Aug 30, 2025; College Station, Texas, USA; Texas A&M Aggies wide receiver KC Concepcion (7) after returning a punt for a touchdown in the first quarter against the UTSA Roadrunners at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Sean Thomas-Imagn Images.
April arrives on Wednesday, which means draft month is near, and we asked VikingsTerritory writers to get together for a collaborative mock draft to close out free agency month. Using NFL Mock Draft Database’s simulator, here’s what the panel came up with for the purple team.
One more seven-round Vikings forecast before April starts scrambling everything.
No trades were executed in the interest of simplicity and may be scarce in the first place because Kwesi Adofo-Mensah no longer works for the Vikings.
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Projecting Minnesota’s Best Pre-April Draft Blueprint
Our first writers swerved to start the festivities.
Texas A&M Aggies wide receiver KC Concepcion (7) breaks free on a punt return, racing downfield for a touchdown during the second half, Oct. 25, 2025, at Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, against the LSU Tigers as coverage collapses and the sideline erupts during a pivotal moment in the game. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images.
Round 1 (Pick 18) KC Concepcion (WR) | Texas A&M The Mock Drafter: Wes Johnson
Drafting should be about the best player available (BPA), and then need, so Concepcion checks both boxes.
With the recent contract extension of Seattle Seahawks WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba, averaging a bit over $42 million a year, the indicators are pretty clear: WR is considered a premium position by the NFL. Looking further into the Vikings, they are a team in need of a WR3 on the 2026 roster, and delving deeper, they will need to add to their pass-catching group in 2027 when the contracts of Jordan Addison and T.J. Hockenson expire.
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Enter Concepcion, who is a dynamic playmaker with the ball in his hands.
He has the size to play the Z, but would be eased into the offense in the slot. I’ve got Concepcion over Jordyn Tyson here because Tyson struggled to separate in college, something I feel Kevin O’Connell’s offense depends on. Concepcion reminds me a bit of Addison, and should the Vikings decide to move on, Concepcion will slot right in.
Round 2 (Pick 49) Lee Hunter (DT) | Texas Tech The Mock Drafter: Kyle Joudry
Saying no to running backs in Round 2 is painful, but it’s the DT. Lee Hunter is the pick. Trenches still matter, so snagging a promising player for the defensive line is the move.
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Round 3 (Pick 82) Mike Washington Jr. (RB) | Arkansas The Mock Drafter: Janik Eckardt
After impressive testing results, including a sub-4.35 forty-yard dash — a particularly notable time for a 225-pound running back — Washington Jr. has rapidly climbed draft boards.
Washington’s burst, acceleration, and big-play ability give him significant home-run potential, making him an attractive option for the Vikings, who are seeking to inject speed and explosiveness into their offensive scheme with youth at RB.
Round 3 (Pick 97) Genesis Smith (S) | Arizona The Mock Drafter: Adam New
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The Vikings need a safety, and in Genesis Smith, they get one of the best coverage safeties in the draft with great play-making ability. Smith is a steal at 97.
Round 5 (Pick 161) Hezakiah Masses (CB) | California The Mock Drafter: Steven Hoikkala
With the Vikings adding Masses, they gain a corner with decent size at 6’1 who ran a 4.46 40 time and has good ability to flip his hips in coverage. He gives Minnesota depth at corner, and could turn into a starter with his ability to also take the ball away after showing off his hands with 5 INT’s in 2025 for California.
Round 6 (Pick 196) Pat Coogan (CB) | Indiana The Mock Drafter: Dustin Baker
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Indiana players Pat Coogan (78), Riley Nowakowski (37), Charlie Becker (80), and Aiden Fisher (4) celebrate together on the podium after winning the College Football Playoff National Championship, Jan. 19, 2026, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens as confetti falls and teammates gather following the title-clinching performance. Mandatory Credit: Rich Janzaruk-Imagn Images.
In this scenario, the Vikings will roll into 2026 with Blake Brandel or Michael Jurgens as the starting center after Ryan Kelly’s retirement — probably Brandel — and add Coogan as a mid-to-late-round hopeful.
