Family of ex-NFL player Doug Martin files wrongful death lawsuit against Oakland
Martin's parents allege that the ex-Buccaneer and Raider died at the hands of police, and the paramedics' slow response to calls for care.
American Football
26th June 2026
25th June 2026
NFL offseason power rankings: No. 30 Arizona Cardinals restart the road to relevance, yet again
Other NFL team previews: 32. Dolphins | 31. Jets | 30. Cardinals The Arizona Cardinals just kind of exist, mainly as filler for Fox as it finds secondary games for the late Sunday afternoon slot.
Is Giants' Jaxson Dart ready to take the next step? 2025 NFL Draft QB film study
Dart finished fourth in Offensive Rookie of the Year voting last season.
Lions' Terrion Arnold arrested in connection with robbery, kidnapping plot
Arnold participated in the Lions' minicamp this month but declined to go into detail on his off-the-field issues.
Brendan Sorsby has a year to rewrite his story ... but he needs to stop playing the victim
So ex-college quarterback Brendan Sorsby suddenly finds himself with a year off, an unexpected interlude between the rigors of college and the pressures of a real job.
Why Brendan Sorsby might not get much help from the NFLPA
The NFL rejected Sorsby's application to enter the league via the supplemental draft.
24th June 2026
NFL offseason power rankings: No. 31 New York Jets try to put Aaron Glenn's horrific first season behind them
Other NFL team previews: 32. Dolphins | 31. Jets | 30. Cardinals The start of the Aaron Glenn era actually wasn't a complete disaster for the New York Jets — at least, it wasn't quite as bad as we might remember. The Jets started 0-7 but were competitive in most games.
Could Joe Burrow going under center unlock explosive plays? The Bengals are investigating
Cincinnati excels out of shotgun, but the numbers show going under center is creating big plays around the NFL.
NFL's 6 first-time offensive play callers in 2026 get advice: 'Let it rip'
Compartmentalizing voices in the headset, managing the crunch of the clock and a willingness to adapt are key for new play callers.
Explaining the Supplemental NFL draft, plus offseason workout takeaways
How (and why) the supplemental draft works, plus what we've learned from early offseason workouts.
Falcons, tight end Kyle Pitts agree to 3-year contract extension
Pitts finished with a career-high 88 catches for 928 yards and five touchdowns last season.
The NFL draws a line in the sand with Brendan Sorsby, delivering a scathing lesson in accountability
The NFL's letter to Brendan Sorsby was strikingly authoritative, coldly unsympathetic and justifiably scathing. The league made it clear that it doesn't want a gambler who has demonstrated little accountability for actions that threatened the integrity of his sport.
Falcons reportedly reach 3-year, $54 million extension with TE Kyle Pitts after using franchise tag
The Atlanta Falcons have finally locked Kyle Pitts down for the foreseeable future. The Falcons reached a three-year, $54 million contract extension with their tight end on Tuesday, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Breakout defensive players to watch in 2026: Travis Hunter flashes elite coverage skills for Jaguars despite offensive inconsistencies
A couple of weeks ago I nominated a crop of offensive players that I think were in line to make a leap this NFL season. Or "breakout players," if that's your preferred nomenclature.
Jets QB Geno Smith being investigated after battery accusation
Officers went to Smith's home after a woman, who said she was the QB's ex-girlfriend, called 911 and said Smith had assaulted her.
NFL denies Brendan Sorsby's application, won't hold supplemental draft in 2026
The NFL hasn't had a player selected in the supplemental draft since 2019.
NFL won't host supplemental draft, making Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby ineligible in 2026
Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby was set on taking his talents to the NFL in 2026 … only the league had another idea.
NFL MASTERMINDS: ranking the 12 best NFL playcallers with Robert Mays
Subscribe to Football 301 with Nate TiceApple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTubeNate Tice & Robert Mays rank the top 12 mastermind playcallers in the NFL heading into the 2026 season.
23rd June 2026
NFL offseason power rankings: No. 32 Miami Dolphins start over in Year Zero, but at least with Malik Willis aboard
Other NFL team previews: 32. Dolphins | 31. Jets | 30. Cardinals Jeff Hafley and Jon-Eric Sullivan knew what they were getting into when they signed up with the Miami Dolphins. And immediately, they wanted everyone else to understand that it was going to get worse before it got better.
New 49ers CEO Al Guido on running 'the globe's team' and hosting more Super Bowls
Guido has helped establish Levi’s Stadium as a premier global sports destination.
