## Eight Spartans Shine Bright:  Michigan State Players Featured on Prestigious Shrine Bowl Watch List

 **Potential All-Stars for the 2025 Season**


The prestigious East-West Shrine Bowl has unveiled its highly anticipated Preseason 1000 Watch List, and Michigan State University is well represented with eight players earning a spot. The annual event features top collegiate athletes vying for recognition and opportunities to advance their careers after the season concludes.

This year's  East-West Shrine Bowl, scheduled for January 27 in Frisco, Texas, could see multiple Spartans take the field. 


**The Spartan Standouts:**

* NiJhay Burt (cornerback)
* Aidan Chiles (quarterback)
* Matt Gulbin (guard)
* Omari Kelly (wide receiver)
* Nikai Martinez (safety)
* Conner Moore (tackle)
* Elijah Tau-Tolliver (running back)
* Jack Velling (tight end)


 **Looking Ahead to the Gridiron:**

Michigan State football kicks off its 2025 season on August 29th against Western Michigan, with a 7 p.m. ET kickoff at Spartan Stadium, broadcasted live on FS1.  




Follow us for ongoing coverage of Michigan State news and updates: 


**X (formerly Twitter): @The SpartansWire**

 **Facebook:** [Insert Facebook Page Link]





## Eight Spartans Shine Bright:  Michigan State Players Featured on Prestigious Shrine Bowl Watch List

 **Potential All-Stars for the 2025 Season**


The prest

Nearly 10 Spartans named to East-West Shrine Bowl 1000 prese

Nearly 10 Spartans named to East-West Shrine Bowl 1000 preseason watch list

## Adams Leads Rams Receivers With Camaraderie, Skills

**Puka Nacua shows respect to new teammate, Davante Adams, setting stage for dynamic duo.**

Rams training camp saw a unique display of humility from wide receiver Puka Nacua. Eager to welcome star receiver Davante Adams, who signed with the team in March, Nacua initially requested that Adams lead receiver drills.

“He was saying it almost like he'd been wanting to say it for a long time,” said Adams, “but he didn't really know how to say that.” 

Nacua explained his reasoning: "There is a respect for him to come in saying, ‘I don’t want to push you out of the way or take your spot and be like, Oh, I should be up there No. 1,’” Nacua said. “But it's something that I have a huge amount of respect for his game.”

The request also came with a playful twist.  "When I was in the front, I’m trying to sprint as fast as I can so I can turn around and watch him,” Nacua said, laughing. “So, I was like, ‘Hey, I think it'll make my job a little bit easier if you just go first.' ... There's nothing better than seeing him with my own two eyes.”

Adams, 32, has already made an impact on his new team, impressing teammates and coaches with his skills honed during 11 NFL seasons. He’s amassed 1,000 yards receiving in a season seven times, including the last six in a row.  The Rams signed Adams to replace Cooper Kupp, who was released shortly after they agreed to terms with Adams. The two-year deal includes $25 million in guarantees.

Adams, who has played for the Green Bay Packers, Las Vegas Raiders and New York Jets, said during offseason workouts that he felt rejuvenated with the Rams and their “college-type camaraderie.” He’s also enjoying working with coach Sean McVay.

“Well, the ‘masterminds’ because it’s a lot of people involved,” Adams said, “but it's just been fun.
“The best part for me is just getting to know the guys and hanging out with them every day.”

Adams’ presence has already made a difference. During a team meeting, McVay complimented Nacua on a play and then asked what he was thinking while running his route. Nacua referenced Adams and a tip he had offered.


“When you have guys that are doing that for each other, that's special stuff,” McVay said.

With quarterback Matthew Stafford sidelined due to a back issue, Adams has worked primarily with veteran backup Jimmy Garoppolo.  Garoppolo shared his impressions: “He brought over the same swagger he had in Las Vegas, man. He’s a confident dude.”

**Adams' Impact on Rams Receivers:**


Receivers coach Eric Yarber, who has coached some of the league’s best receivers during his tenure with McVay, recognizes Adams' unique skill set: "He’s a bigger receiver that has the feet of a little man. I mean, he’s cat-quick, he’s got great change of direction, great catch radius and a great feel for the game.”

