Less than one day after backing out of their deal with the Las Vegas Raiders to trade for star pass rusher Maxx Crosby, the Baltimore Ravens pivoted to another sack artist. The Ravens agreed to terms with former Cincinnati Bengals pass rusher Trey Hendrickson, according to CBS Sports NFL insider Jonathan Jones. The deal is for four years and $112 million in compensation, reports NFL Media.

Hendrickson was CBS Sports’ No. 2 free agent in this class, although he went unsigned during the NFL’s two-day negotiation period. Jones reported that Hendrickson’s camp aimed for $35 million per year in his new contract, but he did not find that kind of interest. The Carolina Panthers handed out the largest deal of free agency thus far, agreeing to terms with former Philadelphia Eagles pass rusher Jaelan Phillips on a four-year, $120 million deal that pays out $30 million per year. Then Odafe Oweh cashed in with a four-year, $100 million deal from the Washington Commanders. 

In Hendrickson, a four-time Pro Bowler, the Ravens find a difference-maker off the edge that will remain in the AFC North and is likely motivated to play his former team twice a year. It’s for good reason. 

The Bengals identified a rising superstar in 2021, signing Hendrickson to a four-year, $60 million deal. He recorded what was then a career-high 14 sacks that season as the Bengals made the Super Bowl. However, Hendrickson struggled to score that second long-term contract from Cincinnati.

Hendrickson signed a one-year extension prior to the 2023 season and responded with a whopping 17.5 sacks. After failing to secure a lucrative extension, Hendrickson returned to the fold and led the NFL with his second-straight 17.5-sack season. The Bengals again did not give Hendrickson the security he sought, instead boosting his salary to $30 million for one year in 2025. This offseason marked the first time he was finally free to pursue a long-term deal. 

Hendrickson’s 74.5 sacks rank third-most over the last six seasons. He never got the chance to cash in like T.J. Watt, Danielle Hunter, Myles Garrett and Crosby did. Now, he’s paid and all-in on a Super Bowl. 

It appeared the Ravens found their star EDGE in Crosby, as they agreed to send two first-round picks to the Raiders for the five-time Pro Bowler. However, Baltimore reportedly pulled out of the deal after discovering something during Crosby’s in-person physical. The Ravens were permitted to do this since no deals — trades or free-agency signings — are official until the new league year, which falls on March 11 at 4 p.m. ET.

The Ravens knew that Crosby underwent surgery on the meniscus in his left knee in January. Months, not weeks, are required to recover from this procedure. The physical was not to determine if Crosby could play football right now. 

Hendrickson must pass a physical for the Ravens, as well. He underwent core muscle surgery a few months ago after playing just seven games in 2025. 

Why this move is controversial

It’s tough not to entertain the conspiratorial aspect of this move now that it’s come to fruition. The Ravens paid a high price for Crosby, only to (allegedly) notice that Hendrickson’s market was not as robust as previously thought. Plus, he doesn’t cost two first-round picks.

So, did the Ravens experience buyer’s remorse, or did their medical staff actually find something concerning? It’s a question that will likely never be answered. Sources of CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones said they also had concerns about Crosby’s knee during their own evaluation process. There was also a Raiders source, who was present during Crosby’s time with the team, who said he struggled during light practices with knee and ankle issues. Of course, those didn’t prevent him from being an animal on Sundays.

There’s no debating Crosby’s credentials. He recorded 69.5 sacks in his 110 career games played, which rank sixth-most since he entered the league in 2019 out of Eastern Michigan. He is just the third player in Raiders history to reach double-digit sacks in four seasons. While he’s feared by quarterbacks, Crosby is a well-rounded defensive end that’s ruthless against the run. He’s played more defensive snaps than any defensive lineman since he entered the league. Still, one has to wonder if the Raiders’ controversial decision to shut down Crosby with two games remaining in the regular season has more merit now.

Cincinnati Reds star Hunter Greene faced a major setback on Tuesday as it was revealed he may miss up to four months following right elbow surgery.

Greene was diagnosed with bone chips and loose bodies in his elbow, the team said. He needed an MRI last week after he left a spring training game with right elbow stiffness.

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Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Hunter Greene pitches against the Chicago Cubs in the second inning at Great American Ball Park on May 23, 2025. (Katie Stratman/Imagn Images)

He explained his situation in a statement posted to his Instagram Stories. He said he started to experience discomfort in his elbow toward the end of the 2025 season but wanted to keep pitching in hopes of getting the Reds into the postseason. He said he received an MRI in Los Angeles when the season was over and it found the bone fragments, “but standard treatment was recommended.”

