImages-1806869019.jpg?ts=1724873866 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742890/w768xh432_GettyImages-1806869019.jpg?ts=1724873866 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742890/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1806869019.jpg?ts=1724873866 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Perry Knotts / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Josh Hines-Allen, Jaguars LB: An offseason name change and increasingly big stats (24.5 sacks, six forced fumbles across 2022 and 2023) distinguish the Jaguars edge rusher from Buffalo's star passer. Hines-Allen's new nine-figure megadeal reflects his importance to Jacksonville. With another career year, he could unseat T.J. Watt as the NFL sack king.Ben Johnson, Lions OC: Unfinished business led Johnson to reject coaching overtures and return to run Detroit's powerhouse offense. Last year's 12-win Lions got closer to a Super Bowl trip - they were one score away - than any predecessor. If these Lions consistently drop 30 points, they'll be tough to beat.Travis Kelce, Chiefs TE: Between his three Super Bowl titles, dating Taylor Swift, and off-field ventures with his older brother Jason, Travis Kelce has plenty to juggle. The Chiefs are looking to win a third straight Super Bowl, which has never been done. As Patrick Mahomes attempts to incorporate new faces into the offense, his old reliable Kelce is always but a quick, no-look pass away.Will Levis, Titans QB: The Titans have long been known as a run-it-down-your-throat franchise. But with Henry gone, Levis will have clearance to air it out to top receivers DeAndre Hopkins and Calvin Ridley. In his second season, Levis could dazzle or crack in the competitive AFC South.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742892/cropped_GettyImages-2167827970.jpg?ts=1724874143" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742892/w220xh124_GettyImages-2167827970.jpg?ts=1724874143 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742892/w320xh180_GettyImages-2167827970.jpg?ts=1724874143 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742892/w640xh360_GettyImages-2167827970.jpg?ts=1724874143 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742892/w768xh432_GettyImages-2167827970.jpg?ts=1724874143 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742892/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2167827970.jpg?ts=1724874143 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Jamie Schwaberow / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Jordan Love, Packers QB: Green Bay hopes to solidify itself as a true contender with Love leading the way. The QB, 26 in November, maximized his first season as the team's full-time starter, passing for 4,159 yards with 32 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. With his new four-year, $220-million deal in place, it's time for Love to take off.Julian Love, Seahawks S: He thrived in former coach Pete Carroll's defensive scheme - 123 tackles, 10 passes defended, and four interceptions - so it was telling that Seattle brought Love back on a three-year deal under new coach Mike Macdonald. As an established veteran, Love, 26, could blossom further for a franchise that targeted him to again serve as the defense's backbone.Jerod Mayo, Patriots head coach: New England's new era began when Mayo succeeded Bill Belichick. The retired linebacker was in high school when Belichick piloted the Patriots to the first of six championships. Mayo's Pats will either lose constantly and draft first overall next spring or take a step toward competing someday with QB Drake Maye.Adam Peters, Commanders GM: Since being hired at the beginning of the year, Peters already has hired head coach Dan Quinn; selected 2023 Heisman winner and quarterback Jayden Daniels with the No. 2 pick; and added a handful of veteran free agents, including running back Austin Ekeler, tight end Zach Ertz, and linebacker Bobby Wagner.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742897/cropped_GettyImages-1900156551.jpg?ts=1724874478" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742897/w220xh124_GettyImages-1900156551.jpg?ts=1724874478 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742897/w320xh180_GettyImages-1900156551.jpg?ts=1724874478 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742897/w640xh360_GettyImages-1900156551.jpg?ts=1724874478 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742897/w768xh432_GettyImages-1900156551.jpg?ts=1724874478 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742897/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1900156551.jpg?ts=1724874478 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Cooper Neill / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Dak Prescott, Cowboys QB: Signs point to the Cowboys being extremely competitive again. Prescott, the 2023 MVP runner-up, gets to throw darts to a cheerful CeeDee Lamb, the recipient of a new massive contract. Eventually, the Prescott-Lamb-Micah Parsons star trio needs to solve Dallas' chronic, farcical inability to move past the divisional round.Anthony Richardson, Colts QB: Richardson throws caution to the wind in the open field. His dynamism, speed, and physicality produced four rushing touchdowns in four games but led to head and shoulder injuries that shortened his rookie season. Knowing when to slide or pass instead of powering through contact is a top priority in Year 2.Aaron Rodgers, Jets QB: He's back in the spotlight following last season's abrupt exit in the season opener. Can he play savior for a franchise that hasn't reached the playoffs since 2010? That same year, Rodgers won his only Super Bowl with the Packers.Jim Schwartz, Browns DC: Cleveland's defensive mastermind is the reigning NFL Assistant Coach of the Year. Schwartz's unit led the way to 11 wins by allowing the fewest yards per game (270.2) league-wide since 2014. But the Browns collapsed against the Texans in the playoffs and are set to play the NFL's toughest schedule, facing 12 opponents coming off winning seasons.