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Sports

The Vikings Just Got a Brutal Grade for Their Offseason

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Carey Lundberg and her daughter Bailey react to a late Browns touchdown.
Minnesota Vikings fans Carey “ValCarey” Lundberg and her daughter Bailey react in the stands after Cleveland scores a late fourth-quarter touchdown at the Metrodome. On Sep. 22, 2013, the pair watches the Browns seize control of a tense finish before Minnesota falls 31-27 in front of a stunned home crowd. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports.

The Minnesota Vikings signed a new quarterback, fired their general manager, found a replacement, traded their best defensive player, and onboarded a new draft class in the last several months, and all that work is good enough for a ‘D+’ offseason, according to Yahoo Sports‘ Frank Schwab,

Most Vikings fans would grade the offseason much higher, but as an outsider, Schwab is not very impressed.

Vikings Cap Reset Affected Every Major Decision

Kyler Murray scrambles against the Vikings during fourth-quarter action. Vikings offseason grade
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray scrambles away from pressure against Minnesota at U.S. Bank Stadium, keeping the play alive as defenders close during fourth-quarter action. On Oct. 30, 2022, Murray uses his mobility to extend the possession while Arizona pushes for points late in the road matchup against the Vikings. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-USA TODAY Sports.

Schwab Delivers ‘D+’ Offseason Grade for Vikings

Sizing up each team heading into the 2026 regular season, Schwab wrote about the Vikings last week, “The Vikings lost three good linemen from their defensive front, which is evident from the salaries they commanded with other teams. A lot is now expected from edge rusher Dallas Turner, a 2024 first-round pick who did take strides with eight sacks last season.”

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“Minnesota also lost receiver Jalen Nailor, who the Raiders thought was worth more than $35 million over three years. Minnesota didn’t do much in free agency, feeling the cap crunch. They did sign former 49ers receiver Jauan Jennings for $8 million over one year, and also cornerback James Pierre for $8.5 million over two years.”

In July, the Vikings have $13 million remaining in cap space.

“No other outside free agent got more than $1.5 million, though Kyler Murray’s minimum $1.3 million deal is included in that. The draft class, led by defensive lineman Caleb Banks and linebacker Jake Golday in the first and second rounds, was panned,” Schwab continued.

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“Minnesota’s draft got the fourth-worst consensus grade, and two of the three teams behind them didn’t have a first-round pick. Jennings was a good addition and Murray was a value, but the roster overall took some hits. Grade: D+.”

Murray Alone (for $1.3M) Should Be Good Enough for At Least a ‘B’

In March, after much anticipation, the Arizona Cardinals finally dumped Murray, refusing to explore a trade and instead letting him walk to the open market and willing to pay him to play for another NFL squad. The Vikings pounced, handing him a contract worth $1.3 million.

All signs point to Murray starting for the Vikings after he partakes in a quarterback competition with J.J. McCarthy in a couple of weeks. Finding and empowering a starting quarterback for $1.3 million — especially one as productive as Murray — is just phenomenal value.

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Even if Murray doesn’t pan out for the long term, giving him an audition for $1.3 million is enough to drag an offseason grade from a ‘D+’ to the ‘B’ range. Not long ago, Murray was considered a Top 15 quarterback in the business. Now, the Vikings employ him for the NFL’s version of free.

Jonathan Greenard Trade Less Than Ideal

The offseason wasn’t all sunshine and rainbows, however. Outside linebacker Jonathan Greenard wanted a new contract, and Minnesota apparently could not afford his asking price, which turned out to be $100 million over the next four seasons. Interim general manager Rob Brzezinski traded Greenard and a 7th-Round draft pick to the Philadelphia Eagles for two 3rd-Rounders. One of those picks has already fetched safety Jakobe Thomas, and the other is on the way in April 2027.

Jonathan Greenard speaks with reporters after facing the Steelers in Dublin. Vikings offseason grade
Minnesota Vikings linebacker Jonathan Greenard speaks with reporters at Croke Park after facing Pittsburgh, reflecting on the afternoon as the team completes its postgame media responsibilities. On Sep. 28, 2025, Greenard answers questions following the International Series matchup while Minnesota processes the result and prepares to move forward from Dublin later that evening. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images.

Still, it’s risky business to trade productive pass rushers, and there’s a chance that Minnesota regrets the Greenard swap. He was the team’s best defensive player, and while he didn’t register many sacks in 2025, his quarterback pressure numbers remained top-notch.

Most serious and playoff-contending football teams stack EDGE rushers — like the Eagles. The Vikings hope to replace Greenard with Dallas Turner.

