## Bears Cornerback Jaylon Johnson Targeting Week 1 Return Despite Setbacks

**Chicago -** The Chicago Bears are anxiously awaiting the return of their star cornerback, Jaylon Johnson.  The two-time Pro Bowler suffered a leg injury during pre-camp training, initially expected to sideline him for several weeks. However, head coach Matt Eberflus offered a cautious update on Johnson's progress Thursday.

**"I think there is a scenario where he will be ready for Week 1, and that is really the target day,"** said Eberflus. **"I know he is working hard and diligently to get there for that."**

While the coach emphasized Johnson's dedication to rehabilitation, he also acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the injury. **"With those types of injuries that he's got, you just never know. You never know. It's still early in that process, but I know he's attacking that rehab really well."**

This timeline raises concerns as Johnson was initially projected to miss only a few weeks, suggesting a potential return during training camp.  The new target date of Week 1 pushes his recovery closer to two months, casting doubt on his participation in the season opener against the Minnesota Vikings.




## Bears Cornerback Jaylon Johnson Targeting Week 1 Return Despite Setbacks

**Chicago -** The Chicago Bears are anxiously awaiting the return of their star cor

Bears&#39; Ben Johnson gives timeline on Jaylon Johnson&#39;

Bears&#39; Ben Johnson gives timeline on Jaylon Johnson&#39;s potential return

## Rams Cornerback Derion Kendrick Returns After Brief Release 

**Kendrick Reveals Love for Team and Playbook in Decision to Stay with Los Angeles**

The Los Angeles Rams made headlines when they unexpectedly released cornerback Derion Kendrick just before heading to their minicamp in Maui. The move, a financial decision by the team, sparked speculation about Kendrick's future.  Days later, the surprise unfolded: Kendrick re-signed with the Rams. 

Even after his release, Kendrick remained a Ram. No other team claimed him during the waiver period, allowing him to become a free agent and explore his options. He chose to stay in Los Angeles, signing a new deal worth $1.03 million – a significant pay cut from his previous contract, which would have saved the Rams $3.4 million in cap space.

"I love the people here," Kendrick shared with WLTX, explaining his decision to remain with the team. "I’ve built so many relationships in this organization, and I’ve got so much love for it. And I know the playbook like the back of my hand, so I wouldn’t want to be nowhere else, for real.”

**Rebounding From Injury**

Kendrick is working diligently with the second-team defense as he aims to secure a spot on the 53-man roster. A torn ACL sustained during last year's training camp sidelined him for the entire season, marking a challenging period for the talented cornerback.


“Just being a competitor, I always want to be the first one going out there,” Kendrick stated. “But right now, I’m just stacking my days, getting better each day.”

Kendrick faces stiff competition for playing time, with veterans Darious Williams, Cobie Durant, Ahkello Witherspoon, and Emmanuel Forbes Jr. leading the depth chart. Quentin Lake's versatility, often taking on the role of the Rams' slot defender, further adds to the challenge.


Despite the hurdles ahead, Kendrick is determined to make a comeback after last season’s setback. He has plenty of work to do, but his commitment and renewed focus suggest a bright future for the cornerback in Los Angeles.  


## Rams Cornerback Derion Kendrick Returns After Brief Release 

**Kendrick Reveals Love for Team and Playbook in Decision to Stay with Los Angeles**

The Los A

Derion Kendrick explains why he re-signed with the Rams afte

Derion Kendrick explains why he re-signed with the Rams after being waived this offseason

## Bucs Training Camp: Fresh Faces and Familiar Stars Shine

**Tampa's Roster Blossoms with Youthful Energy, Setting Stage for a Promising Season**

As the Buccaneers kicked off their 2025 training camp with non-padded practices, several players have already made an impressive mark, setting the stage for what promises to be a dynamic season.  

### Winfield Jr.: Defensive Anchor Emerges From Injury Rehab

Safety Antoine Winfield Jr., back from injury and at full health, wasted no time making his presence felt. In team drills, he snatched two interceptions, one off a tipped ball and another in tight coverage, establishing himself as a defensive leader. His high energy and instincts are already solidifying him as the anchor of the defense, demonstrating a clear focus on forcing turnovers this season.

### Irving:  Hungry for Success After Breakout Rookie Year

Running back Bucky Irving arrives at camp with a hunger to build upon his impressive rookie year (1,122 yards). He dedicated himself to offseason training, arriving early and working alongside teammates in Tampa. His commitment to pushing himself – rising before dawn and excelling in drills – has earned him praise.  Observers project another stellar season for Irving as the focal point of the Buccaneers' rushing attack.

