This World Cup will be the first to be hosted by three countries – the United States, Canada and Mexico – as opposed to the usual single nation. 2002 was an exception, when Japan and South Korea broke new ground by sharing the hosting duties. This year’s cohosts have usually enjoyed good relations, but these have become more difficult since US President Donald Trump began his second term in office. His threats to annex Canada as the “51st” US state and punitive tariffs have soured the mood between two historically close allies. US ties with Mexico have been strained over several issues including their shared border and Trump threatening, tacitly at least, to use military force to combat drug cartels operating in Mexico.
2. More teams, more games
Forty-eight teams taking part means many more games, a total of 104 compared to 64 at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, when only 32 nations were involved. The opening match will be between Mexico and South Africa in Mexico City on June 11.
There will be 12 groups of four teams, compared to eight four years ago. The top two teams from each of the groups plus the best eight third-placed teams advance to the round of 32. This extra knockout round has been introduced to help whittle down the number of teams on the way to the final in New Jersey on July 19.
Advertisement
More teams meant more opportunities for nations to make it to World Cup for the first time. Cape Verde, Curacao, Jordan and Uzbekistan will all be making their debuts, which is great news for their fans, but critics worry that the increased number of teams could result in a drop in the overall quality of play.
The 2026 World Cup will be the first co-hosted by three countriesImage: Jia Haocheng/Xinhua/picture alliance
3. Mandatory hydration breaks
While hydration breaks are not new to football, FIFA has announced that all World Cup matches will feature two such breaks approximately 22 minutes into each half — regardless of the weather conditions.
Previously, referees were required to call cooling breaks 30 minutes into each half when the temperature at kickoff exceeded 31 degrees Celsius (87.8 degrees Fahrenheit). The change comes amid concerns about high temperatures expected in some of the host cities, as was the case at last summer’s Club World Cup in the US.
Conveniently for broadcasters, FIFA has confirmed that they will be allowed to cut away from matches to air commercials during these 3-minute breaks. This overcomes a problem that vexed US broadcasters during the 1994 World Cup and effectively breaks matches up into quarters – just like in two of the more popular televised sports in the United States, basketball and American football.
At last year’s Club World Cup, hydration breaks only occurred during games played at high temperaturesImage: Marco Bader/HMB-Media/IMAGO
4. Human rights concerns
A report released by Amnesty International in March warned that the World Cup poses “significant risks and impacts for fans players, journalists, workers and local communities alike.” The report is hardest on the USA, which is to host the vast majority of matches. It describes the situation there as a “human rights emergency” and points to what it calls a “recognizable pattern of authoritarian practices” in the country. It expresses particular concern about the conduct of ICE immigration agents deployed to some states.
Amnesty noted, among other things, that Mexico has mobilized 100,000 security personnel, including the military, in response to high levels of violence in the country.
Advertisement
As for Canada, the report cited fears that homeless people could be further marginalized, particularly in host cities Vancouver and Toronto, as well as restrictions imposed on the right to freedom of peaceful assembly.
Amnesty International criticized the actions of ICE agents in MinnesotaImage: Mostafa Bassim/Anadolu/picture alliance
5. High costs of travel, tickets
The distances involved make travel expensive even for North America-based fans. Farthest apart among the venues are Vancouver and Miami – 4,507 kilometers (2,800 miles). If a Germany fan, for example, wanted to follow their team they would stand to rack up 2,619 kilometers to travel from Houston to Toronto to New Jersey for the group-stage matches alone.
Ticket prices are such a bone of contention that the fan organization Football Supporters Europe (FSE) has filed a lawsuit against FIFA with the European Commission over “excessive ticket prices” for games. With a month to go before the opening match on June 11, tickets for most group-stage matches remained on general sale. The top tickets for the USA’s opening match against Paraguay in Los Angeles were listed at $4,105 (€3,499) while for some less-in-demand games the cheapest seats were listed at $380.
FIFA’s own resale website, FIFA Marketplace, recently advertised tickets to the final at a cost of more than $2 million each.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino stands by the pricing, pointing to a low number of less expensive tickets made available to loyal national team fans through their federations. Speaking in Los Angeles, Infantino noted that the high prices simply reflected demand in an expensive market.
Advertisement
“And if somebody buys a ticket for the final for $2 million, I will personally bring him a hot dog and a Coke to make sure that he has a great experience,” he promised.
