## 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

## Golden Glove Goes Cold: Hayes' Debut Ends in Costly Error

**Reds fans react with disappointment as new third baseman struggles in series opener.**

Cincinnati, OH - The Reds welcomed new third baseman Ke'Bryan Hayes to the team Thursday night, but his debut at Great American Ball Park didn't go as planned. Acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for Sammy Stafura and Taylor Rogers, Hayes, widely considered one of the best defensive players at his position in MLB, committed a crucial fielding error in the sixth inning against the Atlanta Braves. 

Facing outfielder Eli White, Hayes misplayed a grounder, allowing Ozzie Albies and Marcell Ozuna to score and tie the game at 3. The error was Hayes' fifth of the season and his first as a Red.

Social media quickly reacted to the play, with many Reds fans expressing their disappointment:


*"This ball ate up Ke'Bryan Hayes in his Reds debut to allow the Braves to tie the game"* - @TalkinBaseball_

*" #Redspic.twitter.com/dMBWwf0XLD"* - @cammillerfilms

*"Welp....that is ironic...and unfortunate for the Redlegs."* - @XSP4

*"That grounder played Hayes and it's a tie game. Hayes should've knocked it down and taken one out but played to side with thoughts of another inning-ending DP." * -@Trags



 


## Golden Glove Goes Cold: Hayes' Debut Ends in Costly Error

**Reds fans react with disappointment as new third baseman struggles in series opener.**

Cincinna

Twitter unloads on Gold Glove third baseman Ke&#39;Bryan Hay

Twitter unloads on Gold Glove third baseman Ke&#39;Bryan Hayes over error in Reds&#39; debut

## 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

## Bears Soar to Third Winning Season in Four Years

**Shawnee State Volleyball Finishes Strong, Earns All-Conference Honors**

PORTSMOUTH – The Shawnee State volleyball team has proven itself a force to be reckoned with, securing its third winning season in the last four years with a 16-13 record for the 2024 campaign. Led by longtime alumni and head coach Devan Spriggs, the Bears showcased consistent play throughout the season, culminating in a strong finish.

**Finishing Strong: A Late Surge to Victory**

The final two months of the season saw the Bears dominate their opponents, winning 10 out of 15 matches. This impressive run propelled them from a 6-8 record to a final tally of 16-13, solidifying their position as a competitive team in the River States Conference (RSC). Six of those victories came in straight sets, demonstrating the Bears' ability to control the pace of play and secure decisive wins.  

Shawnee State also proved invincible on home court during October and November, boasting a perfect 7-0 record at Waller Gymnasium. This dominance helped them achieve an overall 8-2 home record for the season, highlighting their advantage playing in front of their dedicated fans.

**Gifford and Wamsley: A Powerful Duo Departs with Honors**

Seniors Kylee Gifford and Haidyn Wamsley left an indelible mark on the Shawnee State volleyball program. The formidable duo formed a powerful presence at the net throughout their careers, consistently delivering impressive performances. 

Gifford, a 6-foot-2 middle blocker from Wheelersburg, finished the season with 263 kills and a .307 attack percentage.  Her career totals include 761 kills, 285 total blocks (102 solo), and a .282 attack percentage. This earned her recognition as an Honorable Mention AVCA-NAIA All-Region selection. Gifford concluded her career ranked sixth in program history for total blocks, 12th in solo blocks, and 15th in career kills.

Wamsley, a springy 5-10 middle blocker from Otway (Northwest HS), led the team with 300 kills and 91 total blocks in the 2024 season. Over her four years at Shawnee State, she amassed 919 kills and 258 blocks, placing her eighth and ninth all-time in program history for those respective categories. Both Gifford and Wamsley were honored with First-Team all-RSC honors for the second consecutive year.

**Lovely Shines as Setter: A Promising Future Ahead**

Junior Makaela Lovely emerged as a key player during the latter half of the season, taking on the lead setting position and excelling in her role. Starting 15 of Shawnee State's final 17 matches in 2024, she amassed a career-high 675 assists over 29 matches played.  Lovely showcased remarkable consistency, recording at least 32 or more assists in six of Shawnee State's last nine matches. Her performance earned her recognition as a Third-Team all-RSC honoree.

**Looking Ahead: A Strong Foundation for Continued Success**


Coach Spriggs' dedication and leadership have been instrumental in the program's recent success, marked by three winning seasons in four years and 20 conference victories over the past two seasons.  With his continued involvement since 2011, he has played a pivotal role in shaping the team into a competitive force within the RSC.


