Raiders Came Close to Shocking QB Trade After Geno Smith’s Extension

Raiders Almost Pulled Off a Shocking QB Trade After Geno Smith’s Extension

For nearly two decades, the Las Vegas Raiders have found themselves trapped in quarterback limbo, unable to secure a true franchise leader under center. While Derek Carr gave the team a semblance of stability, he only led them to two playoff appearances across nine seasons, leaving the franchise longing for more.

Enter new general manager John Spytek, who was determined to turn things around in his first offseason with the Raiders. Spytek made a bold move, sending a third-round pick to the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for veteran quarterback Geno Smith. Under Pete Carroll’s guidance, Smith had flourished in Seattle, playing the best football of his career and offering a glimmer of hope for the Raiders’ quarterback position.

However, as the Raiders were finalizing a contract extension for Smith, they were also working quietly on a backup plan that would have sent shockwaves through the NFL.

Fox Sports NFL Insider Jordan Schultz reported that the Raiders were one of five teams to express significant interest in New England Patriots quarterback Joe Milton. The young quarterback, a sixth-round pick last year, had largely been a backup, sitting behind veteran Jacoby Brissett and top draft pick Drake Maye. But in a surprising turn of events, Milton got the starting nod in Week 18 against the Buffalo Bills and seized the opportunity.

Milton turned heads with his performance, completing 75.9% of his passes for 241 yards and a touchdown, while also adding 16 rushing yards and another touchdown. His dual-threat potential made him a hot commodity, with teams like the Eagles, Giants, Steelers, and Cowboys showing interest. Ultimately, the Dallas Cowboys managed to secure Milton in a trade, but the Raiders’ pursuit highlighted their ongoing quest to find the right quarterback.

The Raiders’ near trade for Milton further exemplifies their commitment to improving the quarterback position, despite the Geno Smith extension. With Spytek at the helm, the franchise is clearly determined to do whatever it takes to break free from its long-standing QB struggles and build a more competitive future.

Must-See Astros Prospect Report: Key Updates for April 4th

Astros Prospect Report: April 4th – Big Wins, Tough Losses, and Standout Performances

Another exciting day of baseball action for the Astros’ minor league affiliates wrapped up on April 4th, with a mix of impressive performances and challenges across the board. Here’s a recap of how the prospects fared in their respective games.

AAA: Sugar Land Space Cowboys (3-4) Suffer Crushing 15-1 Loss

It was a tough night for the Space Cowboys, as they were blown out 15-1 by Durham. Starting pitcher Aaron Brown struggled early, giving up 5 runs in 4.2 innings. Reliever Misael Tamarez couldn’t stop the bleeding, allowing 6 runs in just two-thirds of an inning. The offense had a quiet night, with Jesus Bastidas driving in the only run with a sacrifice fly in the 8th. Notable performances included Brice Matthews and Tommy Sacco each stealing a base, showing their speed on the bases.

AA: Corpus Christi Hooks (1-0) Prevail 7-5 in Exciting Win

The Hooks came out on top in a thrilling 7-5 victory. Despite starter Nic Swanson giving up 4 runs over 3.1 innings, the offense stepped up big. Pascanel Ferreras was the star of the night, going 4-for-4 with 2 RBIs. Ryan Wrobleski added a clutch solo home run, while Logan Cerny and Miguel Palma each chipped in with crucial contributions. The bullpen came through in the clutch, with Tyler Guilfoil earning the win with 2 scoreless innings, and Wilmy Sanchez closing it out with 3 strikeouts over 1.2 innings for the save.

A+: Asheville Tourists (0-1) Fall 12-3 in Tough Loss

It was a rough outing for the Asheville Tourists, as they were defeated 12-3 by the Greensboro Grasshoppers. Starting pitcher Juan Bello struggled with control, walking 6 batters and allowing 6 runs in just 2 innings. The offense had some bright moments, with Walker Janek getting 2 hits, including a double. However, defensive errors and struggles from the bullpen sealed their fate. Julio Rodriguez and Jose Guedez were bright spots in relief, but it wasn’t enough to mount a comeback.

