## Heartbreak for Atlas Lionesses, Valuable Lessons Learned 

**Morocco's Dream of WAFCON Glory Falls Short Against Nigerian Super Falcons**

"The WAFCON title was lost due to small details. We fought hard and showed great commitment, but the Super Falcons’ resilience made the difference.” - Jorge Vilda, Morocco Head Coach


Despite a valiant effort, Morocco's Atlas Lionesses fell just short in their pursuit of WAFCON glory, narrowly losing to Nigeria in the final match.  While the result stings, coach Jorge Vilda acknowledges the team's dedication and performance, highlighting the importance of minute details that ultimately swayed the game in favor of the Super Falcons. 

This setback presents a crucial opportunity for reflection and growth. There are important small victories to celebrate—and valuable lessons to take forward as Morocco continues its journey towards international football success.   


## Heartbreak for Atlas Lionesses, Valuable Lessons Learned 

**Morocco's Dream of WAFCON Glory Falls Short Against Nigerian Super Falcons**

"The WAFCON title 

Opinion: The missing link in Morocco’s WAFCON final heartbre

Opinion: The missing link in Morocco’s WAFCON final heartbreak

## McLaurin Trades Request Rocks Washington

**Star Receiver Seeks New Home After Contract Dispute**

Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin has requested a trade from the team, after skipping Phase 3 of the offseason program and the mandatory minicamp. He initially held out at the start of training camp, incurring daily fines of $50,000. However, after four days, he reported to the Commanders on Sunday.  

Upon arrival, McLaurin was immediately placed on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list due to an ankle injury. Despite his absence from practice, he has continued to interact with fans by signing autographs after sessions conclude. 

McLaurin has one year remaining on a contract extension signed in 2022 and is eager to remain with the Commanders.  The team also desires to keep him on their roster.


**Social Media Explodes Following Trade Request**

News of McLaurin's trade request ignited a flurry of reactions across social media, with fans, analysts, and personalities weighing in on the situation. 

**Here's a glimpse into the online discourse:**

* **Al Galdi (@AlGaldi):** "The leverage in the Terry McLaurin situation is overwhelmingly with the Commanders... If an extension is gonna happen, it’s gonna happen on Adam Peters' terms."


* **Kevin Sheehan (@kevinsheehanDC):** "You can't trade yourself. Team has all of the financial leverage...He's under contract in '25; the '26 tag is less than what he's asking for now." 

* **Grant Paulsen (@granthpaulsen):**  "Tee Higgins asked for a trade. He’s still on the Bengals (and on a new deal). Brandon Aiyuk requested a trade. He’s still on the 49ers (and on a new deal). Deebo Samuel requested a trade. He wasn’t traded that season; played for SF. The chances of a McLaurin trade are remote."

* **JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS):** "Terry McLaurin is obviously frustrated and the trade request was kinda his last card to play outside of actually missing games. I wouldn't have expected it until mid-August, but maybe that speaks to the level of frustration."

* **Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter):** "Over the past two years, at least three wide receivers requested trades: Tee Higgins, Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk. None were traded in the year in which they made the request. McLaurin is now the latest WR to seek a trade when failing to land the contract he wanted."



**A Wave of Fan Reactions**

From humor to heartfelt support, fans expressed their opinions across various platforms:


* **Cameron Mulyk (@CameronMulyk):** [Tweet containing an image] 
* **deuce (@deucehesi):**  [Tweet about the Commanders' actions] 
* **WizardsMuse (@WizardsMuse1):** [Tweet praising McLaurin's loyalty]

The reactions continue to pour in, reflecting the strong connection fans have with McLaurin and the impact this situation has on their beloved team.   




## McLaurin Trades Request Rocks Washington

**Star Receiver Seeks New Home After Contract Dispute**

Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin has req

NFL world reacts to Terry McLaurin requesting trade from Com

NFL world reacts to Terry McLaurin requesting trade from Commanders

## Commanders' Star Receiver Seeks New Turf

**McLaurin Wants Out, Could Fetch Big Trade Return**

Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin has formally requested a trade from the franchise, aiming for a new contract, multiple reports reveal. While ESPN's Adam Schefter states that the team currently shows no interest in trading him, this could always change.

McLaurin, a staple of the Commanders since 2019, consistently delivered over a thousand receiving yards each season except his rookie year. In the 2024 regular season, he accumulated 1,096 yards and 13 touchdowns alongside then-rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels' rise to stardom.