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If Schwab’s offseason grade proves right, offloading Greenard might be the smoking gun.

Doing More with Less

Minnesota’s plan became crystal clear once free agency began.

The Vikings had a choice to pursue high-profile players. However, that strategy would have necessitated pushing substantial cap hits into future seasons, inevitably leading to a difficult reckoning — a path exemplified by teams like Philadelphia for years and New Orleans until their recent financial restructuring.

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Instead, Minnesota’s front office opted for a different approach, prioritizing value. Murray’s acquisition perfectly illustrates this strategy: securing a potential starting quarterback on a modest deal allowed the Vikings to address a critical position without overextending their budget.

Mark Wilf and Zygi Wilf watch the Vikings face the Browns in London. Vikings offseason grade
Minnesota Vikings owners Mark Wilf and Zygi Wilf watch the team face Cleveland at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, taking in the International Series atmosphere from the sideline. On Oct. 5, 2025, the brothers observe Minnesota’s overseas matchup as the organization represents the franchise before a packed crowd in London on Sunday afternoon. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images.

The decision also enabled them to avoid expensive bidding wars. Tyler Linderbaum was never a serious target, nor did Minnesota engage in the frenzy for Trey Hendrickson. This offseason was fundamentally about creating financial flexibility.

The Vikings effectively designated 2026 as a salary cap reset year while assembling a competitive team. Therefore, by next spring, their financial outlook should be vastly improved, granting the front office considerable freedom to address remaining roster needs.

If you want the Vikings to have a busy offseason in 2027 and 2028, low spending was required in 2026. That alone might fetch a grade higher than a ‘D+.’


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Dustin Baker is a novelist and political scientist. His second novel, The Invaders , is out now. So is … More about Dustin Baker
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Scotland’s Craig Gordon, oldest player at World Cup, retires at 43

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EDINBURGH, Scotland — Scotland’s 43-year-old goalkeeper Craig Gordon announced his retirement from soccer Thursday after being the oldest among more than 1,250 players picked for the World Cup.

“It has been a privilege to represent you,” Gordon, the Heart of Midlothian and former Celtic and Sunderland goalie, said in a video message on social media.

“I hope you have enjoyed it as much as I have. From the bottom of my heart, thank you.”

Gordon did not play at the World Cup as backup in three group games to Angus Gunn, who last week joined the San Jose Earthquakes in Major League Soccer.

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Gordon made his Scotland debut in 2004 and played 84 times to be fifth on the national team’s all-time list.

The oldest player to get on the field at the World Cup was Cristiano Ronaldo, who turned 41 in February.

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NFL injury updates 2026: Latest on Patrick Mahomes, Malik Nabers before training camp

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A few stars who missed time last year with torn ligaments and broken bones still face uphill battles to get back on the field for 2026. Big names like Patrick Mahomes and Malik Nabers are among those on recovery watch, as it is no guarantee that they are ready to suit up in Week 1.

Players on the mend offered updates on their situations earlier this summer at OTAs and minicamp, though, so in many cases their rehabilitation timelines are already roughly defined.

Here is the latest on all of the most notable injuries across the NFL heading into training camp.

Patrick Mahomes, QB, Chiefs

Injury: Torn ACL and LCL

Timeline: Pushing hard for Week 1

The Chiefs watched their 2025 postseason hopes end when Patrick Mahomes went down with a knee injury in the Week 15 loss to the Chargers. Tearing both ligaments generally makes the recovery timeline longer than that for an ACL tear alone, but Mahomes has been on or ahead of schedule all offseason. Whether or not he is ready to suit up for the opener, the arrival of star running back Kenneth Walker III will take some of the pressure off him in the backfield.

Rashee Rice, WR, Chiefs

Injury: Loose bodies in knee

Timeline: Expected to start Week 1

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The timing of Rashee Rice’s surgery to remove loose bodies from his knee could not have been much worse, as he was jailed days later for violating his probation. The Chiefs’ medical staff constructed a recovery plan that allowed the wide receiver to rehabilitate his knee as well as possible during his month behind bars. Coach Andy Reid said he anticipates Rice being ready for training camp.

Drake Maye, QB, Patriots

Injury: Shoulder pain

Timeline: Already returned to full participation

Drake Maye landed on his throwing shoulder on a run in the AFC Championship Game, and the result was an injury that lasted through the Super Bowl. He received a pain-killing injection ahead of the 29-13 loss to the Seahawks but did not require surgery after the Patriots‘ postseason run. Maye instead rested in the early part of the offseason and was back to full strength by the start of OTAs.

