Tag: tom brady

Renck: For courageous Mikaela Shiffrin, overcoming mental burden is worth wait in gold

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Only GOATs chase ghosts. Only the best are defined by legacies, not victories.

Mikaela Shiffrin was choking.

That is what people were saying. That is what they were thinking.

When you are to skiing what Serena Williams is to tennis, there is no grace, no free passes.

As Americans, we only watch the winter sports at the Olympics. It makes performances the equivalent of a college final exam, disproportionately weighted.

It is not fair. But it is who we are.

On the biggest stage — Super Bowl, World Series, NBA Finals — championships provide exclamation points in barstool arguments.

On Wednesday in Cortina, Italy, Shiffrin shut up her critics.

The silence was as golden as her medal.

But it wasn’t about the haters. This was about her.

She gets the credit.

She did this. Not us.

She blazed to gold in the slalom with a combined time of 1 minute, 39.10 seconds — 1.5 seconds ahead of Switzerland’s Camille Rast.

In her final race of the 2026 Olympic Games, she vanquished demons that have followed her since Beijing.

“I wanted to be free, I wanted to unleash,” Shiffrin told reporters. “In the end, today, showing up, that was the thing I wanted most. More than the medal. Now, to also get to have a medal is unbelievable.”

Shiffrin eliminated the confusion, poofed the black cloud hanging over her.

She won gold in slalom in Sochi in 2014 and in giant slalom in Pyeongchang 2018. No one, man or woman, has more World Cup victories or podiums. She is not the product of marketing. She is a legend.

And suddenly, somehow, the Olympics became her soft spot, the site of crippling vulnerability.

Four years ago, she crashed out of both the giant slalom and slalom seconds into her runs. She ambitiously entered six events and medaled in zero of them. She would later say she was “embarrassed” by her performance.

Shiffrin had become a victim of her own trophy case. Imagine Tiger Woods, in his prime, missing the cut at The Masters annually.

When Shiffrin finished 15th in the slalom in the team combined event last week in Cortina after Breezy Johnson took first in the downhill, it created concern. Only a wreck or oddly conservative run could take them off the medal stand and Shiffrin skied tentatively, leaving the Americans fourth.

Then, she finished 11th in the giant slalom. That ran her streak to eight straight events without a medal.

It officially reignited the debate. Had the Olympics become a hurdle she could no longer clear?

It did not make sense because of her past success on and off the slopes.

Shiffrin had overcome the sudden loss of her father in 2020 and PTSD from a freak injury to her abdomen in an accident in 2024.

How could Shiffrin be the greatest and succumb to the Olympic glare?

The too-simple explanation is pressure.

It overwhelmed Simone Biles, the best gymnast of all time, in Tokyo, forcing her to withdraw because of the twisties, a spatial disorientation that affected her balance. Earlier this week, it swallowed up men’s figure skater Ilia Malinin, the Quad God, who breaks physics with his jumps but was broken by the magnitude of the moment.

Malinin has demonstrated class and resilience in talking about his disappointment, believing he has an Olympic path forward in the sport he loves. Biles restored her roar in Paris last summer, winning four medals, three of them gold, while becoming a Shiffrin ally.

Here in Colorado, Shiffrin’s pursuit of redemption was personal. She spent part of her childhood in our mountains. She trained in Vail. We wanted her to crush it for our country, of course, but really for our state, for all of us.

But she had to do this for herself.

She had to be present for this present to hang around her neck.

“Through a lot of discussions with my psychologist and my mom and my team, everything we said was that, despite pressure or nerves, I want to feel this skiing,” Shiffrin said Wednesday.

She arrived in Cortina with seven slalom wins in the first eight events on the World Cup Circuit this season. She was dominant. So when Shiffrin did not shine in Italy, it made her an easy target.

This is where nuance matters.

Skiing is unique because every mountain is different and the weather remains a variable. And as easy as it is to lump her in with Tom Brady or Michael Jordan, she is not representing a city, a state or region. She is carrying the weight of an entire country.

There is no teammate to ski the last few gates. No coach to rescue her with the perfect play call. She does not get multiple passes or 30 shots. She has a few runs, where being off line by 3 inches can lead to four years of anguish.

Shiffrin did not cower in the face of disappointment. She accepted her underwhelming performances in Cortina as a challenge, not a conclusion.

This could not have been easy. She acknowledged in an interview with Biles recently that she had nightmares before these Olympics, worried that things would not work out as planned.

We have come a long way as a sports viewing public from the days of rubbing dirt on it. But Shiffrin provided a reminder that mental issues are real and must be addressed like a physical injury.

She patiently, if not painfully, worked through her public failure in private. With one last chance to seize glory, she became comfortable again, making us all proud.

But this is all about Shiffrin.

She found the courage to remove the burden she was carrying.

And it was worth the wait in gold.

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Troy Renck

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February 18, 2026
Seattle Seahawks lead New England Patriots at half time in Super Bowl LX