However, contract negotiations between McLaurin and the team appear to be at an impasse, leading him to hold out during the 2025 training camp sessions. Should the Commanders ultimately trade McLaurin due to this dispute, they are likely to receive a substantial return.  

 **Five Teams Ready to Embrace McLaurin**

If Washington decides to part ways with their star receiver, several teams could be potential suitors. Considering the value of a player like DK Metcalf in his recent trade to the Pittsburgh Steelers (a second-round pick and more), here are five teams that could benefit from adding McLaurin:


**New England Patriots:** Boasting the most available cap space in the NFL, New England could offer McLaurin a lucrative contract and send the Commanders an enticing package, including wide receiver DeMario Douglas. This move would pair McLaurin with second-year quarterback Drake Maye for a potentially explosive offensive duo. 


**Possible Trade:** McLaurin to New England for Douglas, a 2026 second-round pick, and a 2027 third-round pick.

**Los Angeles Chargers:**  Adding McLaurin to the Chargers' existing receiving corps alongside breakout stars Ladd McConkey and Tre Harris would create a formidable trio supporting quarterback Justin Herbert. This move could solidify the Chargers as a serious playoff contender in 2025 and beyond. The Commanders might seek wide receiver Quentin Johnston as part of the trade.


**Possible Trade:** McLaurin to Los Angeles for Johnston and a 2026 third-round pick.

 **Las Vegas Raiders:**  The Raiders, facing one of the weakest receiver rooms in the NFL, could significantly elevate their offense by acquiring McLaurin. Pairing him with quarterback Geno Smith would provide an immediate boost to their aspirations for success in 2025 and beyond. A high draft pick from Las Vegas could be appealing to the Commanders.


**Possible Trade:** McLaurin to Las Vegas for a 2026 second-round pick and a 2026 sixth-round pick.

 **Arizona Cardinals:** If the Commanders are open to trading McLaurin within the NFC, Arizona presents an attractive option.  McLaurin would alleviate pressure on quarterback Kyler Murray and wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., creating a balanced passing attack alongside tight end Trey McBride. The Commanders could potentially receive wide receiver Michael Wilson in return. 


**Possible Trade:** McLaurin to Arizona for Wilson and a 2026 third-round pick.

 **Pittsburgh Steelers:**  With the Steelers fully committed to Aaron Rodgers, acquiring McLaurin alongside DK Metcalf would form an elite receiving duo for Rodgers in 2025 (and beyond). While this might not be the most financially sound long-term decision, the Steelers seem determined to capitalize on their current opportunity.  A trade involving wide receiver Calvin Austin III could make this deal work for both sides.


**Possible Trade:** McLaurin to Pittsburgh for Austin and a 2026 third-round pick.





## Commanders' Star Receiver Seeks New Turf

**McLaurin Wants Out, Could Fetch Big Trade Return**

Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin has formal

Terry McLaurin landing spots: Commanders star requests a tra

Terry McLaurin landing spots: Commanders star requests a trade

## Rookie Wilson Impresses, Earns Starting Role at Left Guard for Patriots

**FOXBOROUGH** - The New England Patriots entered training camp facing a dilemma at left tackle. But after just one week of practice, they appear to have found their solution in rookie Jared Wilson. 

Wilson, a third-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, primarily played center during his final season at Georgia. However, with veteran Garrett Bradbury signed this offseason, the Patriots decided to give Wilson a shot at guard. And he's making a strong impression.

Even with Bradbury sidelined by injury for several days, the team opted to keep Wilson at left guard and moved Ben Brown up to take snaps with the first-team unit. 

This decision speaks volumes about Wilson's immediate impact on the team.  

“Jared is really, really (expletive) good. I love asking him questions. He always has a different perspective,” shared second-year offensive lineman Caedan Wallace. “For a rookie, he’s just really good. The way he moves. The way he protects in the pass game and the way he gets off the ball in the run game. It’s admirable.”

Veteran defensive lineman Milton Williams also praises Wilson: "He's going to be a solid player,” he explained. “He’s got a good coach; he’s got a good player in Mike Onwenu. He’s got a good vet in his room that he’s learning from. He’s good. He’s got good balance for a young player like that. The future is bright for him." 




## Rookie Wilson Impresses, Earns Starting Role at Left Guard for Patriots

**FOXBOROUGH** - The New England Patriots entered training camp facing a dilemma at 

Patriots teammates praise Jared Wilson as he transitions to 

Patriots teammates praise Jared Wilson as he transitions to starting left guard

## FIFA Announces Star Lineup of Referees for U-17 Women's World Cup

**Morocco to Host Tournament From October 17 to November 8**

The FIFA Referees Committee has unveiled a prestigious roster of match officials set to officiate the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.  Taking place from October 17 to November 8, the tournament will see a total of 54 referees and assistant referees representing 36 member associations take charge of the matches.