What's next for Brendan Sorsby and the NFL? How loaded is Notre Dame's roster? NFL Draft mailbag
Our draft expert tackles some of your questions as the NFL and college football seasons draw closer.
As Alex Freeman emerges for the USMNT, Super Bowl hero Antonio Freeman is a joyous wreck
Antonio Freeman was an NFL star for the Green Bay Packers. Now his son, soccer-playing Alex, has an entire country behind him.
Harry Kane is the World Cup star with a Tom Brady obsession and a dream of playing in the NFL
Kane loves the NFL so much that he ran a Fantasy Football competition for Spurs players and staff and still dreams of playing as a kicker.
NFL announces 2026 training camp, joint practice dates for every team
Twenty-eight teams will participate in joint practices, with the Saints and Titans each doing three.
22nd June 2026
What we learned from every NFL team during offseason workouts
Justin Herbert's shotgun stance, Jaylen Waddle's strong first impression and everything in between — our writers take stock from the spring.
20th June 2026
Want to keep the Boston-Scotland party going? Get the New England Patriots involved
The Scottish Invasion is next level. But this sister city business, if it's to be lasting, must be more than photo ops and Christmas cards.
Titans, Jeffery Simmons agree to extension reportedly valued at $105.8M, making him highest-paid DT in NFL history
The Tennessee Titans and Jeffery Simmons have agreed to a three-year, $105.8 million contract extension, making him the highest-paid defensive tackle in NFL history per annual salary. The Titans announced the extension Friday, confirming an NFL Network report that revealed the numbers.
19th June 2026
NFL bloodlines and blueprints: Fathers and sons who play in league share special bond
The fathers of NFL players like Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Joey Porter Jr. and the Elliss brothers know how to achieve football success.
Is Harry Kane England's 'quarterback'?
There's no broader sports metaphor than calling a player their team's “quarterback” but is Harry Kane performing that role for England?.
Colts' Sauce Gardner wants everyone to know he was born in 2001, not 2000, and is 24 years old
With Sauce Gardner about to begin his first full season with the Indianapolis Colts, the All-Pro defensive back wants to clarify the record of his age.
What’s every NFL team’s best and worst uniform in franchise history?
From uniforms that stood the test of time to duds that teams couldn't ditch soon enough, these are the best and worst for all 32 teams.
18th June 2026
This Week in Sports Trivia: June 18, 2026
How closely were you following the sports news this week? Find out and test your knowledge by taking The Athletic's weekly quiz.
Could Brendan Sorsby face NFL repercussions for his NCAA gambling violations?
It remains to be seen whether the NFL will allow the former Texas Tech QB into the supplemental draft or attempt to levy punishment on him.
Wait, how old is Sauce Gardner? Colts CB clears up confusion about his age
Gardner says he's 24. The Internet says he's 25. What is going on?.
2025 NFL Draft QB film study: Can Cam Ward continue to improve in year two?
More than anything, the strongest part of Ward's game last season was his ability to get better every week.
Should Falcons, Lions balk at handing Bijan Robinson, Jahmyr Gibbs record-setting deals?
Should Atlanta and Detroit break the bank to keep Robinson and Gibbs? Historically, handing out big second contracts to RBs is a big risk.
'Mean' Joe Burrow's talking like he did at LSU. Why that's a great sign for the Bengals
Cincinnati's QB talked Wednesday about leadership, stressing urgency and building relationships on team with new pieces and quality depth.
Declaration of Independence facsimile from Jim Irsay Collection going to auction
An estimated $6 million worth of items from the late Colts owner's collection, including his most prized possession, will soon be sold.
17th June 2026
Is Brendan Sorsby worth a first- or second-round pick in supplemental draft?
Off-field issues notwithstanding, the former Cincinnati QB offers a skill set reminiscent of Jaxson Dart's.
Patriots, Robert Kraft file complaint against town of Foxborough over 'improper' fees
The complaint alleges that the town improperly charged about $1M in new fees related to a license obtained to host the World Cup.
7 developing trends that could CHANGE the NFL + where will Brendan Sorsby land? feat. Bill Barnwell
. Subscribe to Football 301 with Nate TiceApple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTubeNate Tice & Bill Barnwell dive into Brendan Sorsby’s value in the NFL supplemental draft before breaking down a few NFL trends that make them go “hmmm…”. The duo start with Brendan Sorsby planning to enter the supplemental draft, diving into Sorsby’s potential value, how he stacks up as a quarterback prospect, potential landing spots and more.
