Travis Kelce Closes On $6 Million Mansion Hideout Because Thirsty Fans Can’t Stop Sweating Him And Taylor Swift | It’s Getting Serious
Travis Kelce’s life has changed dramatically since his relationship with pop sensation Taylor Swift became a sports-entertainment-cultural moment. The Kansas City Chiefs tight end has purchased a new, more exclusive home after paparazzi and fans began to stalk his home to get a glimpse of the famous couple.
Kelce reportedly closed on Tuesday on the new digs in an exclusive gated community in the Kansas City suburb of Leawood, Kansas. The new 16,000-square-foot mansion is opulent, with a reported six bedrooms and six baths.
Kelce Upgrades
According to TMZ, Travis has all the trimmings at the residence, which is replete with a pool and attached waterfall. Additionally, the sportsman added two courts: tennis and pickleball, and a mini golf course. More than anything, the most significant upgrade Kelce has secured is privacy for his even higher-profile life.
Last week, after the Chiefs’ 19-8 win over the Denver Broncos on “Thursday Night Football,” Taylor and Kelce made headlines when she spent the night at the two-time Super Bowl world champion’s home. Paparazzi took shots of Swift’s security luxury SUVs sitting outside all night, and the images of Kelce’s house went viral.
Later the next afternoon, Kelce’s mother, Donna, was seen arriving at the mansion. Additionally, Kansas City Police officers needed to patrol Kelce’s neighborhood, even stopping cars that came into the area for safety.
History Of Hype
Over the weekend, the couple’s presence was on overload in the streets of New York City and on the screen as they took part in the lampooning of themselves on the “Saturday Night Live” season premiere. They then hit popular food hot spot Nobu in Manhattan and the after-party for “Saturday Night Live.”
Swift has also been a touchpoint for the NFL during the season, with her appearances in the suites of Kansas City Chiefs games boosting ticket and merch sales. It has been an unintended benefit for the league and even for Kelce, who has gone from star football player to a part of the latest “it” couple with cult attention.
Whether Kelce was planning on upgrading his home or not in the future, those plans were accelerated when his relationship became an international trending topic.
“Fresh Out Of Jail Again, Y’all Pray For Me” | NFL Free Agent Chandler Jones Arrested Again
Former Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Chandler Jones was arrested on Tuesday by Las Vegas police. This is the second time Jones has been arrested in a month on charges of violating a domestic violence temporary protection order.
“Fresh out of jail again,” Jones said in a video. “Ya’ll pray for me.”
Warning Signs
Jones was placed on the non-football illness list on Sept. 23 by the Raiders and then released on Sept. 30 after his first arrest on Sept. 29 on two counts of violating a protection order.
Authorities alleged he went to a woman’s home, grabbed some of her items from her backyard, and then appeared to burn the stuff while “completely nude inside of his own backyard.”
There have been a series of incidents in addition that point to trouble for Jones, including wild conspiracies on social media about the death of former NFL tight end Aaron Hernandez.
He had been away from the team since Labor Day weekend before a string of social media posts aimed at the Raiders coach, management, and owner.
In a since-deleted post on X Jones indicated he was at the Seven Hills Behavioral Health Hospital in Las Vegas.
“First day out but I’m still aligned,” the post said.
Journal entries with highlighted passages and a statement of “patient rights” from the facility were attached to the post.
“I haven’t done anything wrong. The police said people were concerned about me because of my posts online,” Jones wrote, also stating that once in an ambulance he was “injected” with an undisclosed substance even though he didn’t give consent.
Jones also mentioned that he wrote to Raiders general manager Dave Ziegler “6 to 7 times asking for help and I wondered if he had me put in here, but he never answered.”
“I’m still confused on what I did wrong. I’m stuck here. I’m very sane,” he wrote, adding “I’m too strong of a person to be mentally broken.”
Very concerning behavior to say the least. It looks like Jones might be in need of mental health professionals. But first, he has to recognize there is an issue and be willing to acept help.
He is a Super Bowl champ, four-time Pro-Bowl selection and two-time All-Pro. Jones played for the New England Patriots and Arizona Cardinals before joining the Raiders in 2022.
Top 5 NFL Offenses Heading Into Week 7 | Tua’s Dolphins Continue To Separate From Pack As Generational Offense
NFL offenses have been evolving every season, and in a scoring league it’s all about putting up points. Last week wasn’t the best for NFL offenses, as only two teams (Dolphins, Jaguars) scored more than 24 points.
Miami Dolphins (5-1)
This offense is so dynamic it almost makes you say “generational.” Led by quarterback Tua Tagovailoa who’s an MVP candidate, the Fins have become nearly unstoppable.
Averaging nearly 8 yards per play, which is 2 yards more than any other team, the Dolphins do it in a variety of ways. From head coach and play caller Mike McDaniel scheming it up, to the running game with Raheem Mostert and rookie De’Von Achane.
Don’t forget the dynamic wide receivers led by Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.
Tagovailoa’s success has been well documented in this scheme, and this year he’s been great, passing for nearly 1,900 yards, 14 touchdowns and five interceptions in the team’s 5-1 start. For the season the Fins are averaging 498 total yards and 37.2 points per game, both top marks in the league.
Detroit Lions (5-1)
Behind MVP candidate QB Jared Goff, the Lions are “restoring the roar” in the Motor City. Led by a physical offensive line that has helped the team average 385 yards and 28 points per game, the Lions look like a contender. The Lions are 5-1, which is the same record as the Eagles and Niners, good enough for tops in the NFC.
Head coach Dan Campbell told reporters this week that he’s not at all surprised by how good Goff is playing.
“No, No,” Campbell said. “No, I’m not surprised. I knew he was tough, I knew he was resilient, and he’s grown. There’s been consistency in what we asked him to do, there’s been consistency in his play.”
San Francisco 49ers (5-1)
Prior to last weekend’s ugly 19-17 loss to the Browns, the Niners were No. 1 in both our offensive and defensive rankings. Sunday’s loss drops from their perch, but not much, as they’re still top 3 on the offensive side of the football. Quarterback Brock Purdy suffered his first loss as a starting QB, as he struggled a bit in Cleveland. A lot of that had to do with running back Christian McCaffrey and wide receiver Deebo Samuel both leaving the game with injuries.
Expect a bounce-back performance on Monday night in the Twin Cities, against the Minnesota Vikings.