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742899/cropped_GettyImages-1807873915.jpg?ts=1724874724" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742899/w220xh124_GettyImages-1807873915.jpg?ts=1724874724 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742899/w320xh180_GettyImages-1807873915.jpg?ts=1724874724 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742899/w640xh360_GettyImages-1807873915.jpg?ts=1724874724 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742899/w768xh432_GettyImages-1807873915.jpg?ts=1724874724 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742899/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1807873915.jpg?ts=1724874724 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Kyle Ross / Icon Sportswire / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Nick Sirianni, Eagles head coach: There's perhaps no one with more pressure to succeed in 2024 than Sirianni. He barely survived the offseason after the Eagles sputtered to a 1-6 finish, and he now takes a clear back seat with new OC Kellen Moore calling the shots. Will the influx of front office-inspired coaching changes - and quality personnel additions like running back Saquon Barkley - help the Eagles reach their lofty goals?Pat Surtain II, Broncos CB: The NFL's new <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3067412" href="https://thescore.com/news/3067412">highest-paid</a> defensive back hopes to help revive the Broncos defense. Denver plunged from third in points allowed in 2021, Surtain's rookie season, to 27th in 2023, when Sean Payton debuted as head coach. Until that trajectory reverses, Denver's eight-year postseason drought won't end.Andrew Thomas, Giants LT: The embattled Giants offensive line gave up more sacks last season (85, or five per game) than any team since 1986. Thomas' long absence with a hamstring strain debilitated the unit. The 2022 All-Pro left tackle must protect the blind side so Daniel Jones can target, and hopefully not overthrow, prized rookie Malik Nabers.Caleb Williams, Bears QB: This year's No. 1 pick joins a franchise beyond desperate for quality QB play. Williams, already voted by teammates as a team captain, will look to elevate the Bears with his arm talent and ability to make unscripted throws. He joins a cozy offensive personnel group in Chicago that features wide receivers Keenan Allen, DJ Moore, and fellow rookie Rome Odunze.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742902/cropped_GettyImages-1880602504.jpg?ts=1724874867" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742902/w220xh124_GettyImages-1880602504.jpg?ts=1724874867 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742902/w320xh180_GettyImages-1880602504.jpg?ts=1724874867 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742902/w640xh360_GettyImages-1880602504.jpg?ts=1724874867 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742902/w768xh432_GettyImages-1880602504.jpg?ts=1724874867 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/742902/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1880602504.jpg?ts=1724874867 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Cooper Neill / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Kyren Williams, Rams RB: The '23 Rams were the only team with multiple playmakers - Williams and Puka Nacua - who ranked in the top 15 in scrimmage yards. Dominating efficiently, Williams averaged a league-best 95.3 rushing yards per game and housed 15 TDs in 12 games. Stardom awaits if he can stay healthy and sustain that output.Russell Wilson, Steelers QB: The former Seahawks great has a cloud over his legacy because of his ugly Broncos breakup. A fresh start may be exactly what the aging Wilson needs at this point of his career, as he seeks to solidify his Hall of Fame credentials.Antoine Winfield Jr., Buccaneers S: The heartbeat of a strong defense, Winfield helped seal the Buccaneers' latest NFC South title with a forced fumble at the goal line in a season-ending shutout win. Game-changing plays are his specialty. Duels with Cousins in Weeks 5 and 8 could decide the champion of another close division race.Chase Young, Saints DE: Young stormed onto the NFL scene in 2020, when he was selected No. 2 overall by the Commanders and earned Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. But injuries have affected his trajectory since, although the Saints are hopeful the former Ohio State standout will add some juice to their pass rush. Over four seasons, Young has 16.5 sacks and 20 tackles for loss.Josh Tolentino and Nick Faris cover the NFL for theScore.

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32 people who'll headline the 2024 NFL season

By the time Yaroslav Askarov asked for a trade in August, demands of the sort had become familiar...