Earlier this year, the United States and Israel launched a weeks-long war on Iran , after which the Iranian FA threatened to “boycott” its matches in the US. Trump later said that “for their own life and safety” it wouldn’t be appropriate for Iran to be there. Now Mexico has agreed to an arrangement in which the team is to be based there, only traveling across the border for its two matches in Los Angeles and the other in Seattle.
The LIV schedule could be on the brink of retracting even further.
According to a pair of reports, the latest from the Wall Street Journal, LIV is on the brink of canceling its “team championship” event, which was originally scheduled to conclude the league’s season at the end of August. The news marks the latest in a string of cost-cutting measures from LIV as the league continues its dire push for outside investment necessary to keep it afloat.
The team championship, which was originally scheduled for Michigan in the last week of August, would be the second event to be canceled since the league’s initial financial backer, the Saudi Public Investment Fund, announced plans to cease its funding of LIV at the conclusion of the 2026 season.
LIV has not commented publicly about any potential schedule changes, including the cancelation of the team championship, which was first suggested by league captain Martin Kaymer at LIV UK last week. Still, a league source indicated LIV was willing to “take a disciplined approach” to “long-term sustainability” while it continues its search for outside investment.
Advertisement
“Discipline” can take on many forms, but one path to cost-savings is to postpone or cancel events, saving millions owed to vendors and on-site fees. It’s a lever LIV has already pulled in the post-Saudi era; in June, the league announced it was “postponing” an event originally scheduled for Louisiana after the PIF withdrew funding. Earlier this month, a LIV vendor sued the league for failing to pay its bills.
LIV is keen to point out that it will remain solvent through at least the end of the 2026 season. As part of the PIF’s exit strategy from LIV, the PIF has promised to keep operations afloat for the league they founded through the remainder of the summer.
But the path beyond Saudi divestment is murky. Even with fewer events, the league continues to burn enormous amounts of cash each quarter, and its costs have ballooned to more than $6 billion since launch. These economics have increased the pressure on LIV CEO Scott O’Neil, who has appeared in public repeatedly to pitch the league to potential investors — calls that have grown increasingly urgent as the league moves closer to a desired deal deadline of September 1.
“What we don’t have a lot of is time,” O’Neil told Sporticoat the beginning of July. “So we’re very urgently out there talking to those who are interested.”
Advertisement
While LIV would not comment publicly about the reports of a team championship cancellation, the same source cautioned LIV would not make a final decision around the team championship until the conclusion of next week’s event in Bedminster, N.J. Should the team championship be canceled, LIV’s visit to Trump Bedminster would mark the penultimate event of the 2026 season, with the final event — the individual championship — expected for late-August in Indianapolis.
O’Neil is certainly hoping that LIV will have positive news to report by then, ideally in the form of a new majority investor in the league. The Associated Press reported in June that O’Neil is hoping to raise upwards of $300 million to keep the league afloat, and has had conversations with at least five potential investors.
The LIV CEO has taken to calling the “new” vision of the league “LIV 2.0.” Reports have suggested that vision could look like fewer events with purses as low as $10 million — though neither LIV nor its players have commented publicly about the vision.
“I’m always optimistic, I play golf for a living,” Jon Rahm said last week in the UK, before offering a word of caution. “I’m not going to share anything that I can’t share with you guys right now.”
Advertisement
No matter how “LIV 2.0” looks, statements like these reveal the totality of the change facing LIV in the post-Saudi era. The private jet-flaunting, champagne-popping, hundred-million-dollar-signing-bonus iteration of the league that attracted Rahm is a relic of the past.
In its place, there are questions about funding, about lawsuits, and now, about plans for the end of the month.
Oct 6, 2025; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Toronto Raptors guard Scottie Barnes (4) drives with the ball against the Denver Nuggets in the first half at Rogers Arena. Mandatory Credit: Bob Frid-Imagn Images
Preseason NBA games in Canada will take place in Quebec City and Vancouver involving the Toronto Raptors, Los Angeles Clippers and Miami Heat, the league announced Wednesday.
The NBA Canada Games 2026 will see the Raptors meet the Heat on Oct. 3, at Videotron Centre in Quebec City, and the Raptors face the Clippers at Rogers Arena in Vancouver on Oct. 10.
“Every time we wear the Raptors jersey, we’re representing the entire country, so it’s always special to have the opportunity to play games in communities across Canada,” Toronto forward Scottie Barnes said. “It’s important to us that fans from coast to coast have the chance to experience Raptors basketball, and we can’t wait to share those moments together this preseason in Quebec City and Vancouver.”
