These 5 NBA offseason moves weren't splashy. They may help win 2026 title.

These 5 NBA offseason moves weren't splashy. They may help win 2026 title.

Think of the trade for Alex Caruso and what that did for the Thunder. Caruso, a defensive stopper, assimilated instantly into Oklahoma City's scheme and drew massive assignments — such as guarding Nuggets center Nikola Jokić — during the team's NBA Finals run. Think of the Bucks adding backup center Bobby Portis in free agency the offseason before they beat the Suns in six games to win their first NBA Finals in 50 seasons. Often, it's the overlooked moves that carry massive implications for a team's playoff hopes, and this offseason was no different. Here are five under-the-radar moves that may have gone unnoticed but may prove to be key to championship contention in 2025-26: Trading for Cameron Johnsonboosts Denver's offense in a serious way. Signing veteran guard Bruce Brown — who was a member of the Nuggets' 2023 championship squad but had since moved on to the Pacers, Raptors and Pelicans — is all about leadership and defense. In his lone season in Denver, 2022-23, Brown averaged career-bests in points (11.5), assists (3.4) and minutes (28.5). Brown is an asset because he can switch on pick-and-rolls and helps facilitate on offense. He understands the culture and what's needed to win it all. This move was overshadowed bythe trade to land Kevin Durant, but signing Dorian Finney-Smith feels like a move that was done in response to the rise of the Thunder. The Rockets, with Finney-Smith, suddenly have elite length and defensive athleticism at the wing, which should align with clamping Oklahoma City players like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams. Finney-Smith can also hit 3s — he shot a career-best 41.1% from beyond the arc last season — so he also helps spread the floor for Houston. Another move worthy of consideration here is re-signing center Steven Adams, who allows the Rockets to play a two-big lineup, matching up with the Thunder duo of Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein. They already had a set starting lineup with continuity and a pair of All-Stars who can ignite. What the Knicks didn't have was a reliable scoring option off the bench (and a coach who isn't afraid to call on reserves).Mike Brown, who isn't shy about extending the rotation, fixes the latter issue, but signing proven scorer Jordan Clarkson to a veteran minimum deal shores up the offense off the bench. Clarkson, 33, agreed to a buyout with the Jazz, making him available. The 2020-21 Sixth Man of the Year, Clarkson has scored 8,045 points off the bench, which ranks 11th all-time and leads all active players. They already won a championship with Jaylin Williams, or Jay Will — not to be confused with All-Star Jalen Williams (J-Dub). But in re-signing Jaylin Williams, OKC gets added flexibility with the 23-year-old backup forward. Williams averaged 5.9 points and 5.6 boards per game, though he played just 16.7 minutes per contest. But he recorded three triple-doubles in nine starts last season, averaging 14.7 points, 10.7 assists and 13 rebounds across those three games. Put a different way: when the Thunder need him to step up, he is more than capable. He may go on to be a key piece if the Thunder become the first repeat champs since 2018, or if they're hit by the injury bug. He re-signed on a four-year deal that basically went overlooked, but this move is all about replacing Ty Jerome, the Sixth Man of the Year finalist who signed with the Grizzlies. Merrill appeared in 71 regular-season games — a career high — and started three playoff games. He averaged just 7.2 points per game, but his 137 made 3-pointers ranked 12th among NBA reserves. He also posted a plus-minus of +330 off the bench, third best in the league. With more minutes at his disposal, Merrill, a member of the 2021 Bucks team that won the NBA Finals, should see a big jump in production. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:NBA offseason moves that may help determine winner of 2026 NBA Finals

byLiam Oneel

in

August 20, 2025

These 5 NBA offseason moves weren't splashy. They may help win 2026 title.

These 5 NBA offseason moves weren't splashy. They may help win 2026 title. Think of the trade for Alex Caruso and what that did for the ...

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Carlos Alcaraz and Emma Raducanu crash out of revamped US Open mixed doubles as Iga Świątek and Casper Ruud reach semifinals

Carlos Alcaraz and Emma Raducanu crash out of revamped US Open mixed doubles as Iga Świątek and Casper Ruud reach semifinals

The much-talked-about pairing ofEmma RaducanuandCarlos Alcarazfell to an early exit in theUS Open's mixed doublescompetition on Tuesday, losing their first-round match and failing to win a set. Raducanu and Alcaraz, who have both lifted the US Open singles title on this court, lost 4-2, 4-2 against top seeds Jack Draper and Jessica Pegula, their partnership lasting just 50 minutes inside Arthur Ashe Stadium. The highlight of their short-lived campaign came in the second set when Alcaraz hunted down a wide and dipping backhand from Draper, swiping it down the line and receiving a look of astonishment from Raducanu. In areimagined competitioncomprising almost entirely of singles specialists, Draper and Pegula fared better than most, later defeating Mirra Andreeva and Daniil Medvedev 4-1, 4-1 for a spot in the semifinals. "I don't know what I was expecting, but I think it's been pretty good so far, especially after not competing for a while," said Draper, who was playing his first matches since a second-round exit at Wimbledon last month. "I'm happy with the way I'm playing. It's all about having a good partner as well – that's true." Pegula, a US Open singles finalist last year, and Draper will play third seeds Iga Świątek and Casper Ruud for a spot in the final on Wednesday. Świątek and Alcaraz both lifted singles titles at the Cincinnati Open on Monday before flying into New York on a private jet, making for a hectic and congested schedule with this year's mixed doubles event taking place the week before the main tournament. "Everyone should show some appreciation to Iga today because she got to her hotel 12 hours ago at 2:30 a.m. and she's here playing, so thank you so much, Iga," Ruud said in an on-court interview after their quarterfinal win. The new mixed doubles format has stirred controversy in the tennis community. Undoubtedly, there have been more eyeballs on the event and fans have a unique opportunity to see the game's biggest stars play alongside and against each other, but it comes at the expense of doubles specialists losing the chance to win a grand slam. The 16 pairs were playing a shortened format of first to four games across three sets, with no advantage after deuce and a 10-point tie break instead of a full third set. Prize money for the winning pair stands at $1 million, a huge increase of $800,000 from 2024. Perhaps unsurprisingly, the only doubles specialists in the draw – defending champions Sara Errani and Andrea Vavassori – won both of their matches, defeating Elena Rybakina and Taylor Fritz and then Karolina Muchová and Andrey Rublev. "Honestly, we felt a bit before stepping on court our mission was to play this tournament," Vavassori told reporters. "We were not sure during the year. For us, it was important to send a message before the tournament. "When we got the wild card … I was grateful to play. At least there were not so many doubles players. We are also playing for them. I think it's important to show also that doubles players are great players. "I think our main goal in the future will be to change a little bit the narrative because singles players are amazing on singles, but doubles players are amazing in doubles. If doubles players play against singles, sometimes they play better because they are more organized." Errani and Vavassori will continue their title defense against the American pairing of Danielle Collins and Christian Harrison, a last-minute entry into the competition, in Wednesday's semifinals. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account atCNN.com

