It’s time for the Minnesota Vikings to draft a rookie running back, and that man might just be Wake Forest’s Demond Claiborne next month. The club met with Claiborne over the weekend, using a Top 30 visit.

Minnesota may not be done scouting mid-round help at running back.

For now, Claiborne projects as a 5th-Round talent, so the Vikings won’t have to move heaven and earth to get him.

Demond Claiborne Brings the Burst

Minnesota needs youth in the RB pipeline.

Vikings Meet with Claiborne

Get to know Claiborne’s name because there’s a better-than-average chance that he lands in Minnesota.

Draft insider Ryan Fowler tweeted Monday, “Source: The Minnesota Vikings are hosting Wake Forest RB Demond Claiborne for a 30 visit. Dynamic ball-carrier ran 4.37 in Indy & was a two-time All-ACC selection. 907 rushing yds & 10 TDs in ‘25.”

Sporting News‘ Billy Heyen added, “The Minnesota Vikings have an experienced backfield returning for the 2026 NFL season. Aaron Jones and Jordan Mason are both expected to be back on the field. One thing they lack a bit of at this point, though: speed.”

“Claiborne ran a 4.37-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis. Yep, he can move. Claiborne is originally from the state of Virginia, and he measures at 5-foot-10 and 188 pounds. He also broad jumped 10 feet, 2 inches at the NFL Combine. He’d certainly be a nice get for the Vikings to be able to learn behind the veterans while also adding a new element of speed to their offense.”

Minnesota has one 5th-Round pick lined up next month, which might be the perfect spot to nab Claiborne, according to the Consensus Big Board.

The Scouting Report

Claiborne played 44 games at Wake Forest, tabulating 3,023 yards from scrimmage and 28 total touchdowns. He averaged 5.1 yards per carry and caught 28 passes out of the backfield in 2025. The Demon Deacon is known for his speed and breakaway ability, but also has weaknesses, including fumbles and a smaller stature at 190 pounds.

Draft Huddle‘s Janik Eckardt on Claiborne:

His speed and elusiveness make him an appealing option for teams seeking a complementary back who can generate explosive plays. Offenses that emphasize outside runs, space concepts, and change-of-pace rushing packages could maximize Claiborne’s skill set. Additionally, his experience as a return specialist may help him carve out an early role on special teams while he develops as an offensive contributor.

Demond Claiborne is an explosive, elusive running back whose quickness and burst allow him to generate big plays in space. His ability to cut suddenly, accelerate through gaps, and outflank defenders makes him a dynamic option as a complementary back. While improvements in ball security, receiving consistency, and interior power will be important for his development at the next level, Claiborne’s speed and agility give him the tools to contribute as a change-of-pace back and special teams weapon in the NFL.

The best comp for Claiborne entering the pros is probably Raheem Mostert. Maybe a side dish of Matt Breida.

Time to Grow for a Rookie RB

For 15 years, the Vikings enjoyed a luxury most teams only dream of. From 2007 to 2022, they consistently boasted a dominant ground game, led by either Adrian Peterson or Dalvin Cook — the 2014 season, marred by Peterson’s suspension, being the only exception. For over a decade, the running back position produced consistently and required little attention.

Those days are over.

Now, with the Vikings retaining Jordan Mason while restructuring Aaron Jones’ contract, they appear to be aiming for incremental improvements rather than a significant overhaul. However, Kevin O’Connell’s offensive scheme inherently de-emphasizes the running game. The numbers bear this out:

Even when the Vikings’ rushing attack is effective, they rarely commit to it, preferring to focus on the passing game and establishing a rhythm for the quarterback. The run is relegated to a secondary role.

This approach, however, has its limitations, particularly in the playoffs. Postseason success often hinges on a strong running game to control the clock, shorten possessions, and protect leads. Contenders typically run the ball more than half the time, a mark the Vikings haven’t approached under O’Connell, at least not yet.

Which brings us back to the draft. The Vikings once relied on superstar running backs to anchor their offense. Perhaps the next one will be a rookie — a standout college player capable of reigniting that explosive ground game. It could be a transformative addition. Claiborne would be a step in the right direction.

