Auburn Hunting for More Speed: Another WR Transfer on the Horizon

Auburn’s WR Room Looks Talented — But Hugh Freeze Still Wants More from the Portal

From the outside, Auburn’s wide receiver corps looks like it’s primed for a breakout season in 2025. The Tigers have stacked up talent through both recruiting and the transfer portal, bringing in dynamic playmakers and promising young prospects. But head coach Hugh Freeze isn’t content just yet.

The Tigers already made notable additions, landing transfer wideouts Eric Singleton Jr. and Horatio Fields. They’ve also secured a trio of freshmen — Derick Smith, Erick Smith, and Sam Turner — to bolster the position long-term. Returning stars like Cam Coleman, Malcolm Simmons, and Perry Thompson round out what many would consider a deep and explosive receiver unit.

But Freeze sees it differently.

“We’re really not as deep as we’d like to be,” Freeze admitted. “We’re talented, sure. But we just need more legs in that room, maybe to save some wear and tear on those guys.”

The concern isn’t about top-end talent — Auburn has plenty of that — it’s about longevity and rotation. The Smith brothers won’t join the team until the summer, leaving a bit of a gap in the spring depth chart. And that has Freeze eyeing the spring transfer portal window for possible reinforcements. According to the head coach, Auburn still has two available scholarship spots on offense, and one could be used to bring in another wide receiver.

Still, there’s been plenty to like about the current group’s performance during spring practice. Transfer additions Singleton and Fields have shown early flashes, but it’s freshman Sam Turner who’s turned the most heads. Despite being rated just a three-star prospect by 247Sports, Turner has emerged as a standout this spring, showcasing sharp route running and big-play ability — including a highlight-reel sideline grab during a recent practice.

“He’s going to be dynamic,” Freeze said. “He’s added great depth on the outside. He’s giving Cam, Perry, and Horatio some much-needed breathers. For a freshman, he’s incredibly sharp.”

Auburn may already have the makings of a top-tier receiving corps, but with Freeze still shopping for another playmaker, it’s clear the Tigers are aiming for more than just “good enough.” With the spring portal window still open, don’t be surprised if another wideout joins the fold — because Auburn is gearing up for something big.

Locked In: Cam Seldon Poised to Break Out as Virginia Tech’s Next Star

Calm, Collected, and Ready to Explode: Cam Seldon Eyes Breakout Role at Virginia Tech

Cam Seldon isn’t just bringing talent to Virginia Tech—he’s bringing a whole new mindset. The former Tennessee standout has found his peace in the chaos, literally starting each day with stillness and structure. Before even lacing up his cleats, Seldon begins his mornings with a quiet routine: organizing his space, finding a specific seated position, playing music, and diving into meditation.

 

“It relaxes me, calms my mind, slows my mind down,” Seldon explained. “So when I’m on the field and everything’s happening fast, I’m just relaxed. It helps.”

This daily mindfulness practice isn’t just a lifestyle—it’s become a weapon in Seldon’s athletic arsenal. Now suiting up for the Hokies, he’s embracing a fresh start with clarity and purpose. After transferring from Tennessee, the once highly-touted recruit is making a key position switch—from running back to wide receiver—and doing so with confidence and calm.

Seldon was a major recruit out of the 2023 class, ranked as the No. 3 player in Virginia by 247Sports’ composite rankings. Expectations were sky-high, and while his time in Knoxville didn’t unfold as planned, he sees his move to Blacksburg as a major opportunity—not just to prove himself, but to thrive.

This spring, Seldon is locked in on mastering the art of route-running, reading defenses, and refining his hands—all while staying true to his simplified approach. Despite the challenge of switching positions at a new school, he’s not overwhelmed. Instead, he’s focused on staying in the moment, learning from coaches, and quietly preparing to erupt.

Virginia Tech fans should take note: with his elite athleticism, blue-chip pedigree, and Zen-like focus, Seldon could be a game-changer for the Hokies’ offense in 2025. He brings a rare combination of speed, strength, and mental discipline—traits that could make him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

As the Hokies continue their spring preparations, Cam Seldon isn’t just blending in—he’s calmly positioning himself to break out in a big way. His goal is clear, his mind is clear, and his time may be now.