The upcoming season promises excitement as Spriggs returns to lead the Bears alongside assistant coach Sydney Seth. The roster boasts 18 players, including nine returning letterwinners and a four-player senior class comprising Lovely, Megan Steele, Reagan Lewis, and Ava Jenkins. Lewis and Jenkins, both standout players from Northwest High School, are poised to contribute significantly to the team's success.



For more information about the Shawnee State volleyball program, visit: https://ssubears.com/, https://www.instagram.com/ssuvb/, and https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057197839907 


## Bears Soar to Third Winning Season in Four Years

**Shawnee State Volleyball Finishes Strong, Earns All-Conference Honors**

PORTSMOUTH – The Shawnee State v

Season Review: SSU volleyball maintained consistent strides 

Season Review: SSU volleyball maintained consistent strides in 2024

## Godinez Seeks Career-Defining Victory Against Former Champ Andrade

**Mexican fighter aims to capitalize on opportunity at UFC 319 in Chicago**


Loopy Godinez (13-5 MMA, 8-5 UFC) is poised for a defining moment in her career when she faces former UFC strawweight champion Jessica Andrade (26-14 MMA, 17-12 UFC) at UFC 319 on August 16th at the United Center in Chicago.  

Godinez, coming off a unanimous decision win over Julia Polastri at UFC on ESPN 64 in March after back-to-back losses, sees this fight as a huge opportunity for her career.

"Definitely, I'm really excited for this fight," Godinez told MMA Junkie Radio. "I think it's also a great matchup for us. It's a big, big opportunity, and it's also the biggest fight of my career."


Andrade, who has struggled lately with five losses in her past seven bouts, presents a formidable challenge.  Godinez believes Andrade's aggressive forward style will play into her favor.

"She's well-rounded, and her power, she's really strong," Godinez said. "Honestly, we've been working really hard in every area. Everywhere the fight goes, we will have an answer. ... I think I have more tools to use when someone is aggressive and coming forward. She likes her hooks, that gives me a lot of space for my work, and I really believe this is a great matchup for me." 


This highly anticipated match-up will be broadcast live on ESPN+ pay-per-view, ESPN, and ESPN+.  


## Godinez Seeks Career-Defining Victory Against Former Champ Andrade

**Mexican fighter aims to capitalize on opportunity at UFC 319 in Chicago**


Loopy Godin

Loopy Godinez: Jessica Andrade &#39;biggest fight of my care

Loopy Godinez: Jessica Andrade &#39;biggest fight of my career,&#39; but a favorable one

## 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?

## Heavyweight Fighter Released Despite Stellar UFC Record

**Buday's Journey Ends After Unanimous Decision Win**

Martin Buday (16-2), despite a formidable 7-1 record within the UFC, has been released from the promotion. The news came just five days after his impressive unanimous decision victory over Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu legend Marcus Buchecha (5-2 MMA, 0-1 UFC) at UFC on ABC 9.

A source close to the situation confirmed the roster move to MMA outlets but requested anonymity as the UFC has yet to make an official announcement. Buday, 33, was ranked No. 15 in the official UFC heavyweight rankings at the time of his departure.

Taking to social media, Buday acknowledged the news with a brief statement:

"Yeah it's true, yesterday we got a call that @ufc is not resigning us for the moment... well it is what it is, at least I'm leaving with my head up. Thank you🙏🏻"


**A Successful UFC Run Cut Short**

Buday, hailing from Slovakia, first captured the attention of UFC fans in 2021 when he scored a knockout victory over Lorenzo Hood to earn his contract.  He followed this up with wins against Chris Barnett, Lukasz Brzeski, Jake Collier, and Josh Parisian before suffering his first promotional loss to Shamil Gaziev via TKO in December 2023.

Undeterred, Buday bounced back with victories against Andrei Arlovski and Uran Satybaldiev before securing his final win against Buchecha.






## Heavyweight Fighter Released Despite Stellar UFC Record

**Buday's Journey Ends After Unanimous Decision Win**

Martin Buday (16-2), despite a formidable 7-1

UFC parts ways with Martin Buday despite 7-1 promotional rec

UFC parts ways with Martin Buday despite 7-1 promotional record

##  Notre Dame Football Kicks Off Fall Camp with Promise 

**Explosive Debut From Young Defenders and Veteran Offense**

SOUTH BEND, IN - While the helmets were shells and pads weren't yet fully in place, Notre Dame football hit the practice field for its first session of fall camp today. Head coach Marcus Freeman offered insights into the action, while social media buzzed with clips hinting at a promising season ahead. 