Buffalo Bills (4-2)
When you think Bills, star quarterback Josh Allen’s name emerges first. This season is no different, as the dynamic QB has passed for nearly 1,600 yards and 15 touchdowns. He does have six interceptions, but three of them came in a season-opening loss to the Jets.
In his five games since he’s got 14 touchdowns and just three picks.
All-Pro wideout Stefon Diggs has been great as well, with 49 catches for 620 yards and five touchdowns, only trailing the Dolphins’ Tyreek Hill and Eagles’ A.J. Brown in yards, and he’s tied for second in touchdown receptions behind the aforementioned Hill as well.
Philadelphia Eagles (5-1)
Despite some early season struggles, the Eagles offense is still one of the best in the league. QB Jalen Hurts hasn’t been as good as he was last season, but no matter what he wins. In fact, Hurts has gone 19-2 in his last 21 regular season starts.
Wideout A.J Brown picked up where he left off last season and is currently second in the league in receiving yards. The running game is averaging 150 yards per game, good enough for second in the league.
As the team continues to get comfortable offensively, expect Hurts to take a jump and get back to last year’s form.
‘I’m Tired Of People Trashing My QB, I’m Tired Of People Trashing My Team’ | Is Cowboys Star Micah Parsons Talking Too Much?
Another day and another Micah Parsons comment that he could’ve kept to himself.
The dynamic Dallas Cowboys defender has quickly become known for his interesting and at times outlandish takes.
His team’s big 20-17 road win over the inconsistent Los Angeles Chargers on “Monday Night Football,” just one week after being dismantled by the San Francisco 49ers 42-10, seems to have Parsons feeling froggy.
So, the former Penn State standout took the opportunity to leap.
Parsons, the two-time first-team All-Pro has entrenched himself into the podcast world. There Parsons gets things off his chest and says what’s on his mind. During the latest episode of his “The Edge with Micah Parsons” podcast, the reigning DPOY runner-up could be heard defending his team and quarterback Dak Prescott.
Parsons Says Keep Same Energy For Everybody
In defending Prescott, who was shredded after his rather pedestrian performance in the loss to the 49ers, Parsons also mentioned how both the Eagles and Niners lost their first games to the Jets and Browns who are both without their starting QBs.
“There’s a whole bunch of bashing when it’s Dak Prescott, but not the same when it’s for the Eagles.”
Parsons also called out FS1’s Emmanuel Acho for using injuries to key Niners players, Christian McCaffrey and Deebo Samuel, as the reason why the San Francisco team lost.
“So why is it that we are just scrubs, and nobodies that don’t deserve to be on the field and we’re just all talk, but there’s 100 excuses for these other teams?” Parsons asked.
“If y’all just want to hate Cowboys nation, just say y’all hate Cowboy nation,” he continued. “I’m tired of people trashing my quarterback, I’m tired of people trashing my team, and that’s why I had nothing to say to the media this week.”
Cowboys Always Underachieve
Part of the reason they don’t get the benefit of the doubt from the media is they talk a big game every year, only to fall short in the playoffs. The franchise hasn’t been to a Super Bowl or conference championship game since 1995-96.
And with guys like Parsons always running their mouths and coming up small when it matters most, it opens you up to that type of criticism. Then when Parsons says they’re on the same level as the Niners after losing by 32, it hurts his credibility.
It’s the Cowboys, so don’t expect much to change, more bark than bite for nearly 30 seasons.
Cardinals Quarterback Kyler Murray Returns To Practice | He’s Gone From Franchise QB To Potential Trade Bait In The Caleb Williams Sweepstakes
For the past 310 days Kyler Murray has been rehabbing a torn ACL. On Wednesday the Arizona Cardinals star quarterback was activated from the physically unable to perform (PUP) list, opening up a 21-day window for him to be added to the active roster.
Sitting at 1-5 and in a rebuilding year, one has to wonder if the team will allow the 2018 Heisman Trophy winner to play this season as they figure out how they want to proceed with his return.
At the moment Murray’s future with the franchise seems to be up in the air, even after he signed a five-year, $230.5 million extension with the team in July 2022. That’s in large part due to the new regime taking the reins of the franchise.
Do Cardinals Want Caleb Williams?
Neither the general manager nor head coach have any ties to Murray, who isn’t their guy. So, in essence, they could be looking to part ways with Murray and draft one of the talented signal-callers (Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, Bo Nix) expected to be available in the 2024 NFL draft.
Jonathan Gannon Excited?
Upon receiving medical clearance to return to the practice field, Murray let first-year head coach Jonathan Gannon know.
The former Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator responded with, “Great, see you there.”
While Gannon seemed happy to see Murray cleared, it’s still a process before he actually sees the field.
“Obviously he’s our franchise quarterback, so I was happy about it,” Gannon said.
Gannon also mentioned that Murray’s return to the field would be an “organizational decision,” and while they’ll include Murray’s input, the process is definitely in the “day by day” stage.
https://youtu.be/8r_yFDZopr4?si=c8oyZSaQDM2zcSUu
Gannon Eager To Get A Look At Murray
With Murray being out since last year, Gannon and the new coaching staff haven’t had a chance to see what Murray can do in the new offense. But that doesn’t mean the team isn’t anticipating his return, especially Gannon.
“I know the work that he’s put in, the people that have helped him get to this point — you can’t praise enough the whole medical staff, all that — the performance staff, the doctors, all that stuff,” Gannon said. “But he hasn’t taken a snap in this offense either.
“So, we got to see him do a lot of things. But I know he’s excited to get out there and start playing some football.”
That last statement by Gannon says a lot and lets you know they’re going to take their time in putting Murray out there, if they do at all. That makes it even more likely they may move on from Murray at season’s end.
Did Naomi Osaka And Cordae Break Up After They Had A Baby? Her Post Feels Like It
Tennis star and four-time majors champion Naomi Osaka and her rapper beau Cordae may have broken up only months after having a baby together. Osaka put a telling message on social media that has the world’s speculation about a breakup seemingly confirmed.
“I just want someone who will watch the sunset with me,” Osaka posted on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.
There have been varied reports speculating why the two may be breaking up. According to MediaTakeout, one of Naomi’s friends allegedly claims that Cordae was living a party lifestyle, which was the opposite of Naomi Osaka’s introverted lifestyle as a homebody.
What Happened?
Chemistry might have also been an issue.
“Naomi and [Cordae] are really having a tough time with the relationship,” one of Naomi’s friends reportedly said to MediaTakeout in May. “I hope the baby will bring them closer together.”