byLiam Oneel

in

August 20, 2025

Carlos Alcaraz and Emma Raducanu crash out of revamped US Open mixed doubles as Iga Świątek and Casper Ruud reach semifinals

Carlos Alcaraz and Emma Raducanu crash out of revamped US Open mixed doubles as Iga Świątek and Casper Ruud reach semifinals The much-talked...

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Kelly Clarkson Returns to Instagram 12 Days After Ex's Death

Kelly Clarkson Returns to Instagram 12 Days After Ex's Death

Kelly Clarkson Returns to Instagram 12 Days After Ex's Deathoriginally appeared onParade. Kelly Clarksonreturned to Instagram — unofficially — on Aug. 19. She — or someone on her team — took to her Instagram Stories to share a promo for a new series that will begin airing tonight. "Tonight's the night," read a message added to the promo. This is the first time that Clarkson's social media has been active since the tragic death of her ex-husband — and the father of her two children —Brandon Blackstock. Clarkson will be back on television for a new special calledSongs & Stories. The premiere episode of the pre-recorded four part series will air on Aug. 19 onNBC. The show will also be available for streaming the next day on Peacock. The television special was inspired by Clarkson's talk show segment by the same name. View this post on Instagram A post shared by NBC Entertainment (@nbc) "Every song's got a story, and this special gives us a chance to hear what's behind the music straight from the artists who lived it. Getting to share the stage with them and hear about the moments that shaped their paths — and where they're headed next — is pretty special," Clarkson said in a press release ahead of the premiere. Each week, Clarkson will interview an artist and then she will perform with them. The Jonas Brothers will join Clarkson on Tuesday night's premiere. In the upcoming three weeks, Clarkson will chat with Gloria Estefan (Aug. 26), Teddy Swims (Sept. 2), and Lizzo (Sept. 9). "From chart-toppers to personal stories, the Jonas Brothers are kicking off #NBCSongsAndStories with Kelly Clarkson,"read the caption of a postuploaded to the official NBC Instagram page. Overall, fans seem excited for the series. "Yassssss can't wait!!!"one person commentedon NBC's promo post. "This is going to be great,"someone else said. "Not going to miss this,"a third comment read. Since the series was pre-recorded, it's unlikely that Clarkson will discuss anything that's happened in her personal life over the past two weeks. Kelly Clarkson Returns to Instagram 12 Days After Ex's Deathfirst appeared on Parade on Aug 19, 2025 This story was originally reported byParadeon Aug 19, 2025, where it first appeared.

byLiam Oneel

in

August 20, 2025

Kelly Clarkson Returns to Instagram 12 Days After Ex's Death

Kelly Clarkson Returns to Instagram 12 Days After Ex's Death Kelly Clarkson Returns to Instagram 12 Days After Ex's Deathoriginally ...

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Alec Baldwin’s Daughter, 11, Mercilessly Roasts His Acting Skills

Alec Baldwin's Daughter, 11, Mercilessly Roasts His Acting Skills

Alec Baldwin's Daughter, 11, Mercilessly Roasts His Acting Skillsoriginally appeared onParade. Alec Baldwin'sdaughter Carmen is not exactly his biggest fan. The 11-year-old spoke toEntertainment Tonightabout her dad's career during a joint interview with her mom,Hilaria Baldwin. "I watchedBoss Babymultiple times 'causemy brothershave an obsession with it," Carmen explained in an Instagram video posted by the outlet on Monday, August 18. "And I'm like, 'I do not wanna watch this.'" Despite her hesitancy, Carmen acknowledged that she ended up likingThe Boss Baby, the 2017 animated film in which Alec, 67, voiced secret agent infant Ted Templeton Jr. 🎬SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬 However, when the interviewer asked whether Alec was "good" in the movie, Carmen replied, "No." She went on to clarify, "Well, he didn't do much acting. It's an animation." Although her father has a lengthy list of acting credits, Carmen has yet to explore many of his films. "I think I only watched three of my dad's movies," she said. "The twoBoss Baby's. I watched the secondBoss Babyonly once. 'Cause I'm like, 'I'm 7 years old. I don't wanna be watching this.'" While Carmen felt she was too old to enjoy theBoss Babyfilms, one of Alec's more mature projects was not her cup of tea either. "I did seeBeetlejuice. I forgot about that one," she noted of the 1988 movie in which Alec portrayed a ghost named Adam Maitland. "It's not my kind of movie. I don't like gory things." After her daughter's candid comments, Hilaria, 41, chimed in to joke about Carmen's opinions having more of an impact than the "people whowrite you mean things online," adding, "In comparison, there's nothing that they can say." In addition to Carmen, Alec and Hilaria — who have been married since June 2012 —share sonsRafael, 10, Leonardo, 8, Romeo, 7, and Edu, 4, and daughters Lucía, 4, and Ilaria, 2. Alec is also the father ofIreland Baldwin, 29, with ex-wifeKim Basinger. Alec Baldwin's Daughter, 11, Mercilessly Roasts His Acting Skillsfirst appeared on Parade on Aug 19, 2025 This story was originally reported byParadeon Aug 19, 2025, where it first appeared.

