##  Can Comeback Kid Russell Gage Save the 49ers' Receiving Corps?

The San Francisco 49ers are desperate for help at wide receiver, and an unlikely contender might be stepping up. Veteran Russell Gage, sidelined by injuries since 2022, is making a surprising push to earn a roster spot.

**Gage’s Long Road Back**

After tearing his patellar tendon in training camp last year following a neck injury suffered the previous season, Gage appeared destined for retirement.  He briefly joined the Baltimore Ravens' practice squad before landing with the 49ers in November. His performance in limited opportunities, due to injuries plaguing other receivers, has caught the eye of head coach Kyle Shanahan.

“Yeah, he’s definitely given himself a chance,” Shanahan told reporters after Thursday's joint practice with the Denver Broncos. “I think Russ had a really good offseason. You know, I've always been a fan of Russell since he came out of college. I was a huge fan of his when he was in Atlanta and he signed that big deal with Tampa. Then he had some really bad luck with some injuries that almost ended his career, and I think he took about a year and a half off, I'm going to guess. We got him last year to put on our practice squad and you could see him throughout the whole year working to get his legs back and to get back in receiver shape and be able to handle the cuts after his injuries. I think the way he finished last year was really positive. He put the work in this offseason and I think he's back to being a really good NFL player now and fighting to make this team."

**A Vital Piece for San Francisco?**


With Brandon Aiyuk recovering from a knee injury, Jauan Jennings sidelined with a calf issue, and Jacob Cowing out with a hamstring injury, the 49ers receiving corps is riddled with question marks. Gage’s experience – 74 NFL games under his belt – could provide much-needed stability.


His success would be a major win for San Francisco, offering a veteran presence to a group lacking proven production.  


##  Can Comeback Kid Russell Gage Save the 49ers' Receiving Corps?

The San Francisco 49ers are desperate for help at wide receiver, and an unlikely contender m

49ers may get some much-needed WR help from player whose car

49ers may get some much-needed WR help from player whose career almost ended

## Rookie Miller Strikes Gold, Throws 41-Yard TD in Raiders Debut

**Late-Game Spark for Las Vegas Offense**

Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback Cam Miller made an instant impact in his preseason debut Thursday night against the Seattle Seahawks. Entering the game midway through the fourth quarter, Miller connected with wide receiver Shedrick Jackson on a deep 41-yard touchdown pass just six plays into his first drive.  The completion, the longest of the night for the Raiders, provided a much-needed spark to an offense that had struggled throughout the game.

"It didn't take long for Miller to show what he can do," tweeted the Las Vegas Raiders official account alongside a video of the touchdown. #LVvsSEA | 📺 FOX5 Las Vegas pic.twitter.com/JDGT13U1F5


Miller, a sixth-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, was praised by minority owner Tom Brady during the selection process. Currently the Raiders' third-string quarterback, Miller is competing for a roster spot behind starter Geno Smith and backup Aidan O'Connell.  This impressive performance could significantly boost his chances of securing a place on the team.





## Rookie Miller Strikes Gold, Throws 41-Yard TD in Raiders Debut

**Late-Game Spark for Las Vegas Offense**

Las Vegas Raiders rookie quarterback Cam Miller ma

Cam Miller completes bomb to Shedrick Jackson for 41-yard Ra

Cam Miller completes bomb to Shedrick Jackson for 41-yard Raiders touchdown

## Packer Safety's Subtly Scathing Take on Giants Exit

**From Second-Round Pick to Free Agent King**

Xavier McKinney’s move from New York Giants to Green Bay Packers last season was more than just a change of scenery.  The 26-year-old safety, drafted by the Giants in the second round (36th overall) out of Alabama in 2020, opted for a four-year, $68 million deal with the Packers. Now, he's reflecting on that decision, and subtly throwing shade at his former team.

