For all that Igor Tudor has tried to get the Tottenham squad to look forward, and look at themselves “in the mirror”, there are figures around the club who can’t get certain images from Sunday out of their heads.
The players naturally looked beaten. The hierarchy, however, were said by those present to appear “haunted”.
It was the realisation that the change of manager wasn’t going to change that much, certainly as regards the negative atmosphere around the club. It was the realisation that there was evidently no quick fix. It was that Tudor has a huge job on his hands, and maybe the most difficult in the history of the club.
Fulham vs Tottenham Hotspur may well be the biggest game this weekend, in how it will tell us the most – much more than a north London derby – about what Tudor can actually do with this team.
If Spurs win, the mood will immediately lift. They’ll finally have breathing space, and just the positive feeling that would come from a first win of the year. A draw would at least show some progress, even if it’s not quite what they need.
Any kind of defeat, however, and it really is alarms blaring.
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Defeat at Fulham and alarm bells are seriously blaring for Tottenham (Getty)
The tension will be suffocating. The pressure immense.
And for all that people are rightly saying that a Spurs relegation would be the biggest of the Premier League – and probably the biggest in English football since Manchester United in 1973-74 – more relevant might be how the reasons for that reflect frankly astonishing underperformance. If they really do go down, it will be one of the most remarkable feats of reverse alchemy in football history; a shocking waste.
People point to Leeds United in 2003-04, but the manner in which they had financially overextended themselves made their decline inevitable.
Tottenham have had the opposite problem. This should have been the opposite of inevitable. It should have been impossible.
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It shouldn’t have been possible for Tottenham, the ninth-wealthiest club in the world, to face relegation (Getty)
They’re the ninth-wealthiest club in the world on revenue. The ownership now actively want to spend, and raise a relatively high wage bill even higher.
This comes in an era in which most of the sport has never been more geared towards those who are already wealthy. As has been stated on these pages many times in the past, it’s not like 1974 when there was relative parity in the old First Division. There’s a 90 per cent correlation between wage bill and league finish, and the gaps have never been greater.
So, in a skewed modern parallel of how United were relegated a mere six years after becoming European champions, Spurs could get relegated a mere five years after joining the Super League.
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Tottenham could get relegated five years after joining the Super League (Getty)
That, in its own way, says a lot about the modern game.
That should instead now be the great regret, the ghost of what might have been.
The moment is now just a peak from which they have fallen a very long way.
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Tottenham were supposed to push on from their Champions League final near miss in 2019 (PA Archive)
A greater frustration – especially for the supporters – is that there’s been no sudden drop, no hinge date from which you can trace everything. Instead, the fans have long been complaining that the very ownership approach made this more and more likely.
Questions have persisted as to what the aim of the hierarchy is. Representatives of the Lewis family would, of course, insist it is about eventually making the club a success.
Fans would counter that by pointing to limited investment over 25 years, and question whether this has just been about having a football asset there, or something you can eventually flip in a sale.
The view among some other Premier League owners and executives is that they need a sale, for a refresh. There is too much “baggage”.
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Some other Premier League owners feel the Lewis family need to sell Tottenham to give the club a fresh start (AFP/Getty)
As one senior figure argues, any club can succeed in spite of the ownership, but their outlook still dictates so much. It tends to show when they are fully immersed in victory, usually in structure and appointments.
It can also go both ways. To once again draw a contrast with the other side of north London, the Kroenke ownership are said to have really come alive once Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal started winning.
The discussion is nevertheless complicated by the fact that the Lewis family imbued Daniel Levy with so much power for so long.
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Ironically, it was the former chairman’s departure – something long desired by much of the fanbase – that has brought this greater collapse.
Daniel Levy’s much-desired departure has been followed by greater collapse (PA Archive)
That isn’t necessarily to defend or criticise Levy. His abrupt departure nevertheless prevented a transition of responsibility, so now everything has plummeted through the cracks.
The lack of football expertise has been exposed. The lack of a football idea has been exposed. The mismatched nature of the squad has been exposed, one long conditioned by the Levy-led decision to keep the player wage bill to such a low percentage of revenue when they could have afforded much more. It’s now also a squad with considerable “scar tissue” – to quote one insider – despite last season’s Europa League success. Speculation now mounts about “cliques” in the dressing room.
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Some sources would point out how Spurs employed potentially transformative figures in their recent past, such as Michael Edwards, only for them to leave.