However, the opposite happened, as it is being rumored that Cordae broke the relationship off.
In July, the two welcomed a baby girl named Shai into the world. It was all good just a few months ago as Cordae displayed his love for his new family while performing at Canada’s Calgary Stampede in July. The 25-year-old rapper first revealed his daughter’s name to the world during the concert.
“My daughter Shai was just born a couple days ago, so I dedicate this performance to my baby girl Shai,” Cordae said to the audience in between songs. “Love you, I’m going back home.”
Back To The Court
Osaka reportedly had the baby in Los Angeles in July, and Cordae waited to learn the gender. Although Osaka announced the sex of her baby in June, the pro tennis player had known since February.
“I’ve been preparing, but he doesn’t know the gender yet, only I know,” Osaka said to People at the time, referencing boyfriend Cordae. “So it’s not like I can build out the room or anything.”
Those were happier times, but now the two might be estranged young parents.
Naomi played her last match in September 2022 at the Toray Pan Pacific Open in Tokyo. Amid motherhood and the potential loss of her relationship, Osaka said the fire is burning hot for a return to the court.
“I’ve been watching matches and I’m like, ‘I wish I was playing too,’” Osaka told CNN last month. “But I’m in this position now and I’m very grateful. I really love my daughter a lot, but I think it really fueled a fire in me.”
“She Had My Lips Like … They Pulling On A Tailpipe”| Twitter Wants Shannon Sharpe’s Makeup Person Fired
Shannon Sharpe looked very stylish to kick off the sports week on Monday during an episode of “First Take.”
He was extra vibrant in appearance due to the fact that his face nearly jumped off the screen with the amount of makeup that he had on.
Shannon Sharpe In Drag?
When the internet went in on his pregame glam job, the NFL Hall of Famer stood tall in the pocket like his old teammate John Elway and didn’t fold.
After it appeared that Sharpe had a little too much makeup on him, a parody account made in honor of Sharpe took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to begin what would seem like an endless amount of trolling and joking about Sharpe’s appearance.
When Sharpe, who is an avid social media user himself, caught wind of the jokes he decided to address the cause for his appearance head on.
Sharpe tweeted “Appreciate the concern over my makeup this morning on @FirstTake,” he wrote. “This was her 1st time doing my makeup and it was a little heavy. My appearance is important [but] not as important as my takes. Hopefully, the takes were gr8 as usual #LipSparringChamp #BestDressed.”
First Time Is Last Time For Makeup Specialist?
While Sharpe did reveal that this was his first time linking up with the makeup specialist for his Monday appearance, he remained solid in defending her, her job, and her ability to handle his cosmetics down the line.
When another X user responded “that girl is finished,” Sharpe countered, writing, “No she isn’t. She’ll get better with my makeup. Isn’t the end of the world.”
Sharpe is a real one, and his makeup artist probably shared his opinion and Tuesday’s look was noticeably much improved. Now Shannon can be on air comfortably, in front of the lights and cameras, spewing out his hot takes and his LeBron love.
Sharpe is always making headlines for his takes, rants, and serious personality when he’s discussing a topic he’s passionate about. But he makes even more noise when he’s doing his podcasts and shows outside of “First Take.”
One of his shows that always instigates laughs is his show with former NFL wide receiver Chad Ochocinco, “Nightcap,” where the two former offensive NFL stars share deep and personal stories with each other, while also talking about various sports topics and going back and forth at each other in a comedic way.
Chad’s reaction was priceless when seeing social media explode over Sharpe’s makeup blunder.
What was even funnier, was Sharpe’s explanation to Chad.
Essentially Sports quoted Shannon as saying: “She had my lips like that; they pulling on a tailpipe. … I’m like AHHH! I looked, damn, hold on! I don’t smoke them milds like that no more. How she got my lip like I’ve been smoking on a tailpipe?”
While the internet had a field day with Shannon’s looks, Shannon looks like he had the most fun with it himself.
‘This Was His Chance To Live Like an NBA Superstar’: Sources On The Grizzlies Blaming Tee Morant For Son Ja’s Career-Threatening Behavior
ESPN published a story on Memphis Grizzlies superstar Ja Morant on Wednesday, where an unnamed team source said that Ja’s father, Tee Morant, has been a factor in the All-Star’s poor behavior.
“Tee has been a major driving force in all of this,” one team source said. “He never made the NBA, but this was his chance to live like he’s an NBA superstar. That’s been a problem from the beginning.”
Local Media And Supporters Think ESPN Did A Hit Piece On Ja
Grizzlies fans and local media members that support the team have labeled the story by Baxter Holmes and Tim MacMahon as a “hit piece” and a major media outlet picking on a player who hasn’t committed any actual crimes.
The story is mostly a rehash of all of the incidents that we know about involving Ja over the past two years. It also includes information from a meeting team general manager Zach Kleiman and head coach Taylor Jenkins had with Ja regarding his behavior, that was allegedly met by Ja with apathy.
Then there is the claim by a team source that Tee has had a negative influence on Ja.
What’s truth and what isn’t?
Being A Young NBA Superstar Isn’t Easy
If you are a Grizzlies fan or a Ja sympathizer it’s easy to see what was reported in the story as a “hit piece.” If you’re someone that is critical of the behavior of athletes and their larger responsibility it is easy to see this story as proof of something.
The reality is it’s likely some of both.
Ja has engaged in poor behavior involving guns that potentially exposes him and those close to him to fatal consequences. As the leader of the Grizzlies basketball team he has let his teammates down by not being available for games due to consequences of these actions.
Personally, he has placed generational wealth in jeopardy. Sponsors can drop him, and depending on what happens in the future, his contract could be terminated.
Now, it doesn’t appear that we are close to the latter. But all scenarios are on the table.
Ja is 24 years old and there is no manual on how to navigate instant fame and riches. It’s a difficult reality to handle. Not just for Ja, but for those around him as well. His family and close friends.
One minute you are living in a small town in South Carolina, the next you are literally on every sports show and your dad seen sitting courtside is called an Usher lookalike.
How do you navigate everyone knowing who you are all of a sudden? Having the ability to buy anything you want, and go anywhere you want? All of a sudden people treat you differently. They have a reverence and deify you in many ways, give you access you wouldn’t normally have if you were not an elite NBA baller or someone close to him.
How do you react to that when it starts happening?
It’s easy to say Morant and his family and friends need to do better. They do. But easier said than done.
This season will be the litmus test as to what Ja and his team have learned. That’s not to say there won’t be stumbles along the way.