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Bo Nix, QB, Broncos

Injury: Fractured ankle; bone spurs

Timeline: Expected to start Week 1

A broken ankle cut Bo Nix’s 2025 season short and contributed to the Broncos falling short of the Super Bowl. Not only did Nix have a procedure to repair the ankle, but he also underwent a second surgery in April to remove bone spurs, which caused swelling during his recovery from the initial injury. He was a limited participant in minicamp and said he will be back to full speed for the start of training camp.

Daniel Jones, QB, Colts

Injury: Torn Achilles; fractured fibula

Timeline: Expected to start Week 1

The fractured fibula Daniel Jones played through in the middle of last season became secondary to the Achilles tear he sustained in December. While this particular tendon injury was in many cases a career-ender until very recently, Jones is already back on the practice field and said last week that he is “cleared to do everything,” which sets him up to start the opener. The question is whether he will return to the breakout form he displayed in 2025.

Alec Pierce, WR, Colts

Injury: Ankle soreness

Timeline: Could miss entire preseason

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The same month he signed a four-year, $114 million extension with the Colts, Alec Pierce underwent ankle surgery to address soreness that had popped up in 2024 and had become progressively worse last season. Pierce had the procedure after PRP treatment in January, which did not deliver the desired improvement. The four-to-six-month recovery period puts him at risk of missing all of training camp since he had the surgery in late March.

Micah Parsons, EDGE, Packers

Injury: Torn ACL; damaged meniscus

Timeline: Targeting return for postseason

The Packers‘ prized 2025 acquisition did not even complete one full season with his new team before sustaining a serious injury. Micah Parsons tore his ACL the same day Mahomes sustained that injury in December, but it appears highly unlikely he will beat the quarterback back onto the field. Parsons said last month that he will not be cleared to practice until September, which makes him a candidate to open the season on the PUP list. His stated goal is to avoid reinjury and to be available for the playoffs, so he might not return until the later end of his recovery timeline.

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George Kittle, TE, 49ers

Injury: Torn Achilles

Timeline: Targeting Week 1 return

Although his injury generally carries a rehab window in the 8-12 month range, George Kittle is optimistic about being available for Week 1. He tore his Achilles in a January playoff game and is ahead of schedule in his recovery, thanks to the fact that he suffered a clean tear relatively high up the tendon. That the 49ers open the season in Australia potentially throws a wrench in his availability, but even if he suits up one week later, he would still be on the field far earlier than initially anticipated.

Nick Bosa, EDGE, 49ers

Injury: Torn ACL

Timeline: Expected to start Week 1

While he did not participate in on-field practice during OTAs and minicamp, Nick Bosa said last month at the 49ers’ facility that he has been working out in preparation for his availability in the early stages of training camp. Bosa was one of countless 49ers to suffer season-ending injuries early in 2025. Because his knee issue occurred in Week 3, he had nearly all year to work through his rehab, setting him up to play right out of the gate in 2026.

Mykel Williams, EDGE, 49ers

Injury: Torn ACL

Timeline: Expected to start Week 1

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Six weeks after Bosa tore his ACL, his young position mate went down with the same injury. Mykel Williams shouldered a heavy load as a rookie, starting all nine games before his promising debut campaign came to a premature end. He should have an opportunity to put together a full Year 2, as the expectation is that he will be available early in training camp, if not for the start. It is imperative for the 49ers that both Williams and Bosa get back to full speed, as the pass rush was abysmal without them.

Michael Penix Jr., QB, Falcons

Injury: Torn ACL

Timeline: Aiming to participate in training camp

Michael Penix Jr. tore his right ACL twice in college and suffered the same injury in his left knee during his second NFL season. While he said he will be fully cleared for the start of training camp, it is not known whether or not that will come to fruition. His absence from live drills has provided Tua Tagovailoa the opportunity to take command of the quarterback competition, and even if Penix is able to practice between now and Week 1, it is far from a guarantee that he will beat out his new veteran teammate for the starting job.

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Zach Charbonnet, RB, Seahawks

Injury: Torn ACL

Timeline: Could start Week 1; Initially anticipated to miss multiple weeks

If Zach Charbonnet’s recovery follows the typical torn ACL timeline, he might not make his season debut until at least October. But coach Mike Macdonald said that “everything’s possible” when asked if the Seahawks’ projected No. 1 running back could play in the Week 1 Super Bowl rematch against the Patriots. If he sits until later in the year, it will test Seattle’s running back depth and likely elevate rookie first-round pick Jadarian Price into the lineup.