By the time Yaroslav Askarov asked for a trade in August, demands of the sort had become familiar.The former Predators farmhand, one of hockey's best prospect goaltenders, was impatient and peeved about his lot in the sport. Juuse Saros' grip on the No. 1 role in Nashville - solidified by a rich eight-year extension - blocked Askarov's path to NHL starts.Askarov, 22, didn't want to be trapped in the minors for a third season. He was swapped to the Sharks and negotiated an additional two years to his contract to enthusiastically commit to the league's worst team - and the prospect of playing time.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>In some summers, top talent headlines the NHL's biggest trades. Erik Karlsson joined the Penguins in 2023 following his third Norris Trophy win. The 2022 Matthew Tkachuk-Jonathan Huberdeau blockbuster unlocked the Panthers' championship potential.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743128/cropped_GettyImages-1456243115.jpg?ts=1725029245" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743128/w220xh124_GettyImages-1456243115.jpg?ts=1725029245 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743128/w320xh180_GettyImages-1456243115.jpg?ts=1725029245 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743128/w640xh360_GettyImages-1456243115.jpg?ts=1725029245 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743128/w768xh432_GettyImages-1456243115.jpg?ts=1725029245 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743128/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1456243115.jpg?ts=1725029245 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Yaroslav Askarov. Minas Panagiotakis / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>This year, the centerpieces of most splashes were recent high-draft selections. Askarov's trade capped months of rampant prospect movement. These players changed teams at whirlwind speed for a range of reasons, including the exertion of leverage by three disgruntled prospects: Askarov and college forwards Rutger McGroarty and Cutter Gauthier.Ten players who were drafted in the top 15 between 2019-23 have been traded since January. The flurry broke down like this:<ul><li>The Sharks acquired Askarov for prospect forward David Edstrom and a future first-round pick, plus goalie Magnus Chrona.</li></ul><ul><li>McGroarty's refusal to sign with the Jets, who shipped him to Pittsburgh for Brayden Yager, echoed Gauthier's earlier rejection of the Flyers, who recouped Jamie Drysdale from the Ducks.</li></ul><ul><li>Utah dealt Conor Geekie and the Sabres ditched Matthew Savoie for immediate upgrades, while other teams dumped apparent whiffs (Devils with Alexander Holtz; Canucks with Vasili Podkolzin).</li></ul><ul><li>Bowen Byram headed to the Sabres at the 2023-24 deadline as the Avalanche filled an urgent need, grabbing second-line center Casey Mittelstadt.</li></ul><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743132/cropped_GettyImages-2038418532.jpg?ts=1725030236" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743132/w220xh124_GettyImages-2038418532.jpg?ts=1725030236 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743132/w320xh180_GettyImages-2038418532.jpg?ts=1725030236 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743132/w640xh360_GettyImages-2038418532.jpg?ts=1725030236 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743132/w768xh432_GettyImages-2038418532.jpg?ts=1725030236 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743132/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2038418532.jpg?ts=1725030236 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Alexander Holtz. Bruce Bennett / NHL / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Also, the Blues weaponized offer sheets to relieve the cap-strapped Oilers of Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway.These transactions remade supporting casts - McGroarty might ride shotgun as a rookie with Sidney Crosby or Evgeni Malkin - and involved a total of 15 teams, or almost half the league.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="↔️ Fresh faces, fresh places" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-8Mv4q" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/8Mv4q/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="550" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>The moves stemmed from two causes: players forcing their way out and teams reassessing their priorities.Like Gauthier last winter, McGroarty decided he wouldn't turn pro with his drafting franchise after two accomplished college seasons. At the risk of alienating all of Winnipeg, he applied the power available to NCAA stars who can keep developing at that level before inking a rookie contract, which ties a player to a team through his RFA years.Teams that don't trade an unsigned player risk losing him outright when his draft rights expire. Since McGroarty and Gauthier instantly got what they wanted, it's possible more NCAA first-rounders will copy their tactics.Young pros who felt stifled or lowballed this summer found ways to gain control. Askarov's high trade value convinced the Predators to fulfill his demand. Profiting from the Blues' <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3057316" href="https://thescore.com/news/3057316">creativity</a>, Broberg and Holloway signed deals with a combined cap hit of $6.87 million, which would've broken Edmonton's budget.