A: Fayetteville Woodpeckers (1-0) Shine in 7-0 Victory

The Fayetteville Woodpeckers put on an impressive performance, dominating their game 7-0. Starting pitcher Joan Ogando threw 3.1 scoreless innings with 5 strikeouts, setting the tone early. The offense was led by Max Holy, who went 1-for-1 with a triple and 3 walks, and Drew Brutcher, who had 2 hits. The Woodpeckers’ bullpen, led by Twine Palmer (6 strikeouts over 3 innings), kept the Grasshoppers off the board, securing a dominant win.

Minor League Starters for April 5th:

  • SL: Brandon Walter – 5:35 CT
  • CC: James Hicks – 7:05 CT
  • AV: Alain Pena – 5:30 CT
  • FV: TBD – 6:05 CT

The Astros’ minor league affiliates are showcasing a mix of talent and grit as they continue to develop and push toward the big leagues. Keep an eye on these prospects as they look to improve and make an impact in the coming weeks!

West Virginia Transfer Amani Hansberry Joins Virginia Tech: A Game-Changing Commitment

Virginia Tech Lands West Virginia Transfer Amani Hansberry: A Major Boost to Hokies’ Frontcourt

In a thrilling move for Virginia Tech basketball, the Hokies have secured a game-changing commitment from former West Virginia forward Amani Hansberry. This news comes hot on the heels of a significant staff addition for head coach Mike Young—bringing back Chester Frazier as an assistant coach. Frazier’s return is seen as a major win for the Hokies, as he had a hand in shaping the program’s recruiting efforts when Young first arrived. After a stint at Illinois and a season at West Virginia, Frazier’s connections and reputation for developing strong player relationships made him an ideal candidate to help Virginia Tech’s recruiting push, especially with players like Hansberry entering the transfer portal.

With the departure of key players from Morgantown, including Darren DeVries heading to Indiana, Young’s ability to bring Frazier back to Blacksburg was pivotal in landing this commitment. The combination of Frazier’s influence and Young’s recruiting acumen has already paid off, as Virginia Tech now adds a skilled forward to bolster its frontcourt for the upcoming season.

Amani Hansberry’s commitment adds another athletic piece to the puzzle for the Hokies. The 6’8″ forward brings versatility and a competitive edge to a Virginia Tech team that is looking to build on its strong foundation. Though Hansberry may not possess the same explosive athleticism as teammate Tobi Lawal, his presence on the court will complement Lawal’s style, potentially creating matchup nightmares for opposing teams on both offense and defense.

Hansberry’s commitment is a clear signal of the Hokies’ intent to continue their upward trajectory in college basketball. With his skills, leadership, and physicality, he will be an important part of Virginia Tech’s frontcourt rotation alongside Lawal, adding depth and flexibility to the lineup. As the Hokies aim to strengthen their roster and build a more dynamic team, this addition is a major step forward as they prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season.

Virginia Tech fans can look forward to watching Hansberry contribute to an already promising squad, and with Frazier back on board, the Hokies’ future is looking brighter than ever.

Virginia Tech QB Set to Miss Remainder of Spring Practices After Undergoing Deep Medical Procedure

Virginia Tech QB Kyron Drones to Miss Spring Practices After Scheduled Surgery

Virginia Tech’s quarterback Kyron Drones, who appeared healthy and eager to resume spring practices, will now miss the remainder of the spring sessions following a medical procedure. After sitting out much of the 2024 season due to injuries, including missing four of the final five games, Drones had been expected to return strong for the Hokies in 2025. However, a recent setback has now put his spring development on hold.

Drones had been working hard during offseason workouts and had shown great promise, alongside backup quarterback Pop Watson, who also returned for the upcoming season. With Drones and Watson both returning, the Hokies seemed well-positioned to enter the 2025 season with two capable signal-callers. However, as spring practices progressed, Drones was held out of the last few practices, sparking concern among fans and observers.

The timing couldn’t be worse. With Virginia Tech’s Spring Game just a week away and only a few practices left, Head Coach Brent Pry confirmed on Saturday that Drones would undergo a minor surgery that would keep him out for the remainder of the spring practices and the game. In a statement, Pry reassured fans that Drones’ procedure was not serious and that he was expected to be ready for summer workouts, despite missing valuable practice time this spring.

“Kyron Drones is scheduled to have a minor medical procedure, and we’ve made the decision to hold him out for the remainder of spring practice,” said Coach Pry. “Kyron has demonstrated excellent leadership and has had an outstanding winter and spring. We fully anticipate he will be ready to return for summer workouts.”