“I think this was the best,” McKinney told CBS Sports. “Obviously, to me, it was the obvious choice just because I knew that it would help me get back to solely locking in on my craft and what I do for my job." He continued, "Obviously, the atmosphere is the best that I've ever experienced. Ever since I've gotten in here, everybody’s been so welcoming. The organization has been great, and I can't wait to continue to have this success with them and grow.” 

**The Packers:  A Success Story So Far**

McKinney's move appears to be paying off for both him and Green Bay. He recorded a career-high eight interceptions in his first season with the team, along with 11 passes defended and one sack. His impressive 88 tackles – second highest in his career – even earned him his first Pro Bowl selection. The Packers seem to have found a gem in McKinney.

**Can He Keep It Going?**

With McKinney's success and the Packers' ambitions, eyes will be on him to see if he can replicate last season's performance.  As the team pushes for a deep playoff run, McKinney’s continued excellence will be crucial.


   


## Packer Safety's Subtly Scathing Take on Giants Exit

**From Second-Round Pick to Free Agent King**

Xavier McKinney’s move from New York Giants to Green Bay 

Green Bay Packers’ $68M star takes indirect shot at Giants

## Can Jordan Love Lead Packers to Super Bowl Glory?

Green Bay enters the season brimming with hope, riding a wave of optimism that hasn't been seen in years. But it all hinges on one man: quarterback Jordan Love. 

**Love or Lose? The Quarterback's Pivotal Role**

"It’s Jordan Love time," writes SI's Albert Breer. "Only one offensive player (two-time Pro Bowl guard Elgton Jenkins), and three players in total, predate the quarterback’s time with the team. He’s on a top-of-market deal, so the onus is on him to start lifting his teammates rather than the other way around."  

Breer points to key competitions at left tackle and receiver that could make or break the Packers' season, emphasizing Love's role in overcoming any hurdles at these positions.

**The Lombardi Trophy: A Clear Goal**

Rookie receiver Matthew Golden is leaving no room for doubt about the team's aspirations. "Definitely want to go get that [Lombardi] trophy, man," he told KPRC’s Aaron Wilson. “That’s the question mark we got in our team room is just filling in that blank. That’s the last thing we need in that team room and, for us, that’s all we talk about at practice is getting that trophy.”

**USA Today Predicts NFC North Dominance**

With the Super Bowl firmly in their sights, USA Today predicts the Packers will win the NFC North, outlining several key factors they must address to reach the big game.  "Unlike the rest of their divisional rivals, they should benefit from continuity," writes Nate Davis. "And if QB Jordan Love remains healthy, rookie Matthew Golden makes the consistent impact not always provided by this receiving corps and they get off to a strong start – and the early part of the schedule seems to set up nicely – the Pack might just find themselves in the Super Bowl."

**The Offense Takes Center Stage**

For Green Bay, success hinges on the offense, particularly the connection between Golden and Love.  If their chemistry translates into an explosive passing game, the Packers' offense could be unstoppable. Head coach Matt LaFleur has made it clear that statistics will determine whether starters see action in the preseason opener. As long as the defense holds its own, the offense looks poised to carry Green Bay deep into the playoffs. 






## Can Jordan Love Lead Packers to Super Bowl Glory?

Green Bay enters the season brimming with hope, riding a wave of optimism that hasn't been seen in years. 

USA Today reveals Packers&#39; Super Bowl blueprint, predict

USA Today reveals Packers&#39; Super Bowl blueprint, predicts NFC North crown for Green Bay

## Cardinals Face Chiefs in Preseason Opener

Arizona wrapped up training camp at State Farm Stadium and will take the field this weekend against the Kansas City Chiefs. The game, which takes place Saturday at State Farm Stadium, marks the first preseason matchup for both teams, with starting quarterback Kyler Murray expected to play. However, the length of his playing time remains unclear. 

To dissect the upcoming game and delve into other Cardinals-related topics, hosts Seth Cox and [Your Name] have released a new podcast episode. 