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It’s almost time to crown an NFL champion.After two weeks of hype and anticipation, the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks will face off in Super Bowl 60 at Levi’s Stadium on Sunday.The Seattle Seahawks are leading the New England Patriots 9-0 at halftime of Super Bowl LX. Bad Bunny Half Time ShowBad Bunny started his half time show as he emerged in Puerto Rico’s sugar cane fields, surrounded by jibaros in pavas (rural farmers in traditional straw hats), viejitos playing dominos (an affectionate term for older men) and a piragua stand (shaved ice) — undeniable symbols of Puerto Rico.From a small Caribbean island with a complicated colonial history, to the world: The artist born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio brought Puerto Rican culture to the Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, for his 2026 Super Bowl halftime show in what was always going to be a landmark moment for Latinos.He started with his huge reggaeton hits, “Tití Me Preguntó” moving into “Yo Perreo Sola,” as he remerged on top of the casita (“little house”) from his Puerto Rican residency — Cardi B was a guest at his pari de marquesina, a house party.Then he crashed through the roof — Daddy Yankee’s “Gasolina” played for a moment, clearly a celebration of the Puerto Rican artists who laid the path for his Latin trap to go global.“Mi nombre Antonio Martínez Ocasio,” he introduced himself to the crowd in Spanish. “Y si hoy estoy aquí en el Super Bowl 60, es porque nunca, nunca dejé de creer en mí y tú también deberías de creer en ti, vales más de lo que piensas.”The strings of his song “Monaco” played — then, a surprise Lady Gaga emerged at a wedding, singing her portion of “Die with a Smile,” her collaboration with Bruno Mars, joined by a salsa band.It gave Benito time for a fashion change — rocking a white suit like a classic salsero — for “Baile Inolvidable” and “NuevaYol,” with a block party set where he took a shot with Tonita, owner of one of the last Puerto Rican social clubs in New York City, Brooklyn’s Caribbean Social Club.Ricky Martin performed “Lo Que Pasó a Hawaii,” (“What Happened to Hawaii”), a rallying cry for Puerto Rico’s autonomy.Behind him, jibaros in pavas climbed power towers that exploded, symbolic of Puerto Rico’s frequent blackouts and failing power grid. It queued up a moving performance of 2022’s “El Apagón” (“The Blackout”), in reference to Hurricane Maria, its aftermath and the continued anger and frustration over persistent, chronic power outages.Bad Bunny performed entirely in Spanish — as all of his music is recorded in the language, though he has collaborated with English-language artists. The only English singing came from Gaga. That changed at the end of the set, when he said, “God Bless America,” and then named countries in the Caribbean, Central and South America. “And my mother land, Puerto Rico.”He ended with “DtMF” as he walked out of the stadium. Who needs offense? How ’bout those special teams?The game was expected to be a matchup of two stingy defenses.It was in the first half, and it was a very busy day for both special teams.The Patriots punted on five of their six drives. That counts a final possession that was just a one-play kneel down with 11 seconds left.Seattle got three field goals from Jason Myers.With JSN grounded, Seattle is clawing away on the groundThe Seahawks have settled for field goals but hold a two-score lead heading into halftime thanks to kicker Jason Myers’ third conversion. He made a 40-yard field goal with 11 seconds remaining in the second quarter.It hasn’t been pretty for Seattle’s offense, which ranked fifth in scoring in the regular season. Sam Darnold, who is fresh off his second straight Pro Bowl season, was nearly picked off by cornerback Christian Gonzalez on third down. Instead, the pass fell harmlessly to the turf for Darnold’s 13th incompletion of the first half. Darnold is 9 of 22 for 88 yards.The Seahawks continue to run the ball well, though. Kenneth Walker III has 94 yards on 14 carries, but 59 of those came on two runs. Otherwise, New England has done a solid job of slowing him down.Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who had the most yards receiving of any player in the NFL in the regular season, was targeted seven times and only caught one pass for 4 yards. Veteran Cooper Kupp has been Seattle’s best offensive player with four catches for 44 yards.New England has just 51 yards of offense in first halfNew England managed just four first downs, 51 total yards and converted only 2 of 7 third downs in the first half against the stingy Seahawks defense.The 51 yards are second-fewest in a first half over the last 35 Super Bowls — and the only team with fewer in that 35-year stretch was the Chiefs with 23 last season. The only time the Patriots had fewer was -19 against the Bears in Super Bowl 20.‘Backstreet’s back’ tonightTwo different advertisers have featured songs from the Backstreet Boys in their Super Bowl spots.T-Mobile showed the band singing a version of its 1999 hit “I Want It That Way.” And cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase used a karaoke scroll of “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back).”“By using ‘Everybody,’ we were signaling that crypto has moved past that early adopter phase,” Coinbase chief marketing officer Cat Ferdon told the AP ahead of the game. “It’s mainstream, it’s accessible and it’s for everybody.”Vrabel: Pats need to protect MayeDrake Maye was sacked three times and hit five times in the first half. Asked about his QB’s protection at halftime, New England coach Mike Vrabel said he need better protection from the whole offensive line.“From all sides,” Vrabel said. “We have to do a much better job.”Score alert: Seattle boots another field goalJason Myers connects for his third field goal of the first half, this one from 41 yards.Seahawks 9, Patriots 0The Pats’ O-line isn’t giving Maye much timeIf the Patriots are going to get anything going on offense, they’ll need to keep Drake Maye upright.Maye is first QB to be sacked three times on the first four drives of a Super Bowl since Tom Brady in Super Bowl 42 vs the Giants.Maye is 5-of-7 passing for 39 yards.Kenneth Walker III is keeping Seattle movingWhile the Seahawks have struggled to throw the ball, Walker is finding holes and making the Pats pay.Walker ran for 55 of his 71 yards in the game on Seattle’s second scoring drive. It was the most in a single drive in the Super Bowl since Willie Parker had 75 — all on one run — for the Pittsburgh Steelers versus the Seahawks in Super Bowl 40.Since reserve running back Zach Charbonnet went down with a season-ending knee injury against the San Francisco 49ers in the divisional round, Walker has taken on the role of bell cow and run with it. Including the Super Bowl, Walker has run the ball 47 times for 249 yards rushing and four touchdowns in the playoffs.Walker continuing to dominate on the ground would buoy the Seahawks’ chances of hanging onto their lead.Injury updates for Seahawks, PatriotsBoth the Seahawks and Patriots have a pair of players dealing with injuries early in the second quarter.Linebacker Jahlani Tavai is questionable with a shoulder injury for the Patriots. Safety Ty Okada is also questionable while being looked at for a calf issue.Score alert: Seattle adds another field goalJason Myers connects from 39 yards.Seahawks 6, Patriots 0Seattle has found the weakness in New England’s O-lineThe Seahawks have made a meal on opposing offenses this season, blitzing weak points in offensive lines.Through the Patriots’ first two drives, the target has been rookie left tackle Will Campbell.It resulted in Campbell yielding a pair of sacks and helped contribute to two Patriots’ punts.Seattle’s ‘12s’ are bringing the noiseFrom the first play of the Patriots’ opening drive, the Seahawks’ fan base made its presence felt. Seattle’s “12s”, as the Seahawks’ passionate fan base is known as, made all sorts of noise at Levi’s Stadium shortly after New England took over on offense.Typically, Seahawks fans create a difficult environment for foes at Lumen Field. Today, they’ve taken over the home of one the Seahawks’ fiercest rivals, the San Francisco 49ers.Former Super Bowl MVP Cooper Kupp makes an early impactSeattle’s opening drive was aided in large part by a 23-yard, juggling reception by Kupp along the sideline. Replays showed Kupp may have been bobbling the ball as he went out of bounds, but the Seahawks rushed the next play to preempt a review.Regardless, quarterback Sam Darnold and the Seahawks’ offense showed it can move the ball against the Patriots’ defense. Darnold completed 2 of 4 passes for 38 yards, and Kenneth Walker III ran for 13 yards on three carries.Seattle’s offense slowed in the red zone, though, and failed to capitalize on a 1st and 10 at the New England 17-yard line.Score alert: Seahawks kick field goalJason Myers caps Seattle’s opening drive with a 33-yard field goal.Seahawks 3, Patriots 0Super Bowl 60 is underwaySeattle received the ball to start the game after New England won the opening coin toss and deferred to the second half. The game opened under blue skies and 67-degree weather at Levi’s Stadium.The opening kick went for a touchback, giving the Seahawks the ball at the 35.There have been only two times in the past 25 Super Bowls that the team that received the opening kick scored a touchdown on that possession. The Philadelphia Eagles did it three years ago when Jalen Hurts scored on a 1-yard run in a loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. Devin Hester also returned the opening kickoff for a score for Chicago against Indianapolis in Super Bowl 41.

It’s almost time to crown an NFL champion.

After two weeks of hype and anticipation, the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks will face off in Super Bowl 60 at Levi’s Stadium on Sunday.

The Seattle Seahawks are leading the New England Patriots 9-0 at halftime of Super Bowl LX.

Bad Bunny Half Time Show

Bad Bunny started his half time show as he emerged in Puerto Rico’s sugar cane fields, surrounded by jibaros in pavas (rural farmers in traditional straw hats), viejitos playing dominos (an affectionate term for older men) and a piragua stand (shaved ice) — undeniable symbols of Puerto Rico.

From a small Caribbean island with a complicated colonial history, to the world: The artist born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio brought Puerto Rican culture to the Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, for his 2026 Super Bowl halftime show in what was always going to be a landmark moment for Latinos.

He started with his huge reggaeton hits, “Tití Me Preguntó” moving into “Yo Perreo Sola,” as he remerged on top of the casita (“little house”) from his Puerto Rican residency — Cardi B was a guest at his pari de marquesina, a house party.

Then he crashed through the roof — Daddy Yankee’s “Gasolina” played for a moment, clearly a celebration of the Puerto Rican artists who laid the path for his Latin trap to go global.

“Mi nombre Antonio Martínez Ocasio,” he introduced himself to the crowd in Spanish. “Y si hoy estoy aquí en el Super Bowl 60, es porque nunca, nunca dejé de creer en mí y tú también deberías de creer en ti, vales más de lo que piensas.”

The strings of his song “Monaco” played — then, a surprise Lady Gaga emerged at a wedding, singing her portion of “Die with a Smile,” her collaboration with Bruno Mars, joined by a salsa band.

It gave Benito time for a fashion change — rocking a white suit like a classic salsero — for “Baile Inolvidable” and “NuevaYol,” with a block party set where he took a shot with Tonita, owner of one of the last Puerto Rican social clubs in New York City, Brooklyn’s Caribbean Social Club.

Ricky Martin performed “Lo Que Pasó a Hawaii,” (“What Happened to Hawaii”), a rallying cry for Puerto Rico’s autonomy.

Behind him, jibaros in pavas climbed power towers that exploded, symbolic of Puerto Rico’s frequent blackouts and failing power grid. It queued up a moving performance of 2022’s “El Apagón” (“The Blackout”), in reference to Hurricane Maria, its aftermath and the continued anger and frustration over persistent, chronic power outages.

Bad Bunny performed entirely in Spanish — as all of his music is recorded in the language, though he has collaborated with English-language artists. The only English singing came from Gaga. That changed at the end of the set, when he said, “God Bless America,” and then named countries in the Caribbean, Central and South America. “And my mother land, Puerto Rico.”

He ended with “DtMF” as he walked out of the stadium.

Who needs offense? How ’bout those special teams?

The game was expected to be a matchup of two stingy defenses.

It was in the first half, and it was a very busy day for both special teams.

The Patriots punted on five of their six drives. That counts a final possession that was just a one-play kneel down with 11 seconds left.

Seattle got three field goals from Jason Myers.

With JSN grounded, Seattle is clawing away on the ground

The Seahawks have settled for field goals but hold a two-score lead heading into halftime thanks to kicker Jason Myers’ third conversion. He made a 40-yard field goal with 11 seconds remaining in the second quarter.

It hasn’t been pretty for Seattle’s offense, which ranked fifth in scoring in the regular season. Sam Darnold, who is fresh off his second straight Pro Bowl season, was nearly picked off by cornerback Christian Gonzalez on third down. Instead, the pass fell harmlessly to the turf for Darnold’s 13th incompletion of the first half. Darnold is 9 of 22 for 88 yards.

The Seahawks continue to run the ball well, though. Kenneth Walker III has 94 yards on 14 carries, but 59 of those came on two runs. Otherwise, New England has done a solid job of slowing him down.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who had the most yards receiving of any player in the NFL in the regular season, was targeted seven times and only caught one pass for 4 yards. Veteran Cooper Kupp has been Seattle’s best offensive player with four catches for 44 yards.

New England has just 51 yards of offense in first half

New England managed just four first downs, 51 total yards and converted only 2 of 7 third downs in the first half against the stingy Seahawks defense.

