By Dane Miller, SuperWest Sports
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Dane Miller’s Week 16 Best-in-West Hoops Power Rankings
It’s coming down to it.
March is right around the corner, and the at-large resumes are coming under scrutiny.
Last week, UCLA helped itself with a critical win over Illinois while USC shot itself in the foot with two losses.
At the same time, San Diego State played its way out of the projected field with two defeats, while Utah State hurt its projected seed by dropping a game to Nevada.
Over in the ACC, California stayed in contention while essentially knocking Stanford out.
This week, there are several critical games in the WCC and MWC that will affect the Bubble conversation.
Here’s how I view the Top 10 College Basketball Teams in the West with three weeks to go until Selection Sunday.
1. Arizona (25-2, 12-2)
Without Koa Peat, the Wildcats took down BYU and Houston.
The victories underscore the depth of Arizona’s roster and the coaching staff’s ability to adjust. Sidi Gueye and Evan Nelson transitioned from bench warmers to rotational roles, contributing critical minutes in both games.
If anything, the absence of Peat and Dwayne Aristode has made Arizona stronger in the long run.
2. Gonzaga (27-2, 15-1)
The Zags crushed San Francisco and beat Pacific last week. But nobody has forgotten about that loss to Portland earlier this season.
Facing the Pilots in Spokane on Wednesday, Gonzaga has the chance for revenge. Looking further beyond to the Big Dance, it’s probably unwise to doubt Mark Few.
Yet, it’s reasonable to wonder if the Bulldogs go deeper than the Sweet 16.
3. BYU (20-7, 8-6)
Kevin Young and his players are beginning to adjust to the loss of Richie Saunders. In the win over Iowa State, Mihailo Boskovic and Kennard Davis Jr. stepped up.
Young needs his supporting players to continue increasing their production while AJ Dybantsa keeps dominating.
If the season ended today, Dybantsa would be the betting favorite to win the Big 12’s Player of the Year award.
4. Utah State (23-4, 13-3)
A shot at a 5-seed just went out of the window with the road loss to Nevada. Now, the prospect of the dreaded 8 or 9-seed is becoming more realistic.
Utah State does have the talent to get out of the First Round in that scenario, but it likely won’t beat any of the projected 1-seeds.
To make a Sweet 16 run, the Aggies might need to win their final four regular-season contests and at least make the Mountain West Tournament Championship Game.
5. UCLA (18-9, 10-6)
Mick Cronin got another signature win this season with a victory over Illinois. Combined with the previous result against Purdue, the Bruins have effectively moved off the cut line.
And with games remaining against USC, Minnesota, and Nebraska, UCLA could enter the Big Ten Tournament on a five-game winning streak.
Even so, any unexpected stumbles could put the Bruins back into the danger zone.
6. Saint Mary’s (25-4, 14-2)
The Gaels escaped with a two-point win over Seattle and then crushed Washington State.
The close margin of victory over the Redhawks is concerning at this stage of the season. But none of that matters with Santa Clara and Gonzaga coming to Moraga this week.
Beat both opponents, and Saint Mary’s becomes a lock for the NCAA Tournament. Lose both, and the Gaels might drop outside of the projected field.
7. New Mexico (21-6, 12-4)
It took a historic comeback to beat Fresno State on the road. Yet, at the end of the day, a win is a win.
There’s no time to dwell on the result with Nevada and San Diego State up next. The Lobos play the Wolf Pack on the road after Steve Alford’s team just took down Utah State.
Still on the cut line, New Mexico can’t afford to lose this week.
8. Santa Clara (23-6, 14-2)
Santa Clara’s NCAA Tournament hopes are on the line this week against Saint Mary’s. Facing the Gaels on the road, the matchup could wind up being a de facto elimination game.
The WCC probably only gets one at-large bid, which leaves three teams fighting for two spots.
Anything can happen, yet the Broncos will feel much more comfortable on Selection Sunday if they beat Saint Mary’s on Wednesday.
9. California (19-8, 7-7)
Mark Madsen has the Bears in position to make the NCAA Tournament. If the Selection Show were held today, it would be a toss-up.
That makes this week’s game against SMU critical. In some ways, it’s Cal biggest game of the year. Beat the Mustangs, and the Bears will probably move into the projected field.