**Preseason Strategies**

Starting at the 1:00 mark, the hosts discuss the significance of starting players appearing in the preseason opener. They also speculate on whether starters will see additional playing time after facing the Chiefs.  

**A New Addition to the Line?**

The possibility, now a reality, of adding guard Will Hernandez to the roster is explored at the 15:25 mark. The hosts analyze this potential move and its implications for the Cardinals' offensive line. 

 **Eyes on the Chiefs Game**

Looking ahead to Saturday's matchup, the hosts share their expectations for the Cardinals at the 32:00 mark. They outline specific areas they want to see improvement in during the game against Kansas City.  


You can catch the full episode via the embedded player above or subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your preferred podcast platform. Don't forget to leave a five-star rating! 


## Cardinals Face Chiefs in Preseason Opener

Arizona wrapped up training camp at State Farm Stadium and will take the field this weekend against the Kansas Cit

Cardinals preseason: Starters playing, Will Hernandez&#39; r

Cardinals preseason: Starters playing, Will Hernandez&#39; return, Cardinals-Chiefs preview

##  Parsons’ Trade Request: A Long Time Coming for Cowboys

Dallas Cowboys star Micah Parsons formally requested a trade last week, but this isn't a knee-jerk reaction. 

The move has been brewing for years, and that's what should be concerning Jerry Jones. 

According to Pro Football Talk, Parsons' agent first broached contract extension talks with the Cowboys after the 2023 season.  These discussions apparently continued throughout the 2024 offseason and into the current season. 


**A Growing Discontent**

The circumstances surrounding this request weren't a surprise. Everyone knew Parsons' fifth-year option for $24 million would kick in for 2025, after which he'd need a new deal. It's no secret that Parsons expects to be the highest-paid non-QB in the NFL.

While the Cowboys addressed other contract negotiations – notably with Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb –  Parsons’ situation seemed to be continuously pushed aside. 

**A Franchise Crossroads**


The gravity of Parsons' request is undeniable. His social media statement was too detailed, too heartfelt to be a simple tantrum. This is genuine frustration, and it's unclear if the Cowboys can salvage the situation. 

This could very well become a defining moment for the franchise in Dallas. A long time coming, it seems.





##  Parsons’ Trade Request: A Long Time Coming for Cowboys

Dallas Cowboys star Micah Parsons formally requested a trade last week, but this isn't a knee-jerk r

Cowboys&#39; Micah Parsons&#39; trade request is 2 years in 

Cowboys&#39; Micah Parsons&#39; trade request is 2 years in the making

## Legacy Runs Deep: Nehews of Raider Legends Spark Preseason Tie

The spirit of Raider Nation runs deep, sometimes even through the family tree. 


**Family Ties on the Field**

Two nephews carrying legendary names took the field for the Las Vegas Raiders against the Seattle Seahawks on August 8th: Qadir Ismail, nephew of former Raider great Raghib 'Rocket' Ismail, and Shedrick Jackson, grandnephew of iconic Bo Jackson. Both players made their mark in a tie game that saw both teams fight to the end.

**Qadir Leads Early Charge**


Qadir Ismail had a solid showing in the first half, hauling in several catches for the Raiders. His efforts helped put the team in field goal range before halftime, although Daniel Carlson's 55-yard attempt fell short.

**Jackson Shines with Spectacular Touchdown**



Shedrick Jackson stole the show in the second half, leading the Raiders in receiving with two catches for a total of 52 yards. His highlight reel moment came on a 41-yard touchdown reception from Cam Miller, where he executed a dazzling double move to leave his defender in the dust.

 *"Lost him with the double move 😮" * - tweeted the NFL account following Jackson's impressive play.  



**Jackson Drives for Final Push**


In the game's final moments,  the Raiders needed a field goal to secure victory. Cam Miller looked to Jackson, who reeled in two crucial catches: a 20-yard grab followed by a four-yard gain that set up Daniel Carlson for another shot at a 55-yard field goal. The attempt was blocked, ending the game in a tie.