Broncos' Jonathon Cooper not at practice in wake of assault charges
Cooper is next due in court for a motions hearing on July 6.
Cowboys' franchise-tagged WR George Pickens says he will be at training camp, doesn't plan on holding out/in
It had been widely reported that Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens desired a long-term deal this offseason.
Browns can't be the team to make a bet on Brendan Sorsby
If common sense isn’t enough of a deterrent, all the evidence they need is 1.3 miles south at the Cleveland Guardians’ executive offices.
8-time Pro Bowl DE Cameron Jordan announces he's returning to Saints for 'one final season'
Defensive end Cameron Jordan, a New Orleans Saints icon, announced Tuesday that he's returning to the franchise for "one final season" in a video he put on social media.
8-time Pro Bowl DE Cameron Jordan reportedly finalizing 1-year deal to return to Saints
Defensive end Cameron Jordan, a New Orleans Saints icon, is finalizing a one-year, incentive-filled contract with the franchise during his visit with the team on Tuesday, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.
Falcons QB Michael Penix not cleared for 11-on-11 work, James Pearce limited at minicamp
Penix is still not 100 percent healthy after last year's ACL tear, while Pearce will be limited at minicamp after not attending OTAs.
Just how good is Brendan Sorsby? What opposing coaches think about the controversial QB
Texas Tech went all in on Sorsby after being shut out in the Playoff, only for a gambling scandal to prompt his departure to the NFL.
Cowboys star WR George Pickens attends minicamp, says he won't hold out
“What’s important to me is winning," Pickens said Tuesday after the Cowboys' first minicamp practice.
NFL supplemental draft: Dates, rules, history, notable players taken and Brendan Sorsby's eligibility
Since 1977, the NFL has had the ability to run two different drafts every single year. There's the NFL Draft, the one everyone knows — the one that saw the Las Vegas Raiders select quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the top overall pick.
NFL supplemental draft: Rules, date, history, notable players taken and Brendan Sorsby's eligibility
Since 1977, the NFL has had the ability to run two different drafts every single year. There's the NFL Draft, the one everyone knows — the one that saw the Las Vegas Raiders select quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the top overall pick.
Aldon Smith's family to donate his brain for CTE research, investigating death
The former All-Pro died Saturday at 36. The cause of death is still undetermined.
Aldon Smith's family will donate former lineman's brain, have it checked for CTE
The family of former San Francisco 49ers All-Pro Aldon Smith will donate the lineman's brain to science and have it checked for CTE, per ESPN. Attorneys hired by Smith's family confirmed the news, saying the nature of Smith's death played a role in that decision, per ESPN."As with anyone who dies so suddenly at such a young age, we understand that there is a great deal of interest in and speculation about Aldon Smith's passing and we intend to get to the bottom of it," attorneys Harry Daniels, Bakari Sellers and Wayne Kendall said Tuesday in a statement.
Which NFL teams should consider Brendan Sorsby in supplemental draft?
Sorsby will attempt to become the first QB taken in the supplemental draft since Terrelle Pryor in 2011.
16th June 2026
Eagles coach Nick Sirianni is a hothead and a lightning rod. Just don't call him a phony
Nick Sirianni has a gift for navigating one of the NFL's most challenging jobs, and he does it his way.
Rams or Seahawks? NFL execs size up NFC West after Myles Garrett blockbuster
"I’m really not much into favorites at this time of year. ... (But) I get the hype with L.A. It sure looks like they’re going all in.”.
Brendan Sorsby is applying for NFL Supplemental Draft. Will Roger Goodell, NFL welcome him?
A week after Brendan Sorsby's NFL career seemed bound to start no earlier than 2027, the tides of NCAA and Big 12 powers shifted yet again Monday night. And off to NFL Supplemental Draft consideration Sorsby goes.
Meet Brendan Sorsby, football's most controversial quarterback
College football's new most controversial quarterback could be a pro prospect even sooner than you'd think.
Katie Blackburn explains why Bengals stuck with Zac Taylor, Duke Tobin
Cincinnati likes the continuity the head coach and de facto GM provide, but the stakes will be high following an aggressive offseason.
Falcons' James Pearce Jr. expected to participate in mandatory minicamp: Source
The second-year edge rusher was at the team facility Monday and is expected to participate in mandatory minicamp this week.