The 51 yards are second-fewest in a first half over the last 35 Super Bowls — and the only team with fewer in that 35-year stretch was the Chiefs with 23 last season. The only time the Patriots had fewer was -19 against the Bears in Super Bowl 20.

‘Backstreet’s back’ tonight

Two different advertisers have featured songs from the Backstreet Boys in their Super Bowl spots.

T-Mobile showed the band singing a version of its 1999 hit “I Want It That Way.” And cryptocurrency exchange Coinbase used a karaoke scroll of “Everybody (Backstreet’s Back).”

“By using ‘Everybody,’ we were signaling that crypto has moved past that early adopter phase,” Coinbase chief marketing officer Cat Ferdon told the AP ahead of the game. “It’s mainstream, it’s accessible and it’s for everybody.”

Vrabel: Pats need to protect Maye

Drake Maye was sacked three times and hit five times in the first half. Asked about his QB’s protection at halftime, New England coach Mike Vrabel said he need better protection from the whole offensive line.

“From all sides,” Vrabel said. “We have to do a much better job.”

Score alert: Seattle boots another field goal

Jason Myers connects for his third field goal of the first half, this one from 41 yards.

Seahawks 9, Patriots 0

The Pats’ O-line isn’t giving Maye much time

If the Patriots are going to get anything going on offense, they’ll need to keep Drake Maye upright.

Maye is first QB to be sacked three times on the first four drives of a Super Bowl since Tom Brady in Super Bowl 42 vs the Giants.

Maye is 5-of-7 passing for 39 yards.

Kenneth Walker III is keeping Seattle moving

While the Seahawks have struggled to throw the ball, Walker is finding holes and making the Pats pay.

Walker ran for 55 of his 71 yards in the game on Seattle’s second scoring drive. It was the most in a single drive in the Super Bowl since Willie Parker had 75 — all on one run — for the Pittsburgh Steelers versus the Seahawks in Super Bowl 40.

Since reserve running back Zach Charbonnet went down with a season-ending knee injury against the San Francisco 49ers in the divisional round, Walker has taken on the role of bell cow and run with it. Including the Super Bowl, Walker has run the ball 47 times for 249 yards rushing and four touchdowns in the playoffs.

Walker continuing to dominate on the ground would buoy the Seahawks’ chances of hanging onto their lead.

Injury updates for Seahawks, Patriots

Both the Seahawks and Patriots have a pair of players dealing with injuries early in the second quarter.

Linebacker Jahlani Tavai is questionable with a shoulder injury for the Patriots. Safety Ty Okada is also questionable while being looked at for a calf issue.

Score alert: Seattle adds another field goal

Jason Myers connects from 39 yards.

Seahawks 6, Patriots 0

Seattle has found the weakness in New England’s O-line

The Seahawks have made a meal on opposing offenses this season, blitzing weak points in offensive lines.

Through the Patriots’ first two drives, the target has been rookie left tackle Will Campbell.

It resulted in Campbell yielding a pair of sacks and helped contribute to two Patriots’ punts.

Seattle’s ‘12s’ are bringing the noise

From the first play of the Patriots’ opening drive, the Seahawks’ fan base made its presence felt. Seattle’s “12s”, as the Seahawks’ passionate fan base is known as, made all sorts of noise at Levi’s Stadium shortly after New England took over on offense.

Typically, Seahawks fans create a difficult environment for foes at Lumen Field. Today, they’ve taken over the home of one the Seahawks’ fiercest rivals, the San Francisco 49ers.

Former Super Bowl MVP Cooper Kupp makes an early impact

Seattle’s opening drive was aided in large part by a 23-yard, juggling reception by Kupp along the sideline. Replays showed Kupp may have been bobbling the ball as he went out of bounds, but the Seahawks rushed the next play to preempt a review.

Regardless, quarterback Sam Darnold and the Seahawks’ offense showed it can move the ball against the Patriots’ defense. Darnold completed 2 of 4 passes for 38 yards, and Kenneth Walker III ran for 13 yards on three carries.

Seattle’s offense slowed in the red zone, though, and failed to capitalize on a 1st and 10 at the New England 17-yard line.

Score alert: Seahawks kick field goal

Jason Myers caps Seattle’s opening drive with a 33-yard field goal.

Seahawks 3, Patriots 0

Super Bowl 60 is underway

Seattle received the ball to start the game after New England won the opening coin toss and deferred to the second half. The game opened under blue skies and 67-degree weather at Levi’s Stadium.

The opening kick went for a touchback, giving the Seahawks the ball at the 35.

There have been only two times in the past 25 Super Bowls that the team that received the opening kick scored a touchdown on that possession. The Philadelphia Eagles did it three years ago when Jalen Hurts scored on a 1-yard run in a loss to the Kansas City Chiefs. Devin Hester also returned the opening kickoff for a score for Chicago against Indianapolis in Super Bowl 41.

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February 8, 2026
Big time for Bobo: Growing up in North Andover as Pats fan, Seahawk player on other side now

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SAN JOSE, Calif. — Jake Bobo is unlike any of his 60-plus teammates on the NFC champion Seattle Seahawks here in the Bay Area.

He was born and bred in New England, growing up in North Andover on the Brooks School campus where his mom was a top school administrator.

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By Bill Burt bburt@eagletribune.com

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February 5, 2026
Worst to first: Vrabel, Maye prove it isn’t a dream

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This has always felt like a free season. At some point, the shoe would probably drop, the kid quarterback would eventually fall on his face, midnight would strike, and New Englanders could get on with their lives.

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Bill Burt

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January 26, 2026
Keeler: Here’s why Broncos QB Jarrett Stidham makes Patriots fans in Denver nervous

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Justin Grant had Tedy Bruschi on his back and Brock Osweiler on the brain.

“I don’t like the storyline with Jarrett Stidham,” he told me as we shivered on the second-floor deck at Jackson’s LODO early Saturday night.

Then he corrected himself.

“I hate the storyline,” Grant continued, adjusting his bright blue Bruschi replica Patriots jersey.

“Why?” I wondered.

“Because we drafted him. And he gave us two years and then he left. And now he’s, like, the guy who’s coming in. I just don’t like the storyline.”

New England rolls an MVP-caliber quarterback into Denver — only to get beaten by a Broncos backup? Justin’s seen the movie before. He always ends up crying at the end.

The last time Grant, who calls Colorado Springs home but grew up in Maine, saw his beloved Pats at Empower Field was November 2015. When Osweiler rallied the Broncos past Tom Brady in the snow.

Talk about your classic PTSD — Pats Traumatic Stress Disorder.

“I’m 0-and-1, man,” Grant laughed on the eve of the AFC Championship between the Broncos and Patriots. “We don’t have a good record here.”

Sure don’t. The Pats are tied with the Steelers for the most Super Bowl victories (six) since the AFL-NFL merger of 1970. But they’ve never won a postseason game in Denver (0-4). Brady went 0-3. Empower Field was the one mountain too high for even the GOAT to climb.

New England Patriots fan Brian Kureta screams among his fellow fans on Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026, at Jackson’s LODO in Denver. (Photo by Timothy Hurst/The Denver Post)

“Honestly, man, after losing two Super Bowls to Eli Manning and one to Nick Foles,” Grant’s friend Jordan Buck, a Pats fan from Lakewood, told me, “I’m not overlooking anybody. But you’ve got to be confident in your squad, so I like my team’s chances.”

Love them, though?

Not after Osweiler. Or Foles. Or Eli twice.

“Yeah, (Stidham) hasn’t played in a long time,” Buck shrugged. “But I mean, he played for us for three years, so he knows us well.”

What did Broncos fans and Pats fans have in common Saturday? Stidham, who’ll make his first postseason start against New England in place of injured Broncos QB Bo Nix, was on the lips of both teams’ fans the hours before the biggest football game at Empower Field in a decade.

New Englanders packed into Jackson’s LODO for a pep rally just within shouting distance of Coors Field. Most of the shouts were distinctly of the NC-17 variety.

Patriot Pat signs New England Patriots fan Sumaya Faggan’s bag on Saturday at Jackson’s LODO in Denver. (Photo by Timothy Hurst/The Denver Post)

“I LOVE DRAKE MAYE!” a Patriots fan cried.

“(EXPLETIVE) THE BRONCOS!” Another screamed.

The “Night Before” rally was a brainchild of the Pikes Peak Pats fan club. PPP typically hosts a night-before primer on the eve of an AFC title game in Denver, but it’s been a while. January 2016 brought roughly 700 Front Range Pats fans together. PPP president Anne Stone told me they were expecting at least 1,000 this time around — if not more. With the sun setting and temps falling at 5:15 p.m., a line of at least 100 patrons was seen snaking out from the front door of Jackson’s and around the block.