Malik Nabers, WR, Giants

Injury: Torn ACL; damaged meniscus

Timeline: Could participate in training camp

Jim Harbaugh said that the issue Malik Nabers sustained last September was “not a simple knee” injury, which clouded the outlook for his availability at the start of 2026. In addition to the ACL reconstruction and meniscus surgery he underwent late last October, Nabers also required a cleanup procedure this spring to remove scar tissue that caused stiffness in his knee. While each update this offseason seemed to make matters more uncertain, Harbaugh said Tuesday that he expects Nabers to work his way into training camp “one way or another,” which could set him up to miss minimal time at the start of the year.

Cam Skattebo, RB, Giants

Injury: Open tibia fracture; dislocated ankle

Timeline: Expected to start Week 1

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A gruesome lower-leg injury cut Cam Skattebo’s thrilling rookie season short in October. His ankle was in strong enough shape, however, for him to participate in team drills during minicamp. Harbaugh said Tuesday that Skattebo will also participate in full early on in training camp and that he remains further along in his recovery than Nabers.

Quinshon Judkins, RB, Browns

Injury: Fractured fibula; dislocated ankle

Timeline: Expected to start Week 1

Quinshon Judkins nearly made it through his promising rookie season unscathed but suffered a devastating lower-leg injury in Week 16, ending his campaign after 14 starts. The broken bone and dislocation were only expected to hamper him for four to six months, though, and that timeline played out as he became a full participant in OTAs and minicamp. Judkins should be on the field in Week 1 and aims to add to an already strong early-career tally of 827 yards and seven touchdowns.

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Kerby Joseph, S, Lions

Injury: Bone bruise in knee; chronic knee issue

Timeline: Uncertain

The Lions seem to be in the dark about Kerby Joseph and when he will return to game action, if ever. Coach Dan Campbell said, “I honestly do not know” when asked what to expect. The knee ailment first popped up in last year’s training camp, and while Joseph attempted to play through it, he missed more than half the season and remains shut down from football activities. Campbell said he anticipates learning more in camp.

Brian Branch, S, Lions

Injury: Torn Achilles

Timeline: Expected to return no earlier than December

Joseph is not the only star Lions safety battling a significant injury as Brian Branch continues to battle back from a torn Achilles he suffered last Dec. 4. Campbell said Branch is unlikely to return before December and that anything before that would be a bonus. That makes him a clear candidate to open the season on the PUP list and contributes to immense concern on the back end of a Detroit defense that was obliterated by injuries last year.

Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Jaguars

Injury: Torn LCL

Timeline: Expected to start Week 1

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A torn LCL robbed Travis Hunter of a potentially magical rookie season, as he was just starting to find his footing in the Jaguars‘ offense when he sustained the injury in an October practice. He underwent surgery about a month later and has now completed his rehab, setting him up to participate in Jacksonville’s training camp in full capacity. Jaguars leadership said the plan is to primarily play Hunter at cornerback during his sophomore season, but that he will continue to weave into the wide receiver rotation, as well.

Maxx Crosby, EDGE, Raiders

Injury: Torn meniscus

Timeline: Expected to start Week 1

When Maxx Crosby injured his meniscus in Week 7 last year, nobody could have foreseen the implications it would have on his status with the Raiders. He and the team butted heads over his placement on injured reserve later in the year, and about two months after his surgery, his health was the reason a blockbuster trade to the Ravens fell through. Crosby says all of that is in the past and that he is committed to Las Vegas this year, and if so, he could be in the lineup come Week 1. The two-time All-Pro edge rusher rehabbed during OTAs but may be a full participant at the start of training camp.

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De’Von Achane, RB, Dolphins

Injury: Shoulder surgery

Timeline: Expected to start Week 1

De’Von Achane underwent minor surgery to address a shoulder issue and was therefore not ready for a full workload during OTAs and minicamp. New Dolphins coach Jeff Hafley said the procedure was related to the injury that sidelined Achane for the final game of the 2025 regular season. So long as he avoids any setbacks this summer, the dynamic running back should be available at the start of the campaign.

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Manchester United midfield signing speaks out – ‘I have those qualities’

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Man Utd have signed two midfielders for the first team, and they have also added a midfielder to their academy ranks.

Manchester United’s new signing Cristian Orozco has said his strengths are his “physicality and technique.” Orozco’s move to United was rubber-stamped on Monday when he celebrated his 18th birthday.

United reached an agreement with Fortaleza CEIF to sign Orozco nine months ago, but the deal outlined that he would join in the summer transfer window, as he needed to be 18 to complete the move.

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The Reds have signed the Colombian teenager because they believe he possesses first-team potential.