byLiam Oneel

in

August 20, 2025

Alec Baldwin’s Daughter, 11, Mercilessly Roasts His Acting Skills

Alec Baldwin's Daughter, 11, Mercilessly Roasts His Acting Skills Alec Baldwin's Daughter, 11, Mercilessly Roasts His Acting Skillso...

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NFL cut candidates: Which notable players could be on chopping block for 53-man rosters?

NFL cut candidates: Which notable players could be on chopping block for 53-man rosters?

The NFL's deadline for teams to set their initial 53-man rostersdoesn't typically produce the same made-for-TV drama that the league's other personnel-centric events generate. For front offices and coaches, the cuts can entail a handful of difficult decisions. By and large, however, the process largely entails formalizing moves that had been clear for some number of weeks, with time finally up for hordes of undrafted rookies and other long shots who filled out the 90-man groups through preseason. But even though franchises more often split from their marquee and high-investment players much closer to free agency and the draft than the start of the season, cutdown day still can spark some consequential action. And the process of paring down for Week 1 can force teams to render verdicts on players whom they once envisioned serving as key contributors in short order. Here are 12 notable players who could be on the chopping block as the NFL's 53-man roster deadline looms next Tuesday: Few units were as maligned in 2024 as the Patriots' receiving corps, which scarcely provided Drake Maye anything beyond the magic the No. 3 overall pick could create on his own. With Stefon Diggs signed to be the new go-to target and third-round pick Kyle Williams providing a field-stretching complement to slot DeMario Douglas, the top of the depth chart found resolution relatively quickly over the spring and summer. But the back end has seen several shifts, with the latest seemingly putting several big names on the outside looking in heading into the final exhibition contest. With Mike Vrabel putting his imprint on the roster right away, draft capital might not be enough to save either Polk, a second-round pick just last year, or Baker, a fourth-round pick from the same class. Both wideouts have seemingly been lapped by Efton Chism III, an undrafted rookie who earned Maye's seal of approval in organized team activities and caught all six of his targets for 71 yards and a touchdown last week against theMinnesota Vikings. Leaving open the possibility for the Eastern Washington product to be scooped up by another team might be a non-starter for New England at this point given how much value he has shown. With Kayshon Boutte and Mack Hollins entrenched as backups, it's hard to see a path forward for either of the second-year pass catchers or the reliable Bourne, who signed a three-year, $19.5 million contract with the Patriots last March. For all of the focus on the offseason improvements to the Patriots' moribund offense, the defense has been treated to plenty of upheaval itself in recent months – and more could be on the way. Dugger, who has started 65 games for New England in the last five years and signed a four-year, $58 million deal to remain with the team last spring, has been relegated to second-string work. That might have been dismissed as merely part of his recovery from the tightrope ankle surgery he underwent after last season, but his usage in the last preseason game – a team-high 45 snaps, including the final play, all of which came after the starters came out – indicates something more meaningful afoot. Executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf said Monday he still believes there's a place for Dugger, but it's difficult to envision where that is. The combination of a dead cap hit of $14.25 million and savings of just over $1 million might dissuade the Patriots from making a move, but a clean break might be in order. Jennings, a full-time starter for the last two years, also proved to be a poor schematic fit for the new coaching staff. Yet his extended action in the preseason might have paid off, as he recorded three sacks last week. The sixth-year veteran can't be counted on to provide much of a spark as a pass rusher for a defense that ranked last in sacks in 2024, but New England would benefit from a little reliability on the edge given how volatile the team's other options are. An undrafted free agent out of West Virginia, Bishop emerged from relative anonymity to string together some notable moments while stepping in as the Steelers' nickel corner last season, notching four interceptions, seven passes defensed and the October award for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month. ButPittsburgh's trade for Jalen Ramseyand signing of Brandin Echols would seem to leave the slot-only defender without much of a home, and defensive coordinator Teryl Austin confirmed Monday that the odds are stacked against Bishop sticking around. "(Bishop) really has to fight and work to get some splash to put himself in the picture," Austin said. The same could be said of Leal, though perhaps it might already be too late for the 2022 third-round pick. Long considered a tweener, the 6-4, 290-pounder struggled to find a true position in the pros but eventually settled in at outside linebacker. Yet translating his impressive athleticism into any semblance of production still hasn't come easy. With super sub Nick Herbig and third-round rookie Jack Sawyer providing depth behind the standout pass rushing tandem of T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith, Leal looks superfluous heading into the final year of his deal. What began Monday as trade speculation surrounding the Commanders' lead back ended the night as a tacit admission of the team's plans. Robinson sat out Washington's preseason contest against the Cincinnati Bengals, and coach Dan Quinn's comments afterward appeared to cement a changing of the guard in the backfield. Robinson has been a steady ball carrier throughout his first three years, eclipsing 700 yards rushing in each campaign. But there might not be many takers for a ball carrier who lacks an explosive element to his game and is set to earn $3.4 million in base salary for the final year of his contract, leaving a release as the more reasonable resolution. Never mind the two drops he was responsible for in last week's preseason loss to the Seattle Seahawks, as coach Andy Reid brushed those aside as uncharacteristic mistakes. The real problem for Moore: He hasn't caught a pass since December 2023 after a core muscle injury limited him to just six games last season, and the 2022 second-round pick doesn't appear to be on the precipice of a long-awaited breakout. The 5-10, 195-pound wideout remains primarily an intermediate threat on a team that,pending a suspension for Rashee Rice, has a glut of players capable of owning that area of the field. An 88-yard punt return touchdown against the Seahawks served as a reminder of the tantalizing ability that drew Kansas City to Moore in the first place. But with Tyquan Thornton emerging as a potential downfield weapon for Patrick Mahomes and Nikko Remigio not loosening his grip on the kickoff and punt returner roles, Moore might need to head elsewhere before he can resume trying to make good on his potential. With fellow edge rusher Adisa Isaac estimated to be sidelined until midseason with a dislocated elbow that included ligament damage, Ojabo's spot might be safe – at least for now. But the 2022 second-round pick from Michigan entered camp as one of the few players on the Ravens' roster who seemed to be on uncertain ground. Ojabo's development has lagged behind that of his peers for some time after the Nigeria native spent much of his youth in Scotland before moving to New Jersey, but the gap only widened after he suffered a torn Achilles during his pro day at Michigan. After playing in just five games his first two years in the NFL, Ojabo appeared in 13 games last year but notched just two sacks. Baltimore appeared prepared to look elsewhere to jolt its pass rush, with second-round rookie outside linebacker Mike Green starring in early work. But Ojabo, whocrushed Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson Sr. on a sack in the preseason opener, said earlier in August he feels rejuvenated by not having to worry about health for the first time in his NFL career, and Baltimore might have enough of a need at the position to keep him around. Beware the danger of NFL draft comparisons. Dubbed the "YAC King" during his prolific career at Western Kentucky, Corley was widely likened to Deebo Samuel Sr. thanks to his burly build (5-11, 215 pounds) and knack for turning quick hits into long gains. Yet the lasting memory of the third-round pick's rookie campaign, which featured just three catches for 16 yards, washis Halloween blunder against the Houston Texansin which he willfully dropped the ball before crossing the goal line, negating what would have been his first career NFL touchdown. New Jets coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey have zero buy-in for keeping a pick from a previous regime, and Corley hasn't helped his cause with a dearth of positive plays throughout the offseason and training camp. Things haven't exactly panned out along the defensive line the way New Orleans might have envisioned in recent years, with the likes of Marcus Davenport and Payton Turner not living up to their first-round billing. The problem has continued with Foskey, who appeared on just 5% of the Saints' defensive snaps in 2024. The No. 40 overall pick in 2023 once might have been seen as a potential successor to Cameron Jordan, but New Orleans in March re-upped Chase Young on a three-year, $51 million contract to hold down the starting spot opposite Carl Granderson. With Chris Rumph II and seventh-round rookie Fadil Diggs each flashing some upside, Foskey might not stick around with Kellen Moore and the new coaching staff. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:NFL roster cut candidates: 12 notable players on chopping block