**A Fitting Location for Jackson's Display**



The outcome may have been a draw, but Shedrick Jackson's performance couldn't be ignored. His impressive showing took place in Seattle, where Bo Jackson's legendary run into the tunnel and his famous declaration "all the way to Tacoma"  happened years ago. 




## Legacy Runs Deep: Nehews of Raider Legends Spark Preseason Tie

The spirit of Raider Nation runs deep, sometimes even through the family tree. 


**Family Ti

2 players with legendary Raiders bloodlines catch passes in 

2 players with legendary Raiders bloodlines catch passes in preseason opener vs Seahawks

## Buccaneers' Irving Sets Sights on Top 5 RBs

**Tampa Bay back aiming for second straight 1,000-yard season.**

Bucky Irving isn't shying away from big expectations as he heads into his second year with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The running back believes he belongs among the NFL's elite and is setting his sights on a repeat performance of last season's success.

Irving joins an exclusive club if he manages another 1,000-yard rushing season.  He'd become the first Buccaneer to achieve that feat since Errict Rhett in 1994 and 1995. The former Oregon standout carried the Ducks' offense with impressive results: 2,238 yards and 16 touchdowns over his final two seasons, averaging an eye-popping 16 yards per carry. Those numbers caught the attention of Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht, who drafted Irving in the fourth round last year.

"We got some good ones out there, man," Irving said to NFL Network analyst Steve Smith Sr. "I'd probably put myself, we got some dogs, I’m going to put myself in the top-5, for sure."

Irving began last season as the backup to Rachaad White but quickly took over as the lead back midway through the year. He finished with 1,122 yards and eight touchdowns, averaging a respectable 5.4 yards per carry. 

His performance will be crucial if the Buccaneers hope to continue their dominant run in the NFC South, aiming for a record fifth straight championship and a sixth consecutive playoff berth in 2025.




## Buccaneers' Irving Sets Sights on Top 5 RBs

**Tampa Bay back aiming for second straight 1,000-yard season.**

Bucky Irving isn't shying away from big expect

Buccaneers&#39; Bucky Irving Includes Himself on Shocking Li

Buccaneers&#39; Bucky Irving Includes Himself on Shocking List

##  Lawrence Wants His New Toy: Travis Hunter on Offense

Trevor Lawrence just got himself a new toy in Jacksonville: Travis Hunter, the two-way star who made waves at Colorado. 

### A College Star Joins the NFL


Hunter, like Lawrence a First-Team All-American, was known for his dominant performances on both sides of the ball during his college career, even running for the Heisman Trophy in 2024.  While Lawrence captured a national championship in 2018 with Clemson, Hunter’s electrifying dual-threat skills have Jaguars fans buzzing.

The Jacksonville team snagged Hunter with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, adding him to a roster that already boasts the former No. 1 overall pick from 2021: Lawrence himself.


###  Lawrence’s Wish List: More Touchdowns, Please

Despite Jacksonville easing Hunter into both positions, Lawrence has made his preference clear.

“Selfishly, yeah, I definitely want him on offense more,” Lawrence told reporters. "I told him, it's like: Do you want to come catch touchdowns or do you want to maybe break up a pass or two a game?” 


Lawrence continued, “He’ll make plays no matter where he’s at, honestly, and of course as a quarterback I hope he plays more offense. But wherever he needs to play to make our team better, because he will make us better, is what's going to happen. So I’m all for whatever that is.”


###  A Balancing Act in Jacksonville

While the Jaguars have listed Hunter as a second-string cornerback on their first depth chart, reports indicate he is considered a starting wide receiver. 

It seems Lawrence has already begun strategizing ways to unleash Hunter's offensive potential. For fans, this new dynamic pairing promises exciting possibilities for the upcoming season. 