Speed Meets Opportunity: Jaylin Lane’s Fit with the Kansas City Chiefs

From Hokie to Chief? Jaylin Lane Could Bring Back the Chiefs’ “Legion of Zoom” in 2025

Virginia Tech’s Jaylin Lane is making waves on the 2025 NFL Draft radar—and the Kansas City Chiefs are paying close attention. Known for targeting explosive, undersized receivers with blazing speed, Kansas City appears to have its sights set on Lane as a potential weapon in their high-octane offense.

According to Ryan Fowler of The Draft Network, the Chiefs are among several teams scheduled to meet with Lane, a wideout who checks all the boxes Kansas City covets—lightning speed, versatility, and dynamic return ability.

Lane began his collegiate career at Middle Tennessee State in 2020, entering as a three-star prospect from Clover, South Carolina. He quickly made a name for himself, hauling in 63 catches for 940 yards and five touchdowns in a standout 2022 season. Looking for a bigger stage, Lane transferred to Virginia Tech for his final two years of eligibility.

While his numbers at Virginia Tech didn’t break any records—38 receptions, 466 yards, and two touchdowns in his final season—Lane showcased elite versatility. He also contributed on the ground with 116 rushing yards and two rushing scores, further proving his value as a multi-dimensional threat.

Lane’s real fireworks, though, have often come on special teams. He led Conference USA in punt return average in 2021 (15.5 yards per return) and topped the ACC in punt return yards in 2024. Over his college career, Lane scored two touchdowns on punt returns and averaged a solid 21.8 yards on kickoff returns. That kind of special teams production has long appealed to the Chiefs, who value players that can contribute in multiple facets of the game.

Lane turned heads at the Senior Bowl and again at the NFL Scouting Combine, where he posted a jaw-dropping 4.34-second 40-yard dash and leaped 40 inches in the vertical jump. At 5’10” and 191 pounds, his size mirrors that of past Chiefs speedsters who thrived in Andy Reid’s offense.

With his electric speed and return game prowess, Jaylin Lane could very well become the newest member of a reinvented “Legion of Zoom.” Don’t be surprised if Kansas City pulls the trigger early in the draft and gives Patrick Mahomes another blazing-fast weapon to stretch the field in 2025.

Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark Raves About Coach Stephanie White

Caitlin Clark Glows Over Stephanie White: A Championship Reunion Brewing in Indiana?

Indiana Fever sensation Caitlin Clark is already thrilled about the fresh energy in the locker room—and it starts at the top. The electrifying guard had glowing words for new head coach Stephanie White, signaling the beginning of what could be a powerful partnership destined for WNBA greatness.

During a guest appearance on The Bird & Taurasi Show—a special broadcast of the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball National Championship game—Clark couldn’t contain her excitement about working under White. Chatting with WNBA legends Diana Taurasi and Sue Bird, Clark offered high praise: “She is one of the smartest basketball minds I’ve ever been around. Everybody admires the way she coaches, the way she leads. I’m excited to learn from her.”

White, a Purdue legend and former Indiana Fever player and coach, is returning for her second stint leading the franchise. She previously coached the Fever from 2015 to 2016, taking the team to the WNBA Finals in her first season. White was also part of the coaching staff during Indiana’s 2012 championship season. Most recently, she led the Connecticut Sun to two successful seasons, earning WNBA Coach of the Year honors in 2023.

Now, she steps into a promising situation in Indianapolis. Clark is coming off a sensational rookie season, where she averaged 19.2 points, 8.4 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game—leading the Fever to their first playoff appearance since 2016. She also shattered several league records, instantly becoming one of the league’s most electrifying players.

Alongside Clark, the Fever boast a deep and talented roster including 2023 No. 1 pick Aliyah Boston, scoring machine Kelsey Mitchell, and rising star Lexie Hull. The front office also made aggressive offseason moves, bringing in seasoned veterans like DeWanna Bonner, Sophie Cunningham, Sydney Colson, and Brianna Turner—making Indiana one of the most talked-about teams heading into the 2025 season.

With White’s championship pedigree and Clark’s star power, the Fever are no longer just rebuilding—they’re reloading. Expectations are sky-high in Indiana, and fans can’t help but wonder: is this the beginning of a WNBA title run?