Michael Edwards was chief analyst at Tottenham before becoming integral to Liverpool’s rise as sporting director (PA)
All of which leaves Tudor in this unenviable situation, trying to make sense of something that sees confusion at all levels.
This is what is said to have “haunted” the hierarchy on Sunday, the manner in which every issue has suddenly combined to significantly escalate; the lack of time; the pressure.
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It isn’t terminal, of course. There is still talent in the squad. Tudor is said to feel that the squad can also fit his formation.
One win could change everything, settle everyone down, set things right.
Nevertheless, it shouldn’t be overlooked that this is an incredible situation to be in. One of the wealthiest clubs in the world, a hierarchy once arrogant enough to think they should be in a breakaway league, are dependent on a Hail Mary appointment and the intangible of good feeling in order to escape a historic nightmare.
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Igor Tudor is charged with saving Tottenham from a historically humiliating relegation (PA Wire)
Naturally, discussion is already building about what relegation would bring. Spurs have a lot of very high fixed costs and partners, amid a situation where they wouldn’t have the same TV money, sponsors would change, and match-day income would dive. At the same time, some investors would see relegation as a huge opportunity to do a deal on the cheap. Spurs are seen as “set up on the business side”, which perhaps makes some difference from the rest of the club.
More interesting, if they get out of this, might be how they turn this situation around. Some football figures see it as a grand opportunity in that regard, due to the myriad advantages Spurs have.
That only sums up the situation.
To manage that, though, they need that one win to change everything back.
Sanju Samson is felicitated by MS Dhoni during ‘Roar’ event in Chennai. (Pic credit: CSK’s X post)
CHENNAI: The MA Chidambaram Stadium turned back time on Sunday as the legendary heroes from Chennai Super Kings’ past walked into the stadium in a first-of-its-kind ‘Roar’ event for the fans.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!The OGs, the men who built CSK’s legacy — Suresh Raina, Muttiah Muralitharan, Michael Hussey, Matthew Hayden, Ambati Rayudu, Dwayne Bravo — among others — slipped back into their vintage yellow jerseys and played an exhibition match against the current squad. The OGs got the better of the newbies with ease as the 28,000-odd crowd erupted into roars.
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CSK host fan engagement event at Chepauk ahead of IPL 2026
The star of the show, though, was Sanju Samson, for whom this will be his debut CSK season. Huge cheers were in store for him and the T20 World Cup winner assured that he will try and help the team lift the trophy.“Really happy and grateful to be a part of such a great franchise and team. It was a goosebumps moment. Winning the World Cup for the country is something I had dreamed of for many years. I’m glad I was able to contribute. Now, I’m excited and looking forward to the next couple of months in the IPL with my new team, CSK. My approach would be simple — see the ball and hit the ball. I will look to hit a lot of sixes,” said the wicket-keeper batter.Samson’s ‘duel’ with Sri Lankan great spinner Muralitharan also saw the loudest cheers of the evening. First, Samson politely played four dot balls to show respect. At one point, he stepped out looking to go big, missed, and MS Dhoni chose not to whip off the bails, a moment that drew smiles all around. However, Samson finished in style, striking two eyepleasing boundaries.As the crowd sang, “Twinkle, twinkle, little star, Sanju is a superstar”, CSK’s ‘Chinna Thala’ Raina said that Samson’s inclusion will be a major boost for CSK. “I want them to win the title this time. The team looks very strong. Sanju is back here (after the World Cup), and there are a lot of youngsters who will learn from MS Dhoni and go on to get the trophy. I hope the fans continue supporting CSK like they always have,” Raina said.CSK also inducted Raina and Hayden into their first-ever Hall of Fame.
Nov 29, 2025; Stanford, California, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back Jadarian Price (24) runs with the football against Stanford Cardinal safety Darrius Davis (29) during the first quarter at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stan Szeto-Imagn Images
Prospect Information
College: Notre Dame Height/Weight: 5’ 11’’/203 Hands: 9 5/8″ Age: 22 (at the time of the 2026 season opener)
My Running Back Rookie Model evaluates running back prospects through the traits that historically translate best to fantasy production. The model weighs rushing efficiency, explosive play creation, tackle-breaking ability, receiving utility, athletic profile and expected draft capital, then compares each prospect against historical outcomes and stylistic comps.
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Price stands out as one of the cleaner all-around profiles in the 2026 class. He may not be the flashiest back in the group, but the model likes how balanced his profile is across production, athletic translation and fantasy-friendly role indicators.