NFL Draft Buzzon Coogan: “Coogan has started 41 games across two Power 4 programs, called protections in a national championship game, and improved his grades every single season. He will earn trust quickly in a meeting room because he knows his assignments, communicates clearly, and plays with discipline.”
“In the right gap or power-heavy scheme, there is genuine starting potential here. He is the kind of interior lineman who may not test his way into a roster spot but will absolutely play his way into one.”
Round 7 (Pick 234) Eli Heidenreich (WR/RB) | Navy The Mock Drafter: Dustin Baker
Heidenreich offers the versatility, special-teams value, and roster flexibility that Minnesota can’t ignore in Round 7.
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His role at Navy transcended that of a traditional fullback. He lined up in multiple positions, including the backfield and slot, and frequently motioned to create mismatches against linebackers. The adaptability would translate well to a modern NFL offense that values unpredictability. For Minnesota, Heidenreich could be an affordable asset, adding offensive variability in short-yardage or play-action situations.
His primary appeal, however, lies on special teams. Players drafted in the later rounds often secure roster spots through special teams contributions, and Heidenreich possesses the requisite size, toughness, and discipline for coverage units.
Heidenreich also provides depth. Considering the Vikings’ offensive injuries in 2025, a player capable of filling multiple roles — H-back, emergency tight end, or situational runner — would offer the coaching staff greater flexibility without requiring additional roster spots.
Indiana defender Mikail Kamara (6) celebrates on the field following the College Football Playoff National Championship victory, Jan. 19, 2026, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens as emotions spill over and teammates surround him after securing the program’s biggest win on the national stage. Mandatory Credit: Rich Janzaruk-Imagn Images.
We were surprised to see the board allow this, Kamara falling to Round 7. Most mock drafts perceive him as a 5th-Rounder. It was a no-brainer to pounce in Round 7, adding the National Champion EDGE to the roster as an OLB4 or OLB5 contender as early as this fall.
Thorson is considered the top punting prospect among 2026 rookies. Given the recent signing of Johnny Hekker, why not invite Thorson to Eagan this summer to compete for the team’s punter position? After all, Hekker was a middle-of-the-road punter in 2025.
Vikings running back Aaron Jones was an obvious cut candidate entering this year’s offseason, but the franchise and the player agreed on a revised deal to keep him around for a third season. That ruined another organization’s plans.
It turns out, the Washington Commanders were interested in his services for the upcoming season.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter revealed in his pre-draft nuggets, “Even if Love does not wind up going No. 3, he will not slide far. The Commanders at No. 7 would seem to be his floor. Last spring, the Commanders planned to pursue Aaron Jones Sr. before he returned to the Vikings.”
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Jones’ exit was a foregone conclusion at one point, and even reports about his release surfaced. Too tasty were the $7.75 million in cap space the club could have saved by releasing the ball-carrier.
Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones Sr. (33) finds a gap and charges forward for yardage during the first half against the Atlanta Falcons on Sep 14, 2025, at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The veteran back has been instrumental in establishing Minnesota’s run game balance early this season, providing consistent production and leadership for a young offense. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images.
Ultimately, Jones took a pay cut and avoided a move. The difference between a pay cut and potential savings ended up too insignificant for a divorce to make sense for Minnesota. Finding a replacement would’ve cost more and perhaps still be a downgrade.
Schefter added about Washington’s possible draft plans: “This offseason, Washington added Rachaad White and Jerome Ford to join Jacory Croskey-Merritt, but the team still does not have much money invested in the position. If the opportunity presents itself, some expect the Commanders would rush to turn in the card for Love, giving Washington a great offensive tandem with him and Jayden Daniels.”
Jeremiyah Love, the crown jewel of this year’s running back class, might be off the board before the Commanders are on the clock, but if he’s there, the prospects of pairing the dynamic runner with quarterback Jayden Daniels are intriguing.
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The Vikings were considered a potential destination for Love throughout the 2025 season, but the strong finish with a five-game winning streak ended that speculation.
Instead, it’ll continue to be a timeshare between last year’s trade acquisition, Jordan Mason, and 2024 free-agent addition Jones. The reality that both enter the season with free agency looming next March could put running back on this year’s draft menu.
