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  • Chargers Seek Rebound vs Raiders

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    The Chargers most recently fell 35-6 to the Jacksonville Jaguars, ending the team’s three-game win streak

    Omarion Hampton’s return will have to wait another week.

    After missing the Los Angeles Chargers’ last six games, the No. 22 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft will be kept off the gridiron Sunday afternoon at SoFi Stadium against the Las Vegas Raiders in the Chargers’ No. 12 game of the 2026-2026 season. The Chargers are coming off a bye week and a 29-point loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars on Nov. 16 – ending the three-game win streak.

    The former RB1 returned to the Chargers’ practices this week, and despite being ruled out of Sunday’s contest, offensive coordinator Greg Roman has stated that the Los Angeles squad will utilize a 1-2 punch from the backfield with Hampton and Vidal – the team’s main tailback since losing Hampton and running back Najee Harris.

    Vidal has been inconsistent in his time as the Chargers’ featured back, running for 95-plus yards in alternating weeks from Oct. 12 onwards, including a 124-yard performance against the Miami Dolphins, a 117-yard rushing attack against the Minnesota Vikings and a 95-yard night against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

    However, Vidal’s high-performance games are balanced by inefficient production in the weeks in between, notching 20 yards against the Indianapolis Colts, 30 ground yards against the Tennessee Titans, and just 13 yards in the Chargers’ most recent defeat by the Jaguars.

    After a loss that brought the Los Angeles squad to 7-4, the Chargers should have a good opportunity for a rebound performance against the Raiders, their division rivals.

    The Raiders are 2-9 in the NFL and rank last in the AFC West, and are riding a five-game losing streak. The Las Vegas squad has scored 20-plus points in just one of the Raiders’ last seven games, resulting in the removal of Chip Kelly as the team’s offensive coordinator.

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    Under Kelly’s tutelage of the offense, the Raiders offense tied for No. 31 in scoring, ranked No. 30 in total offense, No. 31 in rushing offense – despite drafting Ashton Jeanty with the sixth pick in the 2025 NFL Draft – No. 25 in passing offense and No. 31 in sacks allowed. 

    Despite the departure of Kelly and the offense’s lack of prowess, quarterback Geno Smith looks to remain the Raiders’ starter under center. Smith has thrown for 2,367 passing yards and 13 touchdowns on a 66.6% completion percentage. However, Smith’s pitfall comes with his miscues – throwing 13 interceptions through 11 games, matching his passing touchdown total.

    Smith’s main targets, and the Chargers’ threats to be aware of, include tight end Brock Bowers and outside wide receiver Tre Tucker. Bowers, who broke multiple rookie records last season, has amassed 510 yards – second most behind Tucker – and three receiving touchdowns.

    Tucker leads the Raiders with 530 receiving yards and five touchdowns and has seen an increased role after the departure of wide receiver Jakobi Meyers to the Jacksonville Jaguars. 

    Meyers has been essential to the Raiders’ offense over the past few seasons and still ranks third on the team in receiving yards despite only playing seven games in a Raiders uniform this season.

    The Raiders offense has struggled all season long and is in disarray, setting up the Chargers for what could be a perfect bounce-back affair.

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    Connor Dullinger

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  • NFL Week 13: Houston Texans at Indianapolis Colts – Houston Press

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    If the Houston Texans go on to do anything remarkable the remainder of the year, like make the postseason and win a couple games, the three game stretch where C.J> Stroud was concussed and Davis Mills came in and went 3-0 will be looked back upon as possibly even more surreal than it feels right now. 

    Mills capped off a perfect record in his three game stint as a starter undefeated, piling up nearly as many wins in 11 days as he did in two seasons back in 2021 and 2022. It’s exactly why Texans GM Nick Caserio has already given Mills two contract extensions, and honestly, those three games might trigger several phone calls to Caserio from opposing GM’s looking for a bridge starter at quarterback.

    That’s a conversation for the offseason, though, because now here comes C.J. Stroud, back into the lineup this weekend. The Texans’ defense is playing at a meteoric level right now, so the pressure is on Stroud to steward an offense where “slightly above average” should win enough games to get into the postseason.

    This week, the Texans travel to Indianapolis to face the division leading Colts. A win in Indy and, all of a sudden, the Texans’ third straight division crown is back in the conversation. A loss, and the Texans will practically need to run the table to get into the playoffs. 

    Here are four things to watch for in Indy on Sunday:

    4. Welcome back, C.J. Stroud 

    It will be very itneresting to see what this offense does with Stroud back at the helm. Prior to going down with his concussion, Stroud was dynamite against San Francisco and briefly against Denver, until he left the game. If that version of Stroud comes back, it’ll be a good day on Sunday. Stroud is 2-0 at Lucas Oil Stadium in his career, and he is 9-4 in AFC South games since arriving in the NFL in 2023. This begins a HUGE six game stretch for Stroud’s contractual future, as well. 

    3. Nico versus Sauce

    A few weeks ago, just prior to the NFL’s trade deadline, the Colts traded two first round picks to the Jets for former All Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner. It was a risky, “chips all in” move that, thus far, has paid tepid returns, at best. This game is full of huge individual matchups, but none bigger than Gardner going up against Texans No. 1 wideout Nico Collins. Collins has been picking up the pace since a slow start, and now he can have some say in the ongoing debate between who is the better corner between Gardner and Collins’ teammate, Derek Stingley, Jr.

    2. Jonathan Taylor, the head of the snake 

    When it comes to taking away the most important things that the Colts do well offensively, shutting down running back Jonathan Taylor is the foremost key. Taylor leads the league in rushing yards with 1,197 yards on the ground, but last week against the Chiefs, he was held to 58 yards on 16 carries, and the Colts were running in wet cement the entire fourth quarter and overtime. The Texans are fully capable of taking away the other team’s marquee running back, as they’ve done several times this season. The key will be shutting down Taylor, because….

    1. The “old” Daniel Jones

    … Daniel Jones appears to be back to his old ways, and if there is no running game to speak of, then there is no play action, and if there is no play action, it means Jones is pocket fodder for the QB sack tandem of Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter. On top of the general regression of Jones and the offense, which was sensational through the first eight games, Jones is also dealing with a fibula injury that affects his ability to run the football and scramble. The rest of the division has been waiting for the New York Giant version of Jones to show up for three months now. Well, here he is.

    SPREAD: Texans +4.5

    PREDICTION: Texans 23, Colts 22

    SEASON RECORD: 5-6 SU, 6-5 ATS

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

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    Sean Pendergast

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  • Eagles Injury Update: Secondary Concerns Mount Ahead of Black Friday Clash – Philadelphia Sports Nation

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    THIS BLOG CONTAINS LINKS FROM WHICH WE MAY EARN A COMMISSION. Credit: dachibearsnews-Instagram

    The Philadelphia Eagles find themselves in a precarious position as late November 2025 brings a short week and a long injury list.

    Following a frustrating collapse against Dallas, the team must quickly regroup for a high-stakes Black Friday matchup against the Chicago Bears. The roster is dealing with significant attrition, particularly in the defensive backfield, which could force defensive coordinator Vic Fangio to get creative.