##  Lawrence Wants His New Toy: Travis Hunter on Offense

Trevor Lawrence just got himself a new toy in Jacksonville: Travis Hunter, the two-way star who made w

Travis Hunter&#39;s teammate &#39;selfishly&#39; desires him

Travis Hunter&#39;s teammate &#39;selfishly&#39; desires him to play more offense

## Patriots Offense Outshines Commanders D in Scrimmage

While the Commanders defense showed flashes of potential, the New England Patriots offense proved dominant in Wednesday's joint scrimmage. Monumental Sports analyst Mitchell Tischler offered insights into the matchup on Team 980's "Hoffman Show."

### Maye Impresses Under Center

Tischler highlighted the performance of Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye. “He looked really good," Tischler said. "He looked way better today than the limited action I saw him last year. He was decisive with the football, and he did a good job of finding open receivers.” 

### Patriots Receivers Find Success Against Commanders Secondary

Among those open receivers was Patriots slot receiver Demario Douglas, who “had a very good day,” according to Tischler. Maye connected with Douglas repeatedly, often against coverage from Commanders second-year slot corner Mike Sainristil. While praising Douglas, Tischler noted that the Patriots receivers were generally getting open throughout the scrimmage, with each of the three Commanders corners – Sainristil, Marcus Lattimore and Trey Amos – facing challenges at times.

###  Amos Stands Tall Against Diggs

Tischler singled out Amos’ performance against wide receiver Stefon Diggs. “He did a good job when they were jamming at the line of scrimmage, getting his hands on him and kind of staying in his hip pocket, right behind him. He did a really nice job on a couple of deep balls."


### Lattimore Makes Plays

On the other side of the field, Tischler praised Marcus Lattimore's consistency. “I thought he was a little more consistent on the other side,” he said. "You see these guys wanting to fill the Joe Whitt, Dan Quinn style of football with turnovers, turnovers, turnovers. You know, go get those picks, go get those picks. Mikey had a tip at the end of the two-minute drill on a tip drill off of Bobby Wagner, which is a really nice play.”

### Commanders Defense Not Quite There Yet


In his concluding remarks, Tischler acknowledged the Patriots' offensive dominance but offered cautious optimism for the Commanders defense. "The Commanders' defense wasn’t as good as the Patriots' offense, but ultimately I think some of that was playing an ultra-aggressive style and we’re going to see a little less of that come the regular season." 


## Patriots Offense Outshines Commanders D in Scrimmage

While the Commanders defense showed flashes of potential, the New England Patriots offense proved domin

How did the Commanders cornerbacks fare in practice against 

How did the Commanders cornerbacks fare in practice against Patriots?

## Jaguars Face Preseason Decisions as New Faces Arrive

The Jacksonville Jaguars are gearing up for their first preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, a crucial moment to assess the development of younger players. 

Head coach Liam Coen remains undecided on whether starters will see action, emphasizing a need to evaluate the team's performance during the next two padded practices.  "We wanted to kind of get through these next two padded days, to evaluate, see where we're at as a group, before making that decision," Coen said. "We've obviously had conversations as a staff and with Tony [Executive Vice President of Football Operations Tony Boselli] and James [General Manager James Gladstone] as well, but we're going to let these two days play out, see what it looks like, and make a decision from there."


**Hunter Adds Flexibility**

The Jaguars' newest addition, Travis Hunter, is generating significant buzz. He is expected to play both offense and defense full-time, potentially giving the team flexibility in roster decisions at receiver and cornerback. 

Despite the influx of new talent, several familiar faces are facing an uncertain future as General Manager James Gladstone aims to build a team that thrives on its collective strengths. "By being nothing more than who they are, they'll likely elevate the team," Gladstone stated.  


**53-Man Roster Projection**

Here is our projected 53-man roster after Week 1 of training camp:


* **Quarterbacks (2)**
    * Starter(s): Trevor Lawrence
    * Reserves: Nick Mullens
* **Running backs (4)**
    * Starter(s): Travis Etienne OR Tank Bigsby
    * Reserves: Bhayshul Tuten, LeQuint Allen Jr. 