Dec 7, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones (33) reacts after the game at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images
In addition to the short-term contract, his age rules out any long-term plans. At 31, a significant decline could happen at any point, especially for a player who has dealt with injuries for years. A hamstring injury cost him five games last year.
Still, he was solid in 2025, ranking in the middle of the pack in EPA/rush (23rd/49 eligible RBs), success rate (16th/49), and TFL percentage (19th/49). The counting numbers showed 548 rushing yards and two touchdowns, with a receiving output of 199 yards and one score.
Jones is one of the premier third-down backs in the league, as he brings a rare combination of sure hands and blocking talent to the table. Most receiving backs are smaller and lack the oomph in pass protection.
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He’s also a key component in the leadership structure. When the club and the runner agreed on a new deal, NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero noted, “The Vikings never wanted to let go of Aaron Jones, who is a strong locker room presence and still effective when healthy at age 31. The sides worked towards a new deal and found common ground to keep in purple for another season.”
Jan 4, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Jordan Mason (27) runs for a gain against the Green Bay Packers during the game at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dan Powers-USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images
The pairing between Mason and Jones is a good fit on paper, as Jones is the more shifty technician, while Mason brings the size and power to run over defenders. Adding a rookie in the draft could complete the running back room for the upcoming season. Depth rusher Zavier Scott remains from last year, while 2022 draftee Ty Chandler was not retained in free agency.
Jones will wear the purple colors in the 2026 season and it’s good to know that at least one other team was interested in his services. The veteran is just one year removed from a season with over 1,500 scrimmage yards.
England great Gary Lineker has backed Arsenal to notch their first Premier League title in 22 years despite recently crashing to a 2-1 league loss at Manchester City.
Earlier this Sunday (April 19), the Gunners tasted their fourth defeat in six matches across all competitions at Etihad Stadium. Rayan Cherki opened the scoring in the 16th minute before Kai Havertz’s equaliser two minutes later. Erling Haaland’s goal in the 65th minute ultimately prove to be the difference between the two footballing giants.
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After losing to Pep Guardiola’s side, Arsenal are still atop the Premier League table with 70 points from 33 matches. On the other hand, Manchester City are in second place with 67 points from 32 games, and could dethrone the Gunners after beating Burnley on Wednesday (April 22).
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Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Lineker provided his two cents on Mikel Arteta’s side and their ongoing quest to end their Premier League title drought. The ex-Tottenham Hotspur striker said (h/t Mirror):
“It’s not impossible that it’ll be down to goal difference and it is very, very close. It’s great for the neutrals because you want it to go as close as you can right at the death, so in that sense it was good. I feel a little bit for Arsenal, they’re going through it a little bit but they’re still in the semi-final of the Champions League, they’ve got plenty to play for, they can still win the Premier League title.”
The 1986 FIFA World Cup Golden Boot winner added:
“A lot of people will go, ‘Arsenal have choked’, it could still be a memorable season for them, I’m not going to jump on that bandwagon that they’re going to throw it away, it’s too soon to say that. They did show something, even though it didn’t go their way, it could have been different.”
Arteta’s club will face Newcastle United in the league on Saturday before taking on Atletico Madrid in a UEFA Champions League tie on April 29.
Arsenal star targeted by European giants
According to French outlet L’Equipe, Arsenal forward Gabriel Martinelli’s entourage has met with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) sporting director Luis Campos of late. He is believed to be a summer target for the Parisians.
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Martinelli, 24, could be sold by the north London outfit this summer as his contract will expire in June 2027. He has also struggled to start Premier League games this season, scoring one goal in just 10 starts so far.
Overall, the Brazilian attacker has bagged 62 goals and provided 35 assists in 272 overall appearances for the Emirates Stadium outfit so far.
The Chiefs were on the losing side – Fin Smith dancing around England team-mate Immanuel Feyi -Waboso on the final play of the game for the winning score – but a superb toe-to-toe contest in front of a sun-bathed, 12,000-strong crowd was prime sporting ‘product’.
