Panthers on the Hunt for Returners as NFL Considers Rule Changes

Panthers Scouting Return Specialists as NFL Eyes Kickoff Rule Changes

CHARLOTTE – The Carolina Panthers could see a significant uptick in kickoff returns next season, and they’re preparing accordingly. With the NFL’s competition committee proposing a rule change that moves the touchback spot to the 35-yard line, teams may be incentivized to bring more kickoffs out of the end zone rather than settling for automatic field position.

For the Panthers, this potential shift aligns with an area they’re already familiar with—handling a high volume of kickoffs. Carolina led the league last season with 112 kickoffs received, a byproduct of a struggling defense that allowed an all-time record for points in a single season. Out of those, 66 resulted in touchbacks at the 30-yard line, ranking fourth in the league.

Under the proposed rule adjustments, those touchbacks could have translated into an extra 330 yards gained last season—an opportunity the Panthers can’t afford to ignore. Now, the focus turns to finding the right playmakers to maximize those potential yards.

With the rule changes expected to be finalized at next week’s NFL owners meeting, Carolina is on the lookout for explosive returners who can capitalize on the increased return opportunities. A dynamic special teams unit could give the Panthers an edge, turning field position into a game-changing advantage.

Virginia Tech Football Secures Spot in Top 7 for Elite 2026 WR Travis Johnson

Virginia Tech in the Hunt: Hokies Secure Spot in 4-Star WR Travis Johnson’s Top 7

Virginia Tech Football continues to make waves on the recruiting trail, landing among the top seven schools for elite 2026 wide receiver Travis Johnson. The highly sought-after prospect from Oscar Smith High School in Virginia is ranked as the No. 167 player nationally and the eighth-best in the state, according to 247Sports.

For Johnson, Virginia Tech presents a unique opportunity—remaining close to home while playing for a program eager to elevate its offensive firepower. The Hokies are the only in-state school in his top choices, giving them a significant edge in their pursuit. Additionally, Tech’s relatively young receiving corps means Johnson could have a fast track to early playing time. With Donavon Greene and Cameron Seldon leading the room as juniors, the Hokies will need fresh playmakers to step up in the coming seasons.

A crucial factor in Virginia Tech’s recruitment pitch is the development of redshirt freshmen Keylan Adams and Chanz Wiggins. Both were standout recruits in their own right, and if wide receivers coach Fontel Mines can mold them into high-impact players—just as he did with Jaylin Lane and Da’Quan Felton, now NFL hopefuls—Johnson may be even more inclined to see the Hokies as his best fit.

As the competition heats up, Virginia Tech will need to make a strong push to land Johnson. If they can sell him on immediate opportunities and their vision for the program’s future, the Hokies could soon secure one of the top pass-catching talents in the 2026 class.

Rival Team Reportedly Tried to Land Stefon Diggs This Offseason

Stefon Diggs’ Offseason Saga: Rival Teams Battled for Star Receiver

Stefon Diggs has found a new home once again, as the New England Patriots officially announced his signing on Friday. The veteran wide receiver, who first made his mark with the Minnesota Vikings, will now suit up for his third team in as many seasons. However, the Patriots weren’t the only ones eager to land the dynamic playmaker this offseason.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, multiple teams expressed interest in signing Diggs before he ultimately joined New England. Among those suitors were the Jacksonville Jaguars and the Denver Broncos—two squads looking to add a proven weapon to their receiving corps. The Broncos’ pursuit of Diggs is particularly intriguing, given that their head coach, Sean Payton, has long been a villain in the eyes of Vikings fans due to his past battles with Minnesota.

Diggs, who was originally drafted by the Vikings in 2015, quickly emerged as one of the league’s top receivers. His game-changing ability was on full display in Minnesota, most famously in the “Minneapolis Miracle” playoff win over the New Orleans Saints. After his tenure with the Vikings, he was traded to the Buffalo Bills, where he continued his dominance, recording multiple 1,000-yard seasons.

Now, as he prepares to embark on a new chapter in New England, the Patriots are hoping Diggs can provide a spark to their offense. Meanwhile, fans in Denver and Jacksonville are left wondering what could have been had their teams successfully landed the star wideout.

While Diggs’ future with the Patriots remains to be seen, one thing is clear—his talent continues to draw widespread attention across the league.

Former Penn State Safety Takes Major Step at Pro Day, Just 5 Months After ACL Surgery

Kevin Winston Jr. Makes Major Strides at Pro Day, Just 5 Months After ACL Surgery

In an inspiring display of determination and resilience, Kevin Winston Jr., the former Penn State safety, made a significant mark at his pro day—just five months after undergoing ACL surgery.