A loss wouldn’t eliminate California, but it would be a substantial missed opportunity.
10. San Diego State (18-8, 12-4)
The Aztecs are on the wrong side of the conversation. The prospects of an at-large bid were already in question, even prior to the losses to GCU and Colorado State last week.
Fortunately, there are opportunities remaining. San Diego State faces Utah State, New Mexico, Boise State, and UNLV to close the year.
Go 4-0 over that stretch, and a bid seems much more likely.
Miller covers College Basketball and College Football as well as Formula 1 racing as a Senior Writer and Assistant Editor for SuperWest Sports.
Latest posts by Dane Miller (see all)
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Dane Miller’s Week 16 Best-in-West Hoops Power Rankings
> How the region’s best teams stack up across the Big 12, Big Ten, ACC, MW, Pac-12, and WCC
– February 23, 2026 -
Dane Miller’s Week 15 Best-in-West Hoops Power Rankings
> How the region’s best teams stack up across the Big 12, Big Ten, ACC, MW, Pac-12, and WCC
– February 16, 2026 -
Dane Miller’s Week 14 Best-in-West Hoops Power Rankings
> How the region’s best teams stack up across the Big 12, Big Ten, ACC, MW, Pac-12, and WCC
– February 9, 2026
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Berube also added that no surgery is required for the players. All three players were injured during Wednesday’s loss to Washington.
However, Berube noted that Stolarz’s injury is serious enough that it may impact his off-season.
Stolarz exited the Capitals game in pain due to a lower-body injury suffered after making a save.
The 32-year-old goalie has been plagued by injuries throughout his entire career, and was limited to just 26 contests this season after appearing in a career-high 34 last season.
Stolarz posted an .893 save percentage and 3.28 goals-against average this season, and signed a four-year, $15-million extension that kicks in July 1.
Joshua also suffered an upper-body injury after crashing into the boards following a collision with Rasmus Sandin in the second period.
The 29-year-old, who was acquired in the off-season from Vancouver, totalled 10 goals and eight assists this year. He played in only 55 games, though, as he also dealt with injuries early in the season.
Carlo, meanwhile, suffered a lower-body injury. The 29-year-old’s play has been under a microscope all season due to the exorbitant price the Maple Leafs paid for his services at the trade deadline last season.
He has seven assists in 55 games this season, and registered 10 total points – all assists – in 88 combined regular season and playoff contests with Toronto over the last year-and-a-half.
The Maple Leafs host the Florida Panthers on Saturday (7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. CT, Sportsnet+) in a battle for last place in the Atlantic Division.
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Carlos Alcaraz’s SF opponent Valentin Vacherot shares romantic kiss with girlfriend after making history at Monte-Carlo Masters
Valentin Vacherot created history on Friday as he became the first Monegasque player at the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters to reach the semi-finals after defeating Alex de Minaur in the fifth seed after a gruelling 6-4, 3-6, 6-3. Following the victory, Vacherot’s girlfriend Emily Snyyder shared a romantic moment with the Monégasque star that she shared on her socials. The 27-year-old will be facing Carlos Alcaraz in the semi-finals in the Principality.
“It is such an honour to be part of the semi-finals with the three best players of the past few years…I can’t wait to play Carlos tomorrow in my hometown, it is amazing.” – Vacherot commented on his upcoming SF matchup against regning World No. 1 at the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters.
Thanks for the submission!
When Valentin Vacherot marked a career milestone on Friday, his partner Emily was by his side. Soon after his victory, the couple shared a celebratory kiss, which she later posted on her social media, accompanied by an emotional reaction.
Subsequently, Emily shared two other moments from Vacherot’s historic run with heartwarming captions. One of the posts captures the tennis star’s family’s reaction to his magnificent quarter-final win, whereas the other captures Vacherot’s post-game moment.
“ABSOLUTE CINEMA” – Valentin Vacherot’s girlfriend Emily captioned her post on IG.
After Valentin Vacherot bagged the Rolex Shanghai Masters title last September, Emily has been his biggest cheerleader. Friday’s victory is marked as extremely special for the couple, as the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters venue happens to be within walking distance of where their love story began four years ago.