While the news provides some relief that Drones should be ready for the summer, it raises some uncertainty about the Hokies’ Spring Game next weekend. With Drones sidelined, Watson will likely take on a larger role, along with Davi Belfort. Additionally, two incoming freshmen quarterbacks, Kelden Ryan and A.J. Brand, will now have more opportunities to showcase their skills during these crucial practices.

Although Drones’ absence is a blow to Virginia Tech’s spring preparations, the added snaps for the other quarterbacks could provide valuable experience and insight into the team’s depth at the position. Fans will be eager to see how the quarterbacks perform in Drones’ absence and how the Hokies adjust in his absence ahead of the 2025 season.

Carolina Panthers’ Offseason Strategy Faces Harsh Reality Check, Says NFL Executive

Carolina Panthers’ Offseason Strategy Gets Brutal Reality Check from NFL Executive

The Carolina Panthers are looking to rebuild with a long-term vision, and General Manager Dan Morgan has been working tirelessly to strengthen the team during this offseason. Morgan’s approach has been clear from the start: revamp the defense and ensure quarterback Bryce Young has the tools to succeed. While the plan seemed promising, an assessment from a well-placed NFL executive has offered a sobering reality check that could shape the Panthers’ future.

Morgan’s strategy has focused heavily on enhancing the defense, which struggled historically last season. The Panthers aimed to give defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero a stronger roster, removing any excuses for underperformance. Morgan’s moves in free agency reflected this goal, with the general manager acquiring key defensive players to bolster the squad. Despite some slight adjustments along the way, the frenzy of the offseason seemed to have provided the pieces Morgan was looking for.

However, one NFL executive wasn’t as optimistic about the Panthers’ approach, offering a less flattering take. According to this executive, while the Panthers’ defense has been upgraded, the strategy may have overlooked important needs on the offensive side of the ball. Morgan’s decision to not make major changes to the offensive skill positions could be seen as a gamble, especially with the team’s ongoing evaluation of Bryce Young at quarterback.

Morgan is working with a long-term plan in mind, and his focus during this first offseason has been about creating a more competitive team overall. He is hopeful that this strategy will provide the clarity needed to fully assess Young’s potential. However, there’s a clear risk in not adding more offensive talent, especially with the Panthers’ upcoming nine draft picks in 2025 that could offer opportunities for improvement on that front.

As the Panthers move forward, Morgan’s belief in his strategy will be tested. While Young may benefit from a stronger defense, the team will need players like Xavier Legette and Jalen Coker to take significant steps forward for the offense to truly flourish. The question now is whether Morgan’s long-term plan will pay off or if his risky moves could stall the Panthers’ progress in the coming season.

NFL Rumors: Cardinals, Commanders, and Vikings Tipped as ‘Likely’ Trade Candidates in 2025 Draft

NFL Rumors: Cardinals, Commanders, and Vikings Among ‘Likely’ Draft Trade Candidates

As the 2025 NFL Draft rapidly approaches, the buzz around potential trade scenarios is heating up. While fans and analysts have spent months poring over mock drafts and big boards, it’s important to remember that all it takes is one trade to shake up the entire draft landscape. A quarterback who was once expected to slide into the late teens could suddenly be snatched up in the high teens, or a top-tier tight end could fall out of range for teams hoping to secure him. Likewise, the top running backs may see their draft positions drop if a few key teams opt to trade down for additional assets.

But which teams are most likely to make a move that could disrupt the draft board? ESPN analysts have weighed in, naming three teams as prime candidates for trades that could alter the course of the first round.

First up, the Arizona Cardinals. With the 16th overall pick, the Cardinals are no strangers to trading up or down in the draft to maximize their picks. In recent years, they’ve had substantial draft classes—12 picks in 2024 and 9 in 2023—and they may look to add more assets this year as well. With only six picks in 2025, GM Monti Ossenfort may look to move down from the 16th spot to accumulate additional picks, especially considering Arizona’s recent free-agent additions like Josh Sweat, Dalvin Tomlinson, and Calais Campbell. While the team has bolstered its defensive line, they may still look to add depth in this area.