The Irish are aiming high once again in 2025, targeting a return to the College Football Playoff and ultimately, a national championship.  They've tasted what it takes to reach that level after playing as many games as a team could last year.  With all the pieces seemingly in place, excitement is palpable in South Bend.

**Standouts Emerge on Day One:**

* **Bryce Young (95):** The sophomore defensive end made his presence known with explosive moves in his new number. Many observers believe Young is poised for a breakout season after an impressive freshman campaign. "He's bigger and has great bend with lateral movement," one analyst commented.
 
* **Malachi Fields:**  The Virginia transfer, who joined the program in the spring, is now fully participating after limited activities. His size and experience as a receiver (113 catches for 1,619 yards and 10 touchdowns over the past two seasons) are expected to significantly boost the Notre Dame offense.

* **Boubacar Traore:**  Slowly integrated back into action after missing part of last season due to injury, Traore's explosiveness appears to be back. "He'll be ready to go. We just want to slowly increase the load," said Freeman on his progress.


**Offensive Weapons and Quarterback Battle:**

* **Cam Williams:** After a somewhat surprising lack of playing time last season despite being a highly ranked recruit, Williams looks to have added muscle in the offseason, setting the stage for a potentially breakout year. This could elevate Notre Dame's receiving corps to one of its deepest ever. 
* **Quarterbacks:** The competition at quarterback is heating up with Kenny Minchey, CJ Carr, Blake Hebert, Anthony Rezac, and Tyler Buchner all vying for the starting role. Early observations suggest Minchey excels at throwing on the move while Carr will need to work on his quick release.  

**Early Interceptions Add Excitement:**

While CJ Carr threw three interceptions in practice, one analyst stated "you can't blame him all that much about this one." The throw was right there, but KK Smith just couldn't haul it in. These early hiccups are expected as the team continues to build chemistry and refine its game plan.


Contact/Follow us @IrishWireND on X (Formerly Twitter), and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Notre Dame news, notes, and opinions.
Follow Mike on X: @MikeFChen 





##  Notre Dame Football Kicks Off Fall Camp with Promise 

**Explosive Debut From Young Defenders and Veteran Offense**

SOUTH BEND, IN - While the helmets were

Notre Dame football started fall practice today and here are

Notre Dame football started fall practice today and here are some highlights from the day

## Big Ten Safety Stars Align: Zachman Leads Wisconsin's Defensive Charge 

**Pro Football Focus Ranks Zachman Among Top Returning Safeties**

The countdown is on for the 2025 college football season, and Pro Football Focus has already begun highlighting key players. In a recent ranking of the highest-graded returning safeties in the Big Ten Conference, Wisconsin's Preston Zachman secured a prominent spot among the top contenders.  Zachman joins Minnesota's Koi Perich and Washington's Alex McLaughlin at the top of the list, with Ohio State's Caleb Downs closely trailing.

**Quietly Dominant: Zachman Shines in 2024**

While others may have garnered more attention, Zachman quietly delivered a standout performance during the 2024 season. He amassed a remarkable total of 58 tackles (39 solo), leading his team with two interceptions and adding four crucial pass deflections to his impressive repertoire.

As Wisconsin prepares for the upcoming season, Zachman's contributions will be more critical than ever.  The Badgers face a depleted secondary following the departure of Xavier Lucas in the offseason and the uncertain status of Nyzier Fourqurean. 

**Summer Success Fuels Confidence:**

Zachman's exceptional performance during both spring and summer ball has set the stage for a potentially stellar season. His leadership will be crucial as Wisconsin's defense aims to find success amidst the changing landscape of their secondary.  While players like Austin Brown, Matt Jung, and Matthew Traynor are expected to make an impact, Zachman's experience and proven ability will be vital in maintaining continuity within this key position group.




## Big Ten Safety Stars Align: Zachman Leads Wisconsin's Defensive Charge 

**Pro Football Focus Ranks Zachman Among Top Returning Safeties**

The countdown is 

Wisconsin football 2025 player preview: Safety Preston Zachm

Wisconsin football 2025 player preview: Safety Preston Zachman

## 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

#Sports

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Twitter unloads on Gold Glove third baseman Ke'Bryan Hayes over error in Reds' debut

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

Season Review: SSU volleyball maintained consistent strides in 2024

Loopy Godinez: Jessica Andrade 'biggest fight of my career,' but a favorable one

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

Madden NFL 26 Top-10 RBs revealed — did Steelers' Jaylen Warren make the list?

UFC parts ways with Martin Buday despite 7-1 promotional record

Notre Dame football started fall practice today and here are some highlights from the day

Wisconsin football 2025 player preview: Safety Preston Zachman

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

Do the Boston Celtics have a big man issue?