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743129/cropped_GettyImages-2158092116.jpg?ts=1725030047" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743129/w220xh124_GettyImages-2158092116.jpg?ts=1725030047 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743129/w320xh180_GettyImages-2158092116.jpg?ts=1725030047 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743129/w640xh360_GettyImages-2158092116.jpg?ts=1725030047 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743129/w768xh432_GettyImages-2158092116.jpg?ts=1725030047 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/743129/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2158092116.jpg?ts=1725030047 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">Philip Broberg (86). Andy Devlin / NHL / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Some prized prospects were jettisoned opportunistically. Pittsburgh sacrificed Yager because McGroarty is closer to NHL-ready. Utah used Geekie as a chip to land impact defenseman Mikhail Sergachev, a two-time Stanley Cup winner and cap casualty with the Lightning. Stuck in an endless playoff drought, Buffalo punted on Savoie's potential to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2936236" href="https://thescore.com/news/2936236">boost</a> the bottom six with center Ryan McLeod, a finished product and surer thing who can score a bit and defend.Most of the trades reflected shifting team needs.Backed into a corner, the Jets and Flyers managed to land prospects with similar upside to McGroarty and Gauthier. The Avalanche's glut of skilled defensemen let them swap Byram for support up front for Nathan MacKinnon. The Devils sold low on Holtz to bring in Paul Cotter from the Golden Knights, hoping his checking and speed will translate to the postseason. The Oilers let go of a fourth-round pick to audition Podkolzin as Holloway's possible replacement.Franchise cornerstones who were drafted in the same range have already signed major contracts. As part of a new trend, they opted for the security of term and a big salary that'll ultimately be an underpayment if they tear up the league.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="💰 Young cornerstones" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-zgPzm" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/zgPzm/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="535" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>If a young NHLer isn't indispensable, he might be expendable. Front offices have quickened their decisions lately. They're acting fast to lock up certain players and split with others, whether that happens by choice or under pressure.Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.

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Why top NHL prospects are changing teams at rapid speed

Seven days of competition remain on the schedule at the Paris Olympics. With scores of medals sti...

Seven days of competition remain on the schedule at the Paris Olympics. With scores of medals still to be awarded, these athletes will play starring roles in the drama.Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, basketball: The crafty NBA floor general leads two up-and-coming teams - the Oklahoma City Thunder and Canada - eager to actualize their huge potential. Should Canada medal at the Olympics, it would be a first for the men's program since 1936. Several Canadians can shoot, slash, and defend, but everything flows through Gilgeous-Alexander, an All-NBA first-team fixture. Canada will count on him to get or create buckets if any game in the knockout round, beginning with Tuesday's quarterfinal against France, is close in crunch time.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739533/cropped_GettyImages-2164225367.jpg?ts=1722633000" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739533/w220xh124_GettyImages-2164225367.jpg?ts=1722633000 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739533/w320xh180_GettyImages-2164225367.jpg?ts=1722633000 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739533/w640xh360_GettyImages-2164225367.jpg?ts=1722633000 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739533/w768xh432_GettyImages-2164225367.jpg?ts=1722633000 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739533/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2164225367.jpg?ts=1722633000 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Sameer Al-Doumy / AFP / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>A'ja Wilson, basketball: The inevitability of the U.S. women clinching an eighth straight hoops title - their last Olympic loss was in the 1992 semifinals - shifts the focus to other questions, like who'll be the MVP. Wilson, the do-it-all Las Vegas Aces center, led the Americans in scoring and blocks at the Tokyo Games but was one-upped for the award by friendly combatant Breanna Stewart. Both bigs bullied Japan and Belgium in decisive wins last week. Wilson and Stewart play major minutes, rarely sitting before garbage time, because no nation can match the U.S.'s interior dominance.