Near the DJ stage on the second floor, the Patriots’ “All-Access” television show did a live shoot for the locals back in Beantown. Pat Patriot danced in one corner. A giant ice sculpture of the New England logo rested in another. Former New England kicker Adam Vinatieri, the Patriots’ honorary captain for Sunday, showed up for his “All-Access” cameo as faithful waved tiny cardboard heads of New England rookie tackle Will Campbell.

“We all we got?” Vinatieri asked.

“We all we need!” they cried.

“We all we got?” Vinatieri repeated.

“We all we need!”

“That’s what I’m talking about!” Vinatieri said.

Former New England Patriots cornerback Logan Ryan signs autographs for fans on Saturday at Jackson’s LODO in Denver. (Photo by Timothy Hurst/The Denver Post)

It’s OK to roll your eyes. But not at the cause. PPP ran a raffle during the rally on Saturday, with a plethora of signed Pats items, in order to raise money for the Pikes Peak Region Peace Officers Memorial.

As a Boston native, Stone’s accent is thicker than chowdah, bless her, with a laugh that lilts like a fly ball onto Lansdowne Street. She moved to the Front Range 30 years ago when her husband got a new gig — and never left.

The Pikes Peak Pats Club started in 2006. Stone became president a year after that. PPP counts about 90 active members now. Before the pandemic, it was closer to 400. Things are more transient now, with East Coast military transplants looking for a good watch pah-ty coming and going as Uncle Sam ships them in and out of the Springs.

“It’s good,” Stone said. “You get to meet new people all the time.”

Pats owner Robert Kraft has even visited PPP tailgates and parties over the years, although he wasn’t on the guest list for Saturday’s rally.

And if Stone’s got any PTSD, deep down, she sure as heck wasn’t showing it.

“To tell you the truth, in all honesty, I think a lot of people, all of my Pats friends, everyone’s hearts are broken for poor Bo Nix,” Stone said. “Some of us are old enough that he could be our son. Here was a 25-year-old who spent the night crying. It’s just awful.”

A pause.

And cue the “but” …

“That being said, I don’t think we’re a shoo-in,” Stone continued. “I do think we’re going to win. That’s my gut reaction. You know what they say: ‘Any given Sunday.’ It’s true. And we don’t have good luck (in Denver).”

Oh and four.

As in, uh-oh and four.

“That worry you?” I asked Grant.

“Yes, it does,” he replied. “It worries me a lot.”

He just wishes Stidham would stop giving him that old Osweiler vibe.

“So hopefully,” Grant said nervously, “history doesn’t repeat itself.”

Stiddy as you Bo, man. Stiddy as you Bo.

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Sean Keeler

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January 24, 2026
Around the NFL: How Week 18 sets up the AFC field for Broncos’ potential playoff opponents

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Around the AFC

Patriots, Jaguars vying for top seed. The Broncos received a massive belated Christmas gift on Monday courtesy of Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh, who relinquished all gamesmanship and said point-blank that Los Angeles would rest star quarterback Justin Herbert. Denver would have to absolutely implode to lose Sunday’s matchup. In such an event, though, New England (13-3) and Jacksonville (12-4) would be set up to seize that vaunted No. 1 seed in the AFC. The Patriots are playing a 7-9 Dolphins team that’s been mathematically eliminated; the Jaguars face 3-13 Tennessee, one of the worst teams in the NFL. Denver can’t afford to get too cute here.

Fernando-mania. The Raiders are the NFL’s hottest current mess. They’ve lost 10 straight. The Pete Carroll experiment seems all but destined to end after one unceremonious year. 48-year-old minority owner Tom Brady was captured by TMZ getting a little close with 25-year-old influencer Alix Earle on New Year’s Eve. Las Vegas continues to be in the news for plenty of reasons beyond the actual on-field product. The good news? Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza is only solidifying his case as a legitimate No. 1 pick, with a 14-of-16 line for 192 yards and three touchdowns in a drubbing of Alabama at the Rose Bowl on Thursday. Raiders general manager John Spytek has to be licking his chops.

Rivers done, again. The great season-saving Philip Rivers Experiment is over, as the 44-year-old will now step back into retirement after three losses in Indianapolis. What a valiant effort it was, though: Rivers has a higher QBR (39.3) in three starts in 2025 than the Dolphins’ Tua Tagovailoa or the Raiders’ Geno Smith have this season. The Colts announced rookie QB Riley Leonard will start in Week 18, with Indianapolis (8-8) removed from playoff contention. Rivers, though, expressed nothing but gratitude for the opportunity.

“I got three bonus games that I never saw coming,” Rivers told reporters, “and couldn’t be more thankful that I got an opportunity.”

Around the NFC

Teach me how to Purdy. It’s time to officially crown San Francisco as serious NFC contenders. The 49ers were a distant afterthought in their own division a couple months back, floating at 6-4 behind Seattle and the Rams. Suddenly, the Niners have ripped off six wins in a row with the return of starting quarterback Brock Purdy, who’s playing with rarely-before-seen levels of confidence. Case in point: hitting a nasty Dougie after a touchdown against the Bears last Sunday in a 24-of-33, 303-yard, five-total-TD performance. As 49ers tight end George Kittle has said, heaven “forbid a white guy has a little bit of motion.”

Packers get secondary help. Green Bay’s seen an unexpected influx of Cowboys into their building in 2025. First came Micah Parsons. Now, former All-Pro Trevon Diggs is joining the fray after Dallas cut bait and waived him this week. The cornerback is far from the same player who led the NFL with 11 interceptions in 2021, torched for four touchdowns and a 157.2 quarterback rating in eight games this season. But there’s still talent in there, and perhaps Diggs will be motivated by a fresh start.

Can Stafford seize an MVP? The race for the league’s top award is still wide-open entering Week 18. Support for the Rams’ Matthew Stafford, long the season favorite, has faltered significantly after he threw three interceptions in Monday’s 27-24 loss to the Falcons. The stats don’t lie, though: Stafford’s 42 touchdown passes are nine more than any other NFL quarterback entering the final regular-season game of the year. If Stafford gets back on track against the 3-13 Cardinals Sunday, consider the Most Valuable Player discussion wrapped up.

Game of the Week

Baltimore at Pittsburgh

It’s a Sunday Night doozy. Lamar Jackson vs. Aaron Rodgers for sole possession of an AFC North title — and a playoff berth. Loser’s bounced out of the bracket entirely. Jackson confirmed this week he’ll play after missing last Saturday’s win with a back contusion, in what’s been an overall-frustrating year for the MVP due to injuries and roster instability.

There could be major long-term ramifications on the line for both organizations in Pittsburgh on Sunday. A Ravens loss could bring an end of an era to the John Harbaugh-Jackson partnership in Baltimore, with trade rumors swirling around Jackson for the better part of a strange season. A Steelers loss could bring an end to the Mike Tomlin era in Pittsburgh, with rampant speculation (okay, there’s speculation literally every year) around Tomlin’s job security. Sunday should, in general, bring a unique new chapter in a historic NFL rivalry.

Lock of the Week

Tennessee at Jacksonville

There aren’t a ton of playoff teams with a ton left to play for in Week 18. The Jaguars are one of them. And they just so happen to be facing the 3-13 Titans. Tennessee’s been playing much-improved offensive ball across the last month, as rookie Cam Ward has six touchdowns and zero interceptions in his last three starts. Still, the Jaguars should be motivated to put this one to bed early to preserve a shot at the one-seed and get their starters some second-half rest.

Jaguars 31, Titans 20

Upset of the Week

Washington at Philadelphia

Don’t look now, but the reigning champs should be squarely back in the thick of the Super Bowl discussion. Philadelphia’s offense is still a sludge. But Vic Fangio’s defense is playing as well as any unit in the league: the Eagles have surrendered just 14.5 points a game across their last eight weeks.

That being said, this could be a classic end-of-year stunner. Philadelphia’s resting quarterback Jalen Hurts against the Commanders, despite a shot at the No. 2 seed if they’d beat Washington. That’d signal the Eagles will sit other key starters; Washington’s suffered through a brutal season with Jayden Daniels banged up, but backup Marcus Mariota has done some solid work at times. This could be an ugly, meaningless upset.

Commanders 16, Eagles 13

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Luca Evans

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January 3, 2026
Tom Brady Shares Cryptic Post About ‘Beautiful’ People After Partying With Alix Earle Following Gisele Bündchen’s Secret Wedding

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Are Tom Brady & Alix Earle Dating?

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Lea Veloso

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January 2, 2026
Rob Gronkowski on Tom Brady Flag Football Reunion: ’Still Got My Hands’ (Exclusive)

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Rob Gronkoswki is prepping hard for “Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest.”

“Extra” spoke with Rob at rehearsals, where he dished on joining the festivities and co-hosting from Vegas with Julianne Hough.

Rob’s family will be on hand while he co-hosts the Las Vegas party. He said, “It’s going to be the best night of all time, and we’re going to be rocking into the year of 2026. We’re going to do it with style and grace.”

Rob is excited to co-host with Julianne, who he called “terrific” and “professional at all levels.”