Submit your questions for Dane Brugler's offseason NFL Draft mailbag
We’re almost halfway between the completion of the 2026 NFL Draft and the start of the new college football season. Which NFL rookies are you still curious about? Which of next year’s draft prospects should be on your radar? Submit your questions below for Dane’s upcoming mailbag.
15th June 2026
Jets reportedly sign lineman Joe Tippmann to 4-year, $66.4 million deal
One of the New York Jets' bigger draft wins in recent memory is sticking around for the long-term. The team reportedly signed offensive lineman Joe Tippmann to a four-year, $66.4 million deal Monday, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.
George Pickens to reportedly attend Cowboys minicamp amid contract drama
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens didn't get the long-term deal he was seeking this offseason, but he won't let that become a distraction as the team ramps up for the regular season.
Why is food and drink for World Cup fans so much cheaper in Atlanta?
Concession prices are more than half the price of other World Cup venues — and it's all part of a 'fan-first' strategy.
Tua Tagovailoa vs. Michael Penix, reset for Cam Ward lead NFL minicamp storylines
The final week of NFL minicamps kicks off this week before teams break until training camps open in late July.
Nick Emmanwori, Colston Loveland among NFL's 10 most versatile players
Nick Emmanwori was essential in the Seahawks' run to the Super Bowl title, while Colston Loveland is emerging as one of the NFL's top TEs.
Aldon Smith, late 49ers All-Pro, spent final hours delivering pizza to charity
The former San Francisco defensive end died Saturday. A retired pastor says he was "completely genuine and wanted to help.".
Former 49ers LB Aldon Smith was delivering pizzas to a charity for homeless before being discovered unresponsive
Following the death of former San Francisco 49ers pass rusher Aldon Smith on Saturday, details regarding the final day of his life are now being reported. Smith, who died at the age 36, was helping to deliver pizzas to a charity for homeless people when he was found unresponsive.
14th June 2026
Aldon Smith, former All-Pro DE for San Francisco 49ers, dies at 36
The former Missouri Tigers and 49ers star was an integral part of three straight NFC Championship Game trips for San Francisco.
Former 49ers star Aldon Smith dies at 36 years old
Aldon Smith, a former San Francisco 49ers star whose NFL career evaporated amid a bevy of off-field issues, died Saturday, the Niners announced. He was 36 years old.The team's statement:. "We are devastated by the sudden and tragic passing of Aldon Smith.
13th June 2026
Breakout offensive players to watch for 2026 NFL season include WR Ryan Flournoy, who could give Cowboys insurance for George Pickens
Breakouts! Leaps! It's that time of year to predict the big seasons ahead for young players throughout the NFL. I looked at all types of players from the 2024 and 2025 draft classes poised for a big, or bigger, season.
NFL closes Stefon Diggs investigation, citing 'insufficient evidence' of conduct violation
Diggs, a free agent, will not face a suspension as he attempts to sign with an NFL team after being released by the Patriots in March.
Seahawks reveal Super Bowl 60 rings, which include 'special button'
The rings feature diamonds and sapphires that tell a story of the Seahawks’ season and even includes a special button.
Broncos’ Jonathon Cooper faces new charges after being arrested for second time in a week
Cooper was previously arrested last Friday on charges stemming from a domestic incident with his girlfriend.
12th June 2026
NFL reportedly will not punish Chiefs DB coach Dave Merritt after offseason arrest for domestic battery
Icon Sportswire via Getty ImagesThe NFL has reportedly determined that Kansas City Chiefs defensive backs coach Dave Merritt did not violate the league's personal-conduct policy following an offseason arrest for domestic battery, according to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.
After Knicks' rally, 5 more moments that opened the door for historic comebacks
OG Anunoby preceded his game-winner with a block of an ill-advised De'Aaron Fox shot. Here are other times a misstep preceded a rally.
The state of the NFL's star QB market after Patrick Mahomes' record deal
Mahomes' extension has helped correct the NFL quarterback contract market. Who will be the next player to top $60 million per year?.
Why I Love The Beautiful Game: Brandon Aubrey on idolising Thierry Henry and swapping soccer for NFL
The NFL's highest-paid kicker was a soccer player first. Brandon Aubrey talks about penalties, pressure and the USA's World Cup chances.
MLB speaks with Dodgers doctor about role in Conor McGregor's alleged PED use
Dr. Neal ElAttrache supported McGregor's effort to receive an exemption from UFC drug policies as he worked to recover from injuries.