But how he and those close to him conduct themselves will be scrutinized and monitored at a level they’ve never seen before. How they deal with that will go a long way in determining whether this was just the growing pains of adjusting to new found fame and riches or something else entirely.
“It’s Hard To Root For The Kids When They’re Multimillionaires”: Is Sen. Joe Manchin Hating On The NIL Come-Up Because He Wants More Graduates?
When Shedeur Sanders flashed his watch following Colorado’s victory over Colorado State during the postgame interview, Sanders’ new celebratory flex started gaining popularity. It became a symbol of the nouveau riche gains of some college athletes who, in the face of competition, can look in their opponent’s eyes or at the crowd and declare their newfound financial status in the face of adversity.
The question on sports fans minds: will he stay at Colorado after his junior year and help his father build on the momentum or leave for the league once he is eligible? Currently, Shedeur has the highest NIL valuation in college football at $4.8 million, per On3.
With that comes another effect: fear of the non-graduating athlete because they only came to college for the potential NIL riches and not a college degree and the collegiate experience. U.S. Sen. Joe Manchin fears this greatly and thus has drafted the PASS Act of 2023 or Protecting Athletes, Schools, and Sports, to place limits on the transfer portal so student-athletes can focus on being a student and then the potential opportunities that come being an athlete.
“It’s hard to root for the kids when they’re multimillionaires as freshmen and sophomores,” the West Virginia Democrat said Tuesday during what is now the 10th congressional hearing on NIL, per USA Today’s Dan Wolken.
The bipartisan bill, which is co-sponsored by Alabama Republican Sen. Tommy Tuberville, is reportedly crafted to protect student-athletes, maintain fair competition and compensation, strengthen transparency, and preserve the time-honored tradition of college sports. Tuesday Senate Judiciary Committee hearing examined various legislative proposals to address NIL.
To Graduate Or Not To Graduate
Manchin’s statement reads like a book that you already know the ending to: collegiate athletes are only viewing institutions of higher learning as a fast track to early income potential and not long-term educational foundation. He feels that students who want to use their athletic prowess for financial gains should consider a professional career straight out of high school before college.
“I know you’re all here because you care as much as we all do about the student-athlete,” Manchin said during the hearing. “We’ve put a bill together … to put some guardrails for boosters and collectives to make sure they’re associated and in sync with the schools. … We also included transparency and clarity on NIL activities as well as additional protections for student-athletes.
“Bottom line: we are trying to make sure they have the full value of having a quality education—so they are able to graduate and provide for themselves and their family — but also the great experience of being a student-athlete.”
Of major importance to Manchin is the transfer portal which he wants to legally prevent athletes from transferring for the first three years. He believes that. the current transfer scenario means that athletes who transfer early have less of a chance to graduate.
Division I went to a notification-of-transfer model for the 2018-19 academic year, per NCAA Champion Magazine.
“The student-athlete is empowered by the change to the bylaw,” wrote NCA Champion Magazine’s Greg Johnson. “Once student-athletes ask that a compliance administrator place their name in the portal, the school has two business days to submit the information. It is up to the individual school to develop policies regarding portal requests.
“The downside for student-athletes is that their current school can reduce or stop giving them athletics aid at the end of the term in which the request was made to enter the Transfer Portal.”
The Three Year Factor
“Most of these student-athletes are receiving Pell grants,” Manchin continued. “So that means that the federal government is paying through Pell grants for the highest valued part of the scholastic is basically the money that comes in through the large sports programs, and that doesn’t seem fair to me. All of these other schools have other students who really need the Pell grants very badly but there is no value within the system that would pay for those students.”
Still, the genie is out of the bottle, and student-athletes are profiting from their name, image, and likeness as independent businesses. Will the students still want a college degree? Maybe they never really did but Joe Manchin’s proposed bill will give them three years to think about it before any transfer opportunities.
Top 5 NBA MVP Candidates For 2024 | Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Is More Than A Dark Horse
The 2023-24 NBA season begins on Tuesday, Oct. 24, and we’ve been giving you previews here at The Shadow League. Of the many topics fans like to debate, none sparks as much enthusiasm as MVP.
The last five awards have gone to an international player, is that going to continue this season?
Here are the top five candidates based on age, ability, team’s likelihood of success and narrative.
1. Nikola Jokic, Denver Nuggets
The two-time MVP, last year’s runner-up and the reigning Finals MVP is the best player in basketball. He showed that on the biggest stage, leading the league in total points, rebounds, and assists in the playoffs and averaging a triple-double leading the Nuggets to their first championship.
In the regular season he was also elite. He lead the league in EPM, EW, and WS/48 for the third consecutive season. For you counting-stat people, he averaged 24 points, 11 rebounds and nine assists per game for the Western Conference’s No. 1 seed.
With all due respect to the Philadelphia 76ers’ Joel Embiid. Jokic should have won his third straight award last season. He essentially “gave it away” because he was tired of being asked about if he should win it again.
2. Luka Doncic, Dallas Mavericks
In five NBA seasons, the 24 year old from Slovenia has been All-NBA first team four times as well as a four-time All-Star. He is the sun that the Mavericks orbit around. He is a one-man offense unto himself.
Last year he finished sixth in EPM and fourth in EW. The individual dominance is there. Can he and Kyrie Irving lead the team to a top-four finish in the Western Conference?
If that happens the narrative will shift in his favor.
3. Giannis Antetokounmpo, Milwaukee Bucks
Another two-time MVP winner, a walking double-double and arguably the most dominant two-way force in the league.
Last season was a “down year” for Giannis, as he was ninth in both EPM and EW. But his counting stats were impressive. He averaged 31 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists per game in the regular season. He led the Bucks to the best record in the league.
They flameD out in the first round of the playoffs as he battled injuries. But he has a new sidekick this season in Damian Lillard. If the Bucks reel off 15-20 games in a row and Giannis dominates he’ll be in the MVP discussion.
4. Jayson Tatum, Boston Celtics
It seems like Tatum has been around forever. But he’s only 25 as he is entering his seventh NBA season. He is the best player on a legitimate title contender. He was just outside the top-10 in EPM last season but was third in EW.
He is an apex predator wing scorer who averaged 30 points, eight rebounds, and four assists per game last year, and he can defend.
But something seems off when Tatum comes to mind as being the best player in the world. Maybe it’s because in his last two postseasons he’s come up short? The MVP is a regular season award, so that shouldn’t matter, but it no doubt is a factor.