He went on, “I’ve been watching her forever, you know, every season of ‘Dancing with the Stars.’ I’m a big fan… Just to see her go, you know, in the rehearsals and just be a part of her energy and vibes, that’s just raising my game up as well.”

Will there be any dancing involved?

Rob quipped, “I’m a professional dancer in the most Gronk way possible. No one can do my moves better than me, but she’s a pro dancer, like she got legit dance moves. I can dance, but, you know, I’m an amateur. I just move all around and people love it because I just bring the energy.”

Gronk pointed out that his game will “raise to a whole ‘nother level” if he learned some moves from Julianne.

In the new year, Gronk will be reuniting with his QB Tom Brady for the Fanatics Flag Football Classic in March 2026.

He shared, “Tom’s going to be ready to go. His arm, he’s been throwing every day. Every single time he’s on the Fox pregame show, he chucks the football as hard as he can to show the world that, ‘Hey, I’m Tom Brady. I can still throw the ball better than every other quarterback in the NFL.’”

Gronk knows he has to be “ready”, emphasizing, “I still got my hands.”

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extratv.com

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December 26, 2025
The Truth on Whether Tom Brady Is ‘Upset’ at Gisele Bündchen’s Wedding After He Posted a Cryptic Photo on Her Special Day

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Gisele Bündchen and Tom Brady haven’t been a couple for a while. In fact, the Brazilian supermodel moved on a while ago with the father of her youngest child, Joaquim Valente. And now that the two have just tied the knot, people are wondering how her ex, Brady, feels about this new chapter.

Apparently, there’s no drama. “He’s happy in the way that is simple: he’s happy that she is happy,” a source told the Daily Mail about Brady’s reaction. “Down the line, he might get married again and he would want her to be OK with that, so he has to be OK about it,” the insider explained.

Related: Why did Tom Brady and Gisele Bundchen divorce?

“If he was upset, that would mean he still has feelings for her and that it would be unfair to the kids if he didn’t want to see their mom happy and move on.”

Brady and Bündchen divorced in October 2022 after 13 years of marriage. The former couple shares two children, Benjamin and Vivian, and co-parent Brady’s son, Jack, from his previous relationship with Bridget Moynihan. Though it has never been confirmed, reports indicated the decision to divorce was tied to Brady’s choice to go back to playing football after he announced his retirement.

The supermodel started dating jiu-jitsu instructor Joaquim Valente, reportedly around June 2023. In October 2024, People reported that the two were expecting their first child together.

As for Brady, the source also told the outlet that he’s got some experience with moving on. “He’s had to move on from two different important relationships, and two mothers to his children,” the source said. “He’s learned a lot along the way, and he’s taking this next stage in stride. He’s being very mature about it and not letting it pick at him negatively in any way.”

Not that his approval was necessary for Bundchen, but it’s still good to know there aren’t any problems.

“It’s life, and everyone is happy. It’s the holiday season, he’s not inviting any drama where there doesn’t have to be.”

The former couple is reportedly cordial for the sake of their children, but obviously not too close anymore. “They are living their own separate lives and anything that actually matters is the safety and happiness of their children,” the insider said. “That is everything for Tom.”

But reports indicate that Bündchen gave Brady a warning about the wedding, just as she previously gave him one about her pregnancy. “It wasn’t a secret to [Brady],” the source told the Daily Mail. “They still have to talk because of the kids, and though that is often very brief, important milestones, schedules and of course her getting married was something she wasn’t going to keep secret.”

Brady was a little bit cryptic on his Instagram stories after news of his ex’s marriage was announced. The former QB shared a zoomed-in picture of himself wearing a white hoodie that read “Forever Young” on it. The caption was “Yuppppppp.” The story was accompanied by Logic’s 2017 hit song “1-800-273-8255” to the post, a powerful mental health anthem.

In the post, Logic sings, “I’ve been on the low, I been taking my time / I feel like I’m out of my mind / It feel like my life ain’t mine (Who can relate? Woo).”

Make of that what you will.

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Lizzie Lanuza

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December 22, 2025
Tom Brady says he ‘certainly could’ play quarterback at 48 amid a Philip Rivers comeback

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Philip Rivers, at 44 years old, is back in an NFL building as the Indianapolis Colts brought back their former signal caller to potentially help them reach the playoffs.

Rivers hasn’t played in the league since 2020, but the Colts believe he can still sling the pigskin, which begs the question: Does Tom Brady feel the same way?

“Who retires and then unretires and then is ultimately going to retire again? Who does that? That’s ridiculous for Philip to do that,” Brady joked about Rivers rejoining the Colts during his appearance on FOX Sports’ “The Herd.”

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Indianapolis Colts quarterback Philip Rivers (17) before playing against the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Wild Card game at Bills Stadium on Jan. 9, 2021. (Rich Barnes/USA TODAY Sports)

But could Brady still play quarterback right now at 48 if he decided to reenter the NFL?

“Yes, I certainly could,” he told Colin Cowherd. “I think the answer for me would be yes. I’m not allowed to anymore because I’m a minority owner of the [Las Vegas] Raiders, so I can’t unretire.”

The prior quip from Brady refers to his retirement on Feb. 1, 2022, after playing 22 illustrious seasons in the league. However, just 40 days after his announcement, Brady was back in the saddle with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for the 2022 season.

PHILIP RIVERS EMBRACES NFL COMEBACK AT QUARTERBACK AFTER RETURN TO COLTS: ‘I THOUGHT THAT SHIP HAD SAILED’

Then, Brady retired “for good” after that season, where the Bucs lost to the Dallas Cowboys in the playoffs.

And even if Brady wanted to miraculously get back on the gridiron, he wouldn’t be able to considering his stake in the Raiders. It goes against NFL rules.

But Rivers, who has been coaching high school in Alabama since his playing days were complete in 2020, now finds himself in position to potentially start against the Seattle Seahawks on the road this Sunday.

It’s a crucial time for the Colts, losers of their last three games since the bye week, which leaves them at 8-5 this season. They’re gunning to compete with the Jacksonville Jaguars, who they just lost to on Sunday, and are now at 9-4 leading the AFC South. The Houston Texans, who have ripped off five straight wins behind their league-leading defense, are also 8-5, making this a division to watch in the remaining four regular-season games.

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Philip Rivers (17) on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025, during practice at the Colts training facility in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Mykal McEldowney/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)

The reason for Rivers’ reunion in Indy surrounds the loss of Daniel Jones, who suffered a torn Achilles after trying to play through a broken fibula. Jones was enjoying a season that revitalized his career, which looked entirely different in 2024 after being released by the New York Giants mid-season.

Then, rookie Riley Leonard, who took over for Jones in Jacksonville, suffered a knee injury, which led the Colts to call Rivers. After a visit to see if he was in shape enough to play, they put pen to paper, and now head coach Shane Steichen may be going to the 44-year-old as reporters believe they’re watching him take most of the first-team reps at practice.

“I’m very excited to watch Philip play,” Brady added. “If he’s out there, it’s just very cool. It speaks to how much he loves the game and really what he’s able to do still.”

Rivers may not be too spry, but then again, he told reporters that his strengths on the football field never revolved around what he could do with his legs. It was always the arm talent, showcasing an accurate ball and good decision-making during his time with the Los Angeles Chargers and Colts.

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“This game is about, for the quarterback, from the neck up,” Brady said. “We used to have a saying at Michigan, ‘The mental is to the physical as four is to one at the quarterback position.’ That doesn’t really go away. Do you still have the physical ability to still do it — take the hits, make the throws, the drops, buy a little time in the pocket?

“If Philip has been practicing those things, then we’re all going to see it on full display in Seattle on Sunday afternoon.”

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Scott Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital.

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December 12, 2025
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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November 25, 2025
How to Buy Tom Brady Patriots Mitchell & Ness White 2000 Legacy Jerseys: Shop New England Throwbacks

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Mitchell & Ness has released another one of their classic “Throwbacks”, this time featuring New England legend Tom Brady recreating his white Patriots jersey from the 2000 season, and you can buy them now on Fanatics.

Brady won a lot of games in these jerseys, and the “white number 12” will go down as one of the most iconic jerseys in NFL history.

During his two decades in New England, Brady led the team to six Super Bowl championships and established himself as the greatest quarterback of all time. The clean white away uniform became a symbol of his excellence and dominance in road games, helping cement the Patriots’ reputation as a dynasty.

Fans often remember Brady in the white jersey during some of the team’s most memorable playoff moments, where the contrast of the bright white uniform against hostile stadiums highlighted the calm, efficient style he brought to the field. The jersey itself became instantly recognizable and a fan favorite. Today, the image of Brady in his white Patriots uniform remains a powerful reminder of an era defined by sustained success.

These jerseys are now available to the fans and can be ordered in Authentic, replica, big and tall, youth, and infant styles and sizes.

Click on any of the images or links to order now. Place your order before it is too late, as these will be in high demand. Fanatics has you covered with the officially licensed Tom Brady Throwback Jerseys.