byLiam Oneel

in

August 20, 2025

NFL cut candidates: Which notable players could be on chopping block for 53-man rosters?

NFL cut candidates: Which notable players could be on chopping block for 53-man rosters? The NFL's deadline for teams to set their initi...

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NFL rookie stock up, stock down: Giants QB Jaxson Dart shines in preseason

NFL rookie stock up, stock down: Giants QB Jaxson Dart shines in preseason

Week 2 of the 2025NFLpreseason is in the books. Another exhibition matchup's allowed for more tape and information for players across the league but especially rookies. This is the first time they're getting NFL action beyond training camp practices and lining up against players they'll see on Sundays this season. Preseason performance isn't a direct indication of how a rookie will perform in the regular season; look no further thanCincinnati Bengalswide receiverJa'Marr Chase, who recorded four drops in the 2021 NFL preseason yet went on to win Offensive Rookie of the Year in the regular season. Even with exceptions like that, it's still important to take stock of how the 2025 rookie class is performing in their first weeks of NFL action. This was widely viewed as a rookie class with depth at certain positions and early-round picks who could contribute early on for their teams. Here are five rookies whose stock is up after Week 2 and five whose stock is down after another exhibition game. Dart made his NFL debut with a solid showing against theBuffalo Bills. TheOle Missproduct completed 12 of 19 passes for 154 yards and a touchdown but had an even better showing a week later at home against the Jets. Dart looked like the best rookie passer of the week. He shook off an incompletion and sack on his first two dropbacks to finish the day 14 of 16 passing for 137 yards and two touchdowns, one passing and one rushing. TheGiantspunted on his first drive of the game but scored on the ensuing three drives with two touchdowns and a field goal. Dart was a surprise first-round pick in April but he's showing well so far. Henderson entered the preseason with plenty of hype and delivered on his first touch in an NFL game. He took the opening kickoff of the Patriots' preseason opener against Washington 100 yards for a touchdown. TREVEYON HENDERSON 100-YD KICKOFF RETURN TD WITH HIS FIRST NFL TOUCH 😱(via@Patriots)pic.twitter.com/bPBeLpn3ZR — SportsCenter (@SportsCenter)August 8, 2025 Henderson has just five carries on offense in the preseason but he's averaging 7.6 yards per carry. That's exactly the kind of explosiveness the Patriots offense needs and a good reason why Henderson is shooting up fantasy football draft boards. Detroit traded up for TeSlaa in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft in a surprising move. The Arkansas product had plenty of traits but little production in the SEC with 897 yards and five touchdowns over two years with the Razorbacks. TeSlaa's size (6-4 and 217 pounds) gives him the frame to be a solid blocker andthat's shown up in training camp already. He's been just as impressive as a receiver with an outstanding catch against theMiami Dolphinsfor a touchdown in the red zone. OK THEN ISAAC!!!#MIAvsDET| 📺 Lions TV Networkpic.twitter.com/87msJ88uIN — Detroit Lions (@Lions)August 16, 2025 There's little doubt he'll be a key piece in the Lions wide receiver group behind All-Pro Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams. Higgins had a standout college career at Iowa. He led the FBS in tackles in 2023, earned two first-team All-Big Ten honors and was the conference linebacker of the year in 2024. He went undrafted in April, though, likely due to his poor testing numbers and size (6-foot, 224 pounds) at the NFL combine. He's been one of the best linebackers in the NFL during the preseason, both by the eye test andPro Football Focus (PFF) grades. In the opener against the Indianapolis Colts, Higgins showed out in pass rush, run defense and coverage assignments. His high motor kept him involved in all scenarios. UDFA Jay Higgins made the most of his preseason debut — quick reads, downhill trigger, physical at the point, disciplined in zone, and vocal getting the front set. Brought energy and set the tone for the defense.He'll of a 👃🏼 for the 🏈#RavensFlockpic.twitter.com/1tAqghCtdP — Chris Cooper (@ChrisCooper_NFL)August 12, 2025 Higgins got his first career sack against the Cowboys a week later and forced a fumble on Dallas quarterback Will Grier by timing his punch perfectly. Even on one of the better defenses in the league, Higgins should earn a spot for the 53-man roster. Two rookie defensive backs have tallied three pass break ups in the preseason,per PFF: Parrish and Los Angeles Chargers safety R.J. Mickens. Parrish reached that with 29 coverage snaps while Mickens did so in 96. The Kansas State product is expected to start at nickel cornerback for Tampa Bay and is already showing plenty for Buccaneers fans to be excited about. It's not just coverage snaps, either; Parrish had a stop in run defense against the Steelers to force a tackle for loss. Jacob Parrish (25) fitting the run and making the TFL vs outside zone, as the outside CB to the top of the screen. This is the good stuffpic.twitter.com/blWCYlhP0C — Anthony Cover 1 (@Pro__Ant)August 17, 2025 Cleveland's gone to their rookies for their first two games in the preseason. Gabriel hasn't fared as well, going 13 for 18 passing with 143 yards and two turnovers against the Philadelphia Eagles. That's a tougher opponent than fellow rookie Shedeur Sanders faced in the opener against Carolina but still not a good showing. Cleveland's opting to start the season with 40-year-old Joe Flacco at quarterback. It's not a good sign for Gabriel, who had the leg up in training camp on Sanders. McMillan has high expectations as a top-10 draft pick at wide receiver. He's dealt with plenty of physicality in training camp as the Panthers coaching staff want him to adjust to the contact he'll face in the NFL. In limited game settings, it hasn't been great from the Arizona product. McMillan's played 30 total snaps through two preseason games, per PFF. On six targets in the passing game, he has as many drops (two) as receptions and just 43 yards. One of those drops camein the end zone against the Browns. McMillan will likely be a focal point of the Panthers' offense in 2025 but may still take some time to get up to speed. Membou was one of the top tackles in the draft class alongside Will Campbell thanks to his size and impressive athleticism. That made him a plus run blocker and he's shown that well in training camp so far with New York. Pass protection may take more time as he had trouble with speed-to-power rushers at time in college and the Giants' Kayvon Thibodeaux took advantage of that in the Jets-Giants preseason game. Kayvon Thibodeaux 1 on 1 against rookie Armand Membou#NYGiantspic.twitter.com/9b5yFLb9rG — 𝓟𝓐𝓣 🗽 (@Darts2Leek)August 16, 2025 Membou rebounded with better reps later on but still ranks as the fifth-worst rookie lineman this preseason in blocking, per PFF grading. Miami's offensive line looks much different in 2025 than last season with just one returning starter in center Aaron Brewer. Savaiinaea's played more than the other projected starters in the preseason with mixed results so far. He's allowed four pressures and one sack on 36 pass blocking plays, perPFF. His pass blocking grade (9.5) is the fourth-worst among all rookie offensive linemen this preseason. He's learning a new position at guard after playing tackle at Arizona but that's not promising considering the Dolphins gave up two Day 2 draft picks to move up and select him No. 37 overall. Las Vegas has arguably one of the shakiest cornerback rooms in the league after trading Jakorian Bennett to Philadelphia earlier in training camp. Porter is the team's lone draft pick in the secondary and has struggled in both coverage and run defense. PerPFF, he's logged two missed tackles in 25 run defense snaps and allowed a 100.7 passer rating when targeted on 24 coverage snaps. That's not a promising start for a projected starter in the Raiders' secondary this season who only spent one college season as a full-time starter. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY:NFL rookie stock up, stock down: Dart shines in preseason Week 2

byLiam Oneel

in

August 20, 2025

NFL rookie stock up, stock down: Giants QB Jaxson Dart shines in preseason

NFL rookie stock up, stock down: Giants QB Jaxson Dart shines in preseason Week 2 of the 2025NFLpreseason is in the books. Another exhibitio...