### Diaby: Leaner, Stronger, Ready to Dominate 

Defensive end Yaya Diaby reported to camp at a leaner 260 pounds down from 270 and feels "amazing" after his offseason dedication. He claims to have a deeper understanding of the game and refined his technique. This is encouraging news after Diaby finished in the top 10 for pressures in 2024. Playing alongside newly acquired Haason Reddick, analysts predict Diaby's numbers will skyrocket.

### Smith:  Transitioning Seamlessly to Safety

Despite still transitioning from cornerback to safety, Tykee Smith is already showcasing intelligence, communication, and physical comfort in both coverage and run support. Early camp observations suggest he could emerge as a key player in the secondary, complementing Antoine Winfield Jr.'s leadership.


**Tampa's Youthful Powerhouse: Cultivating Homegrown Talent**

The Buccaneers are leaning on youth and homegrown contributors to solidify their core roster. The early emergence of impactful players across both offense and defense aligns with the team's long-term plan of developing key talent in-house. If this level of execution continues, these players could be poised for significant roles during the regular season.  


## Bucs Training Camp: Fresh Faces and Familiar Stars Shine

**Tampa's Roster Blossoms with Youthful Energy, Setting Stage for a Promising Season**

As the Bucc

Who has stoodout early on during training camp for the Bucca

Who has stoodout early on during training camp for the Buccaneers?

## Colts Face Crucial Decision: Will They Stick with Richardson or Go with Jones?

**NFL Insider Predicts Week 1 Starter and Emphasizes Importance of Giving Young QB a Chance**


ESPN NFL insider Field Yates believes the Indianapolis Colts should start Anthony Richardson at quarterback in Week 1, arguing that sticking with Daniel Jones would leave them "stuck in the middle."

“It’s Anthony Richardson,” Yates stated via Horseshoe Huddle. “Because I believe in the NFL, the most dangerous place to be is stuck in the middle, and I think the Colts are probably stuck in the middle if Daniel Jones is their starting quarterback this season.” 

While Jones has had one standout season, Yates contends that he’s essentially a "replacement-level" quarterback.  

“Anthony Richardson has had two mediocre, albeit injury-impacted, seasons in his NFL career,” Yates acknowledged. “There's still a chance, a flicker of hope that Anthony Richardson could become a promising, young quarterback.” 


Yates emphasizes that the Colts should give Richardson every opportunity to succeed.

"The Colts owe it to not just Anthony, but to themselves as an organization, to exhaust every resource in figuring out if they have something or nothing,” Yates continued. “I don’t know if the chances at this point are strong or weak. Probably weaker more than they are stronger, but this is a player who they invested too much in to constantly use a short leash on Anthony Richardson."

**Win-Now Mentality Meets Long-Term Investment**


While GM Chris Ballard has repeatedly expressed his faith in Richardson and the need for patience, the Colts' current situation adds pressure.  After missing the playoffs for four consecutive seasons, Ballard faces a "win-now" mentality to save his job. 


The team’s decision to bring in competition is a two-pronged approach: raising Richardson's level of play through increased urgency and giving Ballard another option if Richardson doesn't deliver.

**Richardson Showing Signs of Progress**



Through six training camp practices, Richardson has shown improvement, particularly in his footwork and accuracy on short to intermediate throws – areas he struggled with last season, completing just 47% of his overall passes. The hard work this offseason is evident on the practice field.   


The Colts' Week 1 quarterback decision remains a key storyline heading into the regular season.  


## Colts Face Crucial Decision: Will They Stick with Richardson or Go with Jones?

**NFL Insider Predicts Week 1 Starter and Emphasizes Importance of Giving You

Easy choice for NFL insider on who Indianapolis Colts&#39; s

Easy choice for NFL insider on who Indianapolis Colts&#39; starting quarterback should be

## **Morocco's Infrastructure Elevates Kingdom to "World Football Elite"**

FIFA President Gianni Infantino hailed Morocco's exceptional infrastructure as a key factor propelling the Kingdom to join the ranks of world football elite. 


**Infantino Makes Bold Statement on Moroccan Progress**

Speaking on Wednesday, Infantino emphasized the significant role played by Morocco's impressive infrastructure development in its rise within the global football scene.  