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That matters because Price does not need one outlier trait to carry the profile. He wins through a mix of efficiency, enough athletic juice and the kind of all-around skill set that gives him multiple paths to fantasy relevance at the next level.
The Composite Athleticism Score blends size-adjusted speed, burst, agility and functional rushing traits. When testing is missing, the model can still derive portions of the athletic profile through production-based indicators, but in Price’s case we do have verified size and explosion data from the combine.
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Historically, a percentile around this range lands in the average-to-above-average bucket. Price does not project as a rare outlier athlete, but he clears the bar for NFL translation and does so without carrying any major athletic red flags.
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Rushing Efficiency Metrics
Price’s appeal starts with the way his profile balances efficiency and translatability. He is not just a volume accumulator. The model likes backs who can create on their own, hold up physically and offer enough juice to turn efficient rushing into fantasy value, and Price checks enough of those boxes to stand out in this class.
He profiles as a back who can generate yards in structure while still offering enough burst and functional movement ability to create chunk plays when blocking opens lanes. That blend gives him one of the steadier projections in the class.
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Receiving Usage
Price’s receiving profile also helps his fantasy translation. He is not solely dependent on becoming a 20-carry grinder to matter, which is a key distinction in dynasty projection. Backs with enough pass-game viability tend to give themselves more ways to earn snaps early in their careers.
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That does not automatically make him an elite receiving specialist, but it does support the idea that he can stay on the field in multiple situations and avoid being boxed into a one-dimensional role.
Production Snapshot
Price’s overall profile is built more on balance than on one overwhelming strength. That can sometimes make a player less flashy in the pre-draft process, but it also tends to produce some of the more stable model outcomes.
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For fantasy purposes, that is often a good sign. The model generally prefers backs who bring enough rushing efficiency, enough functional athleticism and enough receiving utility to create several viable paths to production rather than needing everything to break perfectly.
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Positive Indicators
Balanced all-around profile
Price does not need one extreme trait to carry his projection, because the model sees strength across multiple areas.
Verified athletic baseline
At 203 pounds with a 4.49 forty and solid explosion numbers, Price checks the athletic threshold needed for NFL translation.
Strong fantasy floor
His profile suggests a back who can earn work in different situations, which supports a safer fantasy projection than many peers in this class.
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Areas of Concern
No truly elite athletic outlier
Price tested well, but not in a way that forces the model to project a rare ceiling outcome strictly from athleticism alone.
May depend on role quality for ceiling
Because he is more well-rounded than truly extreme in any one area, his long-term ceiling could be influenced more heavily by landing spot and usage.
Not purely traits-driven
Some backs can survive on overwhelming physical tools. Price’s profile is stronger because of balance, which can be a positive but also means the margin for error is slightly tighter if the role is capped.
Historical Model Comps
Miles Sanders Zach Charbonnet James Cook Jonathon Brooks J.K. Dobbins
Year 1: Flex/RB3 range with RB2 upside Year 2–3: RB2 with paths to RB1 seasons
Year 1 Fantasy Points: 48.4 Best-Year Fantasy Points: 67.3 3-Year Fantasy Points: 161.6
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Dynasty Translation
Price profiles as one of the safer dynasty running back targets in the 2026 class. He brings enough verified athletic ability, enough overall balance and enough fantasy-friendly role flexibility to give himself a legitimate chance to become a useful early-career producer.
Te Akau Racing’s Mark Walker has marvelled at the New Zealand exploits of rising filly Ohope Wins this year, though he refuses to surrender this Saturday’s $750,000 Vinery Stud Stakes without competition.
He’ll unleash Belle Cheval in the Rosehill Group 1 showdown over 2000 metres.
Sired by Savabeel, the filly advances beyond her 1500m placing behind Well Written in The Kiwi for her debut at the two-mile trip, and Walker rates Ohope Wins highly but welcomes the confrontation after her drop from the New Zealand Oaks distance.
“We know that horse really well from New Zealand and they are coming back from 2400 to 2000, I’d rather be probably going 1500 to 2000,” Walker said.
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“But she has got very good New Zealand form, that’s for sure.
“You don’t know until you go to Australia how the New Zealand form is going to measure up, but Belle Cheval’s run in The NZB Kiwi was really good.
“She is at 2000 metres first time, but she’s by Savabeel and most of them get that sort of distance.
“You don’t know until you try but at least as a three-year-old she should be able to manage it.”