Second-year receiver Jordan Whittington echoes this sentiment: “Separation is a big thing that I wanted to work on, and now I’ve got one of the ultimate separators ever. So having him in the film room sharing that type of information and then just watching him go out there and dominate, it’s truly a blessing.”

Adams acknowledges that while he offers advice when appropriate, his focus is on leading by example: “I'm not a walking wise man where I'm just trying to drop little trinkets on him all day, but it's more whenever it comes up,” Adams said. 

**Golden Opportunity for the Rams:**


The Rams are optimistic about their chances with Adams and Nacua at the helm of their receiving corps.  Adams himself believes that this team has the potential for greatness: “This is looking pretty golden over here.” 





## Adams Leads Rams Receivers With Camaraderie, Skills

**Puka Nacua shows respect to new teammate, Davante Adams, setting stage for dynamic duo.**

Rams traini

Davante Adams-Puka Nacua combo is already reaping benefits f

Davante Adams-Puka Nacua combo is already reaping benefits for the Rams

## Softball Star Makes Big Move: Monticelli Heads to LSU

**Oklahoma Transfer Brings Veteran Experience to Baton Rouge**

Peytn Monticelli, former Oklahoma Sooner softball pitcher, announced her commitment to the LSU Tigers on Monday. 

Monticelli joined the Sooners following the 2023 season, contributing to their fourth consecutive championship win in 2024.  

During her two years in Norman, she appeared in 34 games, holding a 2-0 record. In 2024, Monticelli boasted an impressive 1.09 ERA across 19.1 innings. However, she faced challenges in 2025 with a 3.94 ERA over 21.1 innings and limited playing time during the NCAA Tournament.

The transfer brings valuable experience to LSU, filling the void left by pitcher Sydney Berzon who joined Oklahoma via the transfer portal.

**Oklahoma Bolsters Roster with Top Talent**

Meanwhile, Oklahoma is strengthening its own roster for the upcoming season.  They welcome Alyssa Parker, ranked as the No. 1 pitcher in the 2025 recruiting class, and Berkley Zache, the No. 5 pitcher overall. Returning players include senior Kierston Deal, sophomore Audrey Lowry, and redshirt freshman Sophia Bordi, who will be back with the team after taking time away during the latter part of the 2025 season.


Monticelli expressed her gratitude for her time at Oklahoma in a heartfelt social media statement:

"Thank you, Sooner Nation, for supporting me these past two years. This was not an easy decision to make. I have loved everything about being a Sooner and am so grateful for every single person I have met along my journey with this program. Norman will always be a special place to me." 


She also shared her excitement for joining LSU, tweeting: "Callin’ Baton Rouge  🐅💜💛 @LSUsoftball" 


## Softball Star Makes Big Move: Monticelli Heads to LSU

**Oklahoma Transfer Brings Veteran Experience to Baton Rouge**

Peytn Monticelli, former Oklahoma Soon

Oklahoma Sooners pitcher transferring to LSU Tigers

## Tigers Hit Another Roadblock: Meadows Joins Olson On Injured List

**Center fielder sidelined with quad strain, adds to mounting injuries.**

Detroit Tigers fans are facing a disheartening reality as another key player has been added to the injured list. Following starter Reese Olson's season-ending shoulder strain announcement on Monday, July 28th, center fielder Parker Meadows now joins him, sidelined due to a right quad strain.  

Meadows, who missed the first 60 games of the season recovering from a musculocutaneous nerve injury in his upper right arm, was injured during Sunday's 10-4 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays at Comerica Park. Despite his recent return, he appeared noticeably cautious in center field and on the basepaths.

"We approached him about it," said Tigers president of baseball operations Scott Harris, highlighting the team's awareness of Meadows' discomfort. "Fortunately, we think we caught it early, so there won't be a tear or a high-grade strain. We're hopeful that he's going to be back soon." 

Meadows, 25, is batting .200 with two home runs, 12 walks, and 40 strikeouts in 38 games played this season.  To fill Meadows' absence, the Tigers recalled infielder Andy Ibáñez from Triple-A Toledo.


**Another Blow for Detroit:**

The recent string of injuries adds to the Tigers' already challenging season.  While there is still a possibility for Olson to return in time for the playoffs, the team faces a significant uphill battle as they navigate these setbacks. 