Valentin Vacherot climbs up to No. 17 in PIF ATP live rankings as he is set to face World No. 1 in SF at the Monte-Carlo Masters
Valentin has been on a roll since he bagged three-set victories against Hubert Hurkacz Juan, and Manuel Cerundolo earlier this week, while he crushed a big win against fourth seed Lorenzo Musetti in three straight sets. The Monégasque star played red-hot tennis and secured runs just eight months after his dominating triumph in Shanghai.
“All the guys in the crowd chanting, they are my best friends from when I was nine, 10 years old. It is rare for a player to have this chance to have this many people around. The members sat in the boxes. I am so lucky to have a tournament in my club.” – Vacherot spoke in an emotional moment.
Vacherot now turns his focus to the upcoming semi-final, where he will be facing the reigning World No. 1 Carlos Alcaraz at the Monte-Carlo Masters
Edited by Ahana Bhaumik
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CSK vs DC LIVE Score, IPL 2026: Sanju Samson Slams 115 Not Out, CSK Post 212/2 vs Delhi Capitals
Chennai Super Kings: Sanju Samson(w), Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Ayush Mhatre, Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, Prashant Veer, Jamie Overton, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Matt Henry, Khaleel Ahmed, Matthew Short, Akeal Hosein, Kartik Sharma, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Gurjapneet Singh, MS Dhoni, Shreyas Gopal, Rahul Chahar, Spencer Johnson, Mukesh Choudhary, Urvil Patel, Aman Khan, Dewald Brevis, Zakary Foulkes.
Delhi Capitals: KL Rahul(w), Pathum Nissanka, Nitish Rana, Axar Patel(c), David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Vipraj Nigam, Kuldeep Yadav, Lungi Ngidi, T Natarajan, Mukesh Kumar, Ashutosh Sharma, Auqib Nabi Dar, Sameer Rizvi, Dushmantha Chameera, Karun Nair, Mitchell Starc, Kyle Jamieson, Ajay Jadav Mandal, Prithvi Shaw, Tripurana Vijay, Abishek Porel, Sahil Parakh, Madhav Tiwari.
Arsenal F.C. suffered a major blow in the Premier League title race on Saturday after a 2-1 home defeat to AFC Bournemouth at the Emirates Stadium.
The result has given renewed hope to Manchester City F.C., who are chasing the leaders with games in hand.
Bournemouth took the lead in the 17th minute when Junior Kroupi reacted quickest inside the box to tap home after a deflected cross fell kindly to him.
Arsenal responded and found an equaliser in the 35th minute. Viktor Gyökeres stepped up and smashed in a penalty after the ball struck the arm of Ryan Christie inside the area.
Despite several attacking changes after the break, Mikel Arteta’s side struggled to break down a well-organised Bournemouth team. The visitors continued to threaten on the counter attack and regained the lead in the 74th minute when Alex Scott fired a powerful strike past David Raya.
Arsenal pushed hard for a late equaliser but could not find a way through, suffering only their second home league defeat of the season.
The defeat leaves Arsenal still top of the table with six matches remaining, but their lead remains under threat. Manchester City can close the gap further if results go their way in the coming fixtures, including a key clash against Arsenal next week.
Arsenal’s recent form has raised questions, especially after a mixed run in cup competitions, while Bournemouth continue to impress under Andoni Iraola with another strong away performance.
With a six-shot lead at the Masters halfway point, Rory McIlroy is in prime position to become only the fourth golfer in history to win back-to-back titles at Augusta National, following Jack Nicklaus, Nick Faldo and Tiger Woods.
Preparation for the year’s first major championship is taken seriously by every player in the field. Some opt to play their way in to the week, with an aim of peaking at Augusta, while others try to rest the week before. McIlroy, though, didn’t tee it up at all in competition in the weeks leading up to the Masters, opting to skip the PGA Tour’s Valspar Championship, Texas Children’s Houston Open and the Valero Texas Open after his T46 finish at the Players Championship.
Rory McIlroy’s Masters repeat has 2 equally fascinating outcomes
;)
On Friday, after firing a second-round 65 at Augusta, McIlroy explained why.
“I honestly just don’t like the three tournaments leading up to this event,” he said. “I’d rather come up here [to Augusta].”
So that’s exactly what he did.
Thanks to the proximity of his home in Jupiter, Fla., McIlroy explained that he was able to fly to Augusta for practice rounds and still manage to arrive home in time for dinner.