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Northampton caught the mood as well.
Henry Pollock unveiled a new try celebration, lobbing the ball in the air before ‘shooting’ it down with a mimed rifle. Number eight Callum Chick showed a fine bit of slipper, landing a 50:22. Saints director of rugby Phil Dowson seemed to motion to ask the home fans to find the knock-on in Smith’s game-winning score after the visitors had had an earlier try ruled out.
Tom Litchfield’s performance at outside centre will give Dowson more reason to smile.
The 24-year-old made the most metres of any of the Saints backline in their win over Saracens at Tottenham Stadium last time out in the league and was a muscular, intelligent presence once again.
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The result, combined with Bristol’s win over Gloucester on Friday night, adds some much-needed intrigue to the top-four conundrum.
The Bears are four points off Exeter.
Northampton sit top of the pile still, but the fixture list will test their grip on the summit.
They host second-placed Bath next (albeit the visitors seem set to rest some stars with a looming Champions Cup semi-final against Bordeaux-Begles), before travelling to in-form Leicester and then hosting Bristol.
The youngest Indian Premier League (IPL) sensation, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, had his heart broken after his team, the Rajasthan Royals were beaten by the Kolkata Knight Riders on Sunday. Sooryavanshi, who gave the team another blazing start at the top, scoring 46 runs off 28 balls, wasn’t happy to see his side suffering a defeat despite being well ahead at one point in the game. Seeing Rinku Singh inspire KKR to their first win of the season, Sooryavanshi was absolutely distraught on the sidelines.
In a video that has surfaced on social media, the teenage opener could be seen hiding his face with his cap, wiping tears as he saw his team lose out on two points from a winning position. The 15-year-old had to be consoled at that point.
Yesterday Vaibhav Sooryavanshi was spotted crying after the game… This guy is unbelievable! Whether he gets out early or the team loses, he wears his heart on his sleeve. Honestly, that’s that 15-year-old mindset I know I would’ve been doing the exact same thing at that age! … pic.twitter.com/Ug6X4gVqks
Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan praised young Sooryavanshi after another impressive outing against the Kolkata franchise, saying the emerging batter continues to prove a growing theory that he tends to rise especially when facing big-name bowlers.
Pathan noted that Sooryavanshi once again showed his talent against quality opposition, reinforcing the belief that he is a “special player” with a bright future ahead.
He added that the youngster has the potential to stay at the top level for many years if he continues developing at this pace and temperament.
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“The theory of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi needing big-name bowlers in the opposition is proving true again 😉 This kid is a special player with many years at the top level ahead of him,” Pathan wrote in an X post.
Sooryavanshi is the fourth-highest run-getter this season, scoring 246 runs in six matches at an average of 41.00 and a strike rate of 236.53, including two fifties and a best score of 78.
In his 13 IPL matches, he has made 498 runs at an average of 38.30, with a strike rate of 220.35, including a century and three fifties, with 42 fours and 44 sixes in 226 balls.
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The fantasy baseball season is in full swing and some of the top players in MLB are flashing their value early in the season. Stars like Shohei Ohtani are living up to sky-high expectations, while others are showing breakout potential. Some managers have been tasked with replacing production due to injuries, which could hamper long-term output.
Whether you’re eyeing potential buy-low targets, or holding out hope on star talent, injury stashes hold persistent value amongst lineups. Let’s look at four of the most valuable injury stashes for fantasy managers to monitor at this point of the season:
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Gerrit Cole – New York Yankees (SP)
Mar 24, 2026; Mesa, Arizona, USA; New York Yankees pitcher Gerrit Cole against the Chicago Cubs during spring training at Sloan Park. | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Gerrit Cole is looking more and more like a short-term stash as the season progresses, working his way back from Tommy John surgery that kept him sidelined for the entire 2025 season. The former Cy Young winner last suited up in 2024, carving out 17 starts. Cole recorded his first rehab session earlier this month and is reportedly targeting a potential June return. Cole’s injury hampered his ADP coming into the 2026 season, and he should have no problem exceeding expectations upon returning to the bullpen. Fantasy managers should remain bullish on a bounce-back campaign from Cole this season.