If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation.

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November 23, 2025
15 Athlete-Celebrity Couples Whose Relationships Are Entire Plotlines

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Source: Cindy Ord/MG25 / Getty

There’s something magnetic about athlete-celebrity couples. Maybe it’s the mix of locker room grit and red-carpet glamour, or how two worlds built on pressure and perfection somehow find common ground. Whether it’s a quarterback dating a pop star or a tennis legend marrying a tech mogul, these pairings always seem to grab our attention…and for good reason.

RELATED: ‘All’s Fair’ Fineness: Teyana Taylor, Niecy Nash, & Birthday Baddie Kimmy Kakes Lead The ‘All’s Fair’ Cast In Serving Luxe Looks At Paris Premiere

Athletes and celebs live fast, busy, spotlight-heavy lives. They understand what it’s like to be chased by cameras, critiqued by millions, and still perform at the highest level. That shared intensity can build a unique kind of bond, but it also makes dating a tricky endeavor. Between endless travel, demanding schedules, and the constant public microscope, love can be a challenging game to win. Add cheating rumors, fan theories, and social media drama, and suddenly, even a small dinner date can become front-page news.

Still, the fascination never fades. We love watching these worlds collide as few things top the touchdowns and love songs, the courtside kisses and runway moments. These couples show us what happens when ambition meets admiration, when two people who understand the grind decide to take on the spotlight together.

From all-time icons to modern-day favorites, these pairings have defined pop culture, dominated headlines, and proven that chemistry can thrive under the brightest lights. Some are timeless, some were short-lived, but all of them left their mark. Here are athlete-celebrity couples (past and present) who prove that love, fame, and a little chaos make the perfect combination.

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1. David Beckham & Victoria Beckham

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The blueprint for all power couples. He was Manchester United’s golden boy; she was Posh Spice. Twenty-plus years later, they’re still the definition of class and chemistry.

2. Travis Kelce & Taylor Swift

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The NFL star and global pop queen turned 2023 into one big crossover event. Stadiums, songs, and sideline shots…their romance is the cultural moment.

3. Russell Wilson & Ciara

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Faith, family, and finesse. From NFL sidelines to R&B stages, they’ve built a brand on love and positivity and make it look effortless.

4. Tom Brady & Gisele Bündchen

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The quarterback and the supermodel ran the world for over a decade. Even after their split, they remain a masterclass in mutual respect and drive.

5. Serena Williams & Alexis Ohanian

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A love story that proves opposites not only attract, they dominate. The tennis icon and Reddit co-founder built a life rooted in equality and admiration.

6. Michael Jordan & Yvette Prieto

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The GOAT found peace and privacy with the Cuban-born model. They keep things quiet, classy, and out of the headlines.

7. Dwyane Wade & Gabrielle Union

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Stylish, outspoken, and solid. Whether it’s fashion week or family life, they show up for each other every time.

8. Carmelo Anthony & La La Anthony

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They ruled the early 2010s – red carpets, MTV shows, and courtside love. Even after their split, their story remains an iconic one.

9. Alex Rodriguez & Jennifer Lopez

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Baseball meets pop perfection. They were engaged, blended families, and nearly walked down the aisle…until it all unraveled in true tabloid fashion.

10. Naomi Osaka & Cordae

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The tennis superstar and Grammy-nominated rapper are lowkey and authentic. They support each other’s dreams and keep the focus on growth, not gossip.

11. Dennis Rodman & Carmen Electra

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Wild, unpredictable, and unforgettable. Their ’90s fling was pure pop culture chaos and we loved every second.

12. Jessica Simpson & Tom Brady

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Remember this one? The Dallas QB and pop princess dominated headlines in the mid-2000s before calling it quits.

13. Aaron Rodgers & Shailene Woodley

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The MVP and the indie actress had a short but fascinating run. Meditation meets Monday Night Football.

14. Odell Beckham Jr. & Lauren Wood

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The NFL star and influencer share a son and a stylish bond. Together, they redefined what young power couples could look like.

15. Kim Kardashian & Reggie Bush

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Before Kanye, before Pete, there was Reggie. They were the ultimate reality-era couple. Football fame meets Hollywood shine.

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Davonta Herring

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November 11, 2025
For Those Who Have Our Number; We Salute You? – Philadelphia Sports Nation

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Photo Courtesy of Eagles Nation on X.

Strange, isn’t it? If there is a book out there on the Philadelphia Eagles like the one that AJ Brown has been reading on the sideline — maybe the Rams can should borrow a copy? But Todd Bowles and the Buccaneers seem to have some sacred documents on how to stymie the Eagles stored in the deep annals below Raymond James Stadium.

Many times that the Eagles have had a pivotal game against the Buccaneers — Tampa always seems to come out on top. Sure — the Eagles were dominant against Tony Dungy’s Buccaneers in the NFC Wildcard Round in the first couple years of Andy Reid’s tenure that the Eagles were in the playoffs.

Photo Courtesy of Eagles Nation on X.

But In 1979 — when Dick Vermeil’s Eagles were ascending for the first time in decades — the Buccaneers — who had combined for a 7–37 record in 3 seasons prior — defeated the Eagles in the Divisional Playoffs 24–17. Then in 2003 — Ronde Barber’s gut wrenching interception to close Veterans Stadium. The following September at the first game of the Linc — was another loss 17–0 to Tampa Bay. Fast forward to Jalen Hurt’s first playoff game loss 31–15 at Raymond James Stadium in 2022 and two years later a 32–9 loss in the 2024 NFC Wildcard Round that left us with the image of Jason Kelce’s unbridled outpouring of emotion captured by the national media.

But there is a silver lining when it comes to some of our painful history of Tampa Bay. Really.

Consider this. One year after the Eagles disappointing loss in Tampa in 1979 — they won the NFC and advanced to the Super Bowl for the first time in franchise history. Two years after Jon Gruden’s Bucs denied the Eagles a Super Bowl appearance — Philadelphia went back to the Super Bowl for the first time since 1980.

One year after Tom Brady and the Buccaneers ended the Eagles season in South Florida — Nick Sirianni’s Eagles were also in the Super Bowl. One year after the Eagles lost in the NFC Playoffs again to Tampa Bay in 2024 and just six months after another regular season 31–16 blowout loss at Raymond James Stadium — the Eagles completed the most magical post-season run in team history — winning Super Bowl LIX. After that week 4 loss — the Eagles went 12–1 for the rest of the season.

Across the South Philadelphia sports’ Complex — the Phillies are preparing to dazzle us with another Red October — perhaps ending with the exhilaration of a World Series victory like the defeat of Tampa in 2008 in South Philadelphia. Perhaps — it will be the Eagles who have a surprise ending on Sunday in the South Florida heat. If history is any judge — win or lose — the sky is the limit for these Eagles — either way.

Tags: Andy Reid Jalen Hurts Jason Kelce jon gruden Nick Sirianni Tampa Bay Buccanears Tom Brady

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Michael Thomas Leibrandt

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September 28, 2025
Raiders’ Maxx Crosby Reveals Biggest Thing He’s Learned From Tom Brady

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Over the last few years, the Las Vegas Raiders have been full of hope. There have been multiple years that it looked like the franchise could get back to being a potential playoff contender.

Unfortunately, the disappointment has continued to build. Heading into the 2025 NFL season, the Raiders have a new head coach in Pete Carroll and he has brought a new culture to the team. There are legitimate reasons to be excited about the upcoming campaign.

A big part of their success will be superstar pass rusher Maxx Crosby.

Read more: Bears Receive Strong Words From Peyton Manning About Caleb Williams

He has become a clear leader for Las Vegas. It also helps that he is one of the best defensive players in the NFL.

Defensive end Maxx Crosby #98 of the Las Vegas Raiders reacts during the NFL preseason 2025 game at State Farm Stadium on August 23, 2025 in Glendale, Arizona.

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Crosby has been a leader on the field, but he’s looking to take that leadership a step further. Tom Brady has been influential for him and he spoke out and talked about the biggest thing he has learned from the best quarterback in league history.

“He’s taught me how to be a better leader,” Crosby said. “He’s showed me, this is what it looked like when I was young, and this is what it looked like in year seven for me. It’s been a constant evolving relationship, and he’s helped me so much, I think mostly in a leadership role, how to bring teammates along, how to push guys, to pull guys in a certain direction.”

Carroll will need to lean heavily on Crosby. He will need the star defensive end to help his teammates get better around him. That is what he has learned from Brady.

Learning from one of the best players to ever play the game of football is huge. Not only is Brady one of the best players of all-time, he was also an elite leader. He was the definition of improving players around him.

Hopefully, that is a role that Crosby can play for the Raiders.

Read more: Tom Brady Has Strong Words for Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers

Last season, Crosby played in 12 games. He racked up 45 tackles to go along with 7.5 sacks and five defended passes. Back in 2023, he totaled 90 tackles, 14.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery, and two defended passes.