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739648/cropped_GettyImages-2165110812.jpg?ts=1722715785" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739648/w220xh124_GettyImages-2165110812.jpg?ts=1722715785 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739648/w320xh180_GettyImages-2165110812.jpg?ts=1722715785 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739648/w640xh360_GettyImages-2165110812.jpg?ts=1722715785 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739648/w768xh432_GettyImages-2165110812.jpg?ts=1722715785 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739648/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2165110812.jpg?ts=1722715785 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Brad Smith / ISI / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Trinity Rodman, soccer: Illicit drone use and breathtaking late goals amped up the entertainment in the women's tournament. Forced to win every match to get to knockout play, beleaguered Canada overcame a six-point sanction but ran out of gas as Germany became the USWNT's semifinal opponent. Rodman's effort could dictate who triumphs Tuesday. The young American forward scored first against Zambia, Australia, and Japan in extra time with pinpoint, occasionally spectacular finishes. The Germans can't give her open lanes to shoot.Lydia Ko, golf: She didn't grab gold at either tournament, but scores of 11-under in Rio and 16-under in Tokyo catapulted Ko to consecutive Olympic podiums. The New Zealander became a 20-time LPGA Tour winner in the 2024 season opener. Uneven results in recent months lessened viewers' confidence in Ko, who slipped to No. 21 in the world rankings ahead of Wednesday's first round at Le Golf National. Still, no challenger to Tokyo champion Nelly Korda's supremacy is as decorated or proven on the Olympic stage.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739338/cropped_GettyImages-1619649186.jpg?ts=1722543443" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739338/w220xh124_GettyImages-1619649186.jpg?ts=1722543443 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739338/w320xh180_GettyImages-1619649186.jpg?ts=1722543443 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739338/w640xh360_GettyImages-1619649186.jpg?ts=1722543443 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739338/w768xh432_GettyImages-1619649186.jpg?ts=1722543443 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739338/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1619649186.jpg?ts=1722543443 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Kirill Kudryavtsev / AFP / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Rai Benjamin, 400m hurdles: Benjamin and two fierce rivals (Norway's Karsten Warholm and Brazil's Alison dos Santos) submitted 19 of this race's 20 all-time fastest runs over the past few years. Proving iron sharpens iron, the U.S. hurdler and Warholm destroyed the previous world record during the turbocharged Tokyo Olympic final, which Warholm won in 45.94 seconds. Dos Santos and Warholm split the '22 and '23 world titles. If Benjamin beats them for gold Friday, the triumph would be monumental.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739716/cropped_GettyImages-2165193486.jpg?ts=1722781411" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739716/w220xh124_GettyImages-2165193486.jpg?ts=1722781411 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739716/w320xh180_GettyImages-2165193486.jpg?ts=1722781411 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739716/w640xh360_GettyImages-2165193486.jpg?ts=1722781411 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739716/w768xh432_GettyImages-2165193486.jpg?ts=1722781411 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/739716/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2165193486.jpg?ts=1722781411 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Kevin Voigt / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Julien Alfred, 200m: Shericka Jackson's withdrawal from a potential 100m duel with Alfred and Sha'Carri Richardson seemed like it would free the Jamaican sprinter, who owns five of the eight fastest times in 200m history, to concentrate on her main event. Then Jackson quit the 200m, too. Alfred, the newly crowned Saint Lucian sprint queen, coasted to 100m glory in 10.72 seconds and won her 200m opening heat the next morning on minimal sleep. Reigning world runner-up Gabby Thomas will probably be favored in Tuesday's final, but Alfred's confidence should be sky-high.Dominika Banevic, breaking: Banevic is a 17-year-old Lithuanian and the budding breakout star of the newest Olympic sport. At the Place de la Concorde urban park Friday, 16 B-Girls will dance in a series of head-to-head battles as judges rate their artistry, originality, musicality (timing moves to the DJ's beat), and technique. Known in breaking circles as "B-Girl Nicka," Banevic is the reigning world and European gold medalist. She'll try to become her country's first Olympic champion in any discipline since 2012.Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.

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7 key Olympians to watch in the final week in Paris

Usain Bolt fittingly led off the latest chapter of theScore's Eras project, which overviewed the ...