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The Hilarious Reason Dakota Johnson Dropped Her Mic and Walked Off Stage

The Hilarious Reason Dakota Johnson Dropped Her Mic and Walked Off Stage

The Hilarious Reason Dakota Johnson Dropped Her Mic and Walked Off Stageoriginally appeared onParade. The internet is buzzing over a spontaneous moment that capturesDakota Johnson's unscripted charm. At a recent Los Angeles screening Q&A for her new filmSplitsville, the actress delivered a playful mic-drop for the ages after a bombshell revelation from her co-star,Nicholas Braun. The cheeky exchange, captured in a now-trendingTikTokvideo, shows Johnson's disbelief as Braun recounts how he learned a crucial magic trick for a scene.. During the Q&A, Braun, known for his role in HBO'sSuccession, innocently explained the card trick that impressed Johnson on set. "He taught me how to hide a card in my hand," Braun said, referring to co-star Kyle Marvin. Johnson, sporting a black leather maxi skirt and an oversized blazer, was visibly stunned, and sought immediate clarification. "Nick. I thought — Wait, Kyle taught you this?" she asked, with a look of shock. Braun's reply—"Yes, he taught me the morning of shooting"—sent Johnson into a spiral of playful indignation. "I hate this f—--g movie," seemed to jokingly exclaim as she rose from her chair. The room erupted in laughter as she continued, "I thought you did that, that you learned it." Braun, unfazed, insisted he learned it "that morning." "What?! I thought you had prepared that," Johnson pressed. "Not at all. No, we came up with it the night before," Braun finally admitted. In mock disbelief, Johnson tried one last time: "No you had been doing it for weeks." When Braun firmly replied, "No I had not," Johnson, in true A-list style, slammed the microphone to the ground and walked off the stage, disappearing into the applauding audience. The reason for her "rage"? The perfect blend of celebrity dramatics and the relatable human emotion of "Are you kidding me?" As oneRedditfan summarized, the mic-drop was a mix of "Oh he didn't prep as well as I thought he did" and "Wait he learned that in a single morning, I'm jealous!" The online community was quick to pick up on the comedy. One Reddit user commented, "If she was really mad she wouldn't be speaking into the microphone. It's an act. She's getting really good at it." Another added, "Dakota is a producer on this film, she's not just an actress here...She has a comfort level in slamming the mic down as a joke." Splitsville, an "unromantic comedy" from director Michael Angelo Covino, follows the chaotic fallout of two couples whose friendship is tested when a husband from a divorcing couple sleeps with a wife from an open-marriage couple. The film is set for a limited release on August 22, before expanding to a wide release on September 5, 2025. Given the social media buzz already building, it's clear that Johnson and her co-stars know how to keep people engaged. If this Q&A is any indication, audiences are in for a wild, laugh-out-loud ride. The Hilarious Reason Dakota Johnson Dropped Her Mic and Walked Off Stagefirst appeared on Parade on Aug 20, 2025 This story was originally reported byParadeon Aug 20, 2025, where it first appeared.

byLiam Oneel

in

August 20, 2025

The Hilarious Reason Dakota Johnson Dropped Her Mic and Walked Off Stage

The Hilarious Reason Dakota Johnson Dropped Her Mic and Walked Off Stage The Hilarious Reason Dakota Johnson Dropped Her Mic and Walked Off ...

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The Most Enormous Celebrity Engagement Rings of All Time