“I did a couple of days where I dropped Poppy to school, flew up here, played, landed back home and had dinner with her — or had dinner with Erica probably,” he said. “Like I did a couple of day trips like that where I felt it was a better use of my time than going to Houston or San Antonio.”
As defending champion, McIlroy’s schedule was more full than usual this year, as he was responsible for hosting the annual Champions Dinner on Tuesday evening. Still, he said his decision to eschew the last three PGA Tour events ahead of the Masters was more about preparation than rest.
“It wasn’t really about conserving energy,” he said. “But just I felt the more time I could spend up here, the better.”
Judging by McIlroy’s performance at Augusta thus far, there may be something to that.
Vangelis Zougris, who emerged as a starter for Louisville basketball down the stretch of his first season with the Cardinals, is reportedly headed to the NCAA transfer portal
Jon Chepkevich, the scouting director of DraftExpress first reported the news of Zougris’ planned departure on Saturday. When he does officially enter the portal, 6-foot-8 Greek forward will be the fourth UofL player to do so this offseason — joining Mouhamed Camara, Sananda Fru and Khani Rooths.
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That leaves only London Johnson and Adrian Wooley as possible returners for Year 3 of the Pat Kelsey era.
Zougris, a 21-year-old junior who spent four seasons playing professionally in the Greek Basketball League before coming to the United States, appeared in 27 games (nine minutes per) during his first go-around in the collegiate ranks. He averaged 2.6 points on 57.1% shooting and 2.4 rebounds.
Zougris logged only three shifts of 10-plus minutes for Louisville between Nov. 3 and Jan. 13. But he closed the campaign with seven in the final eight — after taking the 6-11 Fru’s spot in the starting lineup.
“Just being there every day — same attitude, same mentality,” Zougris said after his 6-0 run sparked the Cards’ comeback win over SMU at the ACC Tournament. “… I think it’s paying off right now.”
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“Coming over from Greece, (it) just wasn’t going the way he wanted it to basketball-wise,” Kelsey added. “He was having a struggle adjusting; and then his role wasn’t something, obviously, that he envisioned. But he never lost hope — never lost faith.”
“There’s been so much stuff going on throughout the year. It’s been a tough year for me,” Zougris said. “I’ve worked so (hard). … I’m grateful for the opportunity I’ve gotten to show what I can do and help my team win.”
The portal is open until midnight Wednesday, April 22. That’s an entry window; players can take their time finding a new home once they’ve hit the market. College basketball’s regular signing period begins Wednesday, April 15.
Players can choose to withdraw their name from the portal, but programs are not obligated to hold scholarships/roster spots for entrants.
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Reach Louisville men’s basketball reporter Brooks Holton at bholton@gannett.com and follow him on X at @brooksHolton.
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Vangelis Zougris, Louisville basketball big, transfer portal update
Just before the main event, VikingsTerritory will publish a final predictive mock draft, when all clues have been compiled, once and for all. Until then, here’s the penultimate stab at predicting the Minnesota Vikings’ seven-round approach in 12 days.
Minnesota stacks nine picks in this penultimate 2026 mock draft.
The Vikings have nine picks — four before Round 4 and five after.
Trade-Down Scenario Sends Minnesota in Several Different Directions
Draft showtime nears.
**TRADE**
Vikings Get:
40th Overall Pick (Round 2)
— for —
Chiefs Get:
Jonathan Greenard (OLB)
Pick No. 234 (Round 7)
Round 1 (Pick 18)
Keldric Faulk (EDGE) | Auburn
We felt it was necessary to include one mock draft this cycle that featured a Greenard trade, mainly because the smoke has been out there since early last month.
So, in this scenario, the Vikings get their 2nd-Rounder from Kansas City, Greenard joins the dynastic Chiefs, and Minnesota turns around to draft Greenard’s replacement in Faulk. The Auburn EDGE is known for his leadership, accountability, and character. He also won’t turn 21 until the fall.
The Vikings would basically start the outside linebacker clock over in this scenario.
The Ringer‘s Todd McShay on Faulk: “Faulk’s draft stock fluctuates wildly, depending on whom you ask. His grades will vary from team to team based on his defensive scheme fit. Expect a wide range of opinions, but the bottom line is that Faulk is a Round 1 pick all day long and should hear his name called in the first 25 picks.”