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Jeremy Pena – Houston Astros (SS)
The Houston Astros have been ravaged by injury to start the 2026 season. Shortstop Jeremy Pena, who entered the year dealing with a finger fracture, was placed on IL last week following yet another knock. The All-Star suffered a grade-1 hamstring strain and is without a specific timetable for return. He’s appeared in just 10 games this season, and will be sidelined for at least two more weeks. Like Cole, Pena’s more of a short-term stash and shouldn’t garner significant concern from managers. His trend of absences could raise red flags for some, but his fantasy value remains undeniable.
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Corbin Burnes – Arizona Diamondbacks (SP)
Arizona Diamondbacks’ Corbin Burnes (39) pitches against the Washington Nationals at Chase Field in Phoenix on June 1, 2025. | Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Arizona Diamondbacks ace Corbin Burnes is working his way back from injury after a shortened 2025 campaign. The Cy Young winner carved out 11 starts, posting an encouraging 2.66 ERA with 63 strikeouts. Entering the 2026 season, he’s sustained encouraging updates after undergoing Tommy John surgery last year and has received a potential timeline for return as his rehab ramps up. Burnes is reportedly targeting a return near the All-Star break in mid-July. Still, encouraging updates and a consistent trend of production will help managers uphold faith in a Burnes stash.
Christian Yelich – Milwaukee Brewers (LF/DH)
The injury concerns are quickly piling up for the Milwaukee Brewers, with All-Star outfielder Christian Yelich set to miss time. The 2018 National League MVP was placed on IL last week after suffering a groin strain and could miss extended time. Reports indicate that Yelich is initially believed to be sidelined for a month, though the three-time All-Star couldn’t offer a specific timeline. Managers should remain confident in Yelich as a stash, considering his efficiency to start the 2026 campaign, hitting .314 over 15 appearances thus far.
What’s better than a hard fought win on the diamond? Putting one on your beloved’s finger, if you ask Cleveland Guardians catcher Austin Hedges.
Hedges not only helped the Guardians defeat the Baltimore Orioles, 8-4, on Sunday – he got engaged to his girlfriend, Lexi Dickson, at Progressive Field.
Hedges got down on one knee on the grass, as a message flashed across the Jumbotron at the stadium in Cleveland, while his teammates were watching. Dickson was shocked and emotional, eventually telling Hedges, “Yes!” before hearing cheers from those looking on.
Austin Hedges and his girlfriend Lexi Dickinson celebrate their engagement after the Cleveland Guardians’ 8-4 win over the Baltimore Orioles at Progressive Field in Cleveland, Ohio, on April 19, 2026.(Nick Cammett/Getty Images)
Hedges told reporters that he’s had the ring for his girlfriend of almost two years since spring training, but he didn’t have this plan until “only a couple weeks ago.”
“I was really hoping we won the game,” he told Cleveland.com. “I was going to do it regardless, but I really wanted to win that game to make it extra special.”
The message on the video board read, “Lexi, will you marry me?” which prompted Hedges to get down on one knee.
“There were a lot of nerves, a lot of nerves,” Hedges, 33, explained. “I’m always nervous for baseball games…and just trying to stay present, knowing that there were some activities after. But it’s a special day. Special to be able to soak it all in.”
Dickson, sporting a black, custom jacket with Hedges’ number and pictures of her now-fiancé on the back, flashed her ring around for Guardians players and friends and family who took pictures on the field.
Cleveland Guardians catcher Austin Hedges proposed to his fiancée Lexi Dickinson on the field after a game against the Baltimore Orioles at Progressive Field in Cleveland, Ohio, on April 19, 2026.(David Dermer/Imagn Images)
It wasn’t the best of days for Hedges at the plate, going 0-for-4, though he did have a run scored. But a win to move to 13-10 on the season is all that matters to him at the end of the day.
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As for the after party, Hedges and Dickson were planning a lowkey Sunday night to decompress after such an adrenaline-filled afternoon.
“Go to dinner and then just have a night to ourselves and enjoy it,” Hedges said the plan was.