The Most Enormous Celebrity Engagement Rings of All Time

STEFANO RELLANDINI/AFP/Getty; David Livingston/Getty; Elisabetta A. Villa/Getty When megastars such asColin Jost,Jay-ZandBen Affleckpop the question to their equally successful counterparts, they do so with some of the biggest, most expensive and shiniest diamonds their money can buy. FromScarlett Johansson's unique $400,000 pear-shaped diamond toBeyoncé's $5 million emerald-cut sparkler, here are some of the most enormous celebrity engagement rings of all time. 01 of 21 Dave Benett/amfAR/Getty ; Robin L Marshall/WireImage Amazon CEOJeff Bezosproposed to hisnow-wifeLauren Sánchezwith aring featuring a cushion-cut diamondestimated to be about 30 carats. In a 2023 interview withVogue, Sánchez revealed the gem is a pink diamond. Jeweler and expert Briony Raymond told PEOPLE that the price of Sánchez's engagement ring could range from "$3 million to upwards of $5 million." 02 of 21 Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic; Georgina Rodriguez/Instagram After eight years of dating,Cristiano Ronaldoand his partnerGeorgina Rodriguezbecame engaged — and she showed off the massive oval-shaped diamond in an announcement post on herInstagram. "Yes I do. In this and in all my lives," she wrote in a caption translated from Spanish. Estimates put the center stone at 37 carats, and the Internet weighed in onwhether an engagement ring can ever be too big. 03 of 21 Frazer Harrison/Getty ; Franco Origlia/Getty Lady Gaga received a one-of-a-kind engagement ring from her fiancé, businessman Michael Polansky. The custom ring, handmade by Sofia Jewelry,  features a monster oval diamond set on an 18-karat white and rose gold diamond pavé band with natural pink ombré diamonds. It's estimated to cost anywhere between $500,000 to $2 million, according toPage Six. 04 of 21 Kendra Scott If you're proposing to a jewelry designer, you better deliver the perfect ring!Zac Browndid just that forKendra Scott. Afterannouncing their engagementexclusively to PEOPLE, the happy couple shared photos of their sunset proposal, and Scott gave a close-up of her ring's giant pink diamond. 05 of 21 Presley Ann/Getty; Bethenny Frankel/Instagram Bethenny Frankelgave fans a glimpse of her ginormous sparkler two years after her beauPaul Bernon proposed.(The two have since split.) In a cheeky video posted to Instagram in June 2023, the SkinnyGirl founder showed off her rock to Angel Laketa Moore's TikTok-viral "One Margarita." Though the song describes performing sexual acts that become more extreme for each margarita the rapper drinks, Frankel put a little spin on it and replaced margaritas with carats. "What am I going to have to do for this?" she joked in the caption. "Kind of scared about what this might mean for me…" 06 of 21 Carter Reumproposed toParis Hiltonwith a blinding custom gem that's reportedly worth $1 million. The heiress revealed the diamond was "inspired by the Grand Palais in Paris" and that her now-hubby designed the the ring with some assistance from jeweler Jean Dousset, the great-great-grandson of renowned French jeweler Louis Cartier. "It's called The Paris," Hilton revealed while visitingOn Air with Ryan Seacrest. "I'm so obsessed with it … it has like 15 diamonds going around and then inside it has a 'P' with a sapphire." 07 of 21 Anna KournikovaandEnrique Iglesiashave been together for decades, and everything about their relationship is low-key — except for that whopper of a pink diamond she sports. The "Hero" singer gave his beloved a supersized 11-carat natural pink, pear-shaped diamond that was accompanied by two trillion cut diamonds on the sides.Leviks Jewelersvalued the sparkler at about $2.5 million. 08 of 21 We cannot discuss bling without bringing up the queen of diamonds herself,Elizabeth Taylor. Though she had a jewelry collection that was beyond impressive, this 33.19-carat diamond ring given to her by husband Richard Burton is one of the most stunning pieces in her arsenal of jewels. 