“I felt no discomfort a few days later, and as I started my offseason throwing program, I felt great,” he said. “However, the pain returned as I got close to the start of camp and as I began throwing harder and manipulating pitches more. The irritation in my elbow is affecting my ability to finish and execute pitches without a sharp stabbing pain. I simply need to have the bone spurs removed.

CZECH ELECTRICIAN, KNOWN IN JAPAN AS PITCHER WHO STRUCK OUT SHOHEI OHTANI, GETS OVATION IN FINAL WBC GAME

Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Hunter Greene reacts as Los Angeles Dodgers right fielder Teoscar Hernandez runs the bases on a three-run home run on Sept. 30, 2025. (Sam Greene/The Enquirer-USA Today Network via Imagn Images)

“All I want to do is play the game I love and compete with my brothers as we take on the 2026 season. But it’s important that this procedure take place now instead of trying to pitch through it, not be sharp on the mound and risk further injury. Trust me, nobody is more frustrated than I am.”

He said he will undergo the operation on Wednesday.

Greene is one of the hardest throwers in baseball. He had a 2.76 ERA with 132 strikeouts in 19 starts in 2025. He missed some time with a right groin strain. The issue sidelined him until Aug. 13.

Cincinnati finished 83-79 and third in the National League Central division.

Cincinnati Reds starting pitcher Hunter Greene pitches against the Kansas City Royals at Kauffman Stadium on May 28, 2025. (Jay Biggerstaff/Imagn Images)

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The 26-year-old was an All-Star in 2024 and finished that season with a 2.75 ERA and 169 strikeouts. He also experienced right elbow soreness that year and spent time on the injured list.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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Africa’s top women’s basketball team, D’Tigress of Nigeria, arrived in France yesterday to a warm welcome and immediately kicked off their preparations with their first training session under coach Rena Wakama. The team is set to compete in the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualification tournament in Lyon-Villeurbanne.

Speaking to NBBF media about the team’s readiness to face some of the world’s strongest basketball nations, multiple award-winning coach Rena Wakama expressed confidence and excitement.

“Our preparations have been intense, and this tournament in Lyon is an important part of that process. It gives us the chance to test ourselves against top competition and see where we stand as a team. The players have shown great commitment, discipline and hunger. I believe we’re moving in the right direction as we prepare for the World Cup in Germany,” she said.

The final roster of 12 players combines experience, youth, and energy, creating what Wakama described as a balanced squad.

“What’s different this time is the balance we have. We have a strong core of experienced players who understand the expectations and culture of D’Tigress, and we’ve added younger talents who bring fresh energy and competitiveness. Tactically, we are improving with faster transitions, stronger defensive communication, and better team chemistry,” she added.

Acknowledging the high hopes of Nigerians at home and abroad, Wakama emphasised that her players are ready and proud to represent their country.

“With everything going on in the world today, we are grateful for the chance to play the game we love. These World Cup qualifiers are the only professional women’s basketball games being played and televised globally this week. Representing Nigeria is a huge honour for every player, and we want to make our supporters proud. They will see a team that fights for every possession, plays unselfish basketball, and never gives up. Our goal is to compete strongly, showcase the growth of Nigerian women’s basketball, and continue building the legacy of D’Tigress on the world stage,” she said.

The reigning AfroBasket champions, who face some of the world’s basketball giants, open their campaign on Wednesday, 11 March 2026, against Colombia. They will then face Korea, followed by Philippines, tournament hosts France, and Germany—who will host the FIBA World Cup later this year—from 14 to 17 March 2026, respectively.

Cheltenham Festival continues on day two of the event with another round of fierce competition at Prestbury Park and we’ve collated the best free bets to use on the action.

UK betting sites have a wide range of Cheltenham free bets available, from a raft of specific Cheltenham offers tailored to each day and race-specific specials, betting sign up offers, best odds guaranteed, price boosts, acca boosts and more.

We’ve compiled this complete guide for the best Cheltenham offers for the 2026 Festival, which runs until Friday.

Best Cheltenham free bets day 2

The above free bet offers are available to use on betting sites for Cheltenham Festival races on day two.

