Bryce Young Sends Wake-Up Call to Panthers Teammates: Complacency Isn’t an Option

Bryce Young’s No-Nonsense Message to Panthers: Don’t Let Up Now

Bryce Young has no plans to let complacency creep in—and he’s making sure his Carolina Panthers teammates follow suit.

After a rough start to his NFL career, the former No. 1 overall pick engineered an impressive turnaround in the second half of the 2024 season. Following a tough benching early in the year, Young returned with renewed confidence and showed flashes of the franchise quarterback Carolina hoped he’d become. But for the Alabama product, 2024’s growth is only the beginning—not a reason to get comfortable.

Once labeled a potential bust after a shaky rookie year and two rough starts in 2024, Young was benched by new head coach Dave Canales. The bold move sparked a transformation. In his 10 games as a starter following his return, Young completed over 61% of his passes for 2,104 yards, 15 touchdowns, and only six interceptions. He also added five rushing scores and led the Panthers to four victories during that stretch—modest, but meaningful for a rebuilding team.

More important than the stats was the change in Young’s demeanor. He played with confidence, command, and resilience. The timid, hesitant quarterback from early in the season was gone. In his place stood a poised leader who teammates believed in—and followed.

But Young isn’t satisfied. In his words, last season’s finish “resets.” He wants to ensure the Panthers carry their progress into 2025 with a hungry mindset.

“We’re starting next year 0-0, and it doesn’t carry over,” Young said via Panthers.com. “We understand that we have to build off of that stuff; we’re not just entitled to it… I want to make sure that I’m working just as hard, if not harder, in the offseason… and we all have that mindset, which I’m grateful for.”

Young’s comments reflect a growing leadership role in Carolina’s locker room. With stability in the front office and coaching staff for the first time in years, and a relatively open NFC South, the opportunity is there for the Panthers to take a leap forward.

Entering Year 3, Young is on a mission—to lead, to win, and to prove he’s the cornerstone Carolina can build around. After finding momentum in 2024, he knows how fragile it can be—and he’s determined not to lose it.

Hokies Heat Up: Spring Football and Top-25 Baseball Clash with Florida State

Hokie Nation Gears Up for Jam-Packed Weekend: Spring Game, Top-25 Baseball Clash, and More

Blacksburg is buzzing as Virginia Tech gears up for an action-packed weekend featuring marquee matchups across multiple sports—including the highly anticipated Spring Game, a Top-25 baseball showdown with Florida State, and key matchups in softball and lacrosse.

Spring Football Returns to Lane Stadium
All eyes will be on Lane Stadium Saturday afternoon as the Hokies take the field for their annual Spring Game at 3 p.m. While quarterback Kyron Drones will be sidelined due to a recent medical procedure, head coach Brent Pry is still planning to give fans a taste of real game action. The first half will mimic a traditional game format, with a full 15-minute first quarter and a slightly shortened 12-minute second quarter. The second half will feature 12-minute quarters with a running clock to maintain pace. The roster will be split evenly into Team Orange and Team Black, setting the stage for an exciting intrasquad battle and giving fans a glimpse of what’s to come this fall.

Top-25 Baseball Showdown: Hokies vs. Seminoles
On the diamond, the No. 25-ranked Hokies baseball team will host a massive ACC series against No. 9 Florida State. Riding high after a midweek victory over No. 20 Troy, Virginia Tech enters the weekend with momentum and a desire to extend its run of conference success. The Hokies have won three consecutive ACC series—including a sweep of Wake Forest—and boast six wins over ranked opponents so far this season. A series win over Florida State could propel them even higher in the national rankings and solidify their status as serious postseason contenders.

Softball and Lacrosse Also in the Spotlight
Tech Softball Park will also be a hub of energy this weekend as the red-hot Hokies softball team hosts Notre Dame. Bre Peck is fresh off a historic performance, setting school records for home runs and RBIs in a 12-3 rout of Charlotte. Now, the team looks to extend its incredible 13-game win streak to 14 and beyond.

Meanwhile, Hokies women’s lacrosse finally halted a tough five-game skid with a narrow 12-11 victory over Coastal Carolina. They now turn their focus to a crucial ACC matchup against No. 11 Syracuse on Saturday at noon at Thompson Field.

From gridiron excitement to diamond drama, it’s shaping up to be one of the most thrilling weekends of the year in Blacksburg.

