NFL free agency is soon to arrive, down to weeks rather than months. The chatter around football is thus offering up plenty of top free agents lists.

A noteworthy example emerged from Gregg Rosenthal of the NFL website. A total of 101 players get dropped down into the mix, with a pair of Vikings getting looped into the discussion. At No. 70 is receiver Jalen Nailor and at No. 95 is linebacker Eric Wilson.

Pair of Vikings Listed on NFL’s Top 101 FAs

Consider a central truth that every team needs to remember: the best contracts pay for future performance, not past performance.

In Nailor, the league will get to consider someone who has often demonstrated high-end talent and work ethic but hasn’t ever cleared 5oo yards in a single season. A team may nevertheless see someone who is about to explode if the right opportunity arises. Likewise, Wilson is someone who offers a ton of ability, but one wonders if he can replicate — much less surpass — what he did last season.

Consider the accompanying blurb for Jalen Nailor.

From Rosenthal: “Nailor was stuck behind Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison and didn’t have a quarterback who could throw to the middle of the field in his contract year. He has fans as a speedy slot receiver.”

Bringing Jefferson and Addison into the mix makes sense, but note that there’s a two-way street that’s coming into play. Yes, the WR1 and WR2 in Minnesota stole targets, but they also stole defensive backs’ attention. Nailor therefore got easier looks than if he had been the top option.

Plus, Nailor is more than a slot a receiver even if that ends up being his primary home in a new spot. Last season, Nailor has 382 snaps in the slot, 268 snaps out wide, 2 snaps inline, and 1 in the backfield (PFF). Some of those AFC heavyweights like Kansas City, Baltimore, and Buffalo make sense.

Whoever signs Jalen Nailor may end up getting a pass catcher who can win deep, pile up around 750 yards, and score 10+ touchdowns.

Meanwhile, Eric Wilson snags a brief analysis. The Rosenthal assessment: “Wilson’s blitzing breakout season in Brian Flores’ Vikings defense was such a blast to watch that it would’ve felt wrong leaving him off this list.”

First, it wasn’t just blitzing as an off-ball linebacker. Wilson lined up as an edge rusher and often performed quite well despite being smaller.

No doubt, though, Rosenthal is correct that the explosion from Mr. Wilson was fun. What’s fascinating is whether he’ll be able to offer a repeat performance. If so, does he get the chance to do so in the Twin Cities?

The Vikings are working with a very thin linebacker spot. LB1 Blake Cashman is still around, but he’s entering the final year of his contract, has battled some injury, and is going to be 30 in May.

Does it make sense to drop medium money into Wilson, a 31-year-old linebacker coming off a career-best season? Only if the contract pays for future play and not what was a perfect storm last year. Retaining Brian Flores makes a new deal for the veteran more likely.

At the very top of the free agent list is QB Malik Willis. Ending up in Minnesota would mean competing for the top job alongside J.J. McCarthy. Plenty of speculation that Willis will leave Wisconsin behind for Minnesota.

The Vikings are in a ton of cap debt, but there are various ways that money can get cleared out to make the finances workable.

Senior Editor for Vikings Territory & PurplePTSD . Twitter & Bluesky: @VikingsGazette. Email: k.joudry[at]vikingsterritory[dot]com. Canadian. Jude 1:24-25.

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Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao finally look set to do battle once again.

It was announced on Friday that Mayweather plans to return to professional boxing later this year, following his exhibition with Mike Tyson, which is reported to take place in the Congo in April.

Another exhibition bout that has been recently announced is a clash between Pacquiao and former world champion Ruslan Provodnikov, which is also set for April at the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas.

Once those two contests are done, Mayweather and Pacquiao are now on course for a clash, after it was reported by The Ring they look set to fight in September.

“A Floyd Mayweather Jr and Manny Pacquiao rematch is being planned for September, with The Sphere in Las Vegas being looked at as a possible venue, sources tell @MikeCoppinger.

“Both are slated to compete in exhibitions this Spring prior to meeting in the ring.”

This second meeting has been rumoured for a while after it was reported late last year that talks had taken place for a rematch between the legendary duo, over 10 years on from their first meeting back in May 2015.

Mayweather claimed a unanimous decision victory on that occasion, and would go on to compete for another two years before retiring in 2017 with a perfect 50-0 record, meaning it will be nearly a decade since he last fought professionally by the time he returns.

As for Pacquiao, he returned back in July 2025 at the age of 46 when he fought to a draw in a WBC welterweight title fight with Mario Barrios, but will now be 47 for the proposed clash with Mayweather, who himself turns 49 this week.

This past weekend, I was on the golf course here in West Palm Beach, Fla. You see every type of player out there, but one thing is consistent — everyone is having fun. The outfits and swings certainly run the gamut.

There was one player I didn’t know, and when I first saw him, my immediate thought was: He looks like a good golfer. As it turns out, he was very good. But it reinforced something interesting. You can look like a golfer, even before you prove you are one.

Of course, that image can fade quickly if your game isn’t at least serviceable. Still, why not start by looking like you belong? Here are a few things to consider if you want to look the part.