The Other Options in the Draft

If the Vikings want a rookie running back in 5.5 weeks, but it’s not Claiborne, these are the Top 8 options listed alphabetically:

• Kaytron Allen (Penn State)
• Jonah Coleman (Washington)
• Emmett Johnson (Nebraska)
• Jeremiyah Love (Notre Dame)
• Seth McGowan (Kentucky)
• Jadarian Price (Notre Dame)
• Nick Singleton (Penn State)
• Mike Washington Jr. (Arkansas)

Minnesota has nine picks this go-round, so there’s really no excuse not to draft a halfback. The Top 30 visit indicates Claiborne is in play.

Brentford squandered a two goal lead against Wolves as Tolu Arokodare’s late equaliser dented their quest for a European place next season.

Michael Kayode and Igor Thiago, fresh from his call-up to the Brazil squad, put the Bees 2-0 up against the bottom side.

Adam Armstrong pulled one back before half-time before Arokodare hauled Wolves level in a frantic second half.

Rob Edwards’ revitalised side almost snatched a third straight win – their first away from home – but Arokodare’s header hit the crossbar.

The draw offered little use to either the team battling for survival or the unlikely Champions League hopefuls.

A win for Brentford would have taken them to within a point of sixth-placed Chelsea and two behind Liverpool in fifth.

As if to prove that point, the club played a pre-match video montage of various pundits – Alan Shearer and Micah Richards among them – predicting they would be relegated this season.

open image in gallery

They went ahead in the 22nd minute as Kayode, usually the player tasked with launching the ball into the box with his long throw-ins, got on the end of Keane Lewis-Potter’s cross.

The 21-year-old former Fiorentina right-back slipped in between two Wolves defenders to bullet a header home for his first goal in English football.

Thiago only learned of his international call-up shortly before kick-off and he was able to toast it in style after being set up superbly by Dango Ouattara.

Goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher’s clearance was brilliantly brought down by Ouattara – he of the failed Panenka penalty in the FA Cup at West Ham a week ago – who then burst past Yerson Mosquera before squaring for his strike partner to tuck away his 19th Premier League goal of the season.

Thiago almost had another before half-time from a Kayode long throw, flicked on by Sepp van den Berg, but his header clipped the crossbar.

Instead Wolves grabbed a lifeline – in the match at least – when Jean-Ricner Bellegarde strode forward and found Armstrong, who cut inside Nathan Collins before tucking away his first Wolves goal.

Edwards’ side are certainly not going down quietly and Armstrong had already struck a post before Joao Gomes swung in a cross and Arokodare stooped to powerfully head home.

Moments later the Nigerian almost won it for Wanderers, but this time his header crashed back off the crossbar, while for Brentford Reiss Nelson’s header was off target in stoppage time.

FIFA has published an interview with Sébastien Desabre that strongly suggests DR Congo national football team are firmly recognised as Africa’s representative in the inter-confederation play-off for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The interview, released on FIFA’s official platforms, repeatedly refers to the Congolese national team as the side preparing for the decisive match that could secure qualification for the tournament in North America.

That description appears significant because FIFA had earlier confirmed the line-up for the play-off competition, listing DR Congo as the African participant. The latest interview reinforces that position and treats the Leopards as the team representing the continent in the final stage of qualification.

For the Nigeria Football Federation, the development could be a worrying sign. Nigeria had previously lodged a protest over the outcome of the qualification process, hoping the decision might be reviewed. However, the tone of the interview suggests that FIFA is moving forward with DR Congo as the officially recognised side.

According to FIFA, the Congolese team need to win one final match to secure a place at the World Cup. Their opponent will be either Jamaica national football team or New Caledonia national football team in the play-off final scheduled for Guadalajara, Mexico, on 31 March.

Before that decisive match, DR Congo will play a friendly against Bermuda national football team on 25 March as part of their preparations.

With just one match separating his team from a historic qualification, Desabre said his players are ready for the challenge and are focusing on their own performance.

“We’re not afraid of anyone. We’re going to give it our all,” Desabre said.

“As a minimum, we need to replicate the kind of performance we delivered against Nigeria national football team.”

He added that his team have already studied their possible opponents.

“We know all about Jamaica and New Caledonia. We’ve been scouting them. We’ll also have the chance to watch them play in Mexico on 26 March, but for now we’re focusing on our own players.”

DR Congo reached this stage after defeating Nigeria in a dramatic encounter that ended 1–1 before the Leopards won 4–3 on penalties.

Desabre also spoke about the pressure of being one match away from the World Cup but stressed the need for calm and focus.

“We all want to go to the World Cup, but we can’t let our emotions get the better of us. What matters is playing well and giving everything on the pitch.