Austin Hedges of the Cleveland Guardians proposes to his girlfriend Lexi Dickinson after the team’s 8-4 win over the Baltimore Orioles at Progressive Field in Cleveland, Ohio, on April 19, 2026.(Nick Cammett/Getty Images)
That’s probably the right move for Hedges, who has the Houston Astros coming to town to start a three-game series at Progressive Field on Monday night.
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But he and Dickson get a chance to enjoy their first night as an engaged couple in the next chapter of their baseball love story.
Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa has said that he has a good relationship with his players. However, he insisted that it is not a ‘buddy-like relationship’, hinting that he commands respect from his players in the dressing room.
Speaking to the media ahead of the game against Alaves, Arbeloa said that the atmosphere inside the dressing room remains good despite the form this season. He believes that maagers need to have good relations with the players, or else they will not be able to be successful at the club.
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“My relationship with the dressing room? I don’t have that kind of friendly, buddy-like relationship. I think I’ve had a good relationship. I don’t understand football any other way. And that doesn’t mean you’re not demanding, that you can’t push them…
“It’s a relationship you have to accept when you’re a player. Even in difficult times, there’s always been a good atmosphere in the dressing room. For me, I think that’s a good thing and how a dressing room should be.” (via MadridXtra)
Talking about the club’s season, Arbeloa admitted that Los Blancos cannot go two seasons without trophies. He is confident that they can push for the league title until the end and said:
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“Real Madrid are the club where things usually go right. There are times when things don’t, but the mentality of this club is always to look to the future. At Real Madrid, losing isn’t acceptable, but neither is winning, because we know the demands of this club and we always have to look to the future to win. We have to win the seven remaining matches.” (via Madrid Universal)
Real Madrid nine points behind Barcelona in the table with seven matches left in the season.
Alvaro Arbeloa not thinking about his future at Real Madrid
Real Madrid crashed out of the UEFA Champions League earlier this week and reports suggested that the club were set to part ways with Alvaro Arbeloa. The Spaniard was quizzed about the rumors and he was quick to sidestep the question.
He said that the decision was not in his hands, but he has not received any communication from the club that suggests he will be leaving at the end of the season. He said:
“It’s not my decision to make. I’m not worried about my future at all. I’m worried about these seven matches, and especially tomorrow’s. These are club decisions. I have direct communication with the club every week and we have a great relationship, but the only future I’m concerned about is tomorrow. These seven matches are more important than they might seem. We have to prove ourselves tomorrow.” (via Madrid Universal)
Arbeloa was appointed by Real Madrid in January following the exit of Xabi Alonso. He has taken charge of 21 matches, winning 13 and losing seven times.
Rangers International came from behind to beat Enyimba 2-1 in a tense Nigeria Premier Football League Matchday 35 Oriental derby at the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium.
The match started slowly, but Rangers soon began to control the game. Ikechukwu Mgbemena tested Enyimba goalkeeper Kelvin Ogunga with a long-range effort.
The home side continued to push forward, with Oputa Chibueze delivering dangerous crosses and Waheed Adebayo trying his luck from outside the box.
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Despite the pressure, clear chances were few. Adebayo missed a big chance after beating several defenders, while Enyimba’s Williams Wonah made a strong run but was stopped at close range.
Enyimba took the lead early in the second half against the run of play. Wonah scored from distance with their first shot on target, the first time Rangers had gone behind at home this season.
Rangers reacted quickly. Chidozie Iwundu, who had earlier hit the post from a free-kick, scored the equaliser in the 61st minute after a poor clearance by Enyimba. It was his ninth goal of the season.
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The comeback was completed when substitute Igwilo Chimobi sent in a cross, and Ifeanyi Onyebuchi headed home to give Rangers the lead.
Adebayo missed a late chance to make it 3-1, but Rangers held on to secure the win and end a three-match winless run.
The victory moves Rangers to the top of the NPFL table with 59 points.
Enyimba, whose three-game unbeaten run ended, remain 12th with 43 points. Rangers will next travel to face Bayelsa United, while Enyimba will host Remo Stars in their next match.