1. A proper outfit

There are classic brands and timeless looks that define the golfer aesthetic. A clean, solid-colored pair of shorts or pants paired with a classic golf shirt and belt goes a long way.

Take a look at PGA Tour players. While styles vary, there’s always a polished, classic foundation. And yes, Rickie Fowler looked great in his bright orange era, but let’s face it, most of us aren’t Rickie Fowler.

When in doubt, simple and sharp always works.

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2. Have decent equipment

Looking like a golfer doesn’t mean you need the newest or most expensive clubs. Many previous-generation models perform beautifully for years. Well-maintained, quality equipment sends a message. A classic Ping putter in your bag? That adds a little extra credibility.

3. Your bag matters

Your golf bag makes a statement — it’s one of the most visible pieces of gear you own.

While your bag should fit your needs, many better players prefer a lightweight stand bag. It’s easy to take off a cart, sits neatly on the range, and isn’t overly heavy when moving it to and from the car. Function and style can go hand in hand.

4. Logos don’t hurt

Recognizable logos on your shirt, belt, headcovers or bag can subtly elevate your look. When you get the chance to play a great course, consider picking up a shirt or belt. It’s a great way to remember the experience, and it doesn’t hurt when you wear it elsewhere.

We recently hosted our GOLF Top 100 Teacher Summit at Cabot Citrus Farms, and their logo made for fantastic holiday gifts for my family.

5. Focus on your setup

Ultimately, while appearance helps, solid fundamentals are the real proof. Good golfers have good setups. The good news? Even a new golfer can develop this with proper instruction.

With the right information and a bit of focus, you can absolutely look like a golfer before you even swing the club. And the truth is, you can often tell a golfer before they ever take the club back.

Ralf Kellermann will leave his role as director of women’s football at VfL Wolfsburg Frauen at the end of the season, the club has confirmed.

Kellermann, 57, requested not to extend his contract beyond June 2026, bringing an end to an 18-year association with the club in various leadership roles.

He first joined Wolfsburg in 2008 as head coach, later combining coaching and sporting director duties from 2010. Since 2017, he has served as sporting director before taking on the role of director of women’s football in 2023.

Under his leadership, Wolfsburg’s women’s team became one of the most successful sides in Germany and Europe, winning 20 titles during his tenure and establishing itself as a consistent force in the Frauen-Bundesliga and UEFA Women’s Champions League.

Explaining his decision, Kellermann said:

“The decision to leave VfL Wolfsburg this summer was very difficult for me. The deciding factor was my desire to take on a new challenge.

“Over all these years, I have enjoyed complete trust in my work, and together we have developed women’s football at VfL into a renowned name in European football.

“My thanks go first and foremost to numerous long-time colleagues at Elsterweg, both in the sporting and administrative areas. Without this trusting collaboration, our success would not have been possible.

“Until then, I will work with full energy and motivation to ensure a successful conclusion to the current season.”

Team USA’s World Baseball Classic roster looks like the best they’ve ever put together, but it just took a hit.

Two-time AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal will pitch just once for USA and it’ll happen in pool play (March 7 vs. Great Britain). If USA advances to the championship round, as expected, Skubal won’t pitch.

“If they go to the finals, I think I’m going to try and lobby to just go watch and be with the guys,” he told reporters, including The Athletic, Monday.

That’s too bad. Those of us who had already started looking ahead figured Skubal could be the USA starter in either the semifinals or finals, giving a nice edge to the squad. After all, he’s won two straight Cy Young awards, two straight AL ERA titles and has a 2.04 ERA in six career playoff starts. 

Instead, if USA advances, it’ll be without Skubal. 

That gives the mantle of ace to Paul Skenes alone, instead of Skenes just being a “co-ace.” USA isn’t hurting for starters after Skubal or Skenes, either, as All-Stars Logan Webb and Matthew Boyd are also on the team. Fellow All-Star Joe Ryan is on the roster, though he’s currently dealing with a back injury, as is youngster Nolan McLean and his veteran Mets teammate Clay Holmes. 

The offense is headed up by Aaron Judge, Cal Raleigh, Bobby Witt Jr., Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber. 

This is to say that, yes, USA is still plenty talented and could well win the finals. Not having Skubal for the championship round is still a bit of a bummer.

Pool play kicks off next week in Tokyo, San Juan, Houston, and Miami, and the tournament will conclude with the Championship Game at loanDepot Park on March 17. Team USA won the 2017 WBC, but fell to Japan in the finals in 2023. The Americans are the favorite to win this year (-115, per Caesars), ahead of Japan (+350) and the Dominican Republic (+425).

Last season’s heart arrhythmia halted Yorkshire’s fresh start, though his team was cautious regardless of the issue.

The rising miler returns with greater optimism this time, targeting the Liverpool City Cup (1300m) at Randwick this Saturday.

After a nine-month absence, he began previously in The Hunter (1300m), whereas now it’s merely 10 weeks post his December 13 domination of The Ingham (1600m).