Usain Bolt fittingly led off the latest chapter of theScore's <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/2940162" href="https://thescore.com/news/2940162">Eras project</a>, which overviewed the mammoth achievements of 25 star Olympians of the current century.The list of 25 wasn't ranked, but if it was, Bolt might have owned the top spot. The Jamaican sprinter's clean sweep of three major races from 2008 through 2016 - the men's 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay - netted him eight Olympic gold medals, with a ninth stripped due to a teammate's doping.<figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738452/GettyImages-592602082.jpg?ts=1722024942" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738452/GettyImages-592602082.jpg?ts=1722024942 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738452/GettyImages-592602082.jpg?ts=1722024942 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738452/GettyImages-592602082.jpg?ts=1722024942 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738452/GettyImages-592602082.jpg?ts=1722024942 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738452/GettyImages-592602082.jpg?ts=1722024942 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption">AFP / STF / Getty Images </figcaption></figure>Bolt's swagger charmed the masses. His conquests were inevitable, and his dominance on the track remains untouched. World records in the 100m (9.58 seconds) and 200m (19.19 seconds) that Bolt set 15 years ago haven't been threatened. Until memories of him fade, successors will compete to be second-best.<div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div>That designation - the era's next most decorated sprinter - is up for grabs in Paris. Myriad medal contenders, headlined by an American and a Canadian, are about to battle for post-Bolt supremacy. They could lessen the vast distance between Bolt and the world by performing historic acts at the Stade de France.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="⏰ Men's sprint schedule" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-h8wSF" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/h8wSF/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="414" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>U.S. fans expect Noah Lyles to become the fourth man since the 1960s - following Bolt, Carl Lewis, and Valeriy Borzov - to win the rare 100m-200m double. He dominated those races and added gold in the relay at last year's world championships in Budapest. Collecting that haul at the Olympics would make Lyles the face of the Games.Blunt and loudly confident, Lyles <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CZRVEX2OG10">promised</a> Jimmy Fallon on "The Tonight Show" that the late-night host could "make a lot of money" by backing him in Paris. Lyles is a 200m whiz, having triumphed at three straight world championships, and raised his 100m personal best to 9.81 seconds in his final Olympic tuneup.Canada's Andre De Grasse, the reigning Olympic 200m champion, is a multi-time medalist in all three sprints. Should De Grasse snare another individual medal in France, he'll move into sole possession of second place on the career leaderboard.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🏅 Decorated dashers" aria-label="Stacked Bars" id="datawrapper-chart-XwNpT" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/XwNpT/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="627" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738820/cropped_GettyImages-1625693609.jpg?ts=1722277741" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738820/w220xh124_GettyImages-1625693609.jpg?ts=1722277741 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738820/w320xh180_GettyImages-1625693609.jpg?ts=1722277741 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738820/w640xh360_GettyImages-1625693609.jpg?ts=1722277741 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738820/w768xh432_GettyImages-1625693609.jpg?ts=1722277741 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738820/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1625693609.jpg?ts=1722277741 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> Xinhua News Agency / Getty Images</figcaption></figure>Lithe and clutch, the 29-year-old De Grasse has dealt with frequent injuries yet consistently peaks in Olympic years, running his fastest when the lights brighten. He's medaled in every Olympic race he's entered by gaining enough steam to slingshot into the top three. No sprinter in Paris is as accomplished, but De Grasse slipped to 17th place in the world 100m rankings and fifth in the 200m rankings following his glorious Tokyo Games.Other contenders to watch include the stars of the Tokyo 100m. The victorious Italian, Marcell Jacobs, and American runner-up Fred Kerley can enhance their legacies by returning to the podium. Another Tokyo medallist, Kenny Bednarek, pushed Lyles at June's U.S. trials with personal bests in the 100m (9.87 seconds) and 200m (19.59).Rising challengers from around the globe also seek their Olympic breakthrough. Botswana's Letsile Tebogo, a double threat, won 100m silver and 200m bronze at the 2023 worlds. The U.S.'s Erriyon Knighton was the Budapest meet's 200m runner-up. Two Jamaicans (Kishane Thompson, Oblique Seville) and a Kenyan (Ferdinand Omanyala) recently laid down some of this season's fastest 100m times, proving they can match Lyles' burst.<figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe title="🏆 2024 season's top times" aria-label="Table" id="datawrapper-chart-GRL1Y" src="https://datawrapper.dwcdn.net/GRL1Y/1/" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" style="width: 0; min-width: 100% !important; border: none;" height="408" data-external="1"></iframe><script type="text/javascript">!function(){"use strict";window.addEventListener("message",(function(a){if(void 0!==a.data["datawrapper-height"]){var e=document.querySelectorAll("iframe");for(var t in a.data["datawrapper-height"])for(var r=0;r<e.length;r++)if(e[r].contentWindow===a.source){var i=a.data["datawrapper-height"][t]+"px";e[r].style.height=i}}}))}();
</script></figure>The tenacity of veteran Olympians will be put to the test. South Africa's Akani Simbine missed the last two 100m podiums by tiny margins: 0.03 and 0.04 seconds. Zharnel Hughes, the British 100m and 200m record holder, hopes for better luck than he experienced in 2016 (sidelined with knee injury) and 2021 (false start and a relay mate's doping disqualified him from multiple finals).Bolt stands alone, but someone in Paris will inch closer to his echelon. The question is who.Nick Faris is a features writer at theScore.

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