“We need to perform well on the day to make Congo proud. The Congolese people are passionate about football, and many of them are going through difficult times. I know the whole nation will stop to watch the match on 31 March. We hope we can give our fans the lift they deserve.”

Although the interview does not directly mention Nigeria’s protest, FIFA’s presentation of DR Congo as the team preparing for the play-off final reinforces the organisation’s earlier position.

If the Leopards win the decisive match in Guadalajara, they will secure qualification for the expanded 2026 World Cup. It would be the country’s first appearance at the tournament since 1974, when the nation competed under the name Zaire.

MCG will play host to Thursday’s
Round 2 AFL game between Hawthorn Hawks and
Sydney Swans. The game kicks off at 7:30 pm with Hawthorn Hawks heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the Hawthorn Hawks vs.
Sydney Swans
game and give you our free tips and bets.

When: Thursday March 19, 2026 at 7:30 pm

Where: MCG

Bet 💰: Bet On This Match HERE

Hawthorn Hawks vs Sydney Swans Odds

Hawthorn Hawks vs Sydney Swans Preview

Hawthorn host Sydney in what shapes as one of the most intriguing match-ups of the round. The Hawks have been one of the competition’s fastest improving teams, building their game around quick ball movement and strong pressure. Sydney, however, remain one of the AFL’s most consistent sides with a powerful midfield and dangerous forward line capable of punishing turnovers. The contest around stoppages will be critical, with both teams relying heavily on their midfield depth to generate scoring opportunities. Hawthorn’s ability to control territory and maintain defensive pressure will be key if they are to challenge the Swans. Sydney’s experience in tight contests could prove decisive, but the Hawks have shown they are capable of matching top sides.

The state of Texas loves to tout its size, but it can also brag about landing the most teams in the 2026 NCAA Tournament bracket. Seven programs from the Lone Star State are a part of March Madness 2026, highlighted by 2-seed Houston and 5-seed Texas Tech. However, four of the seven Texas programs are double-digit seeds, so the Cougars and Red Raiders may be the state’s best bets for deep 2026 NCAA Tournament bracket runs.

North Carolina (five) is the only other state with more than four teams in the 2026 March Madness bracket. A total of 31 states, plus Washington, D.C., are represented in the NCAA college basketball tournament, so interest in March Madness pools and NCAA Tournament bracket picks stretches across the nation. Before you make your 2026 NCAA Tournament predictions, see the 2026 March Madness bracket picks from the proven computer model at SportsLine.

Two years ago, SportsLine’s computer simulation nailed massive upsets, including huge wins by No. 11 Oregon over No. 6 South Carolina, No. 11 NC State over No. 6 Texas Tech, No. 10 Colorado over No. 7 Florida. Last year, SportsLine’s computer simulation nailed massive upsets, including calling both 9-seeds that advanced in the first round, No. 12 Colorado State over No. 5 Memphis, and No. 6 BYU advancing to the Sweet 16. The model has beaten over 91 percent of all CBS Sports bracket players in four of the past seven tournaments.

This model, which simulates every game 10,000 times, has nailed 25 first-round upsets by double-digit seeds since its inception in 2016 and nailed UConn’s championship run in 2024. It nailed 12 teams in the Sweet 16 and correctly predicted all four Final Four teams a year ago.

The SportsLine Projection Model simulates every college basketball game 10,000 times. It entered conference tournament week on a sizzling 14-2 run on its top-rated over/under college basketball picks dating back to last season, and is on a 28-21 run on top-rated CBB side picks. You shouldn’t even think about making a pick without seeing what their model has to say.

Top 2026 March Madness bracket upset picks

One South Region surprise the model has identified: No. 9 Iowa defeats No. 8 Clemson in the first round. The Hawkeyes boast the top scoring defense (66 ppg allowed) in the Big Ten and the conference’s No. 5 scorer in Bennett Stirtz (20 ppg). Iowa also controls the class, as just three teams allow fewer offensive rebounds per game. Not allowing extra possessions would force any opponent to struggle to generate points, especially one as weak as Clemson’s.

The Tigers lack a go-to scorer, which is something paramount to success in March. They’re the only power conference team without any players averaging at least 12 ppg, and a lack of offense has led Clemson to a 4-6 record over its last 10 games. Add in that No. 9 seeds have won 64.3% of matchups versus No. 8 seeds over the last eight years, and the model backs the Big Ten to prevail over the ACC in this contest.