## **Morocco's Infrastructure Elevates Kingdom to "World Football Elite"**

FIFA President Gianni Infantino hailed Morocco's exceptional infrastructure as a key

FIFA President: Outstanding infrastructure developed by Moro

FIFA President: Outstanding infrastructure developed by Morocco propel it among ‘world football elite’

## Kickoff Change Could Unleash Detroit Lions' Special Teams

**Rule Shift Favors Return Game, Aligns with Lions' Coordinator's Vision**

The NFL is taking steps to make kickoffs more exciting. The league has approved a rule change that moves the starting point for touchbacks from the 30-yard line to the 35-yard line. This modification aims to discourage teams from simply kicking the ball out of bounds and encourage more returns, potentially leading to more action and strategic plays.

Detroit Lions special teams coordinator Dave Fipp expressed his enthusiasm for this change earlier this offseason. "I'm fired up," Fipp told reporters in May. "It's going to be great. We're going to get a ton of plays. I think it's going to change quite a bit."

Last season, Lions kicker Jake Bates had a touchback rate of 77 percent, opting for the safe route.  The team attempted just 15 returns all year, with six coming in two games when Tom Kennedy handled return duties. Despite this conservative approach, Detroit ranked third in average starting field position following kickoffs (return or touchback) at the 30.7-yard line.

Fipp anticipates a shift in strategy. "We’ll play a lot more on the attack, a lot more aggressive, a lot more trying to create negative field position for those guys," he said in May after the proposal was floated.  "Kind of 'play conservative and not give up the big play' was a little bit more of our mentality a year ago, while we kind of learned more about the play." 




## Kickoff Change Could Unleash Detroit Lions' Special Teams

**Rule Shift Favors Return Game, Aligns with Lions' Coordinator's Vision**

The NFL is taking step

NFL adopts kickoff rule change that is sure to please Lions 

NFL adopts kickoff rule change that is sure to please Lions coordinator Dave Fipp

##  Madden Snubs Rookie QB, Fans Predict Breakout Season

Cam Ward, the Tennessee Titans' first-round draft pick, is generating more buzz off the field than on it. Despite being selected No. 1 overall, Ward seems to be facing an uphill battle for recognition, even from video game ratings.

###  Madden Lowers Bar for Rookie QB

The recent release of Madden NFL 26 revealed a shocking truth: Cam Ward received the lowest grade of any first-round pick in the last 24 years. He's not only the second-lowest graded player in his draft class but also trails his own teammates in the rankings.  

Femi Oladejo, an EDGE rusher for the Titans, boasts a 74 rating, making him the highest-graded rookie on the team. This stark contrast highlights the perceived lack of faith in Ward's potential by the game developers.


Full #Madden26Ratings for #Titans rookie class:
QB Cam Ward 72
EDGE Femi Oladejo 74
S Kevin Winston Jr 71
WR Elic Ayomanor 71
WR Chimere Dike 70
LG Jackson Slater 68
TE Gunnar Helm 67
RB Kalel Mullings 70
CB Marcus Harris 69

— Justin M (@JustinM_NFL) July 30, 2025


###  No. 1 Pick's Performance Ignored

This Madden snub comes on the heels of widespread media attention focused on other teams like the Philadelphia Eagles and Kansas City Chiefs. Even seasoned analysts seem to be overlooking Ward's talent. 

Looking at previous No. 1 overall picks, Kyler Murray (73), Trevor Lawrence (78), Bryce Young (74), and Caleb Williams (75) all received higher ratings than Ward. However, some argue that Ward possesses comparable or even superior skills coming out of college.


###  Fueling the Fire

Despite the negativity surrounding his early career, Cam Ward seems determined to prove doubters wrong. This Madden snub is likely to fuel his desire to excel on the field. 

History shows that video game ratings don't always accurately predict real-life performance. Jayden Daniels, for example, was graded a 74 as a rookie last year and exceeded expectations with the Washington Commanders.


Ward’s journey in the NFL is just beginning. With his chip on his shoulder and undeniable talent,  his potential for a breakout season remains high. 





##  Madden Snubs Rookie QB, Fans Predict Breakout Season

Cam Ward, the Tennessee Titans' first-round draft pick, is generating more buzz off the field than on 

Madden NFL 26 continues to disrespect Titans&#39; Cam Ward

## Commanders Land Veteran Tackle Niang Following Herbig's Retirement

**Washington bolsters offensive line depth with familiar face.**


The Washington Commanders have wasted no time finding a replacement for veteran guard Nate Herbig, who announced his retirement just yesterday. The team announced Wednesday the signing of 26-year-old offensive tackle Lucas Niang.  

"We have signed T Lucas Niang," the Commanders tweeted, accompanied by a photo of Niang in uniform.