## Tigers Hit Another Roadblock: Meadows Joins Olson On Injured List

**Center fielder sidelined with quad strain, adds to mounting injuries.**

Detroit Tigers 

Detroit Tigers place Parker Meadows on injured list with qua

Detroit Tigers place Parker Meadows on injured list with quad strain; Andy Ibáñez recalled

##  Auburn Alum Makes PGA Waves with Top-20 Finish at 3M Open

**Young Golfer Shows Potential, Surpassing Veteran Players in Impressive Performance**

Brendan Valdes, the former Auburn star golfer and a member of the 2024 National Championship team, made waves at last weekend's 3M Open at TPC Twin Cities. The 22-year-old achieved his best professional result to date with a remarkable 15-under par performance, securing a coveted top-20 finish.

**Rising Star Outshines PGA Veterans**

Valdes's performance surpassed several seasoned PGA Tour members, including Ricky Fowler, Max Homa, and even the tournament champion Jhonattan Vegas. This impressive feat marks his second consecutive cut made in just his two career PGA Tour events.

**Back Nine Blitz Ignites Tournament Run**

The Orlando, Florida native captured attention with a stunning back nine performance on Thursday during his first round. He birdied seven of his final nine holes, finishing bogey-free with an impressive 64. This remarkable start placed him atop the leaderboard after day one.  While Friday saw him struggle to maintain that momentum, ending even par, he still held firm at a respectable 7-under par heading into the weekend.

**Weekend Magic propels Valdes towards Top 10**

Valdes rediscovered his form over the weekend, carding a 3-under par 68 on "Moving Day" before closing out the tournament with a spectacular 5-under par 66 on Sunday. His 15-under par total placed him just three strokes shy of the top 10 and eight strokes behind the eventual champion Kurt Kitayama, who finished at an impressive 23-under par.


**Future Success Beckons for Former Auburn Star**

With his early success in the PGA Tour, Valdes has clearly demonstrated the potential to compete for tournament victories soon. He will likely have to wait until August when the FedEx Cup Playoffs begin to attempt a top-10 finish. 


##  Auburn Alum Makes PGA Waves with Top-20 Finish at 3M Open

**Young Golfer Shows Potential, Surpassing Veteran Players in Impressive Performance**

Brendan V

Auburn golfer Brendan Valdes earns top 20 finish at 3M Open

## Four Top Free Agents Remain Unsigned: What's the Hold-Up?

**Restricted Free Agency Creates Complex Negotiations**

NBA free agency is mostly wrapped up, with teams enjoying a quiet summer. However, four talented players— Jonathan Kuminga (Warriors), Josh Giddey (Bulls), Cam Thomas (Nets), and Quentin Grimes (76ers)—remain unsigned. These players were ranked seventh, ninth, 11th, and 15th, respectively, in USA TODAY Sports' original Top 25 available players list.

So, why are they still on the market?  The answer lies in restricted free agency, a unique situation that complicates negotiations for both players and teams.


**Understanding Restricted Free Agency: A Player's Dilemma**

In an ideal scenario, players use other teams' interest as leverage to secure the best possible contract from their current team.  However, this offseason presents significant challenges for those seeking big paydays.

Limited cap space across the league means many teams are hesitant to offer hefty contracts, especially with potential luxury tax penalties looming. This shift in market dynamics favors teams holding the rights to these restricted free agents, as they have more bargaining power and less pressure to meet players' demands.

**Player Options: Short-Term Sacrifice for Future Gains?**


While negotiating a lucrative contract is appealing, restricted free agents face another option: accepting their team's qualifying offer. This would allow them to play out the final season of their rookie contract and become unrestricted free agents after the 2025-26 season. While this might involve playing for a below-market value in the short term, it could lead to greater earning potential when they enter the open market untethered to any team.

**Four Talented Players Seeking New Deals:**



**Jonathan Kuminga (Warriors):**
At just 22 years old, Kuminga's career with the Warriors has been marked by both flashes of brilliance and inconsistency. While his athleticism and scoring potential are undeniable, questions remain about his efficiency and role within the team.

**Case for re-signing:**  Kuminga's youth aligns with Golden State's goal of maximizing their championship window alongside veterans Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Draymond Green.