09 of 21 Prince Williams/Wireimage; Gucci Mane/Instagram When rapperGucci Maneupgraded his wifeKeyshia Ka'oir's wedding ring in 2019, he spared no expense. The musician doled out a clean $1 million for his love's 60-carat stunner (which truly must be seen up close to be believed). According toBET's interview with the jewelers, it's "the biggest rock in the game." 10 of 21 Steve Granitz/FilmMagic; Tom Bachik/Instagram Having been engaged six times, Jennifer Lopez is no stranger to incredible engagement rings — includinga knockout 6-carat pink diamond ring from Ben Affleckduring their first engagement (which the two called off). So when they rekindled their relationship and decided to walk down the aisle again, Affleck managed to top himself with an even rarer stone,an enormous green diamond that Lopez gushed was "my lucky color." Unfortunately, that luck didn't hold, andthe couple filed for divorce in August 2024. 11 of 21 Queen Bey's stunning18-carat emerald-cut engagement ringfrom her husband of 15 years, Jay-Z, was designed by Lorraine Schwartz and is said to be worth $5 million. 12 of 21 Colin Jost may be a comedian, but the ring he selected for Scarlett Johansson (which she debuted during Comic-Con in 2019) is no laughing matter. The $400,000 design consists ofa pear-shaped brown diamond mounted above a curved black band, reported to bea design by Taffin de Givenchythat checks in at 11 carats. 13 of 21 Offset popped the question to Grammy-nominatedCardi Bin October 2017 with amassive eight-carat tear-shaped stonesurrounded by nearly three more carats of diamonds and pink and white stones — a sparkly look thatreportedly totaled over half a million dollars. After amessy splitin December 2018, the tworeconciled their relationshipand by February 2019, she was seen wearing hermassive engagement ring again. However,she took it off for good in July 2024. 14 of 21 Sean Zanni/WireImage; Jon Kopaloff/FilmMagic Blake Lively sports a12-carat oval-cut diamondfrom Lorraine Schwartz given to her by husband Ryan Reynolds. The bling issaid to be worth $2 millionand features rose gold accents and a double diamond-encrusted band. 15 of 21 Kim KardashianandKanye Westhave since split, but while they were together, West was so determined to put Kardashian in the engagement ring hall of fame thathe topped his original 15-carat offering with a 20-carat one several years later. "I was sleeping and he woke me up in the middle of the night and said, 'Babe, babe, I got you something from Adidas,' "she said during a visit to Radio Andy."He put a box on my pillow, a Lorraine Schwartz box, and he goes, 'No, open your eyes,' ... and I woke up, and I was like, 'What is this?'" It was a 20-carat emerald cut diamond ring from Lorraine Schwartz, with the word "adidas" engraved inside, which West bought after signing a big deal with Adidas (get it?). Unfortunately,it was stolen when the star was robbed in Paris. 16 of 21 It's no surprise that theReal Housewives of Beverly Hillsstar rocks a20-carat bauble on her hand. The ring from her husband, Kenneth Todd, features an emerald-cut diamond in a pave setting and is worth around $2 million. 17 of 21 Ciara couldn't stop showing off hergigantic rockfrom NFL playerRussell Wilsonafter he popped the question in 2016. The 16-carat round-shaped diamond is surrounded by four diamonds on both sides, and fits nicely with herdouble eternity wedding bands. 18 of 21 Mariah Carey and Australian billionaire James Packer may have called it quits in 2017, but the star stillgot to keep her epic 35-carat rockdesigned by Wilfredo Rosado. The ring isestimated to be worth $10 million. 19 of 21 Kate Middleton's engagment ring not only has some serious sparkle but is also a piece of royal history. The12-carat oval sapphiregiven to Kate byPrince Williamused to belong to his mother, Princess Diana. The sapphire stone is surronded by 14 solitaire diamonds and is set on a white gold band. 20 of 21 James Devaney/WireImage Jennifer Aniston'senormous 8-carat bling,given to her by now-ex-husband Justin Theroux,was set on a simple gold band andestimated to be worth half-a-million dollars. It was designed by Hollywood fave jewelry designer Jennifer Meyer. But as much as we associate Hollywood stars with giant diamonds,Aniston herself admitted"it took me a while to get used to it ... I'm not a diamond girl!" 21 of 21 Gregg DeGuire/WireImage; Jason Merritt/Getty TheModern Familystar's extra-large engagement ring,given to her by now-ex Joe Maganiello, featured a7-carat diamondand is set in a halo setting on top of a pave diamond band. Read the original article onPeople