The slate features the first-ever NBA preseason contest in Quebec City, the eighth in Vancouver and the 21st and 22nd held in Canada since 2012.
Advertisement
To date, 16 NBA teams have played a total of 20 preseason games north of the border in front of more than 377,000 fans in six different cities. Quebec City will be the seventh.
Mike Tyson has named his all-time favourite fighter, a man he always found to be more relatable than Muhammad Ali.
While being in awe of Ali’s greatness, Tyson knew he could never successfully replicate the elegance of his style.
So, instead, the Brooklyn-born puncher focused on cultivating his own unique approach, designed to utilise his raw power, brute strength and explosiveness.
Advertisement
With no shortage of help from legendary trainer Cus D’Amato, ‘Iron’ Mike managed to achieve this style and, in turn, became the youngest heavyweight champion in history.
His second-round stoppage of Trevor Berbick in 1986 was then followed by a series of equally ruthless WBC title defences, only for his reign to end via a shock defeat to James ‘Buster’ Douglas in 1990.
Yet still, Tyson will always be remembered as one of the sport’s most formidable champions, along with his favourite fighter Roberto Duran.
Duran then went on to encounter Sugar Ray Leonard, Marvin Hagler and Tommy Hearns, contending with a significant size disadvantage against each of his fellow Four Kings.
In that sense, it is perhaps no wonder that Tyson – a relatively small heavyweight – named the Panamanian as his favourite fighter at an event covered by ESNEWS.
“Roberto Duran. The reason why is because he comes from filth – like I did. I wasn’t handsome like [Muhammad] Ali; I was from the gutter.
“So I wanted to be like [Duran], because he represented me.”
It is therefore not only Duran’s height and reach disadvantages, but also his deprived background, that resonated with a young Tyson.
Manchester United and Mauricio Pochettino have been linked with each other for a decade now, every time that there has been a change in the dugout at Old Trafford
Reports linking Mauricio Pochettino with becoming the next Manchester United head coach should soon be a thing of the past.
Negotiations with the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) over a new contract are reportedly going well. It is said that the proposed deal is for four years through to the 2030 World Cup in Morocco, Portugal, and Spain.
Advertisement
Pochettino became the first U.S. men’s national team coach to win a knockout round match in 24 years this summer. However, because of the tournament’s expansion, they still only reached the round of 16, as they did in 2010, 2014 and 2022.
Nevertheless, as Telemundo broadcaster Andres Cantor first reported, U.S. Soccer intends to announce his renewal soon. The Athletic have clarified that a deal is “close” but not quite done, with talks ongoing.
Assuming that extension does become official and Pochettino sees it out, he will have spent six years Stateside. That would make it the longest tenure of his coaching career.
He was sacked by Tottenham Hotspur five-and-a-half years into his time there in 2019. The only period of his professional life longer than that is the amount of time he has been linked with becoming the United manager this century.
Pochettino was a candidate to replace Louis van Gaal a decade ago, before Jose Mourinho ultimately got the job. United had previously overlooked the Portuguese when appointing David Moyes as their successor for Sir Alex Ferguson.
However, unlike Mourinho, Pochettino has never ended up in the home dugout at Old Trafford. In a cruel twist of fate, the now Real Madrid head coach – another job the Argentine has regularly been talked up for – replaced him at Spurs three years after United snubbed him.
Pochettino acknowledged to FourFourTwo earlier this year: “United have always shown interest. But the ideal scenario to manage there has never quite materialised.”
Advertisement
Thousands of Man United fans upgraded their matchday last season. This is how they did it.
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Official premium experiences at Old Trafford are available now for the 26/27 Premier League season. Make it easier than ever to turn a regular fixture into something genuinely unforgettable.
Speaking about when United were looking to replace Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in 2022 permanently, he said: “I was under contract at PSG. After our Champions League elimination against Real Madrid, we had no option but to make sure we secured the Ligue 1 title at least.
Advertisement
“United were in a hurry to announce their new manager before the end of that season because the situation had become unsustainable. I couldn’t negotiate, whereas Ajax gave Ten Hag the flexibility to do so.”
Four years on, months after United handed Michael Carrick a two-year contract, when Pochettino was again under contract. However, he now appears to be about to commit his long-term future away from Old Trafford, ending a decade of rumours.
Jun 7, 2022; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell looks on during mandatory mini camp at TCO Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports.