* **Wide receivers (6)**
    * Starter(s):Travis Hunter, Brian Thomas Jr., Dyami Brown
    * Reserves: Parker Washington, Trenton Irwin, Eli Pancol
* **Tight ends (3)**
    * Starter(s): Brenton Strange
    * Reserves: Hunter Long, Johnny Mundt 

* **Offensive linemen (9)**
    * Starter(s): Walker Little, Ezra Cleveland, Robert Hainsey, Patrick Mekari, Anton Harrison
    * Reserves: Chuma Edoga, Wyatt Milum, Jonah Monheim, Tremayne Anchrum
    * IR: Cole Van Lanen 

* **Defensive ends (4)**
    * Starter(s): Josh Hines-Allen, Travon Walker
    * Reserves: Emmanuel Ogbah, Dawuane Smoot

* **Defensive tackle (5)**
    * Starter(s): DaVon Hamilton, Maason Smith
    * Reserves: Austin Johnson, Tyler Lacy, Jordan Jefferson
    * IR: Arik Armstead 

* **Linebackers (6)**
    * Starter(s): Foye Oluokun, Devin Lloyd, Ventrell Miller
    * Reserves: Yasir Abdullah, Dennis Gardeck, Jack Kiser
    * IR: Jalen McLeod

* **Cornerbacks (7)**
    * Starter(s): Travis Hunter, Tyson Campbell, Jourdan Lewis
    * Reserves: Jarrian Jones, De'Antre Prince, Christian Braswell, Levi Wallace 
    * IR: Montaric 'Buster' Brown

* **Safeties (5)**
    * Starter(s): Eric Murray, Andrew Wingard
    * Reserves: Darnell Savage, Caleb Ransaw, Rayuan Lane III

* **Specialists (3)**  
    * Starter(s): Cam Little, Logan Cooke, Ross Matiscik





## Jaguars Face Preseason Decisions as New Faces Arrive

The Jacksonville Jaguars are gearing up for their first preseason game against the Pittsburgh Steelers,

Jacksonville Jaguars 53-man roster prediction: Who stays, wh

Jacksonville Jaguars 53-man roster prediction: Who stays, who goes ahead of preseason?

## Lance Aims for Starting Role After Impressive Preseason Debut

The Los Angeles Chargers made a statement in last Thursday's Hall of Fame Game, defeating the Detroit Lions 34-7 behind a standout performance from quarterback Trey Lance. The former third overall pick completed 13 of 20 passes for 120 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his potential under the guidance of coach Jim Harbaugh.

###  Harbaugh's Influence 

Lance, who joined the Chargers after stints with the San Francisco 49ers and Dallas Cowboys, has been lauded as a player poised for a breakthrough under Harbaugh's mentorship. The Chargers head coach is renowned for his ability to develop quarterbacks, and many believe Lance could flourish under his tutelage.

###  A New Chapter

Following his impressive preseason debut, Lance outlined his ambitions: "Going into free agency this offseason, my goal was to take a big step in my career," he said in a postgame press conference. "I want to be a starter one day. That's my goal and I believe it will happen." 

He added, "I'm just waiting for my opportunity. Coming to the Chargers, Justin (Herbert) is obviously a great guy to learn from. Great situation for me to be in." 

###  Untapped Potential

While Lance boasts a career completion percentage of 56.6% across three NFL seasons, his college performance at North Dakota State hinted at a higher ceiling. Many believe he hasn't yet reached his full potential and that Harbaugh can unlock it.






## Lance Aims for Starting Role After Impressive Preseason Debut

The Los Angeles Chargers made a statement in last Thursday's Hall of Fame Game, defeating the 

#Nfl

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How did the Commanders cornerbacks fare in practice against Patriots?

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