Standing at 6-1.5 and weighing 215 pounds, Winston had already proven himself to NFL teams during his time at Penn State, despite only playing one full game as a junior. The talented safety has been consistently projected as a second-round pick for the upcoming NFL Draft in Green Bay, with NFL scouts and coaches impressed by his size, athleticism, and raw potential. Penn State’s head coach, James Franklin, once praised Winston’s physical build, calling him “beautiful” as a prospect, which only added to the hype surrounding the player.

However, Winston was not solely focused on impressing NFL teams; he had something more personal to prove—to himself. The road to recovery after a partially torn ACL was a tough one, but he fought through the rehabilitation process and made remarkable progress in a relatively short time.

At his pro day, Winston took a huge step forward, showcasing his ability to perform at a high level despite the recent surgery. This event was not only a way for him to solidify his place in the upcoming draft but also a crucial moment for NFL scouts to see that he was fully recovered and back to his former self. Demonstrating that he was physically prepared and mentally driven, Winston showed that he’s ready to contribute at the next level.

For Winston, this pro day was about showing that the hard work and determination paid off. It was a moment for NFL teams to see that not only is he physically back, but his mental toughness and resilience in the face of adversity make him a highly desirable prospect. With his pro day performance, Winston solidified his reputation as one of the top defensive prospects heading into the 2025 NFL Draft.

Winston’s story is a testament to perseverance, proving that with hard work and a strong will, even setbacks like an ACL injury can be overcome. With the draft approaching, all eyes will be on him as he makes his next big leap into the professional football world.

Denver Broncos Urged to Pursue Veteran WR Keenan Allen

Denver Broncos Should Target Veteran WR Keenan Allen to Bolster Offense

The Denver Broncos are being urged to make a bold move this offseason by targeting veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen, a player whose experience and consistent production could be just what the team needs to elevate its offensive game.

After an impressive 11 seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers, Allen spent last season with the Chicago Bears, where he proved he still has plenty left in the tank. In 15 games, Allen racked up 70 receptions, 744 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns, showcasing his ability to be a reliable target even in challenging circumstances. His connection with rookie quarterback Caleb Williams in a struggling offense last season proved his value. In an attack that finished with the second-fewest passing yards and ranked 28th in scoring, Allen was the steady force, converting 43 first downs on 70 catches.

For the Broncos, who are looking to improve their offense and develop their young quarterback, Allen’s experience and proven track record could be a game-changer. The veteran receiver has been a consistent threat throughout his career, compiling an impressive resume with 974 receptions, 11,274 receiving yards, 66 touchdowns, and a staggering 598 first downs. His ability to consistently move the chains and make plays in critical situations could be exactly what the Broncos’ offense needs to find its rhythm and become more explosive.

Adding a player of Allen’s caliber would provide much-needed stability and leadership to the Broncos’ receiving corps. With a young quarterback, having a veteran like Allen who can make plays in tough situations and mentor the team’s younger talent would be invaluable. His ability to step up in crucial moments could make a huge difference in the Broncos’ pursuit of success in the upcoming season.

As the offseason progresses, targeting a player like Keenan Allen should be a priority for the Denver Broncos, who need to take the next step in improving their offense and building a foundation for long-term success. With Allen’s veteran presence and proven ability to perform, the Broncos would be wise to pursue this valuable asset.

Spurs Fight Hard Against Cavaliers but Fall Short in Close Battle

Spurs Show Grit Against Cavaliers but Fall Short in Thrilling Battle

After a tough loss to the Pistons, the San Antonio Spurs bounced back with a strong performance against the Cleveland Cavaliers, nearly pulling off an upset against one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference. Despite their best efforts, the Spurs couldn’t seal the deal, losing 124-116 in a hard-fought, back-and-forth game.

The Spurs came out determined to rebound after their heavy defeat in Detroit, bringing a level of intensity and hustle that was missing in their previous game. They were aggressive on the boards and made several key hustle plays early on, which allowed them to stay competitive. While the offense struggled to click in the half-court, coach Mitch Johnson implemented a strategy that saw Chris Paul go head-to-head with Darius Garland, although it didn’t prove to be the most effective matchup. Still, Stephon Castle’s drives and some timely shots from Devin Vassell kept the Spurs within striking distance. However, stopping Donovan Mitchell proved to be a major challenge, as he consistently drove to the basket and found open shooters, ending the night with a career-high 14 assists. The first quarter closed with the Cavaliers holding a six-point lead.

After trading buckets early in the second quarter, the Cavaliers started to gain control. The Spurs’ second unit struggled offensively, facing issues with spacing and leaving shooters open for Mitchell to find. Cleveland soon stretched their lead to 16 points, putting the Spurs on the brink of another rough loss. But as soon as Mitchell took a breather, Cleveland’s offense stalled. Garland couldn’t find his rhythm, and without Mitchell’s playmaking, the Cavs lacked the firepower to keep the Spurs from battling back. The Silver and Black amped up their defense, leading to more transition opportunities. The bench unit, which had struggled early on, came alive and started to chip away at the deficit. By halftime, the Spurs had cut the lead to just five.