Those numbers show a glimpse of what Crosby can do on the field. If he can take his leadership to the next level, he will become a complete player.

While this is all great news, fans will need to see it on the field. It will be interesting to see what changes Crosby makes this season and how he can bring his teammates up around him throughout the 2025 campaign.

For more on the Las Vegas Raiders and general NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.

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September 2, 2025
Happy New Year!: New coach, talent bring hope and energy back to historic franchise

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FOXBOROUGH — Mike Vrabel earned his degree from Ohio State in exercise science, graduating in 2005, just months after picking up his third Super Bowl ring as a linebacker with the New England Patriots.

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By Hector Longo hlongo@eagletribune.com

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July 23, 2025
Taylor Swift Returns to Eras Tour Road As Tom Brady, Serena Williams, and Hoda Kotb Cheer Her On

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That repetitional damage wasn’t in evidence Friday night, when she took the stage for the first of three sold-out shows in the redder-than-red state of Florida. Perhaps the crowd was bolstered by out-of-town celebrities who were also in attendance—TMZ spotted Tom Brady, Miley Cyrus, Serena Williams, Hoda Kotb, and Savannah Guthrie in the crowd.

Taylor Swift performs onstage during The Eras Tour at Hard Rock Stadium on October 18, 2024 in Miami Gardens, Florida.

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Also present was Jason Kelce, the brother of Swift’s boyfriend, Travis Kelce. The former Philadelphia Eagle either fell asleep or pretended to during the show, reports the Post. But by keeping his eyes closed, he missed some surprises: BuzzFeed notes that she debuted four new costumes for this final run of shows, while the Miami Herald reports that Florence Welch appeared on stage for “Florida,” her duet with Swift from her most recent album, The Tortured Poet’s Department.

Taylor Swift performs onstage during The Eras Tour at Hard Rock Stadium on October 18, 2024 in Miami Gardens, Florida.

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Swift’s Eras Tour will continue through the end of 2024, with subsequent three-night stands in New Orleans and Indianapolis. Then, it’s off to Canada for the last leg of the tour, which will end on Sunday, December 8 in Vancouver.

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October 19, 2024
Tom Brady’s minority stake in the Las Vegas Raiders approved by NFL owners

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Tom Brady has another new role in the NFL: owner.

The seven-time Super Bowl champion purchased a minority stake in the Las Vegas Raiders, a deal unanimously approved by NFL team owners on Tuesday at the league’s annual fall meeting.

In a lengthy statement on X, Brady said he was “incredibly humbled and excited” to receive approval.

“I’m eager to contribute to the organization in any way I can, honoring the Raiders’ rich tradition while finding every possible opportunity to improve our offering to fans… and most importantly, WIN football games,” Brady posted.

Tom Brady, former NFL quarterback, looks on before the Detroit Lions play the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on October 13, 2024 in Arlington, Texas.

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Brady also thanked Raiders majority owner Mark Davis, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and others.

“It’s an exciting day for the Raider organization,” Davis said. “Although Tom can’t play, I think he can help us select a quarterback in the future and potentially train him as well.”

Brady, who played 23 seasons with the Patriots and Buccaneers, takes 5% control of the Raiders. He needed to receive 24 of 32 votes. The 47-year-old Brady can’t come of out retirement and play again unless he sells his stake in the team.

“It’s great that Tom Brady wants to invest in the NFL,” Goodell said. “He cares deeply about this game. He believes in its future and I think that’s just a signal of that.”

The deal was initially agreed upon in May 2023, but it took owners 17 months to give their approval over concerns Brady was receiving too much of a discount from Davis. Brady’s new job as a broadcaster with Fox also was an issue because it could represent a conflict of interest.

“There were a lot of things from a structural and due diligence standpoint that had to happen, which is why it took so long for it to be approved and we finally got all that put to bed,” Chiefs owner Clark Hunt said.

The NFL placed restrictions on Brady before the season to limit his access. He is not permitted to attend production meetings in person or virtually and may not have access to team facilities or players and coaching personnel. Brady may broadcast Raiders games. He also has to abide by the league constitution and bylaws that prohibit public criticism of officials and other clubs.

Brady also owns a minority stake in the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces, who are owned by Davis.

Pro Football Hall of Famer Richard Seymour, who played with Brady in New England, also received approval Tuesday to purchase a minority stake in the Raiders.

“This is the mission of a lifetime, and I accept it with both purpose and pride,” Seymour posted on X. “With great opportunity comes great responsibility. And I pledge to be a worthy steward of our game—and all it makes possible.”

Brady and Seymour are the fifth and sixth former NFL players to become owners after George Halas Sr., Jerry Richardson, Warrick Dunn and John Stallworth.

Davis joked that he didn’t like Brady very much when he was an opponent but he tried hard to sign him as a free agent in 2020 before the 15-time Pro Bowl QB went to Tampa Bay.

“We’re really proud to have him as part of the organization,” Davis said. “He’s a competitor, he’s a bright young man. There’s just so many pluses for both sides. It’s great.”

The Raiders haven’t won a Super Bowl since capturing their third title in eight years following the 1983 season. They won their first two championships in Oakland and the last one in Los Angeles. They moved to Las Vegas in 2020 and haven’t won a playoff game since losing the Super Bowl to Tampa Bay on Jan. 26, 2003.

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October 15, 2024
Tom Brady’s Net Worth Includes a Huge $375M Deal With Fox Sports

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Since he won his first Super Bowl in 2002, NFL fans have wanted to know about Tom Brady‘s net worth and how that changed after his retirement and his divorce from Gisele Bündchen. In 2024, Brady is still quite the top earner, raking in dough from his contract with Fox and myriad commercials so, you know, must be nice.

Related: Tom Brady’s Girlfriend Is Another Supermodel After Divorcing Gisele

Throughout Brady’s 20-plus-year football career, he’s won the Super Bowl six times and competed in nine games. He holds the record for the most Super Bowl wins in the NFL’s 100-plus-year history. He also holds the record for the player who has competed in the most Super Bowls. There’s no question that the star quarterback is a household name in the NFL.

What is Tom Brady’s net worth?

According to Celebrity Net Worth, Tom Brady‘s net worth is $300 million, with $30 million earned each year. Of course, most of the GOAT’s fortune is from his NFL salaries, but a lot of his money also comes from side businesses outside of the NFL. In 2013, Brady launched his own lifestyle brand, TB12.

Brady also has his own production company, 199 Productions, which he created in 2020. The company is set to develop documentaries, feature films and TV shows. Brady has also done campaigns for several brands over the years, including Wheaties, UGG, Movado, Smart Water and Tag Heuer, which only adds to his massive net worth. In 2020, Brady also published his first book, The TB12 Method: How to Do What You Love, Better, which became a New York Times bestseller.

How much did Tom Brady make with the New England Patriots?

How much did Tom Brady make with the New England Patriots? Brady was a quarterback for the New England Patriots from 2000 to 2020. NFL Network reported in 2019 that Brady signed a $70 million deal to play with the Patriots for two years. According to the deal, Brady was scheduled to make $30 million in 2020 and $32 million in 2021. A source also told the site that Brady received a raise for his 2019 salary from $15 million to $23 million, which is where the other $8 million came from.

It’s unclear how much Brady made in the end from the Patriots, as he left the team a year after signing his new contract in March 2020. NFL Insider did note, however, that the contract stated that Brady and the Patriots were “amenable” to adjusting the contract and his salary if necessary. According to Business Insider, Brady would’ve made $287.6 million throughout his 20-plus-year football career if he had re-signed with the Patriots in 2020, which is $35 million more than current record holder Eli Manning made in his football career.

Still, Brady’s last salary with the Patriots was way more than what he made at the start of his NFL career. Business Insider reported that Brady signed a $28 million 2002 to play with the Patriots for four years. When it came time to extend his contract in 2005, Brady, who had three Super Bowl wins under his belt, received a massive raise.

How much did Tom Brady make with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers?

After 20 years with the Patriots, Brady announced in March 2020 that he had signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. According to Pro Football Network, Brady signed a two-year deal with the Buccaneers at the time for $50 million. The site also reports that Brady will receive another $9 million in incentives, though there was no signing bonus. As for how Brady’s contract breaks down, Pro Football Network reports that Brady earned $15 million in salaries for each season, with $10 million roster bonuses. According to the site, Brady’s salary counts for 14.1 percent of the Buccaneers’ salary cap, which is estimated at more than $30 million for 2021.

Brady announced his first retirement from football in an Instagram post on February 1, 2022. A month later, in March 2022, Brady announced on his social media that he had unretired and would return to the Buccaneers. “These past two months I’ve realized my place is still on the field and not in the stands,” Brady wrote at the time. “That time will come. But it’s not now. I love my teammates, and I love my supportive family. They make it all possible. I’m coming back for my 23rd season in Tampa.” Seven months later, in October 2022, Brady and Bündchen announced their divorce.