Another South Region surprise the model has identified: No. 10 Texas A&M knocks off No. 7 Saint Mary’s. The Aggies are a veteran-laden squad with seven of their top eight scorers being seniors. They also have unparalleled depth as their 35.6 bench ppg are the most by any power conference team over the last decade. Thus, A&M has lots of scoring options to throw at Saint Mary’s, and the Gaels simply lack the firepower to keep up.

Saint Mary’s sits outside the top 100 teams in both scoring (78.2 ppg) and shooting (46.1 FG%). While the Gaels rank 10th nationally in 3P%, they are just 266th in terms of attempts, which mitigates one of their biggest strengths. This first-round contest would qualify as a Quad 1 game for Saint Mary’s, and the team is just 1-4 in Quad 1 games this year, compared to 26-1 in all other contests. See which other 2026 March Madness upsets and matchups to target here.

How to make 2026 NCAA Tournament bracket predictions

Who wins every tournament-defining matchup? And which teams will make surprising runs through the 2026 NCAA Tournament bracket? With the model’s track record of calling bracket-busting upsets, you’ll want to see which stunners it’s calling this year before locking in any 2026 NCAA bracket picks.

So what’s the optimal NCAA Tournament 2026 bracket? And which NCAA Tournament Cinderella teams will shock college basketball? Visit SportsLine now to see which region features two mammoth upsets in the first round, including one by a No. 14 seed, and see which 6-seed makes the Sweet 16, all from the model that’s nailed 25 first-round upsets by double-digit seeds.

Nigeria international Olisa Ndah is still waiting to make his first appearance for Stellenbosch FC more than a month after joining the club.

The 28-year-old defender completed his move in February, but he has not yet featured for the team because his work permit has not been approved.

Stellenbosch head coach Gavin Hunt admitted that the delay has been frustrating for the club, especially because the process has taken longer than expected.

“I’d love to get him into the team, but some people get work permits much quicker than other people,” Hunt said.

The situation has surprised many at the club. Although Ndah previously played in South Africa for Orlando Pirates, he still requires a new permit after changing employers.

Hunt explained that the process should normally be straightforward.

“I mean, it’s just a change of employee. So it should be something quick, isn’t it? If you compare big leagues around the world, if a foreign player comes in they all get the work permit gets done through a particular person for all the clubs.

“So I think that should happen, but it’s never happened like that. So it’s a bit disappointing because he’s been in close to a month, and he should have played by now.”

Ndah had initially been expected to make his debut earlier, possibly during Stellenbosch’s league match against Magesi FC at the Danie Craven Stadium in the Betway Premiership.

However, the paperwork has not yet been completed, meaning the defender is still waiting for his first chance to play for his new club.

Hunt remains hopeful that the issue will soon be resolved so Ndah can finally be available for selection when Stellenbosch face Lamontville Golden Arrows in Umlazi.

Ndah joined Stellenbosch on a free transfer after leaving Orlando Pirates at the end of January. The centre-back cancelled his contract with the Buccaneers in search of more regular playing time after injuries and a dip in form limited his opportunities.

During his four-and-a-half years with Pirates, Ndah made 81 appearances and started 73 matches. His last game for the club came in September 2024 against Polokwane City, where he captained the side in a 3–0 Betway Premiership win.

However, the match also marked a difficult moment in his career as he suffered a fractured tibia and spent a long period recovering from the injury.

At international level, Ndah has represented the Nigeria national football team and was part of the squad at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations. His most recent appearance for Nigeria came in September 2024 during a 3–0 AFCON qualification victory over Benin national football team.

Before moving abroad, Ndah made his name in the Nigerian league with Remo Stars and later Akwa United FC, where he won the Nigeria Professional Football League title.

Now at Stellenbosch, the defender hopes the work permit issue will soon be resolved so he can begin the next chapter of his career. ⚽

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Will Justin Fields start a game for the Kansas City Chiefs in 2026? Yahoo Sports’ Andrew Siciliano and Jori Epstein discuss that possibility along with the latest free agency moves across the league. Later, the duo sits down with former Jets passing-game coordinator Scott Turner to break down the biggest free agency storylines so far. Hear about it all in today’s jam-packed episode!

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(2:40) – Chiefs trade for Justin Fields

(10:41) – Vikings sign Kyler Murray

(22:13) – Scott Turner joins!

(42:56) – Free agency roundup: Who’s still available?

🖥️ Watch this full episode on YouTube

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