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The Vinery Stud Stakes has drawn 15 entries, featuring Belle Cheval alongside Ohope Wins, who moved to Chris Waller after prevailing in the Oaks for Lance O’Sullivan & Andrew Scott.
Rosehill hosts two Group 1s Saturday, with the $1.5m Tancred Stakes (2400m) boasting 16 runners like Dubai Honour, Aeliana, Sir Delius, Vauban and Group 1 import Barnavara.
Now on her seventh appearance, Belle Cheval was third in the Group 1 Thousand Guineas (1600m) at Riccarton last spring, took Group 3 spoils at 1200m and 1400m, and was denied in a thrilling bobble in The Kiwi.
This will cap Belle Cheval’s current preparation, yet more Australian action awaits her this campaign year.
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“She just has the one run then goes down to our Melbourne stable for three or four days and then we’ll send out her out for a spell,” Walker, who has an Australian base at Cranbourne, said.
“She’ll spell down on the Mornington Peninsula and then we’ll have back for spring racing in Melbourne.”
SAN DIEGO — For a few brief moments inside Viejas Arena on Sunday, there was hope for Kansas.
After trailing by as many as 14 points against No. 5 seed St. John’s in the second round of the NCAA Tournament, where Kansas looked completely outmatched for almost the entire game, star guard Darryn Peterson knocked down a pair of free throws to somehow tie the game with 13 seconds remaining.
Then came heartbreak.
St. John’s guard Dylan Darling sent his team to the Sweet 16 for the first time since 1999 after scoring a layup with no time remaining in the Red Storm’s 67-65 win over No. 4 seed Kansas. The Jayhawks have now failed to reach the Sweet 16 in four consecutive seasons for the first time since the 1980s.
For all intents and purposes, time has run out on the Peterson era at Kansas after he scored 21 points in what should be his final game at the school. Whenever it happens, Peterson will declare for the 2026 NBA Draft, where he could be the No. 1 overall pick. The player that Kansas coach Bill Self has said repeatedly was the “best player” he had recruited at Kansas saw his career end before the second weekend of the NCAA Tournament.
Anticipated season for KU
If you go back about a calendar year, those same Kansas fans had a sense of hope after a disastrous season that saw the program become the second team to lose in the first round of the NCAA Tournament after being the preseason AP No. 1 team. The reason for that hope? Peterson.
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This season was a double-edged sword for those following along.
Peterson became one of the most talked-about people in the sports world. And at times, it was for all the wrong reasons. Peterson dealt with severe cramping that caused him to miss 11 games. Peterson admitted earlier this month that the cramping was so bad at one point, he ended up in the hospital needing IV fluids.
For better or worse, people have had plenty to say about Peterson. The takes ranged from people who watched every second of his time at Kansas, to talking heads who stumbled across his name for the first time. After the loss, Peterson opened up to CBS Sports about whether any of the narratives around his name bothered him, calling them “BS.”
“If I was able to be out there, I would’ve been out there,” Peterson said. “I’ve seen some stuff about me not loving basketball. Not wanting to play. Being a bad teammate, or load management, and all that other BS, I would say. I said before, basketball is all I know. It’s all I’ve ever had besides my family. There’s nothing I love more.”
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With Peterson’s college career all but over, the attention now turns to the future of Kansas’ basketball program. There’s no blue-chip recruit like Peterson coming around to save the Jayhawks. Tyran Stokes, the No. 1-ranked player in the 2026 recruiting cycle by 247Sports, could end up at Kansas, but he isn’t the same kind of player or NBA prospect that Peterson is.
How much longer for Self?
The other major storyline that will surround the program heading into the offseason is how much longer will Self be the coach at Kansas? The 63-year-old Hall of Famer isn’t getting any younger. He has faced health challenges in recent years, including a heart procedure and periodic hospital visits.
“I don’t know about completely, but I’m feeling — I feel as good as I’ve felt in a long time,” Self said. “I’m not making any statements whatsoever, but every year, I think — it used to be when you get to be, doing it as long as I’ve done it, I look at it in five-year increments. Now I’m probably looking at it in more two-year increments, so to speak. So I try to focus on this season and try to get us to a second weekend, which we failed at. So I’ll go back now and break it down and see where that leads.”
Since Self guided Kansas to a national title in 2022, the Jayhawks have won just three NCAA Tournament games. The wins? No. 16 seed Howard, No. 13 seed Samford and No. 13 seed California Baptist this season, where the Jayhawks nearly gave away a 26-point advantage late in the game.