This impressive contingent includes 18 referees and 36 assistant referees who have been carefully selected for their expertise and experience.  Their dedication and skills will play a vital role in ensuring fair play and high-quality officiating throughout the tournament.


The FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup promises to be an exciting showcase of young talent, and these highly qualified officials are ready to contribute to a memorable event. 


## FIFA Announces Star Lineup of Referees for U-17 Women's World Cup

**Morocco to Host Tournament From October 17 to November 8**

The FIFA Referees Committee 

FIFA Unveils Referee List for 2025 U-17 Women’s World Cup in

FIFA Unveils Referee List for 2025 U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco

## Madden NFL 26 Ratings Drop: Steelers Running Back Snubbed

**Top RBs Shine, While Warren Waits for His Moment**


Electronic Arts (EA) has unveiled the top-10 player ratings at each position for Madden NFL 26, revealing a standout group of running backs. While Pittsburgh Steelers have players represented in several key areas, running back is notably absent from the elite list.

Here are the newly released Madden NFL 26 player ratings for the top-10 running backs:


* Eagles, Saquon Barkley – 99 Overall
* Ravens, Derrick Henry – 98 Overall
* Lions, Jahmyr Gibbs – 95 Overall
* 49ers, Christian McCaffrey – 94 Overall
* Falcons, Bijan Robinson – 92 Overall
* Texans, Joe Mixon – 91 Overall
* Packers, Josh Jacobs – 90 Overall
* Bills, James Cook – 89 Overall
* Colts, Jonathan Taylor – 88 Overall
* Seahawks, Kenneth Walker – 88 Overall

Steelers running back Jaylen Warren, though unofficially projected to have an 80 overall rating at launch, is noticeably absent from this elite group. This puts him in a similar position to veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who also wasn't included among the top-10 QB ratings.


Warren, one of the most productive rushers over the past three years,  may see his Madden rating improve with on-field performance. For now, he'll have to rely on proving his worth to EA in the real game. 


## Madden NFL 26 Ratings Drop: Steelers Running Back Snubbed

**Top RBs Shine, While Warren Waits for His Moment**


Electronic Arts (EA) has unveiled the top-1

Madden NFL 26 Top-10 RBs revealed — did Steelers&#39; Jaylen

Madden NFL 26 Top-10 RBs revealed — did Steelers&#39; Jaylen Warren make the list?

## Rookie Tight End Living the Dream Learning from NFL Legends

**Rams' Newest Asset Thrives Under Guidance of Stafford, Higbee, and Adams**

Los Angeles Rams rookie tight end Terrance Ferguson is making the most of his first NFL season. Surrounded by some of the league's most decorated players, Ferguson describes the experience as "a dream come true."  

"It’s a dream come true," Ferguson shared with the team's Troy Santiago and Ricardo Lopez. "It makes my job a lot easier being able to learn, just sit back, watch those guys, ask them questions. Especially Higs, he’s played the position and been at an elite level for a long time. Obviously, Stafford’s elite. It’s really fun to catch the ball from him."

Ferguson's rapid development is fueled by the wealth of experience surrounding him.  The Rams offense has proven to be a launchpad for young talent, with Puka Nacua and Kyren Williams thriving in their early careers. Ferguson now steps into a prime position to contribute alongside a formidable collection of skill players in 2025.

While he's unlikely to immediately displace Tyler Higbee as the Rams' starting tight end, Ferguson will gain invaluable insights from a proven veteran.  He aims to build upon his impressive college career, where he amassed 134 receptions for 1,537 yards and 16 touchdowns over four seasons at Oregon.




## Rookie Tight End Living the Dream Learning from NFL Legends

**Rams' Newest Asset Thrives Under Guidance of Stafford, Higbee, and Adams**

Los Angeles Rams r

Terrance Ferguson says it&#39;s &#39;a dream come true&#39; 

Terrance Ferguson says it&#39;s &#39;a dream come true&#39; playing with Rams stars

## Celtics Face Center Conundrum as Season Looms

The Boston Celtics' front court is raising eyebrows this offseason, and not in a good way. While other positions look strong, the center rotation leaves fans wondering if the team has enough firepower to contend next season. 