“There are a lot of similarities between Faulk and Arik Armstead; the latter was also 21 years old coming out of Oregon. Faulk is slightly shorter than Armstead but is more athletically gifted. He should have a long, successful NFL career ahead of him and could be one of the steals in this draft.”
Round 2 (Pick 40)
Jadarian Price (RB) | Notre Dame
The fruit of the Greenard trade? That’s Price, the RB2 from Notre Dame, who played second fiddle to Jeremiyah Love. Price scored 13 touchdowns last year, even with Love getting the bulk of attention.
He has 4.49 speed, elite vision, and has been compared to Javonte Williams by NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein.
Round 2 (Pick 49)
Caleb Banks (DT) | Florida
Sticking with the defensive line, Banks may fall due to his boom-or-bust profile and injury history. He may not be fully ready because of a foot injury this summer.
The Gator has nose-tackle size with a pass-rusher’s mentality. After the departures of Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave in free agency, it’s a 2nd-Round steal in Banks to Minnesota.
Round 3 (Pick 82)
Connor Lew (C) | Auburn
Head coach Kevin O’Connell has hinted that his team will explore a rookie center after Ryan Kelly retired in March; Lew is the route in this mock draft.
Lew is 6’4″ and 310 pounds, and his draft stock has fallen to Round 2 or 3 because of an October ACL tear. He’s known for fluidity and has a wrestling background. Blake Brandel may start Week 1 at center, but Lew wouldn’t be too far behind in taking the starting job.
Round 3 (Pick 97)
Kamari Ramsey (S) | USC
Preferring OLB and DT on defense to start this mock, Minnesota doesn’t exit the draft without a safety. Ramsey is 21 and a guy who could eventually wear a green dot in Brian Flores’s defense.
Often, excellent safeties can be found in the draft’s mid-rounds. The Vikings lean into that mentality after passing on Dillon Thieneman and Emmanuel McNeil-Warren.
The Athletic‘s Dane Brugler on Ramsey: “Ramsey might not have any one exceptional trait, but he is solid across the board with his athletic tools, smarts and toughness. Staying healthy will be the most important hurdle when it comes to locking down a regular role.”
Round 5 (Pick 161)
Demond Claiborne (RB) | Texas Tech
Minnesota has already met with Claiborne, whose draft stock has climbed in recent weeks. His skill set is reminiscent of De’Vone Achane in Miami, and the Vikings’ new assistant head coach, Frank Smith, just spent three seasons with Achane.
Behind Aaron Jones, Jordan Mason, and Jadarian Price, Claiborne slips onto the purple depth chart as more youth at running back, which Minnesota desperately needs after swinging and missing on DeWayne McBride and Ty Chandler in recent drafts.
And, yes, it’s two running backs in the mock because there’s an extra roster spot after C.J. Ham’s retirement. That — and Jones will turn 32 in December. He’s virtually assured to be hampered by some kind of injury in 2026.
Round 6 (Pick 196)
Domani Jackson (CB) | Alabama
Jackson started for two years at Alabama, and that school isn’t known for producing duds.
This 23-year-old is also fast as hell and can be used on special teams. Some will claim this is too late for Minnesota to draft a cornerback, but the aforementioned Flores has proven that cornerbacks aren’t an extreme priority in his system.
Round 7 (Pick 240)
Caleb Douglas (WR) | Texas Tech
Douglas is a deep threat who can get vertical with the best of this rookie class. He started two years at Texas Tech and logged 846 yards and 7 touchdowns last year.
Round 7 (Pick 244)
Eric Gentry (LB) | USC
When the offseason began, inside linebacker felt like a probable Vikings need, but then the club re-signed Eric Wilson and Ivan Pace Jr.
The fact remains that Minnesota confusingly dropped Kobe King and Austin Keys last year, two depth linebackers, so Gentry is the selection to round out the draft. Gentry has a 35-inch wingspan and could likely contribute immediately on special teams.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta describes the 2-1 defeat at home to Bournemouth as “a big punch on the face” as they drop points in the Premier League title race.
Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
Carolina’s offseason started fast when they burgled Jaelan Phillips away from Philadelphia via an incredible $30 million per year contract in the opening minutes of free agency. A team well acquainted with roster holes, the Panthers intentionally filled arguably their biggest need at edge almost immediately, while bringing in several other players on day one including linebacker Devin Lloyd, offensive linemen Luke Forner and Stone Forsythe, cornerback Akayleb Evans, and other ex-Eagles quarterback Kenny Pickett and wide receiver John Metchie III. And they kept signing – between 3/10 and 3/20, they signed 21 players in a mad dash of transactions that would leave Julian Vandervelde’s head spinning (they even signed yet another Philly alumnus, RB AJ Dillon … was the Red Rifle trade some kind of peace offering? (Probably not.)) While, of course, not all of these players are starters, Carolina’s activity helped fill holes, add depth, and potentially provide them optionality in the draft.
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Looking at their roster, Carolina has several bright spots. Adding Phillips and Lloyd to a defense featuring stars Jaycee Horn and Derrick Brown as well other solid players like Tre’von Moehrig, Mike Jackson, Bobby Brown, Tershawn Wharton, and Nic Scourton has the makings for a competitive unit. On offense, while there are questions around Bryce Young, he has taken steps forward in years two and three, surpassing 3,000 yards and throwing for 23 TDs in 2025. Due to that progress, Carolina seems prepared to build around him and see if he continues to take positive steps. Around Young, Carolina has some O-linemen to potentially be excited about (at least at guard and tackle) and some skill players that could form a strong core – particularly AP Offensive Rookie of the Year Tetairoa McMillan.
Having said all of that, there are certainly needs. Sites that cover the Panthers seem to vary on the severity of some of these but point out, to some degree, needs along both lines and possibly at WR or LB. However, many point to TE and S as the biggest holes on the roster. While I’m a proponent of selecting the best player available as a baseline M.O., it’s hard to ignore glaring needs on a building team and potentially erasing a void by adding someone who could have an immediate impact – a philosophical point espoused by head coach Dave Canales.
Luckily for Carolina at pick 19, that impact just collided at the intersection of need and available players, despite just missing out on some great options. While Dillon Thieneman, a spice so strong it burns the S out of your mouth (such a fun name to say out loud), would have been a terrific fit here, he is no longer an option thanks to Vikings at No. 18. Neither are most of the top O-lineman or anyone who has ever even audited a class at Ohio State (4 out of the first 9 picks is impressive). But you know who is available? Another exciting safety prospect in Toledo’s Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Oregon’s standout TE Kenyon Sadiq, and a couple compelling edge defenders in Akheem Mesidor and Keldric Faulk. Honestly, I could make an argument for any of these four options and any of them could be a good pick at 19. However, if all of these young men are in range of one another talent/value-wise, and I think they are, one must consider positional value and need to help decide. While being an Eagles fan has taught me to lean edge over safety and TE, I have to look closely at a roster that has several pass rushers, including the gem of their free agent class, and the contrasting, significant needs at S and TE. With my options narrowed to choosing between McNeil-Warren and Sadiq, I can’t ignore the potential to surround Young with another dynamic playmaker. Kenyon Sadiq it is and here’s why:
Need
I don’t want to overemphasize need, but addressing Carolina’s TE needs is essential with no compelling option currently on the roster. Sadiq would change that. While Tommy Tremble was selected in the third round in 2021, he has not proven to be a proficient receiver having never topped 250 yards or 3 TDs in a season (2025 was his best receiving year with 27 catches, 249 yards, and 2 TDs). Ja’Tavion Sanders hauled in 29 catches in 2025 for 190 yards (for a mere 6.6 avg) and a TD over 13 games – a down year after netting 33 catches for 342 yards and 1 TD in his rookie season, 2024.
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Good Production (at least in 2025)
Sadiq has averaged 11.2 yards per catch in college, getting better each year. In 2025, he caught 51 passes for 560 yards (11.0 avg.) and a strong 8 TDs. He was a significant contributor to Oregon’s strong season that saw them advance to the Peach Bowl where they fell to the ultimate national champion Indiana Hoosiers. In a season that saw QB Dante Moore (over 3,500 yards) successfully spread the ball around, Oregon had five players surpass 497 yards receiving, Sadiq’s 560 yards were second on the team and his 8 TDs finished first on the team and led the nation among tight ends. He was reliable, catching 51 of his 71 targets (approximate) for a nearly 72% catch rate. While 560 yards and an 11-yard average are not other-worldly, they are good production especially considering his catch rate, number of scores, and YAC ability. 214 of his 560 total yards came after the catch coming in at a 4.73 YAC average. While this is certainly connected to the high number of screen passes that he caught, it exemplifies his versatility (more on that soon), athleticism (much more on that even sooner), and his abilities with the ball in his hands. Dante Moore had a strong 145.5 passer rating when targeting Sadiq, which transparently is not as high as Moore’s overall regular season number (163.72), but also very good (in the top six among TE’s) and possibly reflective of the high frequency of short throws that came Sadiq’s way.