GM Nolan Teasley proclaimed his desire to constantly search for talent at yesterday’s press conference. Maybe a small glimpse of that approach can be seen in the news of the Vikings bringing a pile of players in for a chance to prove their mettle.
Aaron Wilson of KPRC2 offered the update online: “#Vikings worked out Jamal Adams (signed), Kendrick Blackshire, Romello Brinson, Victor Dimukeke, Brandon Jayes, Curtis Jacobs, Anfernee Orji, Derek Robertson, Roc Taylor.” Most already know that veteran safety/linebacker Jamal Adams got snagged. What of the other players?
The Vikings Brought Players in for Workout
By a Minnesota mile, Adams is the best-known talent in that cluster of players. There is, nevertheless, reason to note who else was brought to town.
Advertisement
Check out which player plays which position. Doing so offers some of the most basic criteria for where Minnesota may feel the roster needs help:
Jamal Adams, Safety/Linebacker
Kendrick Blackshire, Linebacker
Romello Brinson, Wide Receiver
Victor Dimukeje, Edge Rusher
Brandon Hayes, Guard
Curtis Jacobs, Linebacker
Anfernee Orji, Linebacker
Derek Robertson, Quarterback
Roc Taylor, Wide Receiver
Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tyler Boyd (83) turns downfield after completing a catch as Seattle Seahawks safety Jamal Adams (33) defends in the first quarter during an NFL football game between the Seattle Seahawks and the Cincinnati Bengals Sunday, Oct. 15, 2023, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati. – Credit: USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
Note, as many already have, that Adams is viewed as a versatile piece of the puzzle. The accomplished veteran is going to be tasked with ample responsibility as somebody who can play like a normal safety but who can also be a linebacker and slot.
Based on position, bringing a quarterback to town is somewhat odd, but perhaps the inclusion of Robertson was about facilitating the workout rather than trying to find a fifth arm.
Taking a look at linebackers, edge rushers, and wide receivers makes sense. In fact, many believe that the edge rusher spot is aching for more depth, former Vikings GM Jeff Diamond them.
Advertisement
Teasley took on a direct question about needing more help at edge rusher yesterday, deflecting the specific inquiry by saying his front office is always searching for talent. At the very least, somebody has been brought to town for a workout.
Does Minnesota circle around to Dimukeje at some point in the future? The Vikings do need help here and the pass rusher is only 26. He was a 6th-Round selection of the Falcons in 2021 and has played in roughly 2,000 career snaps across defense and specials since that time.
At guard, there are questions about who is going to function as the main backup. LG1 Donovan Jackson is entering his sophomore NFL season; RG1 Will Fries is entering his second season with the Vikings. Both are being tasked with elevating their game. Even if they do, what happens if one guy goes down?
Right now, the top backup looks like Michael Jurgens, but that’s written in pencil. Before too long, the Vikings would like to arrive at a spot where they can write somebody’s name in ink.
Advertisement
Minnesota Vikings offensive guard Will Fries celebrates in the end zone after a touchdown during second-quarter action on Jan. 4, 2026, at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The scoring play highlighted Minnesota’s offensive execution against the Green Bay Packers and gave the Vikings another memorable moment in a rivalry matchup late in the regular season. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-Imagn Images.
The Vikings had roughly $13 million in cap space moving into the recent flurry of moves. The major factor to watch is how much cap space gets created due to the Brian O’Neill extension. As a rough guide, look for the Vikings to be sitting on about $25 million.
Minnesota Vikings players huddle before a snap during a road matchup against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Christian Darrisaw stands at left as the offense organized assignments and communication before the play. On Nov. 23, 2025, Minnesota navigated another crucial NFC North battle while attempting to strengthen its postseason position. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images.
Minnesota’s o-line is considerably better when Christian Darrisaw is out there. Accordingly, the update from Kevin O’Connell should be seen as cause for cartwheels.
Coach O’Connell chatted alongside GM Nolan Teasley yesterday. Occasionally, the conversation demonstrated some knowledge of football being a sport that goes beyond the quarterback position. Per O’Connell, the Vikings’ star left tackle isn’t going to be hindered by injury: “No, there’s not [any limitations].” The skipper then said that Darrisaw has “had a healthy offseason” while saying that there’s an individualized plan to work toward keeping the LT1 healthy.
The Vikings’ Star Left Tackle is Healthy
Sometimes, football lingo can obfuscate rather than clarify. The proclamation that football is a matchup sport can sometimes lose its luster since it’s said so often.