Falcons reportedly acquire OT Wanya Morris from Chiefs for 2027 sixth-round draft pick
The Atlanta Falcons are acquiring offensive tackle Wanya Morris from the Kansas City Chiefs, according to several media reports. Atlanta will also get a 2027 seventh-round draft pick, while a 2027 sixth-rounder goes to Kansas City in exchange, according to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler.
Jets want to break their infamous no-interception streak. Can David Bailey help them?
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — By the rules of football stats-keeping, David Bailey did not get a sack on the play. Texas Tech's defensive end did not register a takeaway. The play-by-play in the game book does not credit Bailey with a quarterback hit.
ESPN eyes Dave Pasch, Bob Wischusen to replace Chris Fowler on NFL game broadcasts: Sources
ESPN is also eyeing Jason Kelce as a game analyst, but he is unlikely to call all the games in that new role.
Former Raiders WR Henry Ruggs denied parole 3 years into prison sentence
Ruggs was sentenced to 3 to 10 years after pleading guilty to DUI resulting in death and vehicular manslaughter in August 2023.
Chiefs trading offensive tackle Wanya Morris to Falcons: Sources
The Chiefs selected Morris as a third-round pick in 2023.
Sean Payton: 'A lot of juice left' after agreeing to 5-year extension with Broncos
The new deal keeps Payton, who led the Broncos to the AFC Championship Game last season, in Denver through 2030.
Sean Payton, Broncos reportedly agree to five-year contract extension, keeping head coach in Denver through 2030
The Denver Broncos have thrived during the Sean Payton era. The coach has gone 32-19 across three seasons with the team, taking it as far as the AFC Championship Game.
Panthers WR Xavier Legette is leaner and 'can't have another year' like last season
Legette's stats in every major receiving category dropped in Year 2. He's playing at a lighter weight and feels fast, he said.
11th June 2026
This Week in Sports Trivia: June 11, 2026
How closely were you following the sports news this week? Find out and test your knowledge by taking The Athletic's weekly quiz.
How does Brendan Sorsby fit in 2027 NFL Draft class? Resetting next year's QB crop
Arch Manning still looks like QB1 in the 2027 class, but how close is the competition?.
Chiefs show $500 million of faith in Patrick Mahomes, who now enters critical stretch in legacy chase of Tom Brady
Money speaks in the NFL, and the Kansas City Chiefs are giving a lot of it to Patrick Mahomes. On Wednesday, it was reported that the Chiefs reworked Mahomes' contract.
Dolphins, Aaron Brewer reportedly agree to $52.5M extension, the third-highest salary for center in NFL
The Miami Dolphins and center Aaron Brewer have agreed to a three-year, $52.5 million contract extension with $37 million in guaranteed money, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.
Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs agree to record contract extension exceeding $500M
The Kansas City quarterback is recovering from mid-December surgery on his ACL and LCL.
Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs agree to reworked contract reportedly valued at more than $500 million
The Kansas City Chiefs and Patrick Mahomes have reached another record-breaking contract extension. Mahomes and the Chiefs added two years to his current contract Wednesday, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter and Ian Rapoport.
Browns QB Deshaun Watson says this is the first time he's been fully healthy since 2023 Week 3 vs. Titans
Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson spoke to the media after practice on Wednesday, his first media appearance in over a year and a half, according to one reporter.
How 5 law firms allegedly defrauded the NFL concussion settlement program
The scheme was based on the questionable diagnoses of Parkinson's disease in former NFL players, according to an audit report.
10th June 2026
Rams are clear Super Bowl favorites after busy offseason. Recent history says that means very little
The Los Angeles Rams seem unbeatable this upcoming season. The Rams were the second-best team in the NFL last season, and not far behind the Seattle Seahawks. Then they traded for two defensive stars, cornerback Trent McDuffie and defensive end Myles Garrett.
Henry Ruggs could be paroled from prison soon. Here's what you need to know
Ruggs, the Raiders' 2020 first-round pick, is awaiting a decision within the next week that could result in his release in two months.
Potential Aaron Donald return has the Rams buzzing: 'It would be one fun year'
Donald hasn't played since 2023, but could the trade for Myles Garrett coax him back? His former teammates have their fingers crossed.
Calais Campbell still loves football at 39, expects 19th NFL season with Ravens to be his last
Calais Campbell rejoined the Baltimore Ravens this offseason for his 19th NFL season. The six-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro expects it to be his last. But he's not certain.
Brandon Aiyuk: 49ers are 'mad,' 'stupid' for paying me
Aiyuk posted another video on Instagram in an apparent attempt to pressure the 49ers to release him.