    Injuries are often the great equalizer in late-season football, and this week is no exception. When looking at the NFL odds, the availability of key starters shifts the conversation from simple talent comparisons to questions of depth and scheme. Understanding who suits up provides a clearer picture of the challenge ahead without needing to focus on the lines themselves. The reality is that Philadelphia must navigate these absences to secure a vital win.

    The coaching staff faces a difficult task in shuffling the lineup. With playoff positioning on the line, the “next man up” mentality will be tested.

    Below is a detailed look at the health of the roster and what fans can expect on Friday.

    Major Blow to the Secondary

    The most significant news involves rookie safety Andrew Mukuba. Mukuba is officially out for Week 13 after suffering an ankle fracture against the Cowboys. The promising defender is expected to miss roughly a month, with a potential return targeted for Week 16. His absence creates a void in the secondary that has been a bright spot for much of the season.

    Credit: dachibearsnews-Instagram

    Compounding the issue is the status of safety Reed Blankenship. He is listed as questionable with a thigh injury. However, current reports suggest optimism regarding his availability, and he is expected to play against Chicago. If he can go, it stabilizes a unit that cannot afford to lose two starters simultaneously.

    Cornerback depth remains another area of concern. Adoree’ Jackson is questionable as he undergoes concussion evaluation. If Jackson cannot clear the league protocol in time for the short turnaround, the defense will need to rely heavily on its reserve corners to slow down the Bears’ passing attack.

    Offensive Line and Skill Positions

    The injury bug has not spared the offense. Offensive tackle Lane Johnson is questionable due to a foot injury. Johnson is the anchor of the offensive line, and his status is paramount for protecting the quarterback and establishing the run game. Any limitations he faces would force quick adjustments to the protection schemes.

    In the receiving room, Xavier Gipson is questionable with a shoulder issue. While not a primary target, his speed offers a tactical advantage that the offense misses when he is sidelined. His potential absence would limit the gadget plays and deep threats available in the playbook.

    Reserve Updates and Outlook

    Several players remain unavailable as they work through long-term recovery. Myles Hinton stays on injured reserve with a back injury, while Willie Lampkin is out with a knee problem. Both are expected to return later in the year, providing hope for reinforcements down the stretch, but they offer no immediate relief for this week.

    Key Injury Statuses for Week 13:

    • Andrew Mukuba (Safety): Out with an ankle fracture; return likely Week 16
    • Reed Blankenship (Safety): Questionable (thigh); expected to play
    • Lane Johnson (OT): Questionable (foot)
    • Adoree’ Jackson (CB): Questionable (concussion protocol)
    • Xavier Gipson (WR): Questionable (shoulder)

    The Eagles are bruised but not broken. The short week offers little time for recovery, meaning the training staff will be working overtime up until kickoff.

    For the fans, the focus remains on how the coaching staff adjusts to these setbacks.

    A win on Friday would go a long way in washing away the bitter taste of the Dallas loss.

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    Enhancing Your Philadelphia Sports Fan Experience

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  • An Eagles Dream Team? Start By Giving Me Malcolm Jenkins and Bucko Kilroy Any Day – Philadelphia Sports Nation

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    Credit: Philadelphia Eagles-Facebook

    The Eagles are one of the most electric teams to watch in the NFL , and on Friday, in front of a Lincoln Financial Field crowd encouraged to dress in honor of Philadelphia’s alternate uniforms of black helmets, pants, and jerseys ,  the Eagles will honor Malcolm Jenkins and Bucko Kilroy by inducting them into the Eagles Hall of Fame.

    Malcolm Jenkins

    Credit: Philadelphia Eagles-Facebook

    The Eagles have had some great safeties over the decades. Brian Dawkins pulverized opposing platers in the early 2000s. Andre Waters and Wes Hopkins flattened anyone daring to come across the middle in the early 1990s.

    Bill Bradley was one of the few bright spots for the franchise in the early 1970s. And Andrew Mukuba and Reed Blankenship are well on their way to make a significant impact of their own during the best time in the long history of the Eagles.

    Malcolm Jenkins is at the top of that list as well.

    When he arrived in Philadelphia in 2014 during the Chip Kelly Era , he didn’t just bring hard hits. Malcolm Jenkins was a leader. The culmination of his efforts as a player and mentor was a 2018 Super Bowl Championship in which he pancaked New England Patriots receiver Brandin Cooks,  knocking him out of the game.

    Bucko Kilroy

    Bucko Kilroy became an Eagle in a period when the franchise was anything but stellar. The Eagles had become so bad that the first-ever franchise quarterback actually made a career move, becoming an FBI field agent rather than returning to compete with the Eagles. The team even lost their first ever game to New York at the Polo Grounds 56–0.

    Bucko was born here (Port Richmond) and even attended St. Anne’s Grade School and eventually Northeast Catholic High School. When he joined the Eagles as an UDFA in 1945, Kilroy entered the NFL the very same year that Pittsburgh and Philadelphia joined forces due to the war effort to play one season as the Steagles. 

    Bucko Kilroy would play over a decade in Philadelphia — and even set an NFL record with one hundred and forty-three consecutive games. Behind his Pro Bowl play  was fellow Hall of Famer and running back Steve Van Buren, who ran to a total of 7 NFL rushing titles. Between 1953 and 1955,  Kilroy was a Pro Bowler each year.

    So, when it comes to assembling my Eagles Dream Team?

    Give me Jenkins and Kilroy not only on this day, but also on all days. On any day.

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    Michael Thomas Leibrandt

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  • NFL reacts to postgame handshake between Patrick Mahomes, Dak Prescott

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    With the Kansas City Chiefs and Dallas Cowboys both coming off big Week 12 wins, the two teams squared off Thursday in a highly anticipated Thanksgiving matchup at 4:30 p.m. EST on CBS.

    The Chiefs opened the game by forcing a turnover that turned into a Rashee Rice touchdown, but the Cowboys answered and went into halftime with the lead before eventually closing out a 31-28 victory.

    Dak Prescott led the charge for Dallas, completing 27 of 39 passes for 320 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. Seven of those passes went to WR CeeDee Lamb who recorded 112 yards and a TD.

    For Kansas City, Patrick Mahomes delivered a strong outing of his own, going 23-of-34 for 261 yards and four touchdowns with no turnovers.

    After the final whistle, the mutual respect between the two star quarterbacks was evident as Mahomes and Prescott met at midfield for a postgame handshake.

    “What a performance from these two,” the NFL posted.

    More news: Minnesota Vikings Emerge Again in Aaron Rodgers Speculation

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    More news: Bills Get Troubling News on Josh Allen Before Steelers Game

    “they stepped up big time,” a fan said.

    Someone else added, “Totally epic duo right there!”

    Another person wrote, “Both played fantastic football.”

    “KC loses, America wins!” One more fan commented.

    With the win, the Cowboys move to 6-5-1 and stay firmly in the NFC playoff hunt. The Chiefs, meanwhile, continue their up-and-down stretch, falling to 6-6 and sitting on the outside looking in on the AFC side of the bracket.

    If Kansas City ultimately misses the postseason, it would mark the first time in the Mahomes era, as he’s reached either the AFC Championship Game or the Super Bowl in every season of his career as the Chiefs’ primary starter.