Traits
Driving these numbers are notable strengths, particularly as a receiver. An incredible athlete (wait for it), Sadiq also exhibited good balance, hands, technique, extension, separation, and body control through the catch process. For example, his two TD game against Rutgers was filled with highlight catches, including an over-the-shoulder TD grab that many college tight ends just cannot do. He has a good feel for finding holes in zone defenses, making contested catches and then breaking tackles thereafter. He had a handful of gloriously angry runs this season that are just too fun to watch.
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Coupled with his strength and ability on screens and in open zones, he has unbelievable speed (wait for it) for a TE. He has the potential to blow the top off a defense from the slot, exposing safeties and linebackers that simply cannot keep up with him. Frankly, he’s going to eat up small slot CB’s and blow past LB’s and most safeties. He’s a matchup nightmare for defenses.
Rare Athleticism
Where Sadiq really stands out is athleticism. His combine numbers were elite. While there are some concerns about his agility, his speed and lower body power are remarkable. Nicknamed “The Freak” by his complimentary if not derivative teammates (Jevon Kearse much, anyone?!), this young man can freakin’ run and freakin’ jump.
Sadiq set three TE records at the combine this year (caveats aplenty). That day, he tied David Njoku’s nine-year broad jump record of 11’1” AND Dorin Dickerson’s 2010 vertical jump record of 43.5”. While he was moments later out jumped by Eli Stowers in both categories (11’3” broad and 45.5” vertical – both new TE records), his jumping numbers are ostensibly elite. One record that Stowers did not beat… his combine 40-yard dash time of 4.39 seconds. While many sources established this as the new record over Vernon Davis’s 4.40 time, many contest that Davis actually ran it in 4.38. Either way, Sadiq is a special athlete.
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Positional Flexibility
Sadiq is a chess piece (which is an odd analogy for versatility since most chess pieces are highly specific, but whatever), able to move all over the formation. He played inline and detached, in the slot, and can even line up out wide or in the back field in some sets. He caught 37% of his passes behind the line (well above average) and 31% between 0 and 9 yards. That 68% mark shows his ability to work in traffic and highlights his YAC skills as mentioned above. 20% of his targets were medium length (10-19 yards) and 13% of them were beyond 20 yards. He can line up just about anywhere and has ability at all depths of target. He truly is a receiving weapon who strains a defense, particularly if playing in an offense that utilizes pre-snap motion, which the Panthers did more of in 2025 at 57% (at least compared to an abysmal 22% of their snaps in 2024) but could still increase. In a copy-cat league, it is worth noting that 2025 marked an all-time high in pre-snap motion across the league at 63.9%. A player like Sadiq could unlock new twists and multiply how the Panthers offense operates, scheming him and his teammates open.
Weaknesses
The main concerns with Sadiq are his blocking (due to “tweener” size), relative experience, and consistency translating his traits and strengths play-in and play-out. Blunt truth: Sadiq is small for an NFL tight end. At 6’3” (15% among TE’s), and 241 lbs. (9%) with 31.5” arms (7%), he is not going to overwhelm a defensive lineman with his size. Understand, he is not weak. He actually played in line 44% of the time and recorded a 68.7 career PFF Run Block Grade (65%) which is a favorable comparative mark to recent TE sensations Colston Loveland and Brock Bowers (not saying he is on the same level as them). However, he is obviously not a mammoth blocking TE and should not be used as one, at least too frequently.
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As a player that translates more as a big slot or movable piece than he does as an inline blocker, he needs to be fit into a role that maximizes his strengths. To be clear, “blocking want-to” is not an issue. Sadiq plays hard, is strong, and seems to enjoy blocking, especially in the open when he can level a guy and look for another. He can be a tenacious blocker. There are just moments when he does not match up well against larger players (specifically in pass protection) and could use technique refinement. That limitation may give some teams pause in the first round.