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An era of Kansas basketball ended on Sunday, whether Self knows it or not. The chances of him getting a player of Peterson’s caliber via high school recruiting, for however long he still coaches, are minimal. It’s not a diss at anyone Kansas may or may not recruit. Peterson has the potential to be an All-NBA player one day. Even if he only played in 23 games, there were plenty of flashes of that potential throughout the season.
Peterson’s time at Kansas ended when the game clock hit zero against St. John’s. There’s no magic game clock that’s counting down the end of Self’s coaching career, but in basketball terms, you would think it’s counting down somewhere deep in the second half.
You know you need to turn on your backswing. And, from my perch on the lesson tee, I can see most players do it. But, as you can imagine, some turns are simply better than others, not just for creating potential energy on the backswing, but also getting your body and club in position for a powerful, on-plane strike on your way back down to the ball.
The big error I see is the manner in which players turn their torso away from the ball. Seems natural: We have muscle fibers in our torso that run east-west, so why not just use them to turn in the backswing? In boxing terms, that gives you a couple of options, with one being a left cross (above left). It’s a solid turn but it leaves a lot of energy on the table.
You’re better off thinking of throwing a left upppercut (middle) with your body not just rotating back but stretching your abdominals, lats and rib cage as you twist slightly up and around. Hopefully you can see the difference.
It’s a power storage move that, even better, keeps the clubhead more in front of you, making it easier to keep it on plane as you swing down. When you cross instead of uppercut, the club will get too flat and “trapped” behind you.
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It’ll take a lot more work through impact to get it where it needs to be. But with an uppercut, you’re a knockout.
V.J. Trolio is a GOLF Top 100 Teacher who teaches at the Performance Center at Frederica GC on St. Simons Island, Ga.
WWE star Logan Paul left a lasting impression on NFL legend Tom Brady during the Fanatics Flag Football Classic on Saturday, the seven-time Super Bowl champion said after the game.
Brady and Paul had a few flare-ups on the field, but kept things professional. The two had a heated feud over the last month leading up to the game.
Founders FFC’s Tom Brady and Wildcats FFC’s Logan Paul talk on the field during the Fanatics Flag Football Classic, Saturday, March 21, 2026, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Caroline Brehman)
“I’ll say this, he impressed me out there,” Brady told Fox News Digital in the postgame press conference. Some of the coaches that were coaching him said how serious he was taking it and how he just wanted to learn and be a sponge to go out there and do a great job.
“To watch what he and his brother have done … you know, there’s a lot of tit-for-tat stuff but I do have respect for people that are really driven to succeed. I’m a firm believer in you don’t wait for things to happen, you make it happen. And if you want positive things to happen in your life, you go for it and you’re fearless and you don’t settle for a backup plan. He really displayed that today.”
Founders FFC’s Tom Brady reacts to a call made by the referee against the U.S. National Flag team during the Fanatics Flag Football Classic, Saturday, March 21, 2026, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Caroline Brehman)
Brady showed that he hadn’t really lost a step on the football field but it was Team USA that outpaced everyone. The national team crushed Brady’s team, 43-16, after defeating Joe Burrow’s squad, 39-16.
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Some NFL players have made clear their intentions of trying out for the U.S. Olympic team as the sport will debut in the 2028 Los Angeles Games.
Logan Paul #19 of the Wildcats FFC and Tom Brady #12 of the Founders FFC speak during the Fanatics Flag Football Classic at BMO Stadium on March 21, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.(Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images for OBB Media – FANATICS STUDIOS)
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said he was ‘not yet artificial intelligence’ after his celebrations for the second goal was deemed to have gone too far.
Pep Guardiola will not tone down his Manchester City celebrations after being booked for his reactions to Nico O’Reilly scoring in the Carabao Cup final. The Blues boss kicked an advertising board in delight after the first goal and then ran down the touchline to mark the second as City ran out 2-0 winners over Arsenal.
Leaving his technical area earned the City coach another yellow card in a season where he has already been given two bans – he will miss the FA Cup game against Liverpool next month as part of his latest suspension – but Guardiola said he was moved to such joy because of the way his players were performing. In disbelief at what City were doing to Arsenal, the manager got carried away and did not care about his punishment.
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“I wanted another yellow card, that was the target,” he said with heavy sarcasm. “If I cannot celebrate in the moment against that team with the way we are playing… the emotions are related to the way we are playing. Sometimes we have one action and score a goal and I do not react in that way. I react when it’s yes, yes, yes – the emotions come out.