Virginia Tech’s Spring Defensive Watchlist: 3 Players Ready to Break Out

Virginia Tech Spring Game: 3 Defensive Standouts to Watch Under New DC Sam Siefkes

With spring ball in full swing, excitement is building around Virginia Tech’s annual spring game — especially on the defensive side of the ball. Under the guidance of new defensive coordinator Sam Siefkes, Hokies fans will get their first real glimpse of how this revamped unit could shape up heading into the 2025 season.

Here are three defenders poised to shine during Saturday’s scrimmage in Lane Stadium.

James Djonkam – EDGE

A transfer from Eastern Michigan, James Djonkam may be one of the most intriguing names on the roster. After originally playing outside linebacker, Djonkam made the move to defensive end — and the results have been transformative.

“Playing defensive end is so freeing,” Djonkam said. “I just get to hit. Don’t have to think — just go.”

That natural aggression and simplified approach could make Djonkam a breakout force in Virginia Tech’s front seven. With his speed off the edge and hunger to prove himself in a new role, he’ll be a must-watch on Saturday.

Ben Bell – Defensive Line

Following the departure of star pass rusher Antwaun Powell-Ryland Jr., the Hokies are in need of experienced and steady contributors on the line — and Ben Bell fits the bill.

While replicating Powell-Ryland’s jaw-dropping 16 sacks from last season may be out of reach, Bell brings leadership and a high football IQ. He was on preseason watch lists for the Bednarik Award, Reese’s Senior Bowl, and Lombardi Award, and now he has the opportunity to be a stabilizing force up front.

With Bell anchoring the trenches, Virginia Tech’s defensive front has the potential to reload rather than rebuild.

Isaiah Brown-Murray – Cornerback

Known by teammates and coaches as IBM, Isaiah Brown-Murray transferred to Virginia Tech with one goal in mind: getting to the NFL. The promising cornerback has quickly become one of the more vocal and confident members of the secondary.

“It just felt like home,” Brown-Murray said of his decision to come to Tech. “I wanted a place that could develop me — and I found that here.”

He’s already developed strong chemistry with Siefkes, crediting the new coordinator for accelerating his growth and instilling confidence. As the Hokies seek to sharpen their coverage game, IBM could become a name fans hear often this fall.

Raiders Rumored to Target Texas Star in Potential Draft Trade-Back

Raiders Eye Texas Standout Jahdae Barron in Draft Trade-Back Scenario

With a bold offseason already underway, the Las Vegas Raiders are setting themselves up for one of the more unpredictable approaches to the 2025 NFL Draft — and a new name is starting to gain traction as a potential target: Texas cornerback Jahdae Barron.

After a splashy start to the offseason that included hiring legendary coach Pete Carroll and trading for quarterback Geno Smith, the Raiders’ draft strategy may be shifting in unexpected ways. While early buzz linked Las Vegas to dynamic running back Ashton Jeanty, especially given Carroll’s history of valuing offensive playmakers, some insiders now believe defense — specifically cornerback — could be the focus if the Raiders move down from their No. 6 overall pick.

According to ESPN’s Jordan Reid, multiple league sources have suggested that Barron is a name to watch should the Raiders decide to trade back in the first round.

“Cornerback could be another position the Raiders target early, especially if they decide to trade down from No. 6,” Reid wrote. “Multiple league sources have mentioned Jahdae Barron (Texas) as an option if the Raiders trade back.”

Barron, a versatile and aggressive defender out of Texas, has been climbing draft boards thanks to his strong coverage skills and ability to contribute in multiple schemes. His physicality and football IQ would be a welcome addition to a Raiders defense that needs help in the secondary — and he fits the mold of the smart, gritty players Carroll has often favored.

This doesn’t necessarily mean the Raiders have ruled out an offensive playmaker. Reid noted that Jeanty remains very much in play, particularly with Carroll’s track record of using high picks on running backs (remember Rashaad Penny?). But Las Vegas is clearly doing its homework on multiple fronts, and Barron could offer both high upside and strategic value if the team opts to trade down and accumulate more draft capital.

