## 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

Do the Boston Celtics have a big man issue?

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

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


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

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


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

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


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

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


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


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


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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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


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

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

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


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

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


The New York Jets h

PFF: Relationship between Jets GM, HC could help accelerate 

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

##  Eagles Return to Fully Padded Practice at Training Camp

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

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

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


**Injury Update:**

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





##  Eagles Return to Fully Padded Practice at Training Camp

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

Training camp in Philadelphi

Eagles training camp report: Live updates from Practice No. 

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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


**Simmons: A Defensive Force Despite Injuries**

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

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


**A Championship Contender's Roster?**

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


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

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

NFL analyst: Titans&#39; Cam Ward already worth two first-ro

NFL analyst: Titans&#39; Cam Ward already worth two first-round picks in a trade

## 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

#Sports

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?

Davante Adams recalls his 'miserable...dark time' with the Raiders

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

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

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

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

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