    More news: San Francisco 49ers Urged to Make Drastic Brock Purdy Move

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  • Geno Smith’s frustration boils over with obscene gesture toward fed-up Raiders fans

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    HENDERSON, Nev. (AP) — All indications since he joined the Raiders this year are that Geno Smith is popular and well-respected in the locker room, and his interactions with the media have mostly been positive.

    But everyone has a breaking point, and Smith might have reached his on Sunday.

    After he was sacked 10 times in a 24-10 loss to Cleveland and booed from the moment he was introduced, Smith was seen making an obscene gesture toward fans as he left the field. Shortly thereafter, his answers in the postgame news conference were uncharacteristically brief.

    The Raiders pointed to a statement they issued to the Las Vegas Review-Journal regarding the incident with fans.

    “We are disappointed in his actions and have discussed the incident with Geno,” the statement read. “We hold the Raider Nation in the highest regard and take this matter seriously.”

    It’s understandable why Smith is frustrated. This isn’t the kind of season he and coach Pete Carroll envisioned when the Raiders traded with Seattle to land him. Both had success with the Seahawks and had every intention of translating that to Las Vegas.

    Smith even spoke at his introductory news conference of having “unfinished business.”

    But 11 games and an NFL-high 13 interceptions later, his business with the Raiders may be closer to finished. Judging Smith as the starting quarterback is tricky, however, given how inept the offensive line — coached by Carroll’s son, Brennan — has been.

    Smith had virtually no chance against Myles Garrett and the Browns’ pass rush, and as Carroll said Monday regarding the offensive line, “We got the guys we got.”

    But Smith will have a new offensive coordinator and play-caller in Greg Olson, the interim replacement for Chip Kelly, who was fired Sunday night. Maybe Olson, in his third stint as the Raiders’ OC, will find a way to help Smith play better than he has to this point.

    That Carroll has fired two coordinators in the same month — special teams boss Tom McMahon was let go on Nov. 7 — is more than telling. Carroll had never fired a coordinator in-season before he got to Las Vegas.

    “I’m really surprised as well that this has happened, but I think our players deserve it, and our fans deserve that we give them our best shot, and that’s what competing is all about,” Carroll said. “It’s just a very difficult time to have to do this … but we’re 2-9. So, unfortunately, that’s where we are.”

    What’s working

    DE Maxx Crosby. When is he not? Crosby always brings it, in practices or games. He was sensational even by his standards against the Browns, recording a personal-high five tackles for loss. His 19 tackles for loss this season are on pace to surpass the 23 he registered in 2023, when Crosby led the league in that category for the second year in a row. He trails only the 26 by Browns superstar Myles Garrett.

    What needs help

    The offensive line. If T Kolton Miller returns from injury at some point, it will get at least a little better. But any true improvement will have to occur in the offseason. This line might be the NFL’s worst and will need an overhaul. Giving up 10 sacks even to a stellar Browns defensive front is inexcusable, but the lack of pass protection and run blocking is not new.

    Stock up

    Move up the boards. The Raiders are up to fifth in next year’s draft order, and there’s a real chance they won’t win again this season. If Las Vegas loses out, the Raiders could put themselves in line to draft Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza and maybe find the franchise quarterback they so desperately need.

    Stock down

    Job security. With two coordinators gone already, no one can feel too comfortable about their future in Las Vegas. That includes Carroll. Massive change figures to come in the offseason, and given how this season is playing out, it would be difficult to argue for the status quo.

    Injuries

    The Raiders got some rare good news with RB Ashton Jeanty (ankle) avoiding serious injury. He is not expected to miss any time. …There is still hope Miller (ankle) will return by the end of the season, but Carroll said his situation was “more week to week” than day to day.

    Key number

    8 — The number of play-callers the Raiders have had since October 2021, including Olson twice.

    Next steps

    The Raiders visit their AFC West rival Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday.

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    AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

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  • NFL to honor America’s 250th birthday with special tributes once calendar flips to 2026

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    The National Football League will honor the United States of America’s 250th birthday later this season with a special ball and field decor.

    The pigskin, which will begin to be used in the final week of the season, will feature the word “America” with the number 250 in a red, white and blue ribbon.

    The league also said there will be special end zone insignia, along with commemorative coins for the referees throughout the playoffs, including Super Bowl LX in the Bay Area.

    CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM 

    Recording artist Jon Batiste sings the national anthem before Super Bowl LIX between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs at Caesars Superdome. (Kirby Lee/Imagn Images)

    There also will be a celebration at the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh.

    “The NFL is proud to participate in celebrating America’s 250th anniversary,” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a news release. “The story of the NFL reflects the story of America, and the American spirit of resilience, innovation and teamwork has helped football grow into a cultural pastime that unites us all. We are excited to honor our country’s history and celebrate our collective future.”

    Coaches and staff also will receive special sideline apparel for playoff games, and fans will be able to purchase such apparel online.

    NFL 250 ball

    The NFL will use this ball beginning Week 18. (NFL)

    NFL WEEK 13 SCHEDULE: FANS GET TO FEAST ON A TON OF FOOTBALL

    The league also is “collaborating with its broadcast partners to feature a special performance of ‘God Bless America’ at the Saturday night game in Week 18,” the release said.

    Goodell said the league has been working with the White House’s Salute to America 250 Task Force to honor the country.

    The coins used by the referees will be auctioned off, the NFL said.

    Week 18 games will be played on both Jan. 3 and 4, as numerous playoff spots figure to be up for grabs.

    An American flag covers the field before an NFL football game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the New York Giants, Sunday, Sept. 24, 2017, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Michael Perez)

    An American flag covers the field before an NFL game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the New York Giants in Philadelphia. (AP)

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    The 250th birthday celebration will also feature a UFC event that will take place at the White House South Lawn on June 14, which will be President Donald Trump‘s 80th birthday.

    Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

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  • NFL star sacks dating speculation, shares pregame kiss with two-time Olympic gold medalist

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    After months of speculation, it appears official: Browns superstar Myles Garrett and two-time Olympic gold medalist Chloe Kim are dating. 

    The couple, who have been linked since appearing together at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards in Tokyo in May, were shown in a video posted to social media sharing a kiss before the Browns’ 24-10 win on Sunday. 

    The Browns’ Instagram posted a clip of Garrett mic’d up taking a picture with Kim and family before the game and captioned the post, “Myles playing on a whole other level since (Chloe Kim) been around, jus sayin.”

    CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

    NFL player Myles Garrett and snowboarder Chloe Kim attend the photo call for the Crunchyroll Anime Awards 2025 red carpet at Grand Prince Hotel Takanawa in Tokyo, Japan, on May 25, 2025. (Jun Sato/WireImage)

    In the video, Kim told Garrett, “I got makeup on your jersey,” to which the star pass rusher jokingly responded with, “I can’t believe you,” as he looked down at his jersey. 

    Garrett took a picture with Kim, her father Jong Jin Kim, and the rest of her family. After the picture, the pair kissed. 

    The 25-year-old snowboarder wished Garrett luck, and he responded with, “Thank you, love.”