I know what you’re thinking. What about Embiid? Curry or Durant?
There is so much drama in Philadelphia right now, I’m not sure they will be good enough for Embiid to repeat. Curry and Durant might not play the 65-games required to qualify for the award.
SGA is 25 and coming off his first All-NBA first team honor. The Thunder will be better than last year’s play-in team, and, more important, they have the pieces to trade for an elite disgruntled superstar to pair with SGA. Hmmm … where could general manager Sam Presti find one?
On the floor he was eighth in EPM and fifth in EW last season. He averaged 31 points, five rebounds, and five assists per game last season. He was the best player during the FIBA World Cup this past summer.
If the Thunder are competing for a top-five spot in the West, they will be a huge story and SGA will be getting a lot of attention.
“He Never Balled His Fists Up And Hit Me” | Kevin Porter Jr.’s Ex Kysre Gondrezick Saying The NBA Baller Never Hit Her
Former WNBA player Kysre Gondrezick, 26, is setting the record straight on the domestic violence allegations against her ex-boyfriend Kevin Porter Jr. Apparently the recently traded NBA player never hit Gondrezick, and she doesn’t have injuries that support those allegations.
Gondrezick Is Telling A Different Story
“My injuries don’t support any of those claims,” Gondrezick told the New York Post on Tuesday. She blamed the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office and police for incorrectly reporting what happened.
“He didn’t hit me. He never balled his fists up and hit me,” Gondrezick added. “And he definitely didn’t punch me in the face numerous times. That is a lie. I don’t have any injuries to support that.”
Did The DA Rush To Judgment?
Porter Jr. was arrested in New York in September after he and Gondrezick got into an alleged physical altercation at the Millennium Hilton NY Hotel. The former WNBA player told police at the time of the alleged incident that Porter struck her several times and choked her, leaving her with a laceration over her eye and a fractured neck vertebra.
Earlier this month Manhattan prosecutors dropped one of the assault charges on Porter Jr., saying he did not break Gondrezick’s neck.
“What initially appeared to be a fractured vertebra was not in fact an injury caused by the defendant,” Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Mirah Curzer told Judge Jay Weiner during Porter’s hearing in Manhattan Criminal Court.
Gondrezick says that the DA rushed to charge Porter Jr. and make details of the incident public without fully interviewing her.
“It happened very fast, not to the degree of what was reported,” she told the Post. “And it was an argument that occurred in the room for not even 10 seconds. We have given them numerous opportunities to come clean and to fix false information but they have yet to do so. My privacy, or my relationship, shouldn’t be publicized to catapult careers.”
The Rockets traded guard Kevin Porter Jr. and two future second-round picks to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday night. The Thunder will be immediately waiving Porter.
Porter, who has been free on $75,000 bail, still faces charges of second-degree strangulation and third-degree assault. He is due back in court on Nov. 27.
‘I’ve Been Here For Seven Years And All I’ve Done Is Lose’ | Denver Broncos’ Garett Bolles Could Be Solid Replacement For Retired LA Rams Tackle Andrew Whitsworth
The Denver Broncos have begun the season 1-5, with their only win coming against the the also one-win Chicago Bears.
For a team with pretty high expectations coming into the season under first-year head coach Sean Payton the team’s showing just isn’t acceptable. That’s to them, their fans and media pundits everywhere.
Denver Broncos Worse Than Expected In Year Two Under Russell Wilson
Six weeks into the season, this team looks worse than the one coached last season by former head coach Nathaniel Hackett who was fired after going 4-11.
What’s funny about this situation with Payton and his staff is how he chastised and took shots at Hackett and his staff for their coaching job last season.
In July, Payton characterized that as “one of the worst coaching jobs in the history of the NFL.” Now he and his staff are being called out by a current Broncos player.
OL Garett Boles Puts Onus On Broncos Staff To Pick It Up
Following the team’s Thursday night 19-8 loss to the reigning Super Bowl champions Kansas City Chiefs, Bolles called out the coaching staff for a few things.
“We came up short,” Bolles said. “The bottom line is that we’ve all got to get better. Our players have to get better. Our coaches have to be better.”
Shots fired by Bolles, a former All-Pro performer and the team’s best offensive lineman. Bolles says while the players have taken accountability, coaches also need to do the same, as Payton did, following his huge gaffe and poor coaching performance in Thursday’s loss.
Payton and defensive coordinator Vance Joseph have been under fire all season, and while it’s definitely warranted, it also sounds like Bolles wants to hear them say they need to prepare better and do things better from a preparation and in-game adjustment standpoint.
There’s a lot of uneasiness in the Mile High City now, and the only thing that’s going to change that is winning.
And Russell Wilson isn’t the problem for the most part, although he was bad against the Chiefs, not even passing for 100 yards and two interceptions. Prior to that game Wilson had passed for 11 touchdowns and just two interceptions.
Bolles To Be Traded? Can Help A Contender
Bolles, the former Utah Utes star, has been rather vocal about being tired of the losing in Denver. The high-grade blocking OC also mentioned that while he has no control over what happens, he’s not opposed to a change of scenery. The dominant run blocker, who also does a great job in the passing game, has been linked to the Los Angeles Rams.
Why the Rams?
They’ve been attempting to replace franchise stalwart offensive tackle Andrew Whitsworth. Adding Bolles could help unlock a struggling Rams running game. With former Super Bowl MVP Cooper Kupp finally healthy, and rookie wideout Puka Nacua doing some amazing things, fixing the running game is imperative if the Rams want to be a playoff team.
‘Out Of All People You Should Know Better’ | Eagles Legend Donovan McNabb Compares A.J. Brown To 2004 Terell Owens | Brown Shut It Down Immediately
Following Sunday’s 20-14 road loss to the New York Jets, the Philadelphia Eagles are now 5-1. But, for some reason folks feel as if the sky is falling in the City of Brotherly Love.
Through six games the Eagles offense hasn’t looked like the juggernaut from last season, but it’s been good enough along with some timely defense to win five of the team’s first six games.
The offense, which was like poetry in motion last season, has looked disjointed a bit this season.
That’s got former Eagles legend Donovan McNabb talking and giving his opinion on what he thinks is causing the disconnect. McNabb even rehashed the sideline incident that occurred between star quarterback Jalen Hurts and the team’s receiver A.J. Brown.
Donovan McNabb Recalls Beef With Terell Owens
To offer some perspective, McNabb brought up his infamous interaction with Pro Football Hall of Famer Terrell Owens during their rollercoaster seasons together in Philly.