Another team on the radar is the Washington Commanders, according to ESPN’s Field Yates. Washington has had a busy and aggressive offseason, making several high-profile moves, and it’s likely they’ll continue that trend during the draft. The Commanders could opt to trade up or down in the first round, depending on the players still available, as they continue to build a competitive roster under new leadership.

Finally, the Minnesota Vikings have also been mentioned as a potential trade candidate. As teams look to secure key players for their future, Minnesota could be in a prime position to shake things up with a well-timed move in the first round.

As we approach draft day, these three teams—Arizona, Washington, and Minnesota—are all in a position to make a trade that could send ripples through the entire draft order. Stay tuned to see how these potential moves might affect the first round and beyond.

Former Virginia Tech WR Rises in NFL Draft Rankings

Former Virginia Tech WR Jaylin Lane Rises in NFL Draft Rankings

As the 2025 NFL Draft quickly approaches in just over three weeks, former Virginia Tech players are making waves and increasing their stock. Since their final college game during the Thanksgiving Weekend victory over Virginia, several Hokies have been showcasing their skills at all-star games, the NFL Combine, and Pro Day events, catching the attention of scouts and analysts alike.

One standout who has notably improved his draft prospects is wide receiver Jaylin Lane. As the draft nears, Lane’s performance has earned him a significant boost, with ESPN now ranking him as the 11th best wide receiver prospect. This rise is a testament to his impressive showing at key events, including the Reese’s Senior Bowl, where Lane outshone some of the more high-profile receivers in attendance. His ability to stand out among such talent speaks volumes about his potential at the next level.

Lane’s remarkable performance continued at the NFL Combine, where he turned heads with his athleticism and speed. He finished in the top three for multiple drills, including the 10-yard split (1.5), 40-yard dash (4.34), broad jump (11 feet), vertical jump (40 inches), 20-yard shuttle (4.12), and the 3-cone drill (6.75). These impressive results highlight his dynamic playmaking ability, which has been a defining feature of his college career.

What sets Lane apart is his versatility. In 2024, he demonstrated his skills in every aspect of the game—catching passes, running the ball, throwing, and even returning a punt for a touchdown. Lane is known for his ability to make defenders miss, break tackles, and follow his blocks with precision. His agility and top-end speed allow him to create separation, while his big hands and natural ability as a pass catcher make him a dangerous weapon on the field.

As the draft approaches, Lane’s rising stock is a story to watch. His impressive Combine results and standout performances have positioned him as a potential standout in the 2025 NFL Draft, and it will be exciting to see just how high he climbs in the rankings. With his combination of skills, Lane could soon be making an impact at the professional level.

Amani Hansberry, West Virginia Transfer, Commits to Virginia Tech

Virginia Tech Men’s Basketball Lands West Virginia Transfer Amani Hansberry

In a move that has Hokies fans buzzing, Virginia Tech men’s basketball has secured a significant commitment from former West Virginia forward Amani Hansberry. The talented transfer has chosen to join Mike Young’s squad, giving the Hokies a much-needed boost in their lineup.

This announcement comes on the heels of a major win for Virginia Tech earlier this week, as Mike Young successfully brought back Chester Frazier, a crucial member of his coaching staff. Frazier had initially helped Young establish the Hokies’ recruiting foundation before leaving to take an assistant coach role at Illinois. After a season at West Virginia, Frazier is back in Blacksburg, and his return is expected to pay dividends. His ability to build strong relationships with players, especially those entering the transfer portal, was a key factor in his hiring, particularly with the influx of West Virginia players leaving for new opportunities.

And now, less than a week after Frazier’s return, the Hokies have reaped the rewards. Amani Hansberry, a versatile forward from West Virginia, has officially committed to Virginia Tech, marking their first transfer portal addition of the offseason. Hansberry’s decision is a big one, providing the Hokies with an athletic forward who will pair nicely with fellow newcomer Tobi Lawal. While Hansberry may not have the same explosive athleticism as Lawal, his presence on the court alongside him presents a tantalizing matchup problem for opponents. Both players bring different skill sets, which could create a dynamic duo in Virginia Tech’s frontcourt.

Hansberry’s commitment is another example of the Hokies’ forward momentum as they continue to build a competitive roster under Coach Mike Young. With Frazier back to help with recruiting and the addition of an experienced player like Hansberry, Virginia Tech looks poised to make waves in the upcoming season. The combination of athleticism, skill, and strategic recruiting could turn the Hokies into a team to watch in the coming months. Fans are certainly excited to see how the pieces come together for Virginia Tech basketball.