    SHEDEUR SANDERS IS THE ‘MOST POWERFUL BLACK MAN’ SINCE OBAMA TOOK OFFICE, NBA CHAMP SAYS

    Myles Garrett celebrates

    Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett (95) celebrates after the team defeated the Las Vegas Raiders in an NFL football game in Las Vegas on Nov. 23, 2025. (AP Photo/Candice Ward)

    Garrett was outstanding, once again, in the Browns’ win as the six-time Pro Bowler recorded three sacks in the win. He leads the NFL in sacks with 18 on the year. 

    The 29-year-old has been on a tear recently, as he has an astounding 14 sacks in his last five games. Yet, the NFL’s best pass rusher might not even be the best athlete in his relationship. 

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    Chloe Kim celebrates

    Chloe Kim (USA) is seen during the medals ceremony for the women’s snowboard halfpipe at the Beijing 2022 Olympic Winter Games at Zhangjiakou Medals Plaza in Zhangjiakou, China, on Feb. 10, 2022. (Danielle Parhizkaran/USA TODAY Sports)

    Kim, 25, won Olympic gold in the halfpipe in the 2018 PyeongChang Olympic Games. She won the same event in the 2022 Beijing Games, becoming the first female snowboarder to win back-to-back halfpipe gold medals.

    Kim is set to compete for Team USA at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. 

    Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X, and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

    Ryan Canfield is a digital production assistant for Fox News Digital.

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  • Ex-NFL star explains why Shedeur Sanders’ overt confidence isn’t necessarily a bad thing

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    Cleveland Browns rookie Shedeur Sanders was blunt with his messages after he helped deliver a win in his first NFL start Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders.

    He warned the rest of the league that a full offseason with the first team might make the Browns look “dangerous” and he vowed to all of his critics that he wasn’t going to fail. Sanders was criticized on social media as being arrogant when he made those remarks after going 11-of-20 for 209 yards and a touchdown.

    CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

    Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders, left, and Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith (7) greet each other after an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, in Las Vegas.  (AP Photo/Eric Gay)

    Former NFL star Shawne Merriman told Fox News Digital in a recent interview that he was “on the fence” with some of the remarks that Sanders had made and could see why he would get the critiques of being arrogant or overconfident.

    “But the other side of that is, I do not want to play with a quarterback who’s not confident. I just don’t. I think, me personally, I think that little bit of cockiness that Shedeur has gives the Browns a sense that they got a chance to win every week, which they have not had the entire season,” the former San Diego Chargers linebacker said while praising Myles Garrett and the Cleveland defense.

    “When you have them, all they need is a defense. When you’re playing at that level, you have to feel like you’re walking into a game and you got a chance to win. That is enough. And I think that Shedeur’s confidence, whether people like it or not, it resonates through that locker room. You saw the guys on the sideline when he made that 50-plus-yard pass – that stuff is contagious. You’re walking that fine line of confidence and then saying things that can be considered cocky. You can tell that is a different team and I’m not just talking about just playing-wise. They walk into that game a lot more confident with Shedeur starting at quarterback.”

    Shedeur Sanders with the Browns' offense

    Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) prepares for a huddle against the Las Vegas Raiders during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 23, 2025, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/Candice Ward)

    HOW TO WATCH PACKERS VS LIONS NFL THANKSGIVING GAME ON TUBI, FOX ONE

    Sanders got the nod for the Browns’ Week 13 game against the San Francisco 49ers.

    Merriman expected big things to come for Sanders if he goes out and gets another win.

    “I know there’s a lot of outside pressure and media and him going fifth round and just everything outside the locker room,” he told Fox News Digital. “What happened with Shedeur is the best possible situation for him. You had two quarterbacks in front of him who did not pan out. What you want to do is don’t rush it, don’t listen to the people outside the locker room. He stayed the course and stayed positive. His time is here.

    Shawne Merriman vs Ravens

    San Diego Chargers linebacker (56) Shawne Merriman against the Baltimore Ravens at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego on Sept. 20, 2009. (Mark J. Rebilas/USA TODAY Sports)

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    “If he goes out and has another win this week, he will solidify himself as a starting quarterback going forward. He just has to ignore the stuff outside the locker room and keep doing what he’s doing.”

    Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

    Ryan Gaydos is a senior editor for Fox News Digital.

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  • Bet365 Bonus Code WEEK365: Get $150 Bonus For Chiefs-Cowboys, Bengals-Ravens

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    There is still plenty of Thanksgiving NFL action left, and you have the opportunity to capitalize on the bet365 bonus code WEEK365 welcome offer. Create your account now to choose between a $150 bonus offer and a $1,000 safety net for Chiefs-Cowboys or Bengals-Ravens. Click here to go to the landing page.

    If you missed out on the Packers-Lions game that started the day, you still have two big games to take advantage of. Both the Chiefs and Cowboys are hoping to make a wild card push. The Chiefs sit at 6-5 after a huge overtime win over the Colts on Sunday, while the Cowboys got back to 5-5-1 after coming back from 21-0 against the Eagles.

    Although the Bengals come into tonight’s game against the Ravens at 3-8, there is plenty of intrigue. Joe Burrow is making his return from injury, while the Ravens are currently on a five-game winning streak after starting the season 1-5.

    You can take advantage of either reward by betting on one of these games. Wager just $5 on any game to get the $150 in bonus bets. If you prefer the $1,000 first bet safety net, wager up to that amount on any market and get your stake refunded if your bet loses.

    Bet365 Bonus Code WEEK365 Redeems $150 NFL Thanksgiving Bonus

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    With the $150 bonus offer, you will just have to bet $5 on any market. No matter how that bet plays out, you will be given the bonuses. For example, you can bet $5 on the Chiefs to win today and immediately get your bonuses.

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    Complete an initial deposit with a compatible payment method, like a credit card. This will allow you to place your first bet to activate your preferred offer. Use your bonuses within one week before they expire from your account.

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  • FanDuel Promo Code: Claim $150 Bonus For Thanksgiving NFL Games

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    The latest FanDuel promo code offer comes at a perfect time with a loaded Thanksgiving NFL slate. Bet just $5 on Packers-Lions, Chiefs-Cowboys or Bengals-Ravens to get a chance at the updated $150 bonus bet offer today. Click here and create your account before the first game to secure your offer.

    The Lions host the first Thanksgiving game, as always. This time, it is a huge divisional matchup with the Packers. Both teams are in contention for the NFC North title with the Bears. For obvious reasons, this game is massive for both teams.

    The Chiefs-Cowboys game is also a big one, as both teams are on the fringe of the playoff picture. The Chiefs picked up a big overtime win over the Colts on Sunday, while the Cowboys pulled of a huge comeback against the Eagles.

    To end the day, the Bengals welcome back Joe Burrow as they go on the road to face the Ravens. It is likely too late for the Bengals to make a playoff push, but they look to snap the Ravens’ five-game winning streak.

    Bet just $5 on any market for these games to get your chance at the $150 in bonus bets from FanDuel Sportsbook.

    FanDuel Promo Code: Bet $5, Win $150 NFL Thanksgiving Bonus

    There is no restriction for your initial $5 bet, meaning you can pick an option that is very likely to settle as a win. Let’s take a look at some candidates:

    • Jared Goff 150+ passing yards (-1400)
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    • David Montgomery 15+ rushing yards (-1450)
    • Amon-Ra St. Brown 4+ receptions (-1800)
    • Dak Prescott 150+ passing yards (-1800)
    • Chiefs-Cowboys over 24.5 total points (-50000)
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    • Bengals +33.5 alternate spread (-20000)
    • Derrick Henry 50+ rushing yards (-1200)

    Alternate lines like these will give you a great chance of winning the $150 in bonus bets.