 **Case against:** Coach Steve Kerr has shown hesitation in trusting Kuminga in crucial moments, casting doubt on his ability to consistently perform at a high level.

**Josh Giddey (Bulls):**
Giddey is a triple-double threat who averaged 14.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 7.2 assists for the Bulls last season. However, Chicago's reluctance to offer him a large contract stems from their recent decision to give Patrick Williams a substantial five-year, $90 million deal.

**Case for re-signing:** Giddey's unique skillset and scoring ability make him a valuable asset for a team seeking playoff contention.


 **Case against:**  Chicago's commitment to Williams complicates their ability to justify a lucrative contract for Giddey, creating optics concerns within the front office.

**Cam Thomas (Nets):**
Thomas is a proven scorer who averaged 24 points per game in the limited games he played last season due to injury. However, his perceived lack of versatility beyond scoring has raised questions about his ability to thrive on a championship-contending team.

 **Case for re-signing:**  On a young, rebuilding Nets squad, Thomas offers consistent offensive production and could be valuable as a trade asset in the future.


 **Case against:** Critics label Thomas an "empty calories ball hog," questioning whether he can contribute beyond scoring on a high-caliber team.

**Quentin Grimes (76ers):**
Grimes burst onto the scene with the 76ers after the trade deadline, averaging 21.9 points per game in limited playing time.  However, Philadelphia faces financial constraints due to their star players' contracts, potentially limiting their ability to offer Grimes a significant contract.

 **Case for re-signing:** The Sixers have a history of injuries, and Grimes proved capable of excelling in a larger role.


 **Case against:** With Tyrese Maxey, Jared McCain, and VJ Edgecombe already on the roster, Philadelphia's guard depth makes it difficult to justify a large contract for Grimes.






## Four Top Free Agents Remain Unsigned: What's the Hold-Up?

**Restricted Free Agency Creates Complex Negotiations**

NBA free agency is mostly wrapped up, wit

Why these 4 very good NBA players remain unsigned

## Mets Aim for Season-High Eight Straight Wins in San Diego Showdown

**Riding a hot streak after sweeping the Giants, New York looks to continue its dominance against the Padres.** 


The New York Mets travel down the California coast with momentum on their side, having just completed a three-game sweep of the San Francisco Giants. Now, they aim for a season-high eight consecutive wins as they face off against the San Diego Padres in the first game of a series at Petco Park on Monday night.

The matchup marks the beginning of six meetings between these two teams, with a three-game set scheduled for later in the season at Citi Field from September 16th to 18th.


**Mets Dominate Giants in Series Finale**

In Sunday's series clincher against the Giants, Ronny Mauricio shone brightly, going 4-for-4 with a solo home run, two doubles, and two RBIs to lead the Mets to a 5-3 victory. This win capped off a historic week for the Mets, who matched their season-best seven-game winning streak.


**Pitching Matchup: Montas vs. Cease**

Frankie Montas will take the mound for the Mets on Monday night.  Montas enters the game with a 3-1 record and a 4.62 ERA, riding a three-game winning streak. Facing him will be Padres starter Dylan Cease. In 21 starts this season, the 29-year-old right-hander has a 3-10 record with a 4.59 ERA and a 1.30 WHIP.


**Lineups Revealed: Ready for Battle**

Both teams have released their lineups for Monday's highly anticipated contest:



* **NY Mets lineup vs Padres:** (Link to embedded tweet)
* **Padres lineup vs Mets:** (Link to embedded tweet) 


This first encounter between the Mets and Padres in 2025 promises to be a thrilling match-up.   


## Mets Aim for Season-High Eight Straight Wins in San Diego Showdown

**Riding a hot streak after sweeping the Giants, New York looks to continue its dominance

Mets announce lineup vs San Diego Padres for Monday game

## NBA Draft Pick Returns to Serbian Roots

**Marković Completes Summer League Run, Joins Mega Basket for 2025-26 Season**

KK Mega Basket (Mega Superbet) announced on July 28 that young prospect Bogoljub Marković will rejoin the team for training ahead of the 2025-26 season.  Marković was drafted by the Milwaukee Bucks in the second round, 47th overall, during the 2025 NBA Draft. The 20-year-old forward participated in the Bucks' summer league games in Las Vegas, averaging 8.0 points on 37.5% shooting from beyond the arc while grabbing 2.2 rebounds per game across five appearances.