Advertisement
There is, nevertheless, plenty of truth in the overused saying.
Boasting an elite left tackle means being able to counteract the other side’s best effort. Traditionally, a defense would put its best pass rusher on the left tackle’s side — the blind side — since most quarterbacks throw with their right hand, making it harder to see a pass rusher coming. The idea, then, is to insert one’s foremost blocker at that left tackle spot to neutralize the most potent threat against the passer.
Sep 29, 2024; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Minnesota Vikings safety Josh Metellus (44) celebrates with offensive tackle Christian Darrisaw (71) after catching a touchdown pass against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Tork Mason/USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images.
Even better, of course, is if a team can toss the left tackle out there without there being any help.
Picture a Packers game. Micah Parsons is a monster of a pass rusher who threatens to wreck games. Seeing Darrisaw fulfill his potential could involve letting the left tackle wrestle with Parsons in a true one-on-one fashion. Not only would Parsons be neutralized — itself an ambitious, laudable goal — but Minnesota could use an extra blocker to double-team the next most dangerous pass rusher.
Christian Darrisaw boasts a perfect build to be an NFL left tackle. He’s a 6’5″ and 315 pound athlete with elegant, explosive feet and efficient, electric mitts. Part of what makes him so formidable is that he can stun edge rushers with his punch without looking like he’s breaking much of a sweat. Being able to snag him at No. 23 overall in 2021 — ironically, a draft slot that has some connections to GM Nolan Teasley and Jamal Adams — was an instance of highway robbery.
Combined with LG1 Donovan Jackson, Darrisaw is at such a level that he should be capable of winning the line of scrimmage on a weekly basis. A lofty goal, no doubt, but that’s the sort of expectation that accompanies sending out a pair of 1st-Round selections on the same side of the o-line.
Advertisement
On Sep 8, 2024, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, Minnesota Vikings cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. (7) celebrated alongside Christian Darrisaw and other teammates after a defensive stop against the New York Giants. The energetic scene captured how the defense tilted the momentum during a tense second-half stretch, showing the unity and impact of Minnesota’s group effort in a pivotal sequence. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images.
Lately, much praise has been kicked over to new o-line coach Keith Carter. Likewise, Frank Smith — the former OC with the Dolphins who is the Asst. HC in Minnesota — is thought of as being a key component of unlocking the running game. Boasting a terrific tackle can only help in these ambitions.
Oh, and the QB1 — whoever it ends up being — will benefit from a fantastic blind side protector.
Christian Darrisaw is 27. Health permitting, Darrisaw could be an excellent player for another five (or more) years. The Vikings’ ambition is to work toward that future by seeing the left tackle start the full 2026 season, doing excellently along the way.
Alexandra Eala of the Philippines returns a shot during a women’s singles match against Leylah Fernandez of Canada during day three of the Mubadala Citi DC Open 2026 at William H.G. FitzGerald Tennis Center on July 29, 2026 in Washington, DC. Emilee Chinn/Getty Images/AFP
MANILA, Philippines — Alex Eala ousted defending champion Leylah Fernandez with an impressive 6-2, 7-6 (1) victory to secure a spot in the quarterfinals of the Mubadala DC Open in Washington, D.C.
Showcasing grit once again, Eala rallied from a 5-1 deficit in the second set before overwhelming Fernandez in the tiebreak to level their head-to-head series at one win apiece.
“I think I definitely had some tough moments in that match, and credit to Leylah, she put me in some really tough positions,” Eala, who previously lost to Fernandez in the Stuttgart Open in April, said. “So, I think I’m super proud of how I fought and how I stayed in there.”
On the verge of playing another three-setter, Eala responded by winning five straight games to take a 6-5 lead, but Fernandez held serve to force a tiebreak.
Advertisement
The Filipino tennis star wasted no time in the tiebreak, building a 3-0 advantage before Fernandez got on the board. Eala then won four straight points to close out the match in one hour and 53 minutes.
Article continues after this advertisement
Eala will face the winner between Polina Kudermetova and Elina Svitolina in the quarterfinals.
The world No. 28 came out firing in the first set with a 3-0 lead, opening the match with a love hold to set the tone. She traded holds with Fernandez before sealing the set with her second break.