byLiam Oneel

in

August 20, 2025

The Most Enormous Celebrity Engagement Rings of All Time

The Most Enormous Celebrity Engagement Rings of All Time STEFANO RELLANDINI/AFP/Getty; David Livingston/Getty; Elisabetta A. Villa/Getty Whe...

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Gurriel and McCarthy lead Diamondbacks to 6-5 win over Guardians

Gurriel and McCarthy lead Diamondbacks to 6-5 win over Guardians

PHOENIX (AP) — Lourdes Gurriel Jr. drove in three runs, Jake McCarthy hit a solo homer and the Arizona Diamondbacks beat the Cleveland Guardians 6-5 on Tuesday night. McCarthy finished with two hits and Corbin Carroll tripled twice, his fourth game this season with two triples. Diamondbacks starter Eduardo Rodriguez gave up four runs on five hits and three walks in 6 2/3 innings. Juan Burgos (1-0) got one out to earn his first major league win. The 25-year-old rookie entered with two outs and a runner on first in the seventh, gave up a double to Angel Martínez and intentionally walked José Ramírez before pinch-hitter Kyle Manzardo grounded out to end the inning. Andrew Saalfrank pitched a 1-2-3 ninth for his second save. McCarthy's homer opened the scoring in the third. Carroll tripled and scored on a groundout by Gurriel in the fourth. Carlos Santana singled to drive in José Ramírez and then scored on a single by Nolan Jones in the Cleveland fourth. Ramírez hit a two-run homer in the fifth. Tim Herrin (4-3) gave up two runs in two-thirds of an inning to take the loss. Key moment Geraldo Perdomo hit a one-out single and stole second base before Ketel Marte was intentionally walked in the seventh. Carroll reached and Perdomo moved to third on a forceout, and Nic Enright replaced Herrin. Carroll stole second and Gurriel singled to make it 6-4. Key stat Carroll leads MLB with a career-high 16 triples and is the first player with at least 16 in one season since José Reyes and Shane Victorino both had 16 in 2011. Up next Arizona's Brandon Pfaadt (12-8, 5.08 ERA) is scheduled to pitch Wednesday in the finale of a three-game series. The Guardians had not announced their starter. ___ AP MLB:https://apnews.com/hub/mlb

byLiam Oneel

in

August 20, 2025

Gurriel and McCarthy lead Diamondbacks to 6-5 win over Guardians

Gurriel and McCarthy lead Diamondbacks to 6-5 win over Guardians PHOENIX (AP) — Lourdes Gurriel Jr. drove in three runs, Jake McCarthy hit a...

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Yankees become 1st MLB team to hit 9 home runs in a game twice in one season

Yankees become 1st MLB team to hit 9 home runs in a game twice in one season

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — José Caballero hit two home runs in 86 games with the Tampa Bay Rays this season. The speedy utilityman matched that total in one night Tuesday as the New York Yankees put on quite a power show. "I think it's from hanging around with these guys," Caballero explained after helping his new team toa 13-3 victory over the Rays. In his first game back at George M. Steinbrenner Fieldto face his former club,Caballero connected twice for his first career multihomer game. And he was hardly alone. Giancarlo Stanton and Cody Bellinger both hit two home runs, Aaron Judge launched his 40th of the season and the Yankees equaled a franchise record with nine longballs in a game delayed nearly two hours by rain at the start. New York also hit nine homers in its second game of the year,a 20-9 victory over Milwaukee on March 29at Yankee Stadium. That makes the 2025 Bronx Bombers the first squad in major league history to hit nine home runs in a game twice in one season. "We have a really good offense," Bellinger said. "You're going to have ebbs and flows of a 162-game season. It's not always going to be pretty, but we all believe in each other and the talent is there. We're doing a good job of putting it all together. It's really fun to be a part of." It was just the fourth time a big league team has hit nine or more homers in a game. The record is 10, set by the Toronto Blue Jays on Sept. 14, 1987. Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Ben Rice also went deep for the Yankees, who won their fourth straight and looked awfully comfortable in a road game at their spring training home. New York took full advantage of the cozy dimensions before a crowd of 10,046 at George M. Steinbrenner Field, where the Rays are playing while Tropicana Field undergoes repairs. Judge, Bellinger and Stanton went back-to-back-to-back off Shane Baz to give the Yankees a 3-0 lead four batters into the game. With that, New York became the first MLB team to hit three consecutive homers in the first inning three times in one season (also March 29 and April 29). "The first three were just kind of no-doubters, with Judge hitting it almost all the way up the batter's eye, and then Belly really leaning on one," Yankees manager Aaron Boone said. "And then Giancarlo, getting to two strikes there, just shot it the other way. In their own kind of way, three really good statement at-bats." ___ AP MLB:https://apnews.com/hub/mlb

byLiam Oneel

in

August 20, 2025

Yankees become 1st MLB team to hit 9 home runs in a game twice in one season

Yankees become 1st MLB team to hit 9 home runs in a game twice in one season TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — José Caballero hit two home runs in 86 games...

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