With the draft just weeks away, Las Vegas remains a wild card. But one thing’s becoming clear: if the Raiders pivot toward defense, don’t be surprised if Jahdae Barron’s name is called sooner than expected — and in silver and black.

ASTROS RUMOR: Astros Could Make a Move for Sandy Alcantara — Here’s What We Know

As the MLB season heats up, front offices across the league are beginning to assess what pieces might be missing for a deep playoff run — and for the Houston Astros, the answer may lie on the mound.

Despite the team’s strong reputation, Houston’s starting rotation has shown signs of vulnerability. So far, their starters have combined for a 3.78 ERA, placing them 14th in the league — respectable, but not quite up to the championship standard Astros fans are used to. With expectations always sky-high in Houston, it’s no surprise that trade chatter is starting to pick up early.

Enter Sandy Alcantara.

According to Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller, the Miami Marlins’ right-handed ace could be a name to watch in trade talks — and the Astros are one of the potential suitors. Alcantara is currently working his way back from Tommy John surgery, which sidelined him for the entirety of the 2024 season. However, in the small sample size of his return, he’s already showing flashes of his former dominance.

Through two starts this season, Alcantara has posted a solid 3.72 ERA over 9 2/3 innings. While it’s unlikely he’ll return to the full form of his 2022 Cy Young season — where he logged 228 2/3 innings, six complete games, and 207 strikeouts — the version of Alcantara we’re seeing now could still be a game-changer for a team like Houston.

The fit makes sense. The Astros are eyeing another deep postseason run, and adding a reliable arm like Alcantara to pair with Framber Valdez at the top of the rotation could make Houston’s pitching staff one of the most formidable in the league. With the first round of the playoffs now being a best-of-three series, having a dominant 1-2 punch is more important than ever — and Alcantara could be the missing piece.

Of course, any potential trade would hinge on Miami’s willingness to move their ace and what Houston is willing to part with in return. But if the Marlins struggle in the standings and the Astros continue to search for rotation reinforcements, don’t be surprised if Alcantara-to-Houston rumors start to gain steam.

One thing is certain: the Astros are never shy about going all-in when it counts — and Alcantara could be their next big swing.

New ACC Transfer Rankings Drop — See Where the Hokies Land After Big Addition

Hokies Make a Splash in the Transfer Portal: Where Virginia Tech Stands After Landing Amani Hansberry

After a relatively quiet start to the transfer portal season, Virginia Tech men’s basketball just sent a clear message: they’re not staying on the sidelines anymore.

Over the weekend, head coach Mike Young and the Hokies secured a major commitment from one of the top forwards in the portal — Amani Hansberry, a former West Virginia standout. The 6’8″, 240-pound forward is set to bring his physical presence and scoring ability to the ACC after averaging 9.8 points and 6.5 rebounds per game for the Mountaineers last season. He appeared in 31 games, starting 23, and shot 43% from the field.

Hansberry is no stranger to movement — Virginia Tech will be his third stop after beginning his college career at Illinois. But his arrival in Blacksburg may be as much about who’s coaching as where he’s playing. Earlier this week, Virginia Tech also announced the hiring of former West Virginia assistant Chester Frazier, and it’s no coincidence that one of Frazier’s former players is now headed to join him.

Rated as the No. 72 overall player in the transfer portal and a four-star transfer prospect by 247Sports, Hansberry was once ranked as the No. 61 overall high school recruit in the nation. Now, he’s expected to play a key role for a Hokies team looking to climb the ACC ladder next season.

But how does this big addition impact Virginia Tech’s standing in the ACC transfer portal rankings?

Despite the splash, the Hokies currently sit tied for 11th in the updated rankings (as of April 9), alongside SMU and Wake Forest. Still, it’s worth noting that only three teams ahead of them boast a higher average player rating, signaling the quality-over-quantity approach Virginia Tech is taking.

Louisville leads the pack after a transfer portal haul that could make them a preseason ACC favorite, with Clemson, Syracuse, Miami, and North Carolina rounding out the top five. Meanwhile, Florida State has the most commitments (five), but a slightly lower average rating per player.

With several ACC programs still without a single portal addition — including Duke, Georgia Tech, and Notre Dame — there’s still plenty of movement left this offseason.