In January 2023, Brady announced his second retirement from football and confirmed he was leaving the sport “for good.” “I’m retiring. For good. I know the process was a pretty big deal last time, so when I woke up this morning I figured I’d just press record, and let you guys know first,” he said. “It won’t be long-winded, you only get one super-emotional retirement essay, and I used mine up last year, so. I…really thank you guys…so much. To every single one of you, for supporting me, my family, my friends, teammates, my competitors. I could go on forever. There’s too many. Thank you guys for allowing me to live my absolute dream. I wouldn’t change a thing. Love you all.”

How much was Tom Brady’s Fox Sports contract?

Variety reported in July 2022 that Brady had signed a 10-year $375 million deal with Fox Sports to be a lead on-air analyst after his retirement from professional football. “They approached me after the season. And there’s a lot of history that I have with Fox,” he said. “I spoke with their executives, and I really had to evaluate if that’s what I wanted to commit to. I have a very unique perspective on football and how it should be played, and what good plays look like and what bad plays look like. I feel like I can still have a great impact on the game. I could stay in the game, doing what I love to do, talking about this incredible sport.”

Brady explained that Fox Sports approached him after he retired for the first time in February 2022. “Initially, I told them I didn’t want to do it. There was a lot of different emotions. I couldn’t make the decision from the place where I needed to be. For the first time, I was a free agent in life. It’s different than being a free agent in football when one of 31 teams can come after you. I had lots of different people say, ‘You’re free now; we’d love to have you involved in’ — different parts of football, broadcasting, business and finance,” he said.

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Jason Pham

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September 16, 2024
Does American tennis have a pickleball problem?

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NEW YORK (AP) — Does American tennis have a pickleball problem?

Even as the U.S. Open opened this week with more than a million fans expected for the sport’s biggest showcase, the game’s leaders are being forced to confront a devastating fact — the nation’s fastest-growing racket sport (or sport of any kind) is not tennis but pickleball, which has seen participation boom 223% in the past three years.

Women wait for friends to practice pickleball on the courts of CityPickle at Central Park’s Wollman Rink, Saturday, Aug. 24, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Eduardo Munoz Alvarez)

“Quite frankly, it’s obnoxious to hear that pickleball noise,” U.S. Tennis Association President Dr. Brian Hainline grumbled at a recent state-of-the-game news conference, bemoaning the distinctive pock, pock, pock of pickleball points.

Pickleball, an easy-to-play mix of tennis and ping pong using paddles and a wiffleball, has quickly soared from nearly nothing to 13.6 million U.S. players in just a few years, leading tennis purists to fear a day when it could surpass tennis’ 23.8 million players. And most troubling is that pickleball’s rise has often come at the expense of thousands of tennis courts encroached upon or even replaced by smaller pickleball courts.

“When you see an explosion of a sport and it starts potentially eroding into your sport, then, yes, you’re concerned,” Hainline said in an interview with The Associated Press. “That erosion has come in our infrastructure. … A lot of pickleball advocates just came in and said, ‘We need these tennis courts.’ It was a great, organic grassroots movement but it was a little anti-tennis.”

Some tennis governing bodies in other countries have embraced pickleball and other racket sports under the more-the-merrier belief they could lead more players to the mothership of tennis. France’s tennis federation even set up a few pickleball courts at this year’s French Open to give top players and fans a chance to try it out.

A man jumps to return the ball as people practice pickleball on the courts of CityPickle at Central Park’s Wollman Rink, Saturday, Aug. 24, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Eduardo Munoz Alvarez)

But the USTA has taken a decidedly different approach. Nowhere at the U.S. Open’s Billie Jean King National Tennis Center is there any such demonstration court, exhibition match or any other nod to pickleball or its possible crossover appeal.

In fact, the USTA is flipping the script on pickleball with an ambitious launch of more than 400 pilot programs across the country to broaden the reach of an easier-to-play, smaller-court version of tennis called “red ball tennis.” Backers say it’s the ideal way for people of all ages to get into tennis and the best place to try it is (wait for it) on pickleball courts.

“You can begin tennis at any age,” USTA’s Hainline said. “We believe that when you do begin this great sport of tennis, it’s probably best to begin it on a shorter court with a larger, low-compression red ball. What’s an ideal short court? A pickleball court.”

And instead of the plasticky plink of a pickleball against a flat paddle, Hainline said, striking a fuzzy red tennis ball with a stringed racket allows for a greater variety of strokes and “just a beautiful sound.” Players can either stick with red ball tennis or advance through a progression of bouncier balls to full-court tennis.

People practice pickleball on the courts of CityPickle at Central Park’s Wollman Rink, Saturday, Aug. 24, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Eduardo Munoz Alvarez)

“Not to put it down,” Hainline said of pickleball, “but compared to tennis … seriously?”

So what does the head of the nation’s pickleball governing body have to say about such comments and big tennis’ plans to plant the seeds of its growth, at least in part, on pickleball courts?

“I don’t like it but there is so much going on with pickleball, so many good things, I’m going to stick to what I can control, harnessing the growth and supporting this game,” said Pickleball USA CEO Mike Nealy.

Among the positive signs, Nealy said, is the continuing construction of new pickleball courts across the country, raising the total to more than 50,000. There’s also growing investment in the game at clubs built in former big-box retail stores, pro leagues with such backers as Tom Brady, LeBron James and Drake, and the emergence of “dink-and-drink” establishments that tap into the social aspect of the game by allowing friends to enjoy pickleball, beer, wine and food under the same roof.

“I don’t think it needs to be one or the other or a competition,” Nealy said of pickleball and tennis. “You’re certainly going to have the inherent frictions in communities when tennis people don’t feel that they’re getting what they want. … They’re different games but I think they are complimentary. There’s plenty of room for both sports to be very successful.”

People practice pickleball on the courts of CityPickle at Central Park’s Wollman Rink, Saturday, Aug. 24, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Eduardo Munoz Alvarez)

Top-ranked American tennis player Taylor Fritz agreed. “There are some people in the tennis world that are just absolute pickleball haters, and that’s fine. But for me, I don’t really have an issue with pickleball. I like playing sometimes. … I don’t see any reason why both of them can’t exist.”

The relative health of tennis and pickleball is calculated by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, a marketing research group whose annual survey of 18,000 Americans on their preferences of physical activity has been widely cited for decades.

Though the group’s President and CEO Tom Cove refused to hazard a guess on if or when pickleball could overtake tennis, he said the American pickleball boom is unlike anything his organization his ever seen and several key stats suggest it could be poised to keep going.

For starters, though the initial growth of pickleball was fueled during the coronavirus pandemic by retirees looking for a socially distanced, low-impact way to get some exercise, the growth now is driven by those ages 18 to 34, with a million new players 17 and younger added last year. Also, of the current 13.6 million pickleball participants in SFIA’s survey, the core number, those who play eight or more times a year, is a robust 4.8 million.

People practice pickleball on the courts of CityPickle at Central Park’s Wollman Rink, Saturday, Aug. 24, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Eduardo Munoz Alvarez)

But perhaps more important than any stat, Cove said, is that pickleball puts up almost no barriers to entry. Equipment is relatively cheap, the game can be played almost anywhere, even on a driveway, and it takes almost no time to start having meaningful games with players of all ages and skill levels. That’s unlike nearly every other sport, including tennis, which can often take months of practice to learn, be physically demanding and require finding players of similar skill level to play competitive matches.

“Pickleball has a unique quality to give enjoyment very early,” Cove said. “People figure it out and after one or two times. They say, ‘I like to play. It’s fun and I can do this. There’s enough competition, but not too much. There’s enough skill but not too much. There’s enough urgency but it doesn’t make me feel like I’m going to fall over. And I like the social part.”’

The USTA is seeking to capture some of that vibe as it charts tennis’ future. The game is coming off its own 10% growth over the past three years, according to SFIA’s survey, and the USTA has a goal to increase its ranks from 23.8 million to 35 million players — about 1 in 10 of all Americans — by 2035.

Building that base starts with outreach like a special “red ball” demonstration court set up next to stadium Court 17 at Flushing Meadows. A game that was once used almost exclusively to introduce children to tennis is now being promoted to adult U.S. Open fans — among the same people currently flocking to pickleball.

“I have to say, I kind of like it better than pickleball,” 27-year-old Angelique Santiago of Boston said after her first-ever session of red-ball. “The ball is softer compared to the hard pickleball. The tennis racket has a softer feel. It’s just easier to get into a rally. … I’d definitely play it again.”

Such comments are music to the ears of the USTA’s Hainline, who says comparing tennis to pickleball in terms of skill, nuance and athleticism is “like comparing apples to potatoes.”

“We want to present another option,” he said, “and let the people choose.”

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AP Tennis Writer Howard Fendrich contributed.

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AP tennis: https://apnews.com/hub/tennis

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August 29, 2024