Advertisement
Alexandra Eala of the Philippines returns a shot during a women’s singles match against Leylah Fernandez of Canada during day three of the Mubadala Citi DC Open 2026 at William H.G. FitzGerald Tennis Center on July 29, 2026 in Washington, DC. Emilee Chinn/Getty Images/AFP
But Eala admittedly struggled in the second after Fernandez, currently ranked No. 34 with a career-high No. 13, found her rhythm and reeled off five straight games to move within a game of forcing a decider.
Article continues after this advertisement
That was when Eala regained her composure—reminiscent of her Round of 32 win over Zheng Qinwen, when she rallied from a set down—and retook control of the match.
“I know that she was playing a little better, and maybe my level dropped a little bit. I think those are very tricky moments when you know your level has dropped, and you want to do better, but things just, for one reason or another, aren’t coming out,” Eala, who beat Zheng 4-6, 6-4, 6-1, said.
Advertisement
Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.
“I think patience was key there, and just trying to work it out, and have a strong mentality in terms of trying to find solutions.”
Advertisement
Eala eyes another semifinal appearance this year in her first tournament of the North American swing as part of her buildup to the US Open.
Dec 21, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) and head coach Kevin O’Connell hug before the game at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert Deutsch-Imagn Images
Back in rookie minicamp, the Vikings welcomed a veteran passer to town in an effort to keep the pigskin spinnin’. Cooper Rush has been a pro for a long time, leading to some attention about him going out for a cluster of practices meant for the NFL’s newest employees.
Kevin O’Connell demonstrated some good self awareness on the matter. In fact, he made jokes about hoping that Rush didn’t hang up the phone due to being asked about coming to the Twin Cities for an unusual arrangement.
Part of O’Connell’s hope was to build a communication avenue should there be a need for an emergency passer. Pursuing that initial plan may now need to occur at the front office level since Rush is no longer unemployed.
Advertisement
Look at what ESPN’s Adam Schefter said in the update: “With Atlanta QB Tua Tagovailoa dealing with a tight back and Michael Penix still not practicing due to a knee injury, the Falcons are signing veteran quarterback Cooper Rush, per sources.”
The Vikings’ Emergency QB Plan
The Falcons are being led by Kevin Stefanski. If that name sounds familiar, then that’s for good reason. Coach Stefanski got his start in the NFL with the Vikings, rising up to being the offensive coordinator before getting stolen away to be the head coach of the Browns.
Stefanski is now in Atlanta to work alongside a pair of southpaw passers. Most notably, there’s Michael Penix Jr.. He’s the quarterback who got chosen at No. 8 in the same draft where J.J. McCarthy went at No. 10. Part of what made that decision wild (other than the move being a huge reach) was that Kirk Cousins had just been signed to a monstrous contract. Atlanta created a mess and is still digesting the consequences.
Sep 10, 2023; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski congratulates quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) for his touchdown run against the Cincinnati Bengals during the second quarter at Cleveland Browns Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-USA TODAY Sports
Otherwise, there’s Tua Tavogailoa in town to battle for the starting spot.
Upon first glance, employing these two quarterbacks would appear to leave little room for a third passer. The issue is that both are working through injury, albeit of a different severity.
Marc Raimondi (ESPN) with an update on Penix: “Penix said it might be another four weeks to get cleared or maybe earlier, depending on how his body feels during camp.” Meanwhile, Tagovailoa is inching closer. Schefter sent a quick word on the matter: “Falcons HC Kevin Stefanski said QB Tua Tagovailoa ‘will be out there sooner rather than later.’”
So, the pivot is toward Cooper Rush. He’ll quickly learn his assignment while allowing for Atlanta to function in training camp practices.
Advertisement
Dec 7, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) walks on the field after the game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images
Minnesota’s passer depth chart is pretty stuffed. Check out how most view things:
QB1 Kyler Murray
QB2 J.J. McCarthy
QB3 Carson Wentz
QB4 Max Brosmer
Of those options, Max Brosmer is the most insecure in his roster spot. What’s somewhat ironic is that the firmest assignment belongs to Carson Wentz. He’s close to assured of being the emergency quarterback. Where there’s room for some debate is who secures the top spot.
What threatens things is the ever-present danger of injury. The 2023 season was undermined largely by shuffling through four quarterbacks. Something similar could be said of the 2025 season due to the three different quarterbacks who were needed last year. Minnesota’s approach has been to hope for the best while planning for the worst.
In Cooper Rush, the Vikings felt as though they had a break-glass-in-case-of-emergency option sitting in free agency. Leaving him there, in free agency, meant allowing for some risk of losing him. Minnesota will need to look elsewhere for a veteran shepherd for their complex scheme if injury runs amok on the QB room yet again.
Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy drops back and delivers a first-quarter throw at U.S. Bank Stadium, Jan 4, 2026, in Minneapolis against the Green Bay Packers. The snapshot captured McCarthy operating within the structure of the offense early, as Minnesota looked to establish rhythm and tempo during a high-stakes divisional matchup. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images.
Cooper Rush, 32, has played in 42 NFL games dating back to 2017.
I’ve had a Motocaddy Electric Caddy for three years now, dating back to the 2024 model of the M7 Remote GPS. For me, the Motocaddy unlocked a whole new world. I have some sports injuries from the past that are quite troublesome when walking 18 holes while carrying a bag or even pushing a cart, but the Motocaddy freed up the stress on my joints to enjoy my rounds with friends who also enjoy the walk. Last year I upgraded to the 2025 model of the M7 Remote, and for the past two months I have been using the 2026 model of the M7 Remote.
So how does Motocaddy continue to make the product better every year? Let’s dive in.
The Motocaddy M7 Remote (2026) is a three-wheeled electric caddy that you can steer around the golf course with a remote. They also have a cheaper M5 model without the remote as well as a more expensive M7 Remote GPS which unlocks the ability for the on-board screen to act as a course GPS; you can plot out distance to hazards and yardages to the front, middle and back of greens. You can also pair their caddies with one of their golf bags, which feature their unique locking system. That saves you from having to strap in the bottom of the bag and makes getting the clubs on the trolley faster and more secure. I like the EliteFlex Hybrid Golf Bag.
All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team.
If you buy a linked product, GOLF.COM may earn a fee. Pricing may vary.
Winner of the My Golf Spy ‘Most Wanted’ award, the compact-folding M7 REMOTE features a rechargeable handset, removable anti-tip wheel, and automatic Downhill Control technology for the ultimate in responsive control. Responsive Remote Following extensive development and testing, the M7 REMOTE’s powerful drive system offers unrivalled reliability, optimized battery efficiency, and instinctive caddy control from your first time behind the wheel. Take Control The rechargeable remote control handset conveniently clips to the caddy frame for easy access and storage. The latest handset provides golfers with ergonomic controls, improving usability and precision when controlling the caddy. Compact Folding, Simplified The sophisticated remote control model integrates all the cutting-edge M-Series functionality including the world’s simplest folding mechanism, innovative trunk friendly design, high-power 28.8V system, easily-adjustable handle height and over-sized tubing for ultimate caddy stability. It also features a removable rear anti-tip wheel and automatic Downhill Control to traverse undulations with ease. Downhill Control Technology Established over a decade ago, Downhill Control (DHC) has undergone extensive development and refinement since its creation. The game-changing technology is now considered an essential feature for thousands of golfers across the globe. DHC ensures the caddy maintains a constant speed while moving down a gradient, helping golfers stay in complete control around even the most undulating golf courses. The award-winning feature is now bolstered by the integration of all-terrain wheels. IDEAL FOR : Golfers looking for a small folding remote model with exceptional control Features: Rechargeable remote-control handset Ergonomic design that can be conveniently attached to the caddy frame Forward, left, right & reverse controls Ultra-responsive handset buttons make caddy handling instinctive Automatic Downhill Control Allows the caddy to maintain a constant speed when moving down a gradient NEW Slimline all terrain rear wheels With anti-skid tread to tackle all types of ground with ease Pause & resume, plus emergency stop Helps golfers stay in control and safely navigate around the course Remote handset lock function Ensures the handset does not get engaged accidentally Easy manual control mode Instantly switch to handle control when preferred Removable rear anti-tip wheel Keeps the caddy stable through rough terrain and course undulations 50m range cut-out Control the M7 REMOTE from distance with complete peace of mind 120 second hibernation Stops the caddy if no buttons are pressed for 2 minutes Simple, compact-folding system Award-winning M-Series folding technology fits into the smallest car boots Next generation, High Power 28V system More powerful, efficient, & reliable than ever before Nine-speed settings, Speed indicator & Battery meter Stay in complete control with a quick glance at the handle display NEW Anti-glare LCD widescreen display Redesigned interface for improved performance On screen remote handset battery meter Helps ensure the wireless remote remains charged & ready for action USB charging port Ideal for charging any USB powered device while you play High-capacity, waterproof Lithium battery IP66 water & dust rating for complete protection against the elements On board battery charging No need to remove the battery for storage, transportation & charging Oversize tubing for ultimate handle stability Thicker frame profile combines with top quality materials for unrivalled performance Innovative inverting wheels Revolutionary space-saving technology – flip the wheels to fit into the tightest spaces Convenient auto-open stand Allows the caddy to stand upright for minimised folded footprint Simple, fully-adjustable handle height Ensures the caddy is optimised for golfers of every height Two powerful, whisper‑quiet 230W DHC motors Quiet, exceptional performance with power when you need it EASILOCK™ compatible Securely attach your Motocaddy golf bag without a lower bag strap
Thanks to the 28V battery (which can remain on the trolley while charging at home) the Motocaddy M7 Remote is very responsive to the remote control. In an older YouTube video about the 2024 model I steered my 2024 M7 from the tee box of a 380-yard Par 4 all the way to the green without losing control of the device. If you do happen to lose sight of the trolley or control of it from the remote, it has a fail-safe to stop the caddy once the connection is lost. The 2026 version has been no different. It’s actually become a running joke when playing with new people that they think I’m going to lose control of the trolley. The battery also has a long life. I’ve played 54 holes in a single day with mine, although I’d safely say that 36 holes would be a better limit to set for yourself, just in case.