    Touchdown Bets For NFL Thanksgiving Games

    FanDuel Sportsbook provides plenty of touchdown prop markets. These are popular as straight bets, but you can also use them to formulate a parlay for one of today’s games. Bet on a player to score a touchdown at any time, the first touchdown, or multiple touchdowns. Some of the popular options for each of today’s games are listed below:

    • Jahmyr Gibbs: anytime (-190) / 1st (+430) / 2+ (+320)
    • Josh Jacobs: anytime (-150) / 1st (+500) / 2+ (+430)
    • Emanuel Wilson: anytime (-150) / 1st (+500) / 2+ (+430)
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    • Derrick Henry: anytime (-220) / 1st (+400) / 2+ (+260)
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    Claim Latest FanDuel Promo Code Offer

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    Newsweek may earn an affiliate commission if you sign up through the links in this article. See the sportsbook operator’s terms and conditions for important details. Sports betting operators have no influence over newsroom coverage.

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  • Week 13 NFL straight up, against the spread, and survivor pool picks: Thanksgiving and Black Friday edition

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    For the gambling degenerates, here are my Week 13 NFL picks, Thanksgiving and Black Friday edition.

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    Jimmy Kempski

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  • Eagles-Bears: Staff picks, betting odds, and more for a big Black Friday showdown

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    © 2025 WWB Holdings, LLC. All rights reserved

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    Nick Tricome

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  • Houston Football Fan Thanksgiving Weekend TV Viewer’s Guide – Houston Press

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    The holiday season is upon us, and with all due respect to Andy Williams, whose winter ditty “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” cites the Christmas season as just that, the most wonderful time of the year, if we are going to narrow it down to one weekend for football fans, Thanksgiving weekend is the most wonderful time of the year, hands down. 

    Starting late Thursday morning, once we get our token Turkey Trots and family touch football games out of the way, the holiday gods give us license to sit on the couch for four days. Unless you’re working, the only reason you should leave the couch is for bathroom breaks, drink refills, and leftover turkey sandwiches. 

    For folks in the Houston area, there is a ton of meaningful football being played over the next 72 hours, but you might need a map to navigate all of it. So, as James Taylor would say, “that’s why I’m here!” (Not sure why I keep quoting old, male singers. But I digress.) 

    So, for your gluttony and sloth benefit, here is my guide to football watching for the Houston football fan this weekend, with a brief blurb on each of these games, and what’s at stake:

    Thursday, November 27

    Chiefs at Cowboys, 3:30 p.m. (CBS)

    Houstonians will have to pinch their nose and tolerate rooting for the Cowboys for a few hours on Turkey Day, because a Dallas win over the Chiefs would be a huge help to the Texans’ playoff hopes. 

    Bengals at Ravens, 7:20 p.m. (NBC)

    The Bengals should be getting their quarterback Joe Burrow back in this one. Similar to the Cowboys, the Bengals can become the Texans’ best friends by damaging the 6-5 Ravens.

    Friday, November 28

    Texas at Texas A&M, 6:30 p.m. (ABC)

    Texas A&M can complete an historic undefeated regular season, clinch a slot in the SEC Title Game, and get one step closer to a first round bye in the College Football Playoff. Texas is trying to keep its microscopic playoff hopes alive. Oh, also, these two schools hate each other. 

    Saturday, November 29

    Texas Tech at West Virginia, 11 a.m. 

    The Red Raiders are a 24 point favorite, but stranger things have happened on the road in college football. A win clinches a spot in the Big XII Title Game for Tech, and gets them one step closer to the school’s first playoff berth.

    Houston at Baylor, 11 a.m.

    A win for the Coogs here gets them to 9-3 on the season, and should lock up a pretty substantial bowl berth, with several projections sending them to San Antonio and the Alamo Bowl. Baylor will be staying at home during bowl season, trying to figure out what to do with head coach Dave Aranda. 

    SMU at Cal, 7 p.m.

    Hey, we’ll throw a bone to some of the Houston area Mustang alum! A win for SMU clinches a spot in the ACC title game, and gets them one step closer to a second straight playoff appearance. 

    Sunday, November 30

    Texans at Colts, Noon (CBS)

    Not much needs to be said here, as several million of you, here in Houston, will be watching the latest “most important game of the season” for the Texans. 

    Jaguars at Titans, Noon (CBS)

    The Texans remain a game back of the Jaguars for second place in the division and a wild card spot in the postseason. The Titans are the worst team in football, and similar to the Cowboys, very painful for Houstonians to root for. However, a Titan upset would be huge for the Texans.

    Bills at Steelers, 3:25 p.m. (CBS)

    These are two teams the Texans are looking up at in the standings. The Texans just beat the Bills, so the Texans have the head to head tiebreaker, if they end up tied after the season. The Steelers beating the Bills is the play for which to root here, as the Steelers winning the AFC North doesn’t affect the Texans’ playoff standing. Buffalo falling to 7-5, combined with a Texans win, would vault the Texans past the Bills in the standings. 

    This article appears in Jan 1 – Dec 31, 2025.

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    Sean Pendergast

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  • Fully cleared to practice after cancer diagnosis, Broncos’ Alex Singleton says return will be ‘special’

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    Alex Singleton sees your DMs.

    He cannot respond to them all, of course. They come in hordes, from men and their wives and girlfriends across the world, people who have been stung with the same shock as he got after a visit to a urologist three weeks ago. It has been a whirlwind, Singleton admitted Wednesday. But he has not gotten swept away. He sees them.

    With those messages comes responsibility, the 31-year-old Singleton knows. On his first day back practicing in Denver, weeks after surgery to remove a testicular tumor, a reporter asked him Wednesday: “Do you consider yourself an inspiration?”

    The Broncos linebacker smiled, choosing his words carefully, well aware of the impact they could bring.

    “It’s kinda not the greatest thing to talk about,” Singleton said, midway through a long response. “People don’t like talking about that area of their bodies, especially men. So, being able to stand here and do that, do I think it’s inspirational? I don’t know.

    “But do I think I have a platform that I can share what I’m going through, to make sure everybody else understands that it’s OK, and to go to the doctor, and that early detection is good for you.”

    A few weeks after finding out he had testicular cancer, a whirlwind of testing and waiting and more testing, Singleton resumed practicing Wednesday. He tugged back on a uniform with plenty of weight on his shoulder pads. Back as the green-dot signal-caller of this league-altering Broncos defense.

    Now, too, a new face of national awareness for testicular cancer, after making an appearance on ABC’s “Good Morning America” on Tuesday.

    Between the white lines, though, one can let everything go, as Singleton said Wednesday. And the linebacker was simply happy to be back in uniform, a 31-year-old man who still describes himself as “like a little kid in this game.”

    “The ACL was enough to appreciate it — I don’t know if I needed this,” Singleton said, chuckling, Wednesday, referring to his comeback from a torn ACL in 2024. “But you definitely appreciate all the little things. And, so, yeah. I love this game. Practice was the best.”