Four-Star In-State Men’s Basketball Recruit Rejects Virginia Tech for Second Time

“Four-Star Guard Chance Mallory Shakes Up Recruitment, Snubs Virginia Tech Again”

In a dramatic twist to his recruitment, four-star guard Chance Mallory has once again turned down Virginia Tech, further shaking up the landscape of college basketball recruiting. This comes after a series of high-profile events surrounding Mallory’s recruitment and the coaching changes at the University of Virginia.

 

Last October, when Tony Bennett, former head coach of the Virginia Cavaliers, made the unexpected decision to step down, Mallory, a talented guard from Charlottesville, made the bold move to de-commit from Virginia. This left Mallory’s recruitment wide open, and with it, a chance for other programs to get into the mix. Schools like Maryland, Tennessee, Vanderbilt, and, of course, Virginia Tech, were all in the running, hoping to land the dynamic talent from within the state.

Then, in a move that sent shockwaves through Virginia basketball, the University of Virginia announced the hiring of Ryan Odom as the new head coach, succeeding Ron Sanchez, who had served as interim coach after Bennett’s departure. Odom, who previously led VCU, wasted no time in making his presence felt in Charlottesville, signaling a new era for the Cavaliers. However, this swift transition has had major implications for Virginia Tech’s efforts to bring Mallory on board.

For head coach Mike Young and the Hokies, Mallory’s decision to once again bypass Virginia Tech for another program comes as a bitter disappointment. Despite Virginia Tech’s efforts to sway the highly sought-after recruit, Mallory’s ties to Virginia were clearly strong enough to override other offers, especially as Odom’s influence and vision for the Cavaliers began to take shape.

As Mallory’s recruitment continues, the question remains: where will the talented guard ultimately land? While the Hokies are left grappling with the loss, this saga is far from over, and Mallory’s final decision will undoubtedly be one of the most closely watched in college basketball recruiting. Virginia Tech will have to regroup and find new ways to build their future, while Virginia continues to sharpen its edge under new leadership. Stay tuned as this recruiting drama unfolds—it’s bound to have more twists and turns.

Penn State Football: Abdul Carter’s Micah Parsons Comparison Takes an Unexpected Turn

The New Twist in the Abdul Carter-Micah Parsons Comparison

For months, fans and analysts alike have drawn comparisons between Penn State football’s Abdul Carter and former Nittany Lions star Micah Parsons. The two players share remarkable talent, but recent developments have revealed that their styles—and futures—are distinctly different.

Abdul Carter’s rise to stardom has been nothing short of impressive. After a standout sophomore year, he exploded onto the national scene in his junior season, earning All-American honors and being named the 2024 Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year. It’s no surprise that some have speculated he could be a top pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, especially after leading the nation with 24 tackles for loss.

Yet, despite the obvious similarities between Carter and Parsons, such as their elite athleticism and disruptive playmaking ability, one assistant coach who faced Penn State offered an intriguing new comparison: Von Miller.

According to Bruce Feldman of The Athletic, the coach explained, “He reminds me of Von Miller. He’s really bendy around the edge and such a speed rusher. He’s slippery enough to make your tackle completely whiff, and it’s a TFL.” This comparison adds a unique angle to the conversation, highlighting Carter’s ability to use his speed and agility to get past blockers—something that sets him apart from Parsons, who relies more on his physicality and power.

The coach went on to further differentiate the two, noting that while Parsons thrives on inside moves, counters, and sheer strength, Carter is more focused on using his speed to exploit the edge. “Abdul is really trying to win with speed around the edge,” the coach continued, emphasizing the difference in their approaches to rushing the quarterback.

This new comparison to Von Miller paints a picture of Carter as a dynamic, high-speed edge rusher, with a style that may be even more refined than the comparisons to Parsons suggested. While both players have the potential to dominate on the field, it’s clear that Carter’s playing style offers a fresh, exciting twist that could make him a force to be reckoned with in both college football and the NFL. As the draft approaches, expect this discussion to evolve further, with Abdul Carter continuing to carve out his own unique identity in the world of elite pass rushers.