Orozco has started life at United by joining the academy, and he will be assessed by coaches before his next steps are decided. Orozco playing for the Under-21s this season is the most likely outcome.

United will be patient with Orozco as he settles into his new surroundings. The club has made similar signings over the last 18 months, having signed Sekou Kone from Mali and Diego Leon from Paraguay.

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Orozco spoke to ESPN Colombia about his transfer, and he explained what fans can expect.

“I know my strengths are my physicality and my technique,” he said. “I have those qualities and, with the gift God gave me, I don’t think it will be too difficult. But everything is about adapting. I’m very young and that’s what I’ll need to do.”

United will provide English lessons for Orozco to help him settle in. “I expect to learn a lot of English. When I was there, I realised just how, how important it is,” he said, referencing his visit to Carrington in December.

“I want to arrive and learn as quickly as possible. That’s what’s required so I can show my level and everything I’m capable of. I want to adapt to everything that comes my way as quickly as possible.”

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Orozco was welcomed to Manchester in the winter and shown around Carrington and Old Trafford. The trip included a taste of training sessions with United’s academy teams.

United’s deal for the midfielder is the latest in a string of transfers for talented young players with high potential, a strategy that Ineos rolled out after taking control of the club’s football operations.

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Lucky Season 1 Episode 3 release date, time, where to watch and more

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Lucky Season 1 Episode 3 is set to premiere on Apple TV+ on Wednesday, July 22. The miniseries will release episodes weekly on Wednesdays until the season finale on August 19.

The crime drama follows Lucky Armstrong, a talented con artist whose life is thrown into chaos after a multimillion-dollar scam ends in betrayal. Left without the stolen money and hunted by both dangerous criminals and the FBI, Lucky has to rely on her instincts to survive.

As Season 1 unfolds, she continues to search for answers while staying ahead of those determined to find her. The upcoming episode is expected to build on the growing mystery, deepen the conflicts, and reveal more about Lucky’s situation.


When will Lucky Season 1 Episode 3 release?

Titled “Read the Room,” Lucky Season 1 Episode 3 will be released on Apple TV+ on Wednesday, July 22, 2026. Like the previous episodes, it will debut first in the United States before becoming available across the world at the corresponding local times.

Depending on where you live, the episode will either arrive late on Tuesday night or during the day on Wednesday. The expected release timing for Lucky Season 1 Episode 3 in major regions is listed below.

  • Pacific Time (PT): 9:00 PM (Tuesday night, July 21)
  • Mountain Time (MT): 10:00 PM (Tuesday night, July 21)
  • Central Time (CT): 11:00 PM (Tuesday night, July 21)
  • Eastern Time (ET): 12:00 AM (Wednesday morning, July 22)
  • British Summer Time (BST): 5:00 AM (Wednesday, July 22)
  • Central European Summer Time (CEST): 6:00 AM (Wednesday, July 22)
  • Indian Standard Time (IST): 9:30 AM (Wednesday, July 22)
  • Australian Eastern Standard Time (AEST): 2:00 PM (Wednesday, July 22)

Where to watch Lucky Season 1?

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To watch Lucky Season 1, you will need an active Apple TV+ subscription. The series is available exclusively on the streaming service, with no additional channel or cable subscription required. You can stream it through the Apple TV app on smartphones, tablets, smart TVs, streaming devices, gaming consoles, and supported web browsers.

New episodes will arrive on Wednesdays or late Tuesday night depending on your location. It will be included with the standard Apple TV+ subscription at no extra cost. Depending on the region, new subscribers may also be eligible for a free trial or promotional offer before starting their subscription.

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What is Lucky about and who stars in it?

Anya Taylor-Joy as Luciana "Lucky" Armstrong (Image vai Apple TV)Anya Taylor-Joy as Luciana "Lucky" Armstrong (Image vai Apple TV)
Anya Taylor-Joy as Luciana “Lucky” Armstrong (Image vai Apple TV)

Lucky follows Luciana “Lucky” Armstrong, a former con artist whose attempt to leave her criminal past behind falls apart after a multimillion-dollar heist ends in betrayal. Forced to go on the run, she must evade both the FBI and a ruthless crime syndicate while searching for a way out of her dangerous situation.

The series stars Anya Taylor-Joy as Lucky Armstrong alongside Annette Bening, Timothy Olyphant, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, Drew Starkey, Clifton Collins Jr., and William Fichtner. Together, they bring to life the show’s mix of crime, suspense, and family drama.


Lucky Season 1 Episode 3 premieres July 22. Stay tuned for more updates.