The remote is very responsive. It’s easy to use with left and right directional controls, up and down for speed control, and a central pause button to stop the caddy’s movement. It does take a few holes to get used to the responsiveness of the remote to the unit, but it’s a quick learning curve. You can also adjust the trim of the caddy to make sure that it stays in a straight line as it’s moving. This is something I’ll usually do on the first hole. Changing up your bag setup or the things you carry in your bag can shift the weight placement and affect the trim.
Advertisement
Do NOT use your Motocaddy without installing the anti-tip wheel. I don’t want to tell you how I know.
Jake Morrow / GOLF
There’s also a remote power button to make sure you’re not inputting any unnecessary commands when you don’t want to. Typically I’ll park the caddy off the green once I’ve got my putter in hand and then press the power button on the remote to make sure nothing happens while I am going through my putting routine or watching members of the group finish out.
One huge upgrade for the M7 Remote this year is that they have finally switched the charging cable for the remote itself over to USB-C. No more having to keep track of the outdated USB-A cable. Thank the heavens.
The new Motocaddy remote finally charged via a USB-C cable!
Jake Morrow / GOLF
Advertisement
If for any reason you have issues with the remote, you forget the remote at home, or you end up putting the remote in the washing machine (don’t ask) you can still use the caddy. At that point it just becomes a self-powered push cart. As long as you stay behind it and within arms reach to push the large stop/go button on the handlebars you won’t have any issues. The stop/go button is also a dial for speed control which you can track on the large screen. The 2026 version of the M7 Remote can also track distance travelled for the round and an individual shot as well as keep time for the round.
The 2026 model has a nice big screen above the two on-board buttons and the stop/go wheel that also functions as manual speed control
Jake Morrow / GOLF
In the box you’ll also get a few accessories including a scorecard holder, umbrella holder, bottle holder and an anti-tip wheel for the back. You’re going to want to install that anti-tip wheel immediately because it will absolutely be the reason you don’t break your new Motocaddy. It also gives you the chance to turn your Motocaddy into an R2-D2 like character every time you start it moving. That’s just a nice bonus. Motocaddy also has plenty of accessories available to build the perfect caddy system for you. Heated gloves for the handles, an accessory pouch to load down the caddy with more gear, a seat for taking breaks, a rangefinder pouch, and more are all available from their site or major retailers.
When you’re done with your round the M7 Remote folds down into a very managable size and it automatically shuts off and disconnects the battery once you fold it down. It just takes two levers to fold the M7 Remote into itself and it can fit in whatever car you’re driving to the course.
Advertisement
The caddy alongside my Motocaddy Protekta bag in the bag of my 4Runner.
Jake Morrow / GOLF
At the end of the day, the Motocaddy really is a big help. I can’t make it through 18 holes carrying my bag on my shoulders or pushing a push cart. My knees give out and it’s rather uncomfortable to finish the round. I also don’t play many places that have caddies available. When I’m home, I try to walk as much as I can and the Motocaddy allows me to do that. I even bring my old Motocaddy with me for friends to use, and they love the relief just as much as I do.
;)
;)
;)
;)
You must be logged in to post a comment Login