    Head coach Sean Payton said the Broncos knew before last week’s bye that Singleton would be cleared for practice during Commanders week. And Singleton now has a real shot to make an appearance against Washington on Sunday Night Football — less than three weeks after announcing a cancer diagnosis — saying Wednesday he was “tracking” toward playing.

    “The scans and all of that stuff were important, and when those came back positive, man, the relief, just for Alex — never mind the football player,” Payton said.

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    Luca Evans

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  • Minnesota Vikings emerge again in Aaron Rodgers speculation

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    Aaron Rodgers has hinted that the 2025 NFL season could be his last, but there have also been hints dropped by the future Hall of Fame quarterback that he could keep playing next year. If he does choose to return, could the Minnesota Vikings be a potential suitor? The Pittsburgh Steelers would also be a likely destination.

    Of course, the Vikings were heavily linked to Rodgers during the offseason. Despite the rumors and reported interest from Rodgers in playing for Minnesota, the franchise decided to move forward with second-year signal caller J.J. McCarthy.

    In his first season as the starter for the Vikings, McCarthy has struggled. That has led some to speculate that Minnesota could look to bring in a veteran quarterback to be its starter in 2026.

    Read more: Packers Defender Trolls Vikings as JJ McCarthy Enters Concussion Protocol

    Should that be the case, Rodgers would make sense as a potential short-term option. He could also be a great mentor for McCarthy for a season.

    One of Rodgers’ former teammates has spoken out and brought up the Vikings as a possible fit for Rodgers.

    Kurt Benkert, a quarterback who played with Rodgers on the Green Bay Packers, made an appearance on the “Up & Adams” show with Kay Adams on Tuesday. He name-dropped Minnesota as a potential Rodgers destination.

    “Maybe he goes to Minnesota for his last hurrah, who knows. I think there’s so many quarterback needy times right now. You’re seeing it all across the league. He’s still playing at a really good level. He’s not playing bad by any means. The Vikings would probably love to see Aaron there right now, especially on the deal that he took,” Benkert said.

    He continued on, going into more detail about why a fit with the Vikings might make perfect sense for both parties.

    “I think it could have looked very similar to what Matthew Stafford is doing. Not to that extent, but an efficient style, really good in the red zone. Justin Jefferson would have eaten a lot more than he is right now. Kevin O’Connell, how he calls plays, he needs a guy like Aaron that’s consistent with his feet, pinpoint accuracy. I think the Vikings are missing that with McCarthy right now.”

    Read more: Browns QB Shedeur Sanders Gets Bad News With Latest Prediction

    Rodgers has played good football during the 2025 season with the Steelers. He has completed 66.4 percent of his passes for 1,969 yards, 19 touchdowns, and seven interceptions.

    While he is now 41 years old and soon to turn 42, Minnesota could get a good season out of him. Giving him weapons like Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison would be dangerous. The Vikings could also help him follow in Brett Favre’s footsteps once again.

    It may not be likely that Rodgers will play in Minnesota next season. But, fans should expect to hear the rumors once again when the offseason arrives.

    For more on the Minnesota Vikings and general NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.

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  • Shedeur Sanders is the ‘most powerful Black man’ since Obama took office, NBA champ says

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    NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!

    NBA champion Kendrick Perkins fired off a scorching hot take about Cleveland Browns rookie Shedeur Sanders as the quarterback gets ready to make the second start of his NFL career.

    Perkins, an analyst on ESPN who has had his share of fiery opinions before, compared Sanders to former President Barack Obama in a recent podcast appearance.

    CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

    Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders (12) is all smiles as he chats on the sideline during the second half of an NFL football game at Huntington Bank Field, Nov. 16, 2025, in Cleveland, Ohio. (Jeff Lange/USA Today Network via Imagn Images)

    “You ready for this take? Shedeur Sanders is the most powerful Black man since 2009. You know what happened in 2009? That’s when President Obama got elected into office. He’s the most powerful Black man since 2009,” Perkins said on “LGND TLK.”

    “Here’s why I say that. You said you were sitting there watching the game in your house, and what you did? You ran with the TV. … What were you doing? You were cheering like a motherf—er. When Shedeur Sanders is on the field, this is the only time that I see what Black people come together as one, drop all the swords. There’s no Black people beefing on nothing across … Everybody rooting for Shedeur Sanders.

    EX-NFL STAR PRAISES SHEDEUR SANDERS FOR ‘MENTAL TOUGHNESS’ TO BOUNCE BACK FROM POOR DEBUT TO BEAT RAIDERS

    Shedeur Sanders enters Allegiant Stadium

    Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders arrives before the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on Nov. 23, 2025. (Kirby Lee/Imagn Images)

    “And when I say powerful, there’s two sides of it. He’s bringing the whole Black community together. I ain’t ran across one Black person that has said one bad thing about Shedeur. Not one because he has the balance. He has the balance of, ‘I’m arrogant but I’m humble too.’ And he’s having fun with this s—.  … He’s the most powerful Black man in sports. You know, what, f— Black man, he’s the most powerful player in sports. Because even when he’s not playing, he’s still getting talked about. “

    Sanders has only appeared in two NFL games this season. The Browns selected him in the fifth round of the draft back in the spring and he had to work his way up to become the starter.

    The former Colorado standout has shown how poised he is and how much confidence he has in his abilities as a football player. His debut against the Baltimore Ravens went much differently than the win over the Las Vegas Raiders.

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    The Browns gave him the nod for Week 13 against the San Francisco 49ers.

    Follow Fox News Digital’s sports coverage on X and subscribe to the Fox News Sports Huddle newsletter.

    Ryan Gaydos is a senior editor for Fox News Digital.

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  • Eagles-Bears Week 13 injury report, with analysis

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    The Philadelphia Eagles have had good injury luck for most of the season, but they now have some concerns in their secondary. Their Week 13 opponent, the Chicago Bears, could be razor thin at linebacker.

    Here’s the Eagles-Bears injury report, with analysis.

    051020EaglesLogo2020
    Player  Injury  *Tues  Wed Thurs  Status 
    RT Lane Johnson  Foot  DNP       
    WR DeVonta Smith  Shoulder/Chest  DNP       
    S Andrew Mukuba  Ankle  DNP 
    EDGE Brandon Graham  Groin  DNP       
    RS Xavier Gipson  Shoulder  DNP       
    RB Saquon Barkley  Groin  Limited       
    LG Landon Dickerson  Knee  Limited       
    S Reed Blankenship  Thigh  Limited       
    CB Adoree’ Jackson  “Gameday concussion protocol evaluation”  Full       
    iOL Willie Lampkin  Knee/Ankle  Full       
    OT Myles Hinton  Back  Full       

    Tuesday notes (*Walkthrough, injuries an estimation from the team):

    • As you likely already know, Lane Johnson injured his Lisfranc, but does not need surgery, and was not placed on IR. He did not play against the Cowboys, and almost certainly won’t play against the Bears. Fred Johnson will fill in as the starter again.

    • DeVonta Smith’s appearance on the injury report wasn’t expected, as he did not exit the Dallas game. We’ll likely get more information on him on Wednesday, but he has been a DNP on the first practice of the week in the past and has played, so no need for high concern yet.

