Auburn Sets Sights on Flipping Four-Star QB Committed to SEC Rival

Auburn Eyes Four-Star QB Jaden O’Neal as Sooners’ Commitment Wavers

As Auburn continues its pursuit of top-tier talent this offseason, the Tigers are looking to add to an already promising 2024 season by securing a standout quarterback from the Class of 2026—Jaden O’Neal. A four-star recruit out of Mustang High School in Mustang, Oklahoma, O’Neal is currently committed to Oklahoma, but recent developments suggest that his loyalty to the Sooners could be in question.

While Oklahoma appeared to be the front-runner for O’Neal, the talented pocket passer has kept his options open. In fact, the young quarterback is planning several visits to other schools, including Auburn and Florida State. According to On3’s Steve Wiltfong, these upcoming visits are part of his ongoing recruitment, which may signal a shift in his commitment. His visit to Georgia at the end of March further fueled speculation that he may be exploring other options.

This uncertainty in O’Neal’s commitment comes amid Oklahoma’s pursuit of another high-profile quarterback for the 2026 class—four-star Bowe Bentley. The Sooners’ interest in Bentley could potentially complicate O’Neal’s standing with Oklahoma, as Bentley is set to visit Norman in June. For O’Neal, this additional quarterback competition might cause doubts about his future with the Sooners, prompting him to reevaluate his options.

Ranked as the No. 11 quarterback in the nation by the 247Sports Composite, O’Neal’s skillset has earned him a spot among the top recruits of his class. Not only is he the No. 1 prospect in Oklahoma, but he is also the 138th-ranked overall recruit for the 2026 cycle. His ability to perform under pressure and make precise throws has caught the attention of major programs, making him one of the most sought-after quarterbacks in the country.

For Auburn, the potential to land O’Neal could be a game-changer for its future quarterback situation. With the Tigers’ coaching staff making strong efforts to solidify their recruiting class, O’Neal represents a key target who could elevate Auburn’s offensive prospects for years to come. If O’Neal does ultimately flip his commitment, it would be a significant win for Auburn in a highly competitive recruiting battle.

With several visits ahead, the next few weeks will be crucial in determining where O’Neal lands. For now, Auburn’s chances of securing this four-star talent remain alive, and the Tigers are hoping to make a strong impression in his recruitment process.

 

Virginia Tech Basketball Sets Sights on Exciting New Transfer Portal Target

As the college basketball transfer portal heats up, Virginia Tech’s men’s basketball team is starting to make waves in the recruitment world, with an exciting new target emerging. While commitments have been steadily rolling in for other programs, the Hokies have largely remained quiet on that front—until now. On Thursday, Virginia Tech received good news from freshmen Ben Hammond and Tyler Johnson, who both announced their decision to return for the 2025-26 season, providing some stability for the roster moving forward.

However, the team is still facing a few challenges. With five players having entered the transfer portal, veteran head coach Mike Young has some gaps to fill. The Hokies are now on the lookout for new talent to round out the roster, and while they’ve been linked to several potential recruits, one name is starting to stand out. Virginia Tech is now in the mix for Wofford guard Justin Bailey, a highly sought-after player who has caught the attention of multiple schools, including some major programs.

Bailey, a 6-foot-3 junior from Taylors, South Carolina, has made a significant impact at Wofford. Averaging 9.7 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game, he has proven himself to be a versatile and capable player. But what really sets Bailey apart is his shooting. He’s taken his game to the next level, shooting an impressive 49% from the field and an eye-popping 46% from three-point range. This dramatic improvement from his first two seasons makes him a valuable asset for any program, and it’s no surprise that schools like Virginia Tech are eager to add him to their roster.

For the Hokies, adding a player of Bailey’s caliber would help fill some of the critical holes left by the departures of several key players. Guards are a major need for Virginia Tech as they look to build a competitive team for next season and beyond. Bailey’s scoring ability and shooting prowess would provide an immediate boost to the Hokies’ backcourt, giving them a dynamic weapon to complement their existing players.

As the transfer portal continues to evolve, Virginia Tech’s pursuit of Justin Bailey could be a pivotal moment in their offseason strategy. With Bailey’s talents, the Hokies could elevate their program to new heights, and fans are eagerly watching to see where this recruitment goes next.

Stephen A. Smith Hails Caitlin Clark as a Game Changer: Her Impact Boosted Ratings and Salaries Across the League, Earning Her Athlete of the Year

In a world where talent often speaks for itself, few athletes have made as profound an impact as Caitlin Clark. Recently, Stephen A. Smith, one of the most influential voices in sports media, hailed Clark as a true game changer, recognizing her unparalleled influence on the sport of basketball. Her presence on the court has not only captivated fans but has also brought a transformative shift in the landscape of women’s basketball, earning her accolades that extend far beyond her performance in the game.

Clark’s impact has been undeniable, with her electrifying style of play and leadership helping to elevate the sport to new heights. According to Smith, her influence has sparked a surge in viewership, with television ratings for women’s games skyrocketing thanks to her dynamic performances. Her ability to captivate audiences has sparked a newfound interest in women’s basketball, bridging the gap between mainstream and women’s sports in ways that were previously unimagined. In a time when women’s sports are often underappreciated, Clark’s presence has helped shine a much-needed spotlight, making her a trailblazer for the next generation.

But it’s not just about the numbers—Clark’s impact is also being felt financially. As more people tune in to watch her games, the league itself has seen a boost in overall revenue, which has trickled down to the players. Salaries are rising across the board, as teams and sponsors recognize the growing influence of women’s basketball, largely thanks to Clark’s remarkable influence. Her performances have proven that women’s sports deserve just as much attention and recognition as their male counterparts, and now, more than ever, those involved are reaping the benefits.

Stephen A. Smith’s endorsement of Caitlin Clark as a game changer goes beyond the basketball court; it’s a recognition of her role in shifting the entire sports culture. Her consistency, her unmatched skill, and her fearless approach to the game have made her not just a star, but a movement. As she continues to push boundaries and redefine what’s possible in women’s basketball, many are beginning to see her as the athlete of the year—an icon who has proven that talent knows no gender and greatness cannot be ignored.

Clark’s journey is far from over, and if her continued rise is any indication, the world of sports will never be the same. Stephen A. Smith’s praise is just the beginning, as Caitlin Clark is destined to leave a legacy that will inspire athletes for generations to come.

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.