After the draft, ESPN reported Marković's intention to return to Serbia for the upcoming season. While Bucks assistant general manager Milt Newton stated that decision was yet to be finalized at the time, the team has since filled its 15-man roster and all three two-way slots. A roster move could potentially keep Marković in Milwaukee, but the Bucks already have Tyler Smith and Chris Livingston under guaranteed deals. 





## NBA Draft Pick Returns to Serbian Roots

**Marković Completes Summer League Run, Joins Mega Basket for 2025-26 Season**

KK Mega Basket (Mega Superbet) annou

Milwaukee Bucks draft pick Bogoljub Marković is headed back 

Milwaukee Bucks draft pick Bogoljub Marković is headed back to Europe

## Gators Quarterback DJ Lagway Dealing with New Injury

**Florida's starting quarterback sidelined just weeks before season opener.**

Florida starting quarterback DJ Lagway is currently sporting a walking boot due to a "new lower-body injury," according to Zach Goodall. While the injury is being described as "minor and not of long-term concern," it adds another layer of concern for the talented but injury-plagued quarterback.  

This latest setback follows a string of offseason injuries for Lagway, who sat out spring camp due to a throwing shoulder rehab and dealt with a "hernia-type" issue earlier this year. He also only took a ceremonial snap at the Orange and Blue Game while still recovering from his shoulder injury. 


The Gators kick off their season in just 33 days against Long Island, and while Lagway's absence wouldn't be crucial for that game, it raises questions about his availability going forward.  

"Staying healthy is priority No. 1 for Lagway this season," experts say. If he can remain on the field, Florida has a chance to boast one of the SEC's most exciting offenses. However, if Lagway goes down again, Harrison Bailey will step in, potentially leading to a less dynamic offensive performance.


**Follow along for the latest updates on Florida Gators news and insights.**

[Social Media Links] 


## Gators Quarterback DJ Lagway Dealing with New Injury

**Florida's starting quarterback sidelined just weeks before season opener.**

Florida starting quarter

DJ Lagway dealing with new injury, per reports

## Slater Returns to Practice as Chargers Training Camp Hits Day 10

**Fresh Faces and Big Plays Highlight Another Day in Costa Mesa**

The Los Angeles Chargers continued their preparations for the upcoming season with day ten of training camp on Monday. Fans and media gathered to witness exciting moments and updates from the field.  

**Slater Makes Long-Awaited Comeback**

Rashawn Slater, who had been absent from practice due to an undisclosed injury since July 18th, finally returned to the field sporting his uniform. This news was met with enthusiasm by fans and reporters alike, signaling a potential boost for the Chargers' offensive line.  

**Running Back Update: Sanders Returns, Harris Still Unclear**

Raheim Sanders made his return to practice after an absence, while Najee Harris remains shrouded in mystery, unable to be seen by spectators due to his unique eye coverings. 

**Offensive Excitement:**

On the offensive side of the ball, standout performances from wide receiver "Big Play" Dre and Tre were captured on social media, showcasing their impressive skills and highlighting the potential for explosive plays this season.   One fan post captured a highlight reel of tight end's  mid-route adjustment and clutch catch, further demonstrating the team's offensive firepower. 


**A Glimpse into Camp:**

Social media platforms provided fans with a glimpse into the Chargers' training camp atmosphere, offering snippets of practice sessions, player interactions, and behind-the-scenes moments. 


## Slater Returns to Practice as Chargers Training Camp Hits Day 10

**Fresh Faces and Big Plays Highlight Another Day in Costa Mesa**

The Los Angeles Chargers

Highlights from Day 10 of Chargers training camp

##  Bears Put on the Pads, Luther Burden Returns as Training Camp Heats Up 

**Chicago Bears Training Camp - Day 5** - The Chicago Bears officially ramped up their training camp Monday, adding pads and physicality to the drills for the first time this summer. While the humid conditions had players sweating from the start, the intensity was palpable as rookies and veterans alike battled it out on the field.