    • Andrew Mukuba has a broken ankle and is going to be out a while. He will likely go on IR at some point this week. He is somewhere around the 14th-best player on the Eagles’ defense, but his loss is particularly harmful because it’s going to force Vic Fangio to have to start Sydney Brown for the foreseeable future. 

    Fangio said that Reed Blankenship should be good to go for Friday, so the Eagles at least dodged a bullet there.

    Still, the Eagles are likely going to have to add a safety to the gameday roster, because Marcus Epps is on IR for at least one more game. I would expect that the Eagles will elevate Andre’ Sam from the practice squad.

    • Adoree’ Jackson came out of the Dallas game with a head injury, and was evaluated for a concussion. He cleared the concussion protocol, but was kept out of the game as a precaution. The Eagles are required to list players who don’t finish games on their next injury report, but he is good to go for Friday.

    • Saquon Barkley appeared on the injury report prior to the Packers game Week 10 after injuring his groin in the Eagles’ Week 8 win over the Giants.

    • Graham’s injury is new. We’ll update when we learn more.

    • The Eagles should just IR Gipson, who has not been a positive contributor as a punt returner, to put it mildly.

    Notable players on IR, PUP, suspension, etc.

    • S Marcus Epps (IR, eligible to come off of IR after Week 13): Epps appeared in eight games for the Eagles before he landed on IR with an undisclosed injury. He absence is particularly noteworthy because of Mukuba’s injury

    • WR Johnny Wilson (IR, knee/ankle, out for the season): Wilson is a massive receiver at 6’6, 228 who carved out a dirty work role as a physical blocker his rookie season in 2024, though sometimes he was a little too aggressive, as he committed four penalties (3 holding, 1 OPI). He wasn’t much of a threat as a receiver, catching only 5 passes for 38 yards and a TD. He played a little over 400 snaps, and actually started four games.

    • EDGE Ogbo Okoronkwo (IR, triceps, eligible to come off of IR at any time, season could be over): Okoronko was signed to provide edge depth. He played in just one game (4 snaps), before tearing his triceps.

    • EDGE Azeez Ojulari (IR, triceps, eligible to come off of IR after Week 13): Ojulari was the presumed third EDGE defender in the pecking order when he signed with the Eagles as a free agent, but he is now no better than the EDGE7.

    • FB Ben VanSumeren (IR, knee, out for the season): VanSumeren was poised to take on a bigger role in the Eagles’ offense in 2025 as a full-time fullback, but he tore his patellar tendon on the opening kickoff of the season. His season is over.

    • LS Charley Hughlett (IR, eligible to come off of IR at any time): Hughlett throws the ball through his legs. The Eagles signed Cal Adomitis to throw the ball through his legs in place of Hughlett, and he has played well, even contributing as a tackler on the punt coverage unit.

    • iOL Willie Lampkin (IR, Eagles opened up 21-day practice window on 11/6): Lampkin is an extreme oddity, in that he is a 5’11 offensive lineman who only weighs 290 pounds. He looks like a player you’d create in Madden just for fun. However, coming out of North Carolina he received glowing reviews for his play on the field, ands he played well in the preseason after signing with the Rams as an undrafted rookie free agent. The Rams waived Lampkin with an injury designation. The Eagles then claimed him and place him on their IR.

    • OT Myles Hinton (IR, Eagles opened up 21-day practice window on 11/19): Hinton is a sixth-round rookie who was up and down in training camp. The Eagles placed him on IR with a back injury, and he has not been on the active roster all season.

    • OT Cameron Williams (IR, eligible to come off of IR at any time): Williams struggled in training camp, and landed on IR. This is effectively be a redshirt season for him.

    051020BearsLogo2020051020BearsLogo2020

    Player  Injury  *Tues  Wed  Thurs  Status 
    CB Tyrique Stevenson Hip DNP 
    LB T.J. Edwards  Hand/Hamstring  DNP       
    LB Noah Sewell  Elbow  DNP       
    Ruben Hyppolite II  Shoulder  DNP       
    DL Dominique Robinson  Concussion  DNP       
    OL Luke Newman  Foot  DNP       
    CB Jaylon Johnson  Groin  Full       
    CB Kyler Gordon  Calf  Full       
    OT Theo Benedet  Quad  Full       
    RB Kyle Monangai  Knee  Full       
    RB Travis Homer  Hamstring/Knee  Full       

    Tuesday notes (*Walkthrough, injuries an estimation from the team): 

    • The Bears are very banged up at linebacker. Tremaine Edmunds leads the team with 89 tackles. The next closest player on Chicago’s roster has just 59 tackles. Edmunds also has 4 INTs and 9 pass breakups. Pro Bowl-caliber season. He was placed on IR after suffering a groin injury against the Vikings Week 11. He won’t play against the Eagles.

    Old friend T.J. Edwards is the Bears’ other starting linebacker. He has missed six games this season, including the last three against the Giants, Vikings, and Steelers. He did not participate in practice on Tuesday.

    Noah Sewell is the Bears’ LB3. He did not play Week 12 against the Steelers, and did not participate in practice on Tuesday. The Bears’ linebacker snap counts Week 12 were as follows:

    72 snaps: D’Marco Jackson
    42 snaps: Amen Ogbongbemiga
    12 snaps: Ruben Hyppolite II

    Hyppolite started alongside Jackson, but left with a shoulder injury, and did not practice on Tuesday.

    Obviously, the Bears’ linebacker situation will be worth monitoring closely throughout the week. They are potentially razor thin there.

    • The Bears also have a lot of injuries at cornerback. Jaylon Johnson has made the Pro Bowl the last two seasons, and he signed a four-year deal worth $76 million. He is currently on injured reserve, but the Bears opened his 21-day practice window last week. Obviously, he did not play Week 12 against the Steelers or he would not still be on IR.

    Kyler Gordon is the Bears’ top slot corner. He is also on IR, but like Johnson above, the Bears opened his 21-day practice window last week. Gordon has only played in two games this season.

    Both Johnson and Gordon were full practice participants on Tuesday.

    In their absences, the Bears have gotten good play from 6’4 CB Nahshon Wright, who has a share of the NFL lead in INTs, with 5. The embattled Tyrique Stevenson (of Bears-Commanders Hail Mary infamy) has also mostly played well this season. The Bears will have some decisions to make at corner should Johnson and/or Gordon return to the lineup, but it’s a good problem to have. 

    • Theo Benedet has been the Bears’ starting LT most of the season. Braxton Jones was the Week 1 starter, however, he was benched after Week 4 in favor of Benedet. Jones has since been relegated to special teams duties, and he landed on IR with a knee injury. Benedet started seven games before missing the Bears’ Week 12 matchup against the Steelers with a quad injury. Second-round rookie Ozzy Trapilo filled in as the starting LT in that game. Benedet was a full participant in practice on Tuesday, but he may have been Willy Pipp’d by Trapilo.

    Notable players on IR, PUP, suspension, etc.

    • LB Tremaine Edmunds (IR, eligible to come off of IR after Week 15): As noted above.

    • CB Jaylon Johnson (IR, eligible to come off of IR at any time): As noted above.

    • CB Kyler Gordon (IR, eligible to come off of IR at any time)>: As noted above.