As for the Hokies, if Hansberry is any indication, Mike Young isn’t done yet.

“Total Reset”: Bryce Young Reflects on Turning Point After 2024 Surge

Panthers’ Bryce Young Discusses Mental Shift After Late-Season Success

Total Reset: Bryce Young Embraces Fresh Start After Late-Season Breakthrough

For Bryce Young, the 2024 NFL season was anything but predictable. From early struggles to a late-season surge, the young Carolina Panthers quarterback experienced the highs and lows that come with growing pains in the league. But as the offseason gets underway, Young isn’t resting on past momentum — he’s hitting the reset button.

“This is a total reset,” Young recently shared while reflecting on his second year in the NFL. “We were able to finish strong, which was great. But next year, we’re 0-0. That doesn’t carry over. We have to earn it all over again.”

It’s a mature perspective from a quarterback who had to fight through adversity early in the season. After a rough start, including back-to-back tough outings in the first two weeks, Young was benched in favor of veteran Andy Dalton. Many questioned if the 2023 No. 1 overall pick would regain his rhythm — or even his starting spot. But when he returned to the field in Week 8, something clicked.

Young’s poise, decision-making, and confidence steadily improved with each game. While the Panthers’ overall season remained challenging, the glimpses of potential in Young’s late-season performances gave fans and coaches alike a reason to believe.

Now, as the 2025 season approaches, Young is focused on more than just building off that strong finish — he’s working on reinventing himself entirely. His offseason is centered around refining his fundamentals, strengthening his connection with his receivers, and fully absorbing a system that continues to evolve around him.

“I’m not entitled to anything,” Young added. “That’s the approach I’m taking — every rep, every meeting, every practice matters. We’ve got to start from scratch and earn it again.”

For the Panthers, who are looking to establish a stronger offensive identity in 2025, Young’s renewed mindset could be the catalyst they need. A confident, disciplined Bryce Young — one who’s experienced the NFL’s learning curve firsthand — could be a difference-maker for a team searching for its breakthrough moment.

One thing is certain: Young isn’t dwelling on the past. He’s looking straight ahead, with a fresh slate and something to prove.

Virginia Tech Baseball Emerges Victorious Against Troy in Key Ranked Game

Hokies Make a Statement: Virginia Tech Takes Down No. 20 Troy in Ranked Showdown

The Virginia Tech Hokies are on a mission — and they just added another marquee win to their growing résumé. Fresh off cracking the top 25 rankings, the No. 25 Hokies took the field with something to prove and walked away with a hard-earned 3-1 victory over the No. 20 Troy Trojans in a clash of two ranked contenders.

From the very first pitch, it was clear Virginia Tech came ready.

On the mound for Troy, left-handed junior Drew Nelson struggled out of the gate. The Hokies wasted no time attacking his pitches, tagging him for six hits and three earned runs in just two innings of work. Meanwhile, Virginia Tech’s freshman lefty Chase Swift was nothing short of electric in his start, striking out the side in a flawless first inning.

In the bottom of that opening frame, the Hokies struck first blood. Catcher Henry Cooke drove in centerfielder Jared Davis with a sharp single to center, setting the tone early for the home crowd.

The second inning brought more firepower from the Hokies. Shortstop Clay Grady doubled to left field before Ben Watson’s RBI single brought him home, pushing the lead to 3-0. On the other side, Swift stayed locked in, adding two more strikeouts in the second and wrapping up his night with three scoreless innings, six punchouts, and just one hit allowed.

Troy finally got on the board in the fourth, when right fielder Gavin Schrader roped an RBI double to cut the lead to 3-1. But that was all the Trojans would get.

From there, Virginia Tech’s bullpen took over — and they didn’t miss a beat. A collective effort from Josh Berzonski, Preston Crowl, Brendan Yagesh, Mathieu Curtis, and Grant Manning slammed the door shut, combining for six scoreless innings, just two hits, one walk, and 10 strikeouts.

Troy’s bullpen put up a strong fight of their own, but the early deficit was too much to overcome.

With the win, Virginia Tech improves to 6-1 against ranked opponents and continues to turn heads across the college baseball landscape. Next up? A high-stakes three-game series against No. 9 Florida State — and the Hokies are heating up at just the right time.