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“Come on, give me another yellow card but I will celebrate, I’m not yet artificial intelligence. I’m a human being and I can celebrate. I want to celebrate. It’s not no respect for Arsenal or for their fans, I just celebrate with my people. I’m a human being with emotions and when I feel it I express it.
“It’s still the joy to compete. Today was a real challenge. Nobody gave us anything and I said to the players today we are going to see ourselves, what is our level against the best team? What are we? We talked about the game we played against Arsenal at the beginning of the season and that was the challenge.
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“The old ones and myself and the guys on the bench, it’s like what we said after Madrid. They are the best so far, no doubt about that, ok let’s prove. In general, last 10-15 minutes of the first half and the second half I could not believe we could do it against that Arsenal and we did it. That is nice for the sport.”
Miami Dolphins running back De’Von Achane (28) carries the ball during first-half action against the New York Jets, Dec. 17, 2023, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. The explosive rookie showcased his speed and burst, creating chunk plays while helping power the Dolphins’ offense in a late-season divisional matchup. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports.
Rumors won’t die down for the Minnesota Vikings anytime soon, especially as the franchise has nine draft picks in 2026 and a few tradeable players. So, we present the Purple Rumor Mill for the second week of free agency,
Minnesota has no shortage of intrigue this week.
This week mainly focuses on trades and the draft.
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Fresh Trade Buzz and Draft Fodder in Vikings’ Rumor Mill
All the gossip in the purple team’s orbit from the last few days.
Miami Dolphins running back De’von Achane (28) celebrates in the end zone after finding space and scoring against the New York Jets, Sep 29, 2025, during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium, showcasing his burst and playmaking ability as Miami extended momentum in a divisional matchup. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images.
Rumor: If the Dolphins trade RB De’Von Achane, the Vikings should be at the front of the line.
The Dolphins shipped Jaylen Waddle to Denver for draft picks this week, which is just another sign they’re finagling a full roster reboot. Now that Waddle’s gone — and with Bradley Chubb, Tyreek Hill, and others already out the door — folks are wondering who’s next. Achane’s name keeps popping up, not because Miami’s trying to get rid of him, but because a player like that gets a lot of attention.
Achane’s connection to Minnesota makes things even more interesting. Vikings assistant head coach Frank Smith spent four seasons in Miami and played a big role in shaping Achane’s role in their offense. So, there’s familiarity, there’s trust, and they already know how to use him.
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If Achane becomes available, Minnesota should go all-in. Last season, he racked up 1,838 yards from scrimmage and 12 touchdowns, proving just how dangerous he can be when he’s a key part of the offense. At 5’9,” 190 pounds, with 4.32 speed, and only 24 years old, he’s got that rare burst and big-play potential that can really change an offense.
If there’s even a small chance Achane could be on the move, the coach who helped develop him should bring him to Minnesota.
Rumor: Pioneer Press’s Charley Walters insists J.J. McCarthy could be traded.
Walters dropped his version of a bombshell in the Vikings’ discourse last weekend, claiming McCarthy could be traded.
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He explained, “Now that Kyler Murray seems set to be the Vikings’ starting quarterback next season, it wouldn’t be surprising if the team entertains a trade for J.J. McCarthy. The Pittsburgh Steelers and Cleveland Browns seem like teams that might have an interest in McCarthy, potentially as a starter.”
“The Los Angeles Chargers, coached by Jim Harbaugh, who coached McCarthy to a national championship at Michigan in 2004, would seem a third possibility as a backup to Justin Herbert. The Chargers do not have a designated backup QB. Last season, it was Trey Lance from Marshall, Minn. A trade for McCarthy would require a high enough draft pick. Don’t be surprised, if the Vikings were to trade McCarthy, if they bring Carson Wentz back to play behind Murray.”
Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) walks off the field showing relief and adrenaline after a tough divisional win over the Chicago Bears, Sep 8, 2025, at Soldier Field in Chicago, reflecting the intensity of a close contest and his composure in key late-game moments on the road. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images.
The Arizona Cardinals could also make sense for McCarthy; their QB plan at the moment is Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew. Pew.
Generally speaking, however, it’s probably more likely that Minnesota hangs on to McCarthy, saving him for a rainy day, as Murray’s injury history isn’t spotless.
Rumor: Dillon Thieneman, beyond the shadow of a doubt, is the Vikings’ draft frontrunner in March.
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Without any debate, Thieneman is the current mock-draft favorite for Minnesota — by a mile.