The relationship ended ugly and has no chance at reconciliation to this day.
During a recent appearance on 94WIP sports radio with Jon Marks and Ike Reese, when asked about the team’s early season offensive struggles McNabb likened things to how they were when he and T.O. were teammates (2004-05).
“Philadelphia’s offense been so inconsistent each and every week, and I go back to before the — I can’t say argument, or maybe the complaint from A.J. Brown about being not more involved in the offense and getting the ball,” McNabb said.
“I go to that because I’ve seen it before, I understand it, I know as a QB you don’t want to be involved in it. … Play calls are being more catered to try to feature instead of establishing a tempo and … spreading the ball around,” McNabb added.
McNabb is pretty much saying during the 2004 and 2005 seasons that then-head coach Andy Reid featured the aforementioned Owens following their sideline disagreement in a loss versus the Steelers.
While that may be true, A.J. Brown isn’t buying the comparison and he let McNabb know about it in his response.
Brown Says McNabb Should Know Better
It didn’t take long for Brown to take to X, formerly known as Twitter, to respond. The 2022 second-team All-Pro wideout rebutted McNabb.
“With all due respect, I will repeat, that conversation was not about targets,” Brown said. “Two friends bumped heads about something and moved on, and if you feel that way, keep to yourself, because the media is going to hold on to everything you say. Out of all people you show know better.”
Mic drop, Brown wins!
For the season Brown has hauled in 42 receptions for 672 yards and two touchdowns. He’s averaging 16.0 yards per reception.
Top 5 Rookies Following Week 6 | Kansas Chiefs WR Rashee Rice Is Patrick Mahomes’ New Weapon
Six weeks in to the NFL season, and here are the top rookies around the league.
Rashee Rice, Chiefs, WR
While Rice’s overall numbers may not jump off the screen, the former SMU standout is beginning to look like the Chiefs’ top guy at wide receiver. In last Thursday’s 19-8 win over the division rival Denver Broncos, Rice had four receptions for 72 yards. Through six games Rice has 21 receptions for 245 yards and two touchdowns.
The more impressive stat is Rice’s six explosive plays, meaning he’s got six receptions that gained at least 20 yards. The expectancy is as he continues to learn the offense he’ll be featured even more in the Chiefs attack. Following Thursday’s win, Chiefs head coach Andy Reid had this to say about his rising pass catcher:
“Yeah, listen, he’s been getting better every week. I think you guys see that. He’s explosive and strong after the catch. That’s why.”
C.J. Stroud, Texans, QB
Another week and another winning performance from Stroud as he led the Texans to a 20-13 win over the Saints to get to 3-3. In the game the former Ohio State standout didn’t light it up stats-wise, but he played professional quarterback in leading his team. Stroud went a modest 13 of 27 for 199 yards, two touchdowns and one interception, which happened to be his first of the season. Stroud is currently the Rookie of the Year favorite, and, unless he falls off, he’ll be hard to unseat.
Through six games Stroud has passed for 1,660 yards, nine touchdowns and one interception. He’s been instrumental in the surprising .500 Texans start under first-year head coach DeMeco Ryans.
Zay Flowers, Ravens, WR
The Ravens are sort in the same position as the Chiefs. Blessed with a great tight end (Mark Andrews) and searching for a true No. 1 wide receiver. That seems to be where the speedy and dynamic Flowers is heading. With Rashod Bateman and Odell Beckham Jr., hampered by nagging injuries, quarterback Lamar Jackson has started to build a rapport with Flowers, who had six catches for 50 yards and a touchdown in Sunday’s London win over the Tennessee Titans
For the season the former Boston College standout has 35 receptions for 367 yards. Those numbers account for 47 percent of the Ravens’ wide receiver production thus far this season.
Dawand Jones, Browns, Tackle
Jones, the former Ohio State standout, has been a godsend for the Browns, especially with starter Jack Conklin lost for the season. Each week Jones has shown an ability to raise his play against various pass rushers, including doing his best to negate reigning DPOY Nick Bosa this past weekend in the Browns’ 19-17 upset win over the previously unbeaten Niners. While Bosa some made plays, Jones did a good job overall. He says he put in extra work to prepare for Bosa.
“Like I said, I needed to make sure I prepare well,” Jones said this week. “I went, got some reps with [Browns defensive end] Myles Garrett after practice, before practice, just make sure I understand where I’m getting a rush at.”
Bryce Young, Panthers, QB
The 2023 No. 1 overall pick has struggled to begin the season, but in Sunday’s loss to the Dolphins the former Alabama standout had his best game this season. Bryce Young went 23-for-38 for 217 yards and one touchdown, maybe even more impressive was he didn’t throw an interception after tossing two horrific ones the previous week.
The Panthers are 0-6, meaning Young is on a team that will likely be behind most weeks, therefore affording him the opportunity to put up some nice numbers. This week head coach Frank Reich gave up play-calling duties, so maybe that’ll help jumpstart Young.
Are You Part Of The “Groupies For Deion?” | Jason Whitlock Certainly Thinks So
Jason Whitlock believes Deion Sanders is a whole fraud. After the Colorado Buffaloes’ recent loss to Stanford University on Friday, Whitlock took offense to how Sanders handled his star recruit Travis Hunter.
“Because we have our racial idolatry lenses on, we don’t care about Travis Hunter,” Whitlock said on a recent episode of his “Fearless” podcast. “We don’t care about what’s best for Travis Hunter. All we care about is Deion ‘Prime Time” because we’re groupies for Deion,” said Whitlock.
Blame It On Travis
Hunter is arguably college football’s best player as a two-way star that has followed Sanders from Jackson State University in Mississippi to Colorado.
On Friday, Hunter racked up a career-high 13 catches for 140 yards and two TDs, but Stanford’s Elic Ayomanor had the last laugh with his team delivering a stunning loss to Colorado.
In the wideout/cornerback’s return after missing three games from a lacerated liver, the sophomore stumbled on defense.
Still, he was the catalyst for offense in the Buffs’ astonishing 46-43 double-overtime loss to Stanford.
Hunter was flagged for an unnecessary roughness penalty in the fourth quarter and turned a would-be field goal attempt into an eventual TD.
Whitlock has claimed that Sanders is corrupting football along with the coverage of artist Taylor Swift and her relationship with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce.