With only 80 catches in college, he does not have the body of work that some top TE’s in other years did and despite a high catch rate, there do seem to be the occasional concentration-lapse, possibly from trying to turn and run just a moment too soon. While most of these weaknesses can improve with coaching and experience, especially issues of technique and focus, his size may limit how offenses can use him consistently.
Impact
Recognizing that I wrote way too much about need above, I want to qualify that it’s not just about a hole on the roster, it is more about the impact Sadiq can have on the offense. In an offense with a potentially budding star WR in McMillan and other pass catchers with potential, a potent RB pair in Jonathon Brooks and Chuba Hubbard and a mobile, progressing QB like Bryce Young, Sadiq could prove to be an offensive weapon that makes Carolina an incredibly tough matchup for defenses. His ability to find a hole in the zone or take a screen pass and churn out tough yards / generate YAC as well as his elite speed to create down field are special and require attention by defenses. They have to plan for him. He has the ability to produce yards and points or to simply preoccupy safeties and clog the middle when necessary to loosen up coverages for teammates on the edges.
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Adding Kenyon Sadiq instantly makes the Carolina offense fun and competitive. The Panthers won the weak NFC South with an 8-9 record last year, taking it over Tampa Bay and Atlanta via tiebreakers. In a weak division, this team could become a consistent playoff team and potentially one that brings some joy to their fanbase, one that has not seen much success over the last decade. For me, Sadiq is a special talent and could be a piece that takes the Panthers’ offense to a new level.
*That was as TLDR as possible. Work sucked this week and I needed this. I hope it was enjoyable to read. Thanks.
2026 BGN Mock Draft Order
1) Raiders (Mailata_in_a_Miata): Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
2) Jets (Dr.MidnightGreen): Arvell Reese, EDGE, Ohio State
3) Cardinals (grantspectations): Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
4) Titans (DrBubbles): Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
5) Giants (ablesser88): Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
6) Browns (kjb304): Olaivavega Ioane, OG, Penn State
7) Commanders (Jerry Robinson 56): Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
8) Saints (VetStadiumSection358): David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech
9) Chiefs (Hoosinole): Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
10) Bengals (chuckelberryfinn): Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami
11) Dolphins (phillyfan): Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
12) Cowboys (ejdubya): Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami
13) Rams (All_Hail_Howie): Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
14) Ravens (215T1LL1D1e): Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
15) Buccaneers (pascofljoe): Makai Lemon, WR, USC
16) Jets (Euegene11): Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
17) Lions (BCHaas): Blake Miller, OT, Clemson
18) Vikings (The Player Formerly Known as Mousecop): Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
19) Panthers (jaynase): Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
20) Cowboys (Cravin’ LeBlanc)
21) Steelers (iam4theBirdz)
22) Chargers (Aint1stULast)
23) Eagles (Philly21)
24) Browns (FierceDisc65)
25) Bears (jazztafari)
26) Bills (PhillyTexan)
27) 49ers (granthill7)
28) Texans (CrackTheEaglesNut)
29) Chiefs (z)
30) Dolphins (Booth12)
31) Patriots (Niels Rosenquist)
32) Seahawks (J. Wil)
2026 BGN Community Consensus Mock Draft
Now it’s YOUR TURN to vote for who you think should be selected with this pick.
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1) Raiders: QB Fernando Mendoza
2) Jets: EDGE Arvell Reese
3) Cardinals: OT Francis Mauigoa
4) Titans: RB Jeremiyah Love
5) Giants: LB Sonny Styles
6) Browns: WR Carnell Tate
7) Commanders: EDGE David Bailey
8) Saints: EDGE Rueben Bain Jr.
9) Chiefs: S Caleb Downs
10) Bengals: CB Mansoor Delane
11) Dolphins: WR Jordyn Tyson
12) Cowboys: CB Jermod McCoy
13) Rams: WR Makai Lemon
14) Ravens: OT Monroe Freeling
15) Buccaneers: TE Kenyon Sadiq
16) Jets: OG Olaivavega Ioane
17) Lions: OT Spencer Fano
18) Vikings: S Dillon Thieneman
19) Panthers:
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