USA Today’s Nate Davis picked Thieneman for Minnesota this week and explained, “With Harrison Smith’s future in doubt, Thieneman would make sense as both a short- and long-term solution. One of the combine’s standouts, the Ducks All-American is a rangy player who can be weaponized all over the field.”
And at NFL.com, Eric Edholm did the same thing: “Defensive tackle is a glaring need for the Vikings, who also could stand to add a receiver, but safety looms as a big worry if Harrison Smith retires. Thieneman is smart, athletic and a strong tackler — a nice schematic fit for coordinator Brian Flores.”
Texas Tech Red Raiders running back J’Koby Williams (20) is brought down by Oregon Ducks defensive back Dillon Thieneman (31) during a physical second half sequence, Jan 1, 2026, at Hard Rock Stadium in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal Orange Bowl, as both teams battled for control in a high-stakes postseason matchup. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images.
Then, The Athletic. Alec Lewis on Thursday with Thieneman to Minnesota: “Will Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores want to use a first-rounder on a safety? Minnesota passed on Malaki Starks and Nick Emmanwori last year. The Vikings might have a bigger need this time around given what they saw from safety Theo Jackson last season, and considering Harrison Smith’s future might be more uncertain.”
“Thieneman has ball skills. His read-and-react ability would fit nicely in a system that often allows defenders to keep eyes on the quarterback. The Vikings could look for a defensive lineman at this spot, but it’s difficult to settle on one who is a no-brainer type of fit.”
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Mel Kiper at ESPN also fired up Thieneman to the Vikings. He’s everywhere.
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Carson Wentz (11) takes the snap from center Ryan Kelly (78) during first-half action on Sep 28, 2025, at Croke Park in Dublin, Ireland, operating the offense against the Pittsburgh Steelers in an international matchup as Minnesota settles into early-game rhythm overseas. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images.
It’s not necessarily atypical, but it’s important to call out that the Minnesota Vikings have watched as one-fifth of their 2025 starters have departed via retirement and free agency.
Minnesota’s offseason turnover hit the starting lineup a bit hard.
The main faces on the coaching staff will remain the same, but from a starter personnel viewpoint, get ready to see a revised Vikings club in September.
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Familiar Vikings Starters Have Moved On
In alphabetical order, these are the starters who left.
Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) slips pressure and breaks outside as Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jonathan Allen (93) closes in, Dec 7, 2025, at U.S. Bank Stadium, extending the play during second-half action while Washington searched for yardage against Minnesota’s front in a tightly contested game through the middle of the field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Rempel-Imagn Images.
Jonathan Allen (DT) Where He Went: Cincinnati Bengals
Allen lasted one year in Minnesota after signing a three-year, $51 million contract last offseason during former general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s big spending spree. He played decently, basically at a replacement level, making the large financial commitment no longer worth a second look.
Minnesota released him right away during free agency, and he quickly landed in Cincinnati, where his new contract will alleviate most of the Vikings’ 2027 salary cap burden pertaining to his contract.
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Allen was a swing-and-a-miss for the Vikings, at least per expectations.
C.J. Ham (FB) Where He Went: His House. Retirement.
Ham came up during the Mike Zimmer era and stood the test of time. Providing support as an outstanding blocker, special teamer, and sometimes-playmaker, Vikings fans adored Ham and are sad to see him go. He was one of the locker room guys in Minnesota, a team captain through and through.
The longtime purple fullback said this week during a retirement ceremony, “There’s nothing like game day at The Bank. From the beginning, I felt all the love. Just a fellow Minnesota kid living his dream of wearing the purple and gold someday. I know that resonated with many Minnesota fans, so I felt as if I was doing it for me and my family, I was also doing it for you.”
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Ham called it quits alongside former teammate Adam Thielen at the ceremony, and head coach Kevin O’Connel mentioned about the duo: “Their impacts clearly on and off the field have left a tremendous impact, not only on myself as the head coach of this team, all of our players, but also your families and what you guys were able to establish in the community here in the Twin Cities and beyond.”
“I know I, today, get the opportunity to not only speak for our team and our organization, but Minnesota Vikings fans everywhere, just saying, Thank you for your impact that you guys both had.”
Hopefully, Ham returns to the game as a coach down the road.
Javon Hargrave (DT) Where He Went: Green Bay Packers
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You can basically scroll up, read the paragraphs about Allen, rinse, and repeat.
The Vikings added Hargrave last offseason for $30 million over two years, and like Allen, the relationship was not parleyed into a second season. Minnesota dropped Hargrave, and a couple of days later, he did the unthinkable, signing with the Packers.