The best Cheltenham betting sites offer free bets to use on specific races on day two, including the Coral Cup, Brown Advisory Novices’ Chase, Cross Country Handicap Chase and the signature event of the afternoon, the Queen Mother Champion Chase.

Free bets are useful for both new and experienced punters for betting on the action, allowing customers to bet without risking their own funds on races.

Users can secure Cheltenham offers by either using betting sign up offers or existing customers rewards through bet and get promos, loyalty bonuses, price boosts and more.

How we evaluate Cheltenham free bets

Licensing: Cheltenham betting sites recommended on this page are all licensed by the UK Gambling Commission (UKGC). This ensures that customers’ details are protected and they are using a regulated product.

Welcome offer: Cheltenham betting sign up offers should match the significance of the occasion with higher offers than usual. We only consider

Betting bonuses: A wide range of betting offers should be available including free bets, moneyback specials, best odds guaranteed, non-runner no bet, price boosts, acca boosts, extra places and many more.

Value: We look for free bet offers and promotions that bring users the best Cheltenham odds, either for betting on the event or odds thresholds to unlock betting promos.

Markets: Cheltenham betting offers should cover different markets and bets to offer customers a diverse range of options.

Payment options: Cheltenham betting offers should permit customers to use wide variety of payment options, including PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay and more to unlock betting sign up offers and others.

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Today’s best Cheltenham odds

Horses to follow at Cheltenham today

If you’re considering having a bet on Cheltenham today but you’re no sure where to place your money, here’s a few suggestions based on recent form:

In the opening race at 1.20, keep an eye on Bambino Fever. She impressed when winning comfortably at Fairyhouse on her last outing, showing a big improvement on just her second start over hurdles.

In the 2.40, Wodhooh looks interesting with a good record over fences. She has been consistent with solid form this season, only losing to a Champion Hurdler.

One of the day’s biggest draws will be Fact To File in the 4.00. He won this race with ease last year and is back at Cheltenham in rampant form thanks to a dominant win at the Dublin Racing Festival.

Responsible gambling

Bettors should always gamble responsibly. Always remain within a budget and never exceed it. Never chase your losses.

Anyone can lose a bet even if they know a lot about horse racing. It is easy to get carried away with Cheltenham Festival, so remain in control of your time and betting.

Bettors can use responsible gambling tools provided by betting sites such as deposit limits, loss limits and self-exclusion among others.

The same applies if you’re using casino sites or slot sites, while you should always take time to read terms when taking up and casino bonuses.

Should you wish to seek help for gambling-related issues, there are several charities, organisations and healthcare providers who offer support and information:

We may earn commission from some of the links in this article, but we never allow this to influence our content. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent.

WWE has been forced to scrap a planned WrestleMania 42 title match due to a real-life injury. With the Show of Shows edging closer with each passing day, the promotion has been hit with a few unfortunate injuries.

Last week, Jordynne Grace was injured during a WWE Main Event taping ahead of SmackDown. She was involved in a match with Alba Fyre, and a video showed her landing awkwardly on her ankle as she came off from the top rope.

The referee threw up an X sign, and the match was stopped with doctors checking on Grace. After the match was restarted, Fyre quickly got the pinfall to finish the bout early.

The former TNA Knockouts Champion later uploaded a photo on social media and was seen wearing a walking boot. Now, it has emerged that her injury has led to WWE scrapping major plans for her at WrestleMania 42.

During the recent edition of Self Made Sessions, Self Made Pro revealed that he was informed that there were plans to have Jordynne Grace compete against Giulia and Tiffany Stratton in a Triple Threat match for the U.S. championship at the Show of Shows in Las Vegas.

“I did hear from somebody that there was an idea to do Giulia vs. Jordynne Grace vs. Tiffany Stratton at WrestleMania for the United States Championship,” he said.

However, he noted that the match may not happen now due to Grace’s injury.

“Now, whether or not this was actually the case, it’s not going to happen anyway because Jordynne Grace has hurt her ankle unless it’s an ankle sprain,” he added.

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Jordynne Grace issued a statement after suffering an injury in WWE

Following the injury, Jordynne Grace shared a photo on Instagram in which she can be seen wearing a walking boot alongside Chelsea Green, who is also dealing with an ankle injury.

Grace noted that she had gone 16 years without an injury, but soon after turning 30, she found herself hurt.

She has been getting the chance to shine on SmackDown and recently faced Jade Cargill in a Women’s Championship match. It remains to be seen how long the injury will keep Grace out of action.