Apr 3, 2026; Anaheim, California, USA; Los Angeles Angels pitcher Reid Detmers (48) delivers during the first inning against the Seattle Mariners at Angel Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Liang-Imagn Images
Los Angeles Angels left-hander Reid Detmers will try to build on one of the best starts of his career when he takes the mound Monday night against the defending American League champion Toronto Blue Jays in the opener of a three-game series in Anaheim, Calif.
Detmers (1-1, 3.57 ERA) comes off a 7-1 victory over the Yankees in New York last Tuesday. He allowed one run on four hits and no walks over seven innings while striking out nine, including reigning American League MVP Aaron Judge twice.
Detmers, who had a scheduled Sunday start against San Diego pushed back a day to recuperate, left after throwing 99 pitches, 69 for strikes.
“He pitched great,” Angels manager Kurt Suzuki told the Orange County Register. “Using all his pitches, mixing it up. I thought (catcher Logan O’Hoppe) did a great job mixing it up with that. He pitched to all quadrants of the strike zone and attacked and kept them on their heels. It was awesome.”
“It was one of those games where everything felt good,” Detmers said. “Heater command was pretty good, but the changeup was really good. I was able to get the changeup in the zone, get some swings and misses, and it kind of freed everything else up.”
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Four of his nine strikeouts came on changeups that hovered around 85 mph.
“That changeup is the best I’ve seen from him,” said teammate Mike Trout, who got a good view of it from center field.
Detmers is 1-1 with a 4.76 ERA in six career appearances (three starts) against Toronto. He will face a Blue Jays team that has struggled offensively but erupted for eight first-inning runs Sunday in a 10-4 victory at Arizona.
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Toronto, which had scored a total of seven runs in four straight losses heading into the contest, started the game with eight straight batters reaching base, tying a franchise record accomplished twice before.
The first seven batters all reached base with hits, including Kazuma Okamoto’s two-run double and Nathan Lukes’ bases-loaded double to cap the outburst. Toronto had been just 1-for-20 with the bases loaded.
“That’s what we were missing, stringing the hits together and then hitting with runners in scoring position at that time,” Lukes said. “It was huge. It’s that little nudge that we needed, and we’ve just got to use it going forward.”
Toronto manager John Schneider credited a better approach at the plate for the big offensive turnaround.
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“I feel like for the past week or so, there have been pitchers pitching us deliberately on the edges and us not making great quality of contact,” Schneider said. “Today, I thought we did a really good job of forcing (Arizona starter Ryne Nelson) into the middle of the zone, whether it was early or later in the count. That’s what we’re talking about, having a little bit of intent when it is where you can handle it.”
Jays right-hander Dylan Cease (0-0, 1.74) is 1-2 with a 3.49 ERA in seven career starts against Los Angeles, and has struggled in four career starts at Angel Stadium, compiling a 0-2 record and 4.98 ERA.
After a week-long break, FC Barcelona will be back in action on Wednesday when they take on Celta Vigo at the Spotify Camp Nou in La Liga.
The break will have done the squad some good, allowing them to put behind the disappointment of the Champions League exit and focus on securing the La Liga title in the coming weeks.
Indeed, according to SPORT, Bernal has still not returned to training with the group. The midfielder continues his recovery from the ankle injury that has kept him out for two weeks and, for now, has not yet resumed work on the pitch alongside his teammates.
As such, he is now seen as a doubt for the game against Celta Vigo on Wednesday.
Still not back in training. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Bernal was injured in the La Liga match against Atletico Madrid last month after suffering a sprain to his left ankle.
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Although the club’s medical staff initially estimated an absence of around ten days for the teenage midfielder, Barcelona have opted for a cautious approach and have avoided taking risks.
In fact, he was not even included in the matchday squad for the second leg of the CL quarter-finals against the Colchoneros, despite travelling with the squad – a clear indication that the coaching staff preferred not to take any chances.
Hansi Flick had already confirmed that no risks would be taken with him, as he is considered a key and essential player for the final stretch of the season, during which Barcelona aim to secure the La Liga title.
For now, Bernal continues to train separately, and his return to group sessions will have to wait.
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