Niang, a 6-foot-6, 315-pound lineman, was a third-round pick of the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2020 NFL draft after playing collegiately at TCU.  Over his five seasons with the Chiefs, Niang appeared in 33 games, making nine starts. He spent most of the 2024 season on the practice squad before being released in November.

The signing is intriguing as Niang joins a crowded tackle room that already includes Laremy Tunsil, Josh Conerly Jr., Trent Scott and Andrew Wylie.  Tunsil, Conerly and Wylie are considered locks for the 53-man roster, with Scott also having an excellent chance.

Niang's familiarity with Washington's offensive line coach, however, could be a factor. He was teammates with both Wylie and Nick Allegretti in Kansas City during their two Super Bowl championship runs.


With Herbig's departure, the battle for starting guard positions between Chris Paul, Julian Good-Jones and Michael Deiter intensifies. The question now becomes: how many offensive linemen will Washington ultimately keep when they trim the roster to 53 players next month?  


## Commanders Land Veteran Tackle Niang Following Herbig's Retirement

**Washington bolsters offensive line depth with familiar face.**


The Washington Command

Commanders sign replacement for retired offensive lineman

##  Can Bo Melton Make the Switch? Green Bay Packs Player Tries Cornerback 

**Packers Coach Sees Potential in Former Wide Receiver**


Green Bay Packers wide receiver Bo Melton has taken an unconventional path in his NFL career. Entering his fourth season, he’s made a bold switch from wide receiver to cornerback. While a position change this late in a career isn't ideal, coaches see potential in Melton's athleticism and willingness to learn. 

“He's done a nice job,” said Head Coach Matt LaFleur. “When you watch him through the course of drills, the skill set is there—it's just getting an adequate number of reps to go and get comfortable out there at a very difficult position to play. I'm really pleased with not only how he's approached it, but how he's gone out there and executed."

Melton has impressed coaches with his natural instincts and quick feet during practice sessions with the second-team defense.  He credits his brother, who plays cornerback for the Arizona Cardinals, as a source of inspiration. 

Defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley noticed Melton’s transition immediately during offseason drills. "He's super athletic, and then you saw him do some (defensive back) drills, and as he backpedaled, you saw how quick his feet were and how he could transition," Hafley said Wednesday.


**Learning Curve Ahead for Melton**

While enthusiastic about Melton’s potential at cornerback, Hafley acknowledges the steep learning curve ahead. “This isn't going to be like we put him in and it's, 'Oh, he's got it.' No, it's a hard position to play,” said Hafley. "People might think you're just out there—go cover a guy—but it's one of the hardest positions physically to play, and there's thinking to it, too. It's not as easy as some people think."

Melton remains focused on absorbing everything coaches teach him. “I'm blessed to be here, blessed to be in this position, so I'm just going to attack everything," he said. 

**Special Teams Role Remains an Option**

The Packers are optimistic about Melton’s future, regardless of his ultimate position. Special teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia values Melton's contributions on special teams, where he played a significant role last season.


"No matter what you ask him to do, we think he's going to become an elite special teams player," Bisaccia said. "He was big for us a year ago. He's really just the ultimate team player right now, doing anything he's asked to do."

Bisaccia points out that Melton’s experience on kick and punt coverage has already provided him with valuable tackling skills. 


**Preseason Pressure Mounts**

Melton faces an uphill battle to secure a roster spot at cornerback. The Packers have several experienced players ahead of him, making the competition fierce. 

With the NFL cutdown day looming on August 27th, Melton has three preseason games to prove he can be a valuable asset in the defensive backfield. While there will inevitably be growing pains as he adjusts to this new role, his commitment and willingness to learn have already made an impression on coaches.


"I believe in him, and I'm excited to see where this can go, but at the same time, I think everybody's got to kind of slow down. Everything's not going to look perfect, but I was fired up," Hafley said. "I love the guy. You win with guys like Bo."


"We're excited that we have him, regardless of what side of the ball he's on. He's going to be an impact on our team," Bisaccia added. 


##  Can Bo Melton Make the Switch? Green Bay Packs Player Tries Cornerback 

**Packers Coach Sees Potential in Former Wide Receiver**


Green Bay Packers wide r

Packers CB Bo Melton’s position change is paying off with co

Packers CB Bo Melton’s position change is paying off with coaches

## Chelsea Complete Hato Deal: Young Defender Arrives for £37m

**Dutch talent joins Blues on seven-year contract, bolstering backline options**

Chelsea have secured the signature of Ajax defender Jorrel Hato in a deal worth an initial £37 million. The agreement is subject to approval from Ajax's supervisory board. 