Top Transfer WR Target Visits Virginia Tech as Hokies Make Him a Priority

Virginia Tech Pursues Game-Changing WR Christian Fitzpatrick in High-Stakes Transfer Battle

Virginia Tech football is making a major push to rebuild its wide receiver corps after losing its top four pass-catchers from the 2024 season. With Ali Jennings, Da’Quan Felton, Jaylin Lane, and Stephen Gosnell all moving on, the Hokies face a tall task in replacing that production. But a new name has entered the picture—and he’s got the skills to make an immediate impact.

 

Enter Christian Fitzpatrick, the standout wide receiver from Marshall, who recently entered the transfer portal after being granted an extra year of eligibility by the NCAA. On Friday, Fitzpatrick made an official visit to Blacksburg, signaling just how serious Virginia Tech is about bringing him on board.

Fitzpatrick isn’t a stranger to Lane Stadium. In fact, he gave the Hokies a front-row seat to his talents last season when Marshall came to town in Week 2. He torched Virginia Tech for four catches, 73 yards, and a touchdown—including a jaw-dropping sideline grab that had Hokie fans (and coaches) taking notice.

For Marshall in 2024, Fitzpatrick hauled in 34 passes for 576 yards and six touchdowns, averaging nearly 17 yards per reception. At 6-foot-4 and with a knack for highlight-reel plays, he’s exactly the kind of vertical threat Virginia Tech needs in 2025.

Though the Hokies have rising talents like Ayden Greene and Tennessee transfer Cameron Seldon showing promise in spring practices, the addition of an experienced, physically dominant receiver like Fitzpatrick would immediately elevate the unit. With new offensive coordinator Philip Montgomery at the helm and wide receivers coach Fontel Mines leading the recruiting charge, the Hokies are rolling out the red carpet.

However, Virginia Tech isn’t alone in the pursuit. Fitzpatrick has already visited Oklahoma State and has drawn interest from a growing list of programs, including Louisville, Colorado, Baylor, and Arkansas. The longer he stays on the market, the more crowded the race becomes.

If Fitzpatrick chooses Virginia Tech, he’d likely slide right into a starting role, providing a reliable target for whoever lines up at quarterback this fall. For a Hokies offense in need of explosiveness and leadership at wideout, this could be a game-changing addition.

Keep an eye on this one—Fitzpatrick’s decision could shape the trajectory of Virginia Tech’s 2025 season.

Vikings Stir Controversy with Major Misstep, Fans React Fast, Is McCarthy Out?

What Were They Thinking? Vikings Drop the Ball in Shocking Move

Did the Vikings Just Fumble Their Quarterback Plan? Inside Minnesota’s Costly Offseason Misstep

The Minnesota Vikings are entering the 2025 season with a fresh look—but perhaps not in the way fans were hoping. After a promising 2024 campaign, the quarterback room has undergone a major shake-up, and the decisions made (or not made) this offseason could come back to haunt them.

First, Sam Darnold—who revived his career in Minnesota—signed with the Seattle Seahawks, leaving a notable void under center. With veteran options available, the Vikings had a choice to make. And while they’ve clearly thrown their support behind rookie J.J. McCarthy, their latest move (or lack thereof) is raising eyebrows across the league.

On Friday, NFL insider Adam Schefter reported that veteran quarterback Joe Flacco inked a one-year, $4 million deal with the Cleveland Browns, turning down interest from both the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Vikings. Yes, Minnesota was in the mix—until they weren’t. Instead of adding a Super Bowl MVP and 2023 Comeback Player of the Year to back up or mentor McCarthy, they passed. And that could be a serious mistake.

Flacco, who led the Ravens to a championship in 2013, proved he still had juice last season when he stepped in for the Browns and helped lead them to the playoffs. His experience and steady presence could have been invaluable for a young quarterback like McCarthy navigating his first full NFL season.

Currently, McCarthy’s only backup is Brett Rypien—a serviceable but unproven option. The Vikings reportedly explored big names like Aaron Rodgers, who was recently released by the Jets, but ultimately decided to go all-in on their rookie. Rodgers now appears headed to Pittsburgh, further limiting Minnesota’s choices.

Now, with only four picks in the upcoming NFL Draft, and most of them likely going toward positions of greater need—like the secondary or offensive line—the Vikings may not have many shots left at bolstering their QB depth. A late-round flyer is possible, but won’t inspire much confidence.

There are still a few veteran free agents available, such as Carson Wentz or Drew Lock, but none bring the leadership and playoff pedigree Flacco could have provided.

Minnesota might not be in crisis mode yet—but passing on Joe Flacco could go down as a major misstep in an offseason where every decision counts. With a rookie quarterback at the helm and little proven depth behind him, the margin for error is razor-thin.

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.