Minnesota will see him twice next year.
Ryan Kelly (C) Where He Went: His House. Retirement.
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Kelly had a bittersweet time in Minnesota, signed with Allen and Hargrave as part of 2025 free agency. When Kelly was on the field in 2025, he was fantastic, very much living up to his four-time Pro Bowl reputation.
Indianapolis Colts center Ryan Kelly (78) walks off the field after an overtime win against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Jan 5, 2025, at Lucas Oil Stadium, reflecting a hard-fought finish as Indianapolis secured a 26-23 victory and players exited following a physical divisional matchup with teammates and staff near the sideline. Mandatory Credit: Grace Hollars/USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images.
But concussions ruined everything, as Kelly sustained three in one season alone. He even wore a Guardian cap down the stretch of 2025. It didn’t change anything.
Kelly retired from the NFL, and now Minnesota needs a center, either promoting Blake Brandel or Michael Jurgens, signing a free agent like Ethan Pocic, or drafting a rookie next month.
Jalen Nailor (WR) Where He Went: Las Vegas Raiders
Nailor jelled instantly with Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy, but it wasn’t enough to secure a second contract beyond his rookie deal. The Raiders pounced earlier this month, granting Nailor a deal worth $35 million over the next three years.
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Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jalen Nailor (83) powers through contact from Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Travon Walker (44), Nov 10, 2024, at EverBank Stadium, fighting for extra yardage during third-quarter action as Minnesota’s offense looked to sustain a drive against Jacksonville’s defense while maintaining balance and momentum near the sideline. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images.
The Vikings need a WR3 to replace Nailor, unless 2025 rookie Tai Felton, from Maryland, is ready for the offense’s bright lights. Nailor, on the other hand, will fill a WR1 or WR2 role in Las Vegas, presumably with rookie passer Fernando Mendoza when the Raiders make the draft pick official next month.
The Waiting Game: Harrison Smith
Smith played flag football with his peers on Saturday afternoon.
Meanwhile, he has made no concrete decision on his future, whether to retire or return for Year No. 15. It’s a waiting game. One would think that if Smith planned to retire, he would’ve done so by now. The sipidity of “Will he or won’t he?” regarding Smith continues.
While no one would be shocked by a Smith retirement tweet, the clues hint at a return.
World number one Carlos Alcaraz was knocked out of the Miami Open in the third round after a surprise 6-3 5-7 6-4 defeat by Sebastian Korda.
Top seed Alcaraz, 22, produced a sloppy first set which gave the American the early initiative but Korda looked to have blown his chance in the second set.
Korda served for the match at 5-4 but was broken to love by the Spaniard who went on to win the next two games to force a third set.
Alcaraz upped the ante but Korda held his nerve and seized a break for 4-3 in the third when his opponent stroked a forehand wide.
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Korda, ranked 36th in the world, confidently held his next two service games to close out the match – sealing the win on his second match point as Alcaraz overhit a a return.
Alcaraz said his game is improving despite being knocked out as he prepares to rest up before the clay-court seaon.
“I think the process has been good. Besides the loss today, I think I’m still in the right way,” he said.
“Some things in previous tournaments that I just didn’t feel comfortable, I think in this tournament, I started to feel better and better.”
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Alcaraz said lower-ranked opponents such as Korda have the opportunity to play with more freedom against him, but he must guard against putting undue pressure on himself.
He added: “I’m feeling they have more to win than to lose in those matches. They’re playing without pressure.
“I’m not thinking about my pressure. I don’t feel it at all. I’m trying to play my best.”
Korda, 25, is the lowest-ranked man to defeat Alcaraz since world number 55 David Goffin of Belgium upset the Spaniard in the second round in Miami last year
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Alcaraz began the year by winning his seventh Grand Slam title with a triumph at the Australian Open and did not suffer his first loss of the season until he fell to Daniil Medvedev in the semi-finals of Indian Wells.
Korda, who reached the quarter-finals of the Miami Open in 2021 and 2025 but has never gone further, will face 14th seed Karen Khachanov or qualifier Martin Landaluce in the fourth round.
“It feels great,” said Korda, who wrapped up the win in two hours and 19 minutes as he beat a top-ranked player for the first time in his career.
“I took the scenic route, that’s for sure – a little more stress than I would want but happy with how I played.
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“I kept believing. I got myself in some nasty situations, but I kept going and played really well in the end.”
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