The 19-year-old Dutch international is set to sign a seven-year contract, keeping him at Stamford Bridge until 2032. He has already received medical clearance and is expected to travel to west London shortly.  

Chelsea view Hato as a promising young talent who will add valuable competition to their defensive ranks. The versatile defender is capable of playing both left-back and in central defense.

Hato's rise through the ranks was meteoric. He made his senior debut for Ajax in February 2023 at just 16 years and 335 days old, making him the third-youngest player to ever feature in an Eredivisie game for the club. Since then, he has accumulated 75 appearances for Ajax and represented the Netherlands national team.

Ajax's decision to sell Hato stems from a need to raise funds after a two-year absence from the lucrative Champions League. The Dutch giants will return to Europe's top competition this season.


**Chelsea's Summer Spending Spree Continues**

Hato's arrival marks Chelsea's eighth signing of the summer transfer window, bringing their total spending to over £250 million. This investment has been partially offset by player sales exceeding £150 million.

The Blues have already brought in a number of high-profile talents this summer:


* **Jamie Gittens (£48m from Borussia Dortmund):** A pacey and direct winger with an impressive track record at youth level.
* **Joao Pedro (£55m from Brighton):** A creative and versatile forward who impressed in the Premier League last season. 
* **Liam Delap (£30m from Ipswich Town):** A powerful striker with Premier League experience.
* **Mamadou Sarr (£12m from Lyon):** A promising young center-back known for his strength and composure.

* **Dario Essugo (£18m from Sporting CP):**  A tenacious midfielder who made his professional debut at the age of 16.
* **Estevao Willian (£29m from Palmeiras):**  A Brazilian winger with a knack for scoring goals.
* **Kendry Paez (£17m from Independiente del Valle):** A talented Ecuadorian teenager signed in a deal agreed last year.


**Chelsea Still Active in the Market**

Despite their substantial summer activity, Chelsea remain keen to add another attacker to their squad. They have held discussions with the representatives of RB Leipzig's Xavi Simons but are yet to make a formal bid.


Further player sales are also expected, with Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson potential departures depending on the right offers. 


A group of unwanted players, including Raheem Sterling, Ben Chilwell, and others, are currently training separately from the first team under Enzo Maresca's leadership.

  


## Chelsea Complete Hato Deal: Young Defender Arrives for £37m

**Dutch talent joins Blues on seven-year contract, bolstering backline options**

Chelsea have s

Chelsea agree deal for Ajax defender Hato

##  Aboukhlal Joins Serie A Side Torino in €10 Million Transfer 

**Moroccan International Completes Four-Year Deal After Successful Medical**

Zakaria Aboukhlal, the Moroccan international formerly of Ligue 1 club Toulouse FC, has officially joined Italian Serie A side FC Torino. French media reported Tuesday that the 25-year-old winger signed a four-year contract after passing his medical examination on Monday. The transfer fee is reportedly €10 million.

Aboukhlal, who boasts 22 caps for the Atlas Lions, brings valuable experience and attacking prowess to Torino. He will be looking to make an immediate impact in Italy's top flight.  




##  Aboukhlal Joins Serie A Side Torino in €10 Million Transfer 

**Moroccan International Completes Four-Year Deal After Successful Medical**

Zakaria Aboukhla

Moroccan Zakaria Aboukhlal Signs Four-Year Deal with FC Tori

Moroccan Zakaria Aboukhlal Signs Four-Year Deal with FC Torino

## Atlas Lions Roar to Life: Morocco National Team Begins CHAN Training

**Nairobi, Kenya:** Morocco's local national football team kicked off their preparations for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) with a focused training session at Kasarani International Sports Complex annex in Nairobi. 

Under the guidance of head coach Tarik Sektioui, the squad is determined to represent Morocco at its best on the continental stage.  "We're here with high motivation and strong focus," stated a team official. "The goal is clear: bring the CHAN title back home."

Morocco faces a tough challenge in their group, facing four formidable opponents throughout the group stage. Their journey begins against Angola on August 3rd, followed by a highly anticipated clash against tournament host Kenya on August 10th.  Further matches pit Morocco against Zambia on August 14th and the Democratic Republic of Congo on August 17th.

The team's early arrival in Nairobi and disciplined training schedule underscore their commitment to reclaiming the CHAN title, having previously won the coveted trophy in both 2018 and 2020.  




## Atlas Lions Roar to Life: Morocco National Team Begins CHAN Training

**Nairobi, Kenya:** Morocco's local national football team kicked off their preparation

Sports News

Bears' Ben Johnson gives timeline on Jaylon Johnson's potential return