**Departures Leave Big Gaps**

Joe Mazzulla's squad has seen a significant exodus of big men this summer, losing Kristaps Porzingis, Al Horford, Luke Kornet, and likely another Al Horford.  The burden now falls on Luka Garza and Amari Williams to fill the void left by a rotation of championship-winning talent. 

**A Questionable Center Rotation**

As things stand, the Celtics' projected starting center trio consists of Neemias Queta, Xavier Tillman, and Garza. Williams is expected to sign a two-way deal before the season begins. However, this combination lacks depth, high-level talent, and most importantly, experience – a recipe that doesn't inspire confidence for any team aiming to contend, retool, or rebuild.

**Experts Sound the Alarm**

The lack of a strong center core has even caught the attention of basketball analysts. On a recent episode of "The Bob Ryan and Jeff Goodman Podcast," Bob Ryan described the situation as "scary."  You can hear their full discussion in the embedded video above.


**Stay Connected:**
For more Celtics insights, check out "Taylor Talks Celtics" on YouTube: [https://bit.ly/3QnlPcS](https://bit.ly/3QnlPcS), Spotify: [https://bit.ly/40JRevf](https://bit.ly/40JRevf), Apple: [https://apple.co/45sAUBG](https://apple.co/45sAUBG), or Substack: [https://bit.ly/3WoA0Cf](https://bit.ly/3WoA0Cf). 


## Celtics Face Center Conundrum as Season Looms

The Boston Celtics' front court is raising eyebrows this offseason, and not in a good way. While other positio

Do the Boston Celtics have a big man issue?

##  From Dark Times to Rams Glory: Davante Adams Finds Happiness in L.A.

**A year ago, things were bleak for star wide receiver Davante Adams. Now, he's back in California with a new team and a fresh start.**


Adams, who spent the 2023 season with the Las Vegas Raiders, described his time there as a "dark moment" during a recent interview at Rams training camp. He spoke candidly about the struggles he faced, particularly under former head coach Josh McDaniels.

**Raiders Rollercoaster: A Season of Struggle and Dysfunction**


Adams's 2023 season was a far cry from his stellar performance in 2022, where he caught 100 passes for 1516 yards and 14 touchdowns.  Despite catching 103 passes the following year, his average yards per catch dropped to 11.1, and his touchdown total fell to a dismal 8 – his worst numbers since his second season in the league.

“That was just a dark moment in all of our lives,” Adams told ESPN. “I think all of us were pretty miserable over there."


His comments come amidst renewed familiarity with former Raiders quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo, now his teammate on the Rams. The pair shared a difficult 2023 season together in Las Vegas before Garoppolo was replaced. Adams emphasized that his feelings towards Garoppolo were purely professional and they have since "caught up and laughed about it."

**A Weight Lifted: Interim Coach Brings Relief, But Not Success**


The firing of McDaniels midway through the 2023 season brought a brief wave of optimism to the Raiders locker room.  Linebackers coach Antonio Pierce took over as interim head coach, injecting some much-needed energy into the team. However, this surge proved short-lived and the struggles continued into the 2024 season, ultimately leading to Adams's request for a trade.


Adams joined forces with Aaron Rodgers in New York before eventually landing with the Rams this year. He is now looking to put his difficult past behind him and make a positive impact on his new team.  The move appears mutually beneficial, as both Adams and the Raiders have found renewed success in their respective situations. 


##  From Dark Times to Rams Glory: Davante Adams Finds Happiness in L.A.

**A year ago, things were bleak for star wide receiver Davante Adams. Now, he's back i

Davante Adams recalls his &#39;miserable...dark time&#39; wi

Davante Adams recalls his &#39;miserable...dark time&#39; with the Raiders

## Jets' New Duo Aims for Rapid Rebuild After Toxic Rodgers Era

**Familiar Faces, Shared Experience Could Be Key to Success in New York**


The New York Jets have entered a new era following the departure of quarterback Aaron Rodgers. General Manager Darren Mougey and Head Coach Aaron Glenn are tasked with reviving the team's culture and rebuilding the roster. 

Pro Football Focus recently named the pairing of Glenn and Mougey as the AFC’s top offseason decision. Their pre-existing relationship and shared experiences could be instrumental in accelerating the Jets' rebuild. 

"General manager Darren Mougey and head coach Aaron Glenn should be somewhat familiar with each other, as they’ve both worked in separate stints with Sean Payton," wrote Dalton Wasserman for Pro Football Focus. "Glenn most recently comes from Detroit, where organizational alignment and a physical playstyle were the bedrock of success. New York’s talented offensive line and defense may offer a quicker route to improvement than the Lions had to suffer through in the early stages of their rebuild."