    • DE Dayo Odeyingbo (IR, season over): Odeyingbo has started in 8 games for the Bears this season. He has 21 tackles and 1 sack. He tore his Achilles Week 9 against the Bengals, and his season is over. Second-year pro Austin Booker has since filled in as the starter opposing Montez Sweat. 

    • OT Braxton Jones (IR, eligible to come off of IR at any time): Jones has been the Bears’ starting LT since he was a rookie in 2022. However, he was benched after Week 4 in favor of 2024 UDFA Theo Benedet. Jones has since been relegated to special teams duties, and he landed on IR with a knee injury. 

    • CB Terell Smith (IR, season over): Smith was a 2023 fifth-round pick, who played 377 snaps in 2023, and 207 in 2024 as a reserve outside corner. Smith tore his patellar tendon during a preseason game, and his season is over. 

    • DT Shemar Turner (IR, season over): Turner is a second-round rookie who has played in five games this season as a rotational D-lineman. 6 tackles, 0 sacks. He tore an ACL Week 8 against the Ravens, and his season is over.

    • OT Kiran Amegadjie (IR, eligible to come off of IR at any time): Amegadjie was a 2024 third-round pick. He played 126 snaps as a rookie, but has not yet played in 2025. Amegadjie landed on IR in September with an elbow injury.

    Follow Jimmy & PhillyVoice on Twitter: @JimmyKempski | thePhillyVoice

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  • Broncos agree to four-year, $48 million extension with center Luke Wattenberg, sources confirm

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    The Broncos have locked up another key member of one of the best-performing offensive lines in football.

    On Tuesday night, Denver agreed to a four-year extension with center Luke Wattenberg, sources confirmed to The Denver Post. It’s a four-year, $48 million extension for Wattenberg, a source confirmed, with $27 million guaranteed.

    The deal ties Wattenberg with the New Orleans Saints’ Erik McCoy as the fifth-highest-paid center in the NFL, with an average value of $12 million yearly.

    The move comes just a day after head coach Sean Payton told reporters that he and general manager George Paton had spent time before last week’s bye discussing extensions and initiating conversations with a handful of players.

    “The key is not affecting the mojo or how your team’s doing,” Payton said. “I’m always sensitive to that, especially when you’re playing well, because sometimes those can be difficult discussions.”

    The Broncos clearly moved quick with Wattenberg, whose rookie deal was set to expire after the 2025 season. The crop of available 2026 free-agent centers was fairly slim, and Wattenberg would’ve likely commanded a hefty sum on the open market. Still, Wattenberg’s extension — if signed as a free agent in the offseason — would’ve made him the third-highest-paid center in 2025 free agency, behind the Bears’ Drew Dalman and the Jaguars’ Patrick Mekari.

    The 28-year-old Wattenberg has become an integral part of a Broncos offensive front that currently ranks fourth in the NFL in pass-block win rate and ninth in run-block win rate, according to ESPN. Wattenberg won the starting job prior to the 2024 season in his third year in the league, authoring a strong year in pass protection in front of rookie quarterback Bo Nix.

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  • There are more questions than answers after NFL games Sunday

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    The Kansas City Chiefs saved their season. The Philadelphia Eagles gave critics more fuel. The Los Angeles Rams made a dominant statement.

    There were more questions than answers Sunday in the NFL.

    Patrick Mahomes did just enough to rally the Chiefs to a 23-20 overtime victory over the Indianapolis Colts. Kansas City’s dominant defense gave him the opportunity.

    Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s unit forced the Colts to go three-and-out on their final four possessions. The Chiefs shut down the NFL’s leading rusher, holding Jonathan Taylor to 58 yards on 16 carries. Colts coach Shane Steichen inexplicably gave Taylor the ball only once on the last three drives of regulation.

    Mahomes threw for 352 yards but didn’t have any touchdowns. He looked skittish at times under pressure, rushing his reads and hurrying his passes.

    The Chiefs (6-5) couldn’t afford another loss as they fight to make the playoffs after winning nine straight AFC West titles, reaching eight consecutive conference championship games and winning three Super Bowls.

    They’ve got a long way to go and a tough game at Dallas (5-5-1) coming up on Thanksgiving Day. Mahomes and the offense need to get in sync for Kansas City to have a shot.

    “We’re still not where we want to be at but this was big,” Mahomes said. “Getting that win against a really good football team and kind of proving it to (ourselves) that we can play this kind of football game where it’s not always pretty. I think now we just have to build off that momentum. It’s going to be a short week. We’re playing a good team in the Cowboys, and they can score some points and they have a lot of great players. It’s about rebounding fast, trying to be better, even better this next week going into a big environment, big game and trying to get that win.”

    The Colts (8-3) have gone from 7-1 to a team that is going to have to battle to win the AFC South. They’ll face division rivals Jacksonville (7-4) and Houston (6-5) four times over the remaining six games. Their other two opponents are Seattle (8-3) and San Francisco (7-4).

    Steichen trusted Daniel Jones to win the game in Kansas City, electing to put the ball in his hands down the stretch instead of giving it to Taylor to protect a lead. Jones couldn’t deliver. He was 3 for 9 for 17 yards on the final four possessions.

    “I felt there was a lot of stuff that I wanted to get called that I felt good about in the pass game and we just weren’t efficient doing it and it starts with me,” Steichen said.

    Eagles collapse

    The reigning Super Bowl champions built a 21-0 lead in Dallas and looked like they were on their way to snapping Dak Prescott’s 18-game winning streak at home against NFC East opponents.

    Jalen Hurts was connecting with A.J. Brown and it seemed Philadelphia would quiet some of the drama surrounding the two superstars.

    But the offense regressed, giving Prescott and the Cowboys an opportunity to come back and win 24-21.

    The Eagles (8-3) have a comfortable lead over Dallas (5-5-1) and are in position to become the first repeat champion in the division in two decades. But Philadelphia fell behind the Rams (9-2) in the race for the No. 1 seed.

    A sluggish offense isn’t playing up to its standard. Saquon Barkley ran for only 22 yards on 10 carries, and the passing attack just hasn’t found its rhythm.

    Rams dominate

    The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were no match for Matthew Stafford and the Rams.

    Stafford continued his MVP-caliber campaign with another stellar performance against an overmatched defense and Los Angeles cruised to a 34-7 victory over Tampa Bay.

    The 37-year-old Stafford has thrown 30 touchdown passes and only two interceptions this season.

    “I got great teammates. I get to throw to a bunch of great players, stand behind a good o-line and watch these guys hunt on defense,” Stafford said.

    That defense overwhelmed the Buccaneers, knocking Baker Mayfield out of the game.

    Jared Verse and Kobie Turner each had two sacks and Los Angeles is the team to beat in the NFC.

    First to 10

    Drake Maye and the New England Patriots are the first team to reach 10 wins this season after holding on for a 26-20 victory in Cincinnati.

    The Patriots have a 2 1/2-game lead over Buffalo (7-4) in the AFC East with eight of their wins coming against teams that have a losing record.

    With three of their last five games against teams that are currently 8-26 combined, New England is in position to win its first division title since Tom Brady left and has an inside track to earning the No. 1 seed in the AFC.

    But the Patriots still have a lot to prove, especially against more experienced playoff teams.

    ___

    AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/nfl

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