“Deion is your God, and you’re mad at me because he’s not my God,” Whitlock continued. “And you’re mad at me because I’m telling you that you’re worshipping a false god.”
After the surprising loss to Stanford, Sanders was emotional. His team blew a 29-0 lead at halftime, and many felt the team’s hubris led to their second-half downfall.
The Sanders Effect
“This is a little tough for me, and I’m trying my best, and I thank you all for your patience,” Sanders said in the post-game press conference. “And I thank you all for your heart because this is really tough for me.”
Sanders went further when saying that he was not looking for sympathy for his team and they would rebound from the epic loss.
“It’s life. This ain’t the only thing going on in life … We can’t sit down and have a pity party,” Sanders said to the reporters on Colorado Buffs TV. “Don’t feel bad for us. We have to take this on the chin because we deserve it.”
As for Whitlock, Sanders is bad for football, and he is finding more ways to explain why.
LeBron James Shows A Bit Too Much Love For His “Munchkin” | Daddy Embarrasses Daughter Zhuri With His Supportive Comments During Her Volleyball Game
People use many titles, nicknames, and adjectives to describe LeBron James — from superstar to GOAT to activist to American hero.
One of many accurate descriptions that sometimes can be overlooked is the title of “father.”
It’s crazy when you think about it because one of his three children, Bronny, is on the University of Southern California basketball team, while the other, Bryce, is a high-school basketball star; and Bron is very active in their lives. Fans tend to forget that he has a family of his own, with his wife Savannah, not just basketball boys, but a young daughter who is embarking on her athletic career.
While the hoops world is getting energized for the start of the NBA season, LeBron James is preoccupied being the greatest at his favorite job, as a dad.
This is evidenced by a video going viral of LeBron supporting his youngest child, and only daughter Zhuri James, at her volleyball game.
The video, which was captured by James himself, displayed him being arguably the most famous fan an athlete could have, and an overly excited father who was cheering his daughter on as she served the ball.
In the video, LeBron can be heard cheering, saying, “Do your thing, Munchkin. Do your thing.” He also shouted that nickname for Zhuri by saying, “Let’s go Munchkin!”
Anyone who has participated in sports as a young child knows that your parents attending and overzealously cheering you on can be quite the spectacle for other spectators, and quite the embarrassment for you.
Regardless of LeBron being worth over a billion dollars, one of the coolest fathers, and probably the most recognizable face in a gymnasium, that embarrassment was still there for Zhuri.
Immediately after LeBron shouted his last Munchkin comment, Zhuri turned around and stared at him, completely embarrassed. She actually gave him the death stare — a look only a doting father and daughter would know.
LeBron posted that on Instagram, captioning it “Another One in the making! Uh-Oh !! Let’s Gooooooo Munchin!! @allthingszhuri got NEXT!! VIBES!! #JamesGang ZTZTheWarriorPrincess”
LeBron Has Always Been A Loud and Proud Dad
One of the many things that makes LeBron James one of the greatest athletes of all time is that even when averaging over 27 points, 7 assists, and 7 rebounds throughout his career, he’s always figured out how to be his family’s number-one fan.
LeBron is always at his kids’ games, sometimes practices, and routinely drops the whole “superstar in public” act to engage in a way that most parents do at their child’s games. Bron has even picked up the coach’s clipboard in the past and offered his genius to youth teams in the heat of battle.
It’s no secret that Bronny, LeBron’s eldest son, chose USC to be close to his family while he’s at college.
LeBron clearly emphasizes making time for his family, regardless of all of that keeps him busy, including his various business ventures. And the moment he shared with his daughter is proof that LeBron James isn’t that much different than you and me when it comes to his kids.
It’s Always Something With T.O. | Hall Of Fame WR Terrell Owens Hit By Car In Calabasas After Pickup Hoops Game
Pro Football Hall of Fame WR Terrell Owens was deliberately struck by a car on Monday night in Calabasas, California, after a pickup basketball game.
According to reports, Owens and another man got into an argument during the game, after the game the other man got into his car and drove into Owens. The former All-Pro wasn’t seriously injured and didn’t need to go to the hospital, according to police. No arrests have been made as of this writing.
Argument During A Pickup Game
I have questions.
How fast was that car going that Owens’ knee got clipped but he didn’t need to go to the hospital? Why are grown men getting mad over a pickup basketball game? Why do people love coming for Owens?
T.O. is lucky that he wasn’t seriously injured, that could’ve ended badly.
People obviously get heated during competition, but to then get into your car to try and seriously hurt someone is crazy.
T.O. has had his share of run-ins with people in public over the last couple years.
In August of 2022, Owens and a white woman in his neighborhood got into an argument after she accused him of driving recklessly and almost hitting her while she was riding her bicycle. The woman started crying when police arrived on the scene and accused Owens of trying to intimidate her. No arrests were made and everyone went on their way, but T.O. posted a video on his Instagram account about the neighborhood “Karen.”
Conflict Seems To Find Owens
In November of 2022, Owens knocked a man out hard right cross outside a CVS in Los Angeles. The man was allegedly harassing and heckling patrons inside the store and once outside took a swing at Owens.
Owens has also been in a back and forth with ESPN talking head Stephen A. Smith this year, though that is just a lot of posturing on social media and television. There have been no threats of violence.
Maybe Owens is a magnet for contention because he likes it? Who knows. Maybe it would be best if he just laid low for a while.
On the field he was one of the greatest WRs of all-time. Second in yards and third in TDs. A six-time Pro Bowl selection and five-time first team All-Pro, who led the league in TDs in three different seasons.
Damian Lillard’s Wife Wants Sole Custody Of Three Children | Kay’La Lillard Claims She’s Done Helping Him Maintain False ‘Image Of a Family Man’
Milwaukee Bucks guard Damian Lillard could be headed for a contentious custody battle amid divorce proceedings with his estranged wife.
RadarOnline reports Kay’La Lillard has requested sole custody of the couple’s three children, stating she has “been the primary parent for our three children since their birth.”
Custody Battle Brewing?
In the request she also states that Dame has never been the sole parent responsible for the care of the children for an extended period without help.
Damian Lillard has “never been the sole parent responsible for the care of all three of our children, for any hours-long period without the help of nannies, assistants, and/or family members.”
Kay’La added that she “made all the major decisions” regarding the kids’ healthcare, education, and was the point of contact with the nannies on coordination for the kids’ extracurricular activities.
It also appears that Kay’La is revealing some truths about the later stages of their marriage and that she played a part in the image of Dame as a “family man.”