###  Luther Burden's Return Brings Excitement 

After missing the first four days due to a spring leg injury, rookie wide receiver Luther Burden finally made his debut Monday. Though limited to warm-up drills and agility work, Burden looked quick and agile, showing no signs of lingering issues. His return is a welcome boost for a Bears offense eager to see what he can bring to the table.

### Establishing the Ground Game 

With pads on, the Bears focused heavily on their ground game. Running backs D'Andre Swift, Roschon Johnson, and Kyle Monangai all saw plenty of action, with DJ Moore also getting involved in handoffs and pitches. Center Drew Dalman echoed this emphasis: "There's a lot to the run game...physical piece, which was on more display today...this feels like a step in a long process."

### Loveland Shines as Tight End Duo Develops 

Rookie tight end Colston Loveland continued to impress with his playmaking ability. He snagged an incredible leaping grab during 7-on-7 drills, showcasing the chemistry he's building with quarterback Caleb Williams. Meanwhile veteran Cole Kmet had a more mixed day, battling through a drop and a pass breakup while also securing a crucial catch in 11-on-11s.

### Offensive and Defensive Line Battles Intensify

The introduction of pads brought an electrifying intensity to the offensive and defensive line battles.  Grady Jarrett dominated Jonah Jackson early on, while Chris Williams consistently outmaneuvered All-Pro Joe Thuney. Kiran Amegadjie held his ground against edge rushers, with Braxton Jones, Ozzy Trapilo, and Amegadjie all seeing time at starting left tackle. Andrew Billings proved too much for rookie Luke Newman, while Daniel Hardy flashed potential over the right tackle. Gervon Dexter emerged victorious in a battle against Drew Dalman.

### Center Exchanges Still Finding Their Rhythm 

With Doug Kramer sidelined due to a leg injury, the Bears shuffled their center rotation. Luke Newman stepped up as the No. 2 center, working with veteran Case Keenum. However, both Newman and Dalman struggled with snap exchanges throughout practice.  


### Richardson Continues to Make Noise

Undrafted wide receiver JP Richardson lived up to the hype from his early camp performances, showcasing impressive quickness and route-running ability against a talented secondary. He even made a sideline catch while securing both feet in bounds. Special teams coordinator Richard Hightower confirmed that Richardson is "in the mix" as a potential punt returner.


### Injury Updates and Other Observations

Doug Kramer's status remains day-to-day with a leg injury, while Shemar Turner is likely out for at least a month due to a leg injury. Defensive end Tanoh Kpassagnon left practice with an apparent hand injury, and offensive lineman Bill Murray was hampered by an ankle issue. Running backs coach Eric Bieniemy commanded attention on the field with his energetic coaching style. Terell Smith and Tyrique Stevenson shared starting cornerback duties, while Nahshon Wright continued to fill in for Jaylon Johnson. Olamide Zaccheaus emerged as a reliable target for Caleb Williams, and Rome Odunze, Devin Duvernay, and Tyler Scott are all vying for the punt returner role.  Chicago Bulls players Matas Buzelis and Ayo Dosunmu were spotted attending practice.





##  Bears Put on the Pads, Luther Burden Returns as Training Camp Heats Up 

**Chicago Bears Training Camp - Day 5** - The Chicago Bears officially ramped up th

Bears training camp notebook: Pads come on to start Week 2

## Steelers Give Players a Break as Five New Faces Arrive at Camp

**Pittsburgh's training camp took a breather on Monday, but the team was still busy behind the scenes.** After four consecutive practices in pads, the Steelers allowed their players a much-needed day of rest. 

While the players enjoyed some downtime, coaches kept the momentum going by bringing in five free agents for workouts:


* **Tight End:** Baylor Cupp (Texas Tech)
* **Tight End:** Kevin Foelsch (New Haven)
* **Running Back:** Jarveon Howard (Alcorn State)
* **Running Back:** Lew Nichols (Central Michigan)
* **Tight End:** Thomas Yassmin (Utah)

**The team also made a roster move, releasing veteran running back Cordarrelle Patterson on Monday.**  Patterson missed the first four training camp practices.


**Looking ahead, the Steelers will gear up for their preseason opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars starting Tuesday.** 


## Steelers Give Players a Break as Five New Faces Arrive at Camp

**Pittsburgh's training camp took a breather on Monday, but the team was still busy behind th

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