Their connection stems from  shared experience with former NFL coach Sean Payton. Glenn coached alongside Payton in New Orleans for five seasons (2016-20), while Mougey recently worked with Payton in Denver. 

This shared history, coupled with Glenn's experience turning around the Detroit Lions, suggests a promising trajectory for the Jets. The team aims to adopt a physical playing style led by dual-threat quarterback Justin Fields and bolstered by a formidable offensive line.

  
Wasserman believes that Mougey and Glenn possess the necessary skills and understanding to successfully rebuild the Jets franchise. 


## Jets' New Duo Aims for Rapid Rebuild After Toxic Rodgers Era

**Familiar Faces, Shared Experience Could Be Key to Success in New York**


The New York Jets h

PFF: Relationship between Jets GM, HC could help accelerate 

PFF: Relationship between Jets GM, HC could help accelerate rebuild

##  Eagles Return to Fully Padded Practice at Training Camp

**Philadelphia's Gridiron Gears Up for Crucial Third Padded Session**

Training camp in Philadelphia is heating up as the Eagles gear up for their sixth day of preparation for the 2025 season. Since reporting on July 22, the team has logged five training camp practices and two walkthroughs at the NovaCare Complex.  Tuesday afternoon sees the Eagles return to the field for a crucial session – their third fully padded practice of the summer.

Anticipation is high as fans eagerly await approximately 90 minutes of intense action.  The Eagles' schedule continues with Friday's practice followed by an off day on Saturday, offering players a brief respite before diving back into training.


**Injury Update:**

Cornerback Andrew Mukuba remains sidelined due to a shoulder injury, missing another practice session. 
[Image from Dave Zangaro (@DZangaroNBCS) tweet embedded here]  





##  Eagles Return to Fully Padded Practice at Training Camp

**Philadelphia's Gridiron Gears Up for Crucial Third Padded Session**

Training camp in Philadelphi

Eagles training camp report: Live updates from Practice No. 

Eagles training camp report: Live updates from Practice No. 6 in 2025

## Two First-Round Picks for Titans Rookie? Analyst Says It's Worth It

**Cam Ward, the Tennessee Titans' quarterback drafted in April, could be more valuable than many think.** 

ESPN analyst Bill Barnwell recently simulated an NFL trade market, valuing each player based on hypothetical draft picks.  In his analysis, he determined that Titans rookie quarterback Cam Ward is worth a whopping two first-round draft picks.

"It feels a little like Ward was the first overall pick by default in April, which might be unfair to a player who was as good last season as he was," Barnwell stated. "The Jaguars were presumably willing to send the same picks they sent to the Browns to Tennessee to move up to take Travis Hunter with the top pick, and the Titans presumably weren't willing to take that offer, so they believe Ward was worth more than two first-rounders."


**Beyond Talent:  Character and Work Ethic Drive Value**

While Ward hasn't yet played an NFL snap, he's already garnered significant attention. 

Barnwell pointed to Ward's performance at Miami last year alongside his professional demeanor as key factors driving the high value placed on him.  "His character, his work ethic, the expectations he has for his team all point to someone who is mentally ready to handle the load of the quarterback position in the NFL," Barnwell observed.


**Simmons: A Defensive Force Despite Injuries**

The Titans' defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons also received recognition from Barnwell, valued at one first-round draft pick.  Barnwell acknowledges Simmons' recent injuries but emphasizes his impact on the field. 

"Still one of the most underrated players in all of football, he might be the NFL's most slippery 305-pounder," Barnwell said.  Simmons' trimmed-down frame for the upcoming season is expected to further enhance his already formidable presence.


**A Championship Contender's Roster?**

These valuations highlight the Titans' potential. While Ward remains unproven, his high trade value speaks volumes about the team's belief in him. Simmons' continued dominance and the possibility of a breakout year from Ward solidify the Titans' position as a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming season. 


## Two First-Round Picks for Titans Rookie? Analyst Says It's Worth It

**Cam Ward, the Tennessee Titans' quarterback drafted in April, could be more valuable t

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Terrance Ferguson says it's 'a dream come true' playing with Rams stars

Do the Boston Celtics have a big man issue?

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PFF: Relationship between Jets GM, HC could help accelerate rebuild

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NFL analyst: Titans' Cam Ward already worth two first-round picks in a trade