“He would be more forward than that race because he was coming off a long lay-off, where he’s only had a short let-up off the Ingham,” co-trainer Tom Charlton said.

“He will be more forward by design, but he will have a bit of improvement to come still.”

Handled methodically by the five-year-old’s team of Charlton and John O’Shea, his profile indicates a talent ascending sharply.

Eight wins in 11 races underline this, as he rebounded from The Hunter to take the Festival Stakes (1500m) and Ingham in succession, demonstrating depth beyond mere pace.

“He’s as tough as anything and just thrives on his work and racing,” Charlton said.

“He will most likely go to the Liverpool City Cup on Saturday. That will be his first-up run, and then probably the Ajax Stakes and Doncaster Mile.”

The Ingham success provided a Doncaster Mile (1600m) ballot exemption for Yorkshire, opening the door to a matchup against fellow stable star Linebacker.

Linebacker prevailed in the Randwick Guineas during his juvenile year and now approaches the premier mile through the Canterbury Stakes and George Ryder Stakes (1500m).

Linebacker shone by winning his Thursday trial at Randwick ahead of the Canterbury Stakes (1300m) there in a fortnight.

Visit betting sites offering the best racing betting markets for Yorkshire in the Liverpool City Cup.

Kara Braxton, a two-time WNBA champion who played in the league for about a decade, has died, the league said on Monday. She was 43.

The WNBA released a statement on Braxton’s death.

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Phoenix Mercury forward Kara Braxton (45) reacts on the court against the Seattle Storm during the first half in Game 2 of the Western Conference Finals in the 2010 WNBA Playoffs at US Airways Center on Sept. 5, 2010. (Jennifer Stewart/USA TODAY Sports)

“It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of 2x WNBA Champion Kara Braxton,” the league said. “A 10-season veteran, Kara played with the Detroit Shock, Tulsa Shock, Phoenix Mercury, and New York Liberty. Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and former teammates at this time.”

The Detroit Shock selected Braxton with the No. 7 overall pick of the 2005 draft out of Georgia. She was an All-Star for Detroit in 2007 and was a member of the championship-winning teams in 2006 and 2008.

New York Liberty forward Kara Braxton (45) and Indiana Fever center Jessica Davenport (50) battle for position during the second half at the Prudential Center. (Ed Mulholland/USA TODAY Sports)

She was with them when the team moved to Tulsa but was later traded to the Phoenix Mercury and eventually the New York Liberty. She was waived by the Atlanta Dream before the 2016 season.

“We mourn the loss of Kara Braxton, a former Liberty player whose presence and passion left a lasting impact on our organization and the women’s game,” the Liberty said. “Our hearts are with her family, friends, teammates, and all who were touched by her spirit. Her impact will not be forgotten.”

Detroit Shock players Plenette Pierson (23), Deanna Nolan (14), Cheryl Ford, Kara Braxton (45) and Elaine Powell (5) erupt as victory closes in to defeat San Antonio 76-60 for the WNBA championship at the Convocation Center on the Eastern Michigan University campus Oct. 5, 2008. (Mandi Wright/USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)

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Braxton averaged 7.6 points and 4.7 rebounds in 297 career games.

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West Indies vs Zimbabwe (AP Photo)

NEW DELHI: West Indies delivered a crushing performance to beat Zimbabwe by 107 runs in their T20 World Cup Super Eights match in Mumbai, starting their campaign in dominant fashion. With this win, West Indies have overtaken South Africa to go top of the Group 1 points table in the T20 World Cup Super 8s. The Windies currently boast a superior net run rate (NRR) of +5.350, ahead of second-placed South Africa, who have an NRR of +3.800.

With only top two teams from the group making the semi-finals, India, currently third with a -3.800 NRR, could find it difficult to enter the knock-out stage if there is a tie on points at the end of this ongoing stage. After winning the toss and choosing to bowl, Zimbabwe were punished badly as the West Indies batters went on a scoring rampage at the Wankhede Stadium.Shimron Hetmyer was the star of the show, smashing a brilliant 85 off just 34 balls to help West Indies post a massive 254-6, the second-highest total ever in T20 World Cup history. Hetmyer was dropped early in his innings, and Zimbabwe paid a heavy price for that mistake. He raced to a fifty in just 19 balls and added a rapid century partnership with Rovman Powell, who also played a strong knock of 59 off 35 balls. After they got out, Sherfane Rutherford kept the scoring going with 31 not out, while Romario Shepherd and Jason Holder added quick runs at the end, with 38 runs coming off the final two overs.Chasing a huge target of 255, Zimbabwe had a nightmare start. They were reduced to 20-3 inside the first three overs and never recovered. Although Brad Evans fought hard with a late 43 off 21 balls, the rest of the batting collapsed under pressure. Zimbabwe were bowled out for 147 in 17.4 overs.Left-arm spinners Gudakesh Motie and Akeal Hosein dominated with the ball, taking four and three wickets respectively to seal an emphatic win. The match showed the big gap between the two sides on the day, with West Indies sending a strong message in the Super Eights stage.