“I understand he is busy and has many commitments he must attend to. I also understand that the brand ‘Damian Lillard’ needs to continue with an image of a family man. Despite our separation for several months, I have continued to support that image to the public.”
In the request Kay’La also said that the trade to the Bucks will place additional limitations on Dame’s ability to parent.
She noted when Dame is in town and “is not traveling for basketball, publicity, endorsements, or his music endeavors, he would pop over to visit for anywhere between 30 minutes to an hour to play with the kids … a few times a week.”
What Does This Mean On The Court?
Kay’La said she wants the children to have a “healthy” relationship with their father and that the two worked out an agreement for August and September of this year, though there was some unspecified trouble.
She also said she would like to work out a custody agreement but if the two are unable to do so, she would like the court to assist.
Does this sound like a recipe for simple divorce proceedings and a custody arrangement?
Whether this goes through mediation or an actual court battle this will be something that takes a toll on both parties. While the welfare of the children is the primary concern, we can’t ignore the basketball side of things.
How will this impact Dame on the floor? Like some elite athletes will he use basketball as a refuge and channel his emotions into elite play? Or will we start seeing a negative effect?
Time will tell. But this will be the most difficult and important season of Dame’s career.
“Clean Up And Let Them Draft Me” | Dwyane Wade Compares NBA Process To Transatlantic Slave Trade and We’ve Heard This Before
Dwyane Wade is reflective over his NBA career as of late, participating in interviews where he keeps it real on his playing days and marriage to Gabrielle Union.
Now he is sounding in line with former NFL quarterback-turned-activist Colin Kaepernick and comparing the process of being drafted into the NBA to the transatlantic slave trade.
“Just thinking, man. Bring ’em here, clean ’em up. Just to go sell them then they get branded,” Wade said on a three-part BET special about his wife, titled :Gabrielle Union: My Journey to 50.”
“I could do nothing but think about the way God built me and how my physique fits,” he said. “Well, you know, it’s like you go to the NBA, and your physique matters. My arms being long, the build of my body, my athleticism. That’s what got me drafted … The same process that changed my family’s life and fortune, the same process that had us enslaved. It’s the same thing. Clean up and let them draft me. It’s built off the same principle.”
Is The Draft A Modern-Day Slave Auction?
It is no secret that in the super competitive NBA, every coach and general manager is looking for key elements that will make their team go from good to great. The unique physiques that make NBA players special are a factor — from height, speed, and ability to jump higher than most to an overall will to win.
The fact that many Black athletes are proficient in sports like basketball and football, yet the ownership ranks are still majority white, provides a nuance into the cultural undertones of the business. In the Netflix series, “Colin in Black & White,” Kaepernick made the exact correlation between the NFL’s combine with modern-day slavery.
In the first episode, Black football players are doing drills in front of white coaches in what feels eerily reminiscent of a slave auction.
“What they don’t want you to understand is what’s being established is a power dynamic,” Kaepernick said. “Before they put you on the field, teams poke, prod and examine you, searching for any defect that might affect your performance,” he continued. “No boundary respect. No dignity left intact.”
Contradictions
Ironically, Kaepernick still wants to play for that system, even writing a letter to the New York Jets in the wake of Aaron Rodgers’ injury, out of interest in playing on the practice squad.
Wade is part of the NBA ownership structure as a minority owner of the Utah Jazz, and even though that is progress on an equity level, there is no indication that his presence alone helps any draft processes not feel like a mimicry of enslaving. His oldest son, Zaire Wade, is a professional basketball player who last played for the Cape Town Tigers of the Basketball Africa League.
The topic is profound, and Wade’s point is made. Still, with so many contradictions between Dwyane Wade and his family’s real-life basketball ambitions and his view on its potentially culturally stifling structure, D Wade has a lot to think about when criticizing the game of basketball that has made him a global superstar.
“Don’t Nobody Care That You Won A Heisman” | Cam Newton Tells USC QB Caleb Williams To Be Careful Trying To Control Where He Goes In 2024 NFL Draft
The 2024 NFL draft is set to have a ton of QB talent available to be drafted. That group could be led by USC star QB and reigning Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams, who’s firmly entrenched as the top player and signal-caller in next April’s festivities. But the kicker is Williams, who’s only a junior, could opt to stay in school and instead enter the 2025 NFL draft.
Earlier this month rumors spread that unless Williams is drafted by one of these five teams — Cowboys, Raiders, Vikings, Giants and 49ers — he will return to USC. Again, that’s rumored, and nothing that’s been said by Williams or his camp. In that same rumor was Williams reportedly saying he could make more via NIL by returning to USC next season. Sounds like a plan, right?
While it might be, former Heisman Trophy winner and NFL MVP Cam Newton is telling Williams to relax on trying to force his way to a certain team.
Newton Wants Williams To Not Show His Hand Too Soon
Recently speaking on his YouTube channel, the rather opinionated Newton had this to say to Williams:
“My dear Heisman fellow Caleb Williams,” Newton started. “You don’t want to dictate the ramifications too soon, because this is still the NFL. You want to walk as light as possible. They may see this as an antic to say, ‘Who the hell does he think he can do or be by selecting his own teams?’”
“For me, I feel like, bro, do you,” Newton continued. “Set the tone early. But while you’re setting that tone, Mr. Caleb, I must admonish you to know this: You gotta perform. If you don’t perform, this ain’t USC. Don’t nobody care that you won a Heisman … so hate him for taking a pay cut and going to the NFL? Hell nah, motherf—r, make that money!”
What Cam is telling Williams sounds like some sound advice. The question is whether Williams will take heed. In many ways Williams could be mirroring Newton, who was the No. 1 overall pick in 2011 and a Heisman winner.
Newton also advised Williams about the difference in speed, physicality and overall preparation from the college to the pro game.
Williams Is Wrong About Making More Staying At USC
At USC Williams is capitalizing on NIL, which has his valuation at $2.7 million this season. That’s good enough for third amongst college football players, trailing only Colorado QB Shedeur Sanders and Texas QB Arch Manning. But that’s nothing compared to the over $40 million deal Williams would receive as the No. 1 overall pick. That includes an over $25 million signing bonus as well.
So, in essence, Caleb wouldn’t make more money staying at USC another season. Let’s see how this goes. Despite playing the worst game of his collegiate career in a 48-20 blowout loss to Notre Dame over the weekend, Williams is still the unquestioned top prospect in next spring’s draft if he enters it.