Though the Spurs gave everything they had, the Cavaliers’ offensive prowess proved too much in the end. Still, San Antonio’s resilience and the fight they showed in a hostile environment gave fans hope for better performances ahead. Even in defeat, the Spurs showed they can hang with the league’s best when they play with intensity and commitment.

Happy Birthday to Our Director of Football Sports Nutrition, Carly Hildahl Let’s Celebrate This Beautiful Damsel with Heartfelt Wishes!

Celebrating Carly Hildahl: A Special Birthday Tribute to Our Football Nutrition Director!

Today, we’re sending a huge birthday shoutout to none other than Carly Hildahl, our incredible Director of Football Sports Nutrition! Carly plays a vital role in keeping our athletes fueled, strong, and ready to perform at their peak. From crafting top-tier meal plans to ensuring each player gets the nutrients they need, she is truly a game-changer behind the scenes.

Carly isn’t just about nutrition—she’s an integral part of our football family, bringing passion, dedication, and an infectious energy to the program. Her commitment to player performance and well-being is unmatched, and her impact stretches far beyond the dining halls and weight rooms. Whether she’s guiding athletes on optimal fueling strategies or just brightening everyone’s day with her positive spirit, Carly is a true asset to the team.

And let’s talk about that Big 12 jacket—we can’t wait to see her rock it with pride! With the transition to the Big 12, there’s an exciting new chapter ahead, and Carly will no doubt continue to be an essential part of our success. Her expertise will help ensure our players are physically prepared to take on the toughest competition, proving once again that proper nutrition is a key ingredient in championship-caliber performance.

So today, let’s take a moment to show our appreciation for all that Carly does. Drop a heartfelt birthday wish, a thank-you message, or even just a fun memory to let her know how much she means to the team. She’s not just a leader in sports nutrition—she’s a leader in inspiration and excellence!

Happy Birthday, Carly! Here’s to another year of success, health, and making a huge impact on and off the field!

Auburn’s Spring Star Makes a Comeback in the United Football League

Sal Cannella: Auburn’s ‘King of Spring’ Returns for Another UFL Season

The United Football League is back for its second season, and with it comes the return of one of spring football’s most electrifying playmakers—Sal Cannella. Dubbed Auburn’s “King of Spring,” Cannella is set to once again take the field as a key tight end for the Arlington Renegades, bringing his signature playmaking ability and clutch performances to the UFL stage.

Cannella’s journey to spring football stardom has been nothing short of impressive. His Auburn career ended on a high note when he hauled in a 37-yard touchdown pass from Bo Nix in the 2020 Outback Bowl against Minnesota. But instead of fading into the background, Cannella took his talents to the Spring League, where he spent two seasons refining his skills and proving he belonged at the next level.

By 2022, Cannella had cemented his reputation as a dominant force in spring football, earning All-USFL honors with the New Orleans Breakers during the league’s successful Birmingham-based revival. His ability to create mismatches and make big plays quickly made him one of the most exciting tight ends in the game.

In 2023, Cannella took his talents to the XFL, suiting up for the Arlington Renegades in the league’s comeback season. Once again, he delivered when it mattered most. In the XFL Championship Game, Cannella played a pivotal role, recording four receptions for 71 yards, including a crucial 41-yard touchdown catch that helped propel the Renegades to a 35-26 victory over the D.C. Defenders.

Now, with the UFL merging the best of the USFL and XFL, Cannella is ready to write another chapter in his spring football legacy. As he returns to Arlington, fans can expect the same high-energy, big-play production that has made him a household name in the spring leagues. With his ability to stretch the field, make acrobatic catches, and step up in clutch moments, Cannella will undoubtedly be a player to watch as the UFL season kicks off.

With football fans eager for action, Sal Cannella’s return promises to bring excitement, experience, and elite playmaking back to the UFL. Will the King of Spring continue his dominance and help lead Arlington to another championship? Stay tuned—this season is shaping up to be another thrilling ride.

50 Days to Tip-Off: Sydney Colson on Leadership, Humor & Championship Glory—Without Caitlin Clark

50 Days to Tip-Off: Sydney Colson Talks Leadership, Humor, and Championship Glory

 

The countdown is officially on—just 50 days remain until the highly anticipated season opener, and excitement is building fast! As the team prepares for another thrilling season, veteran guard Sydney Colson takes center stage in a must-watch episode of Inside Fever Basketball, where she opens up about her role as a leader, her signature humor, and the journey that led her to championship success.

Colson, known for her infectious personality and unwavering leadership, is bringing more than just skill to the team this season—she’s bringing experience, energy, and a winning mentality. With years in the league under her belt, she understands the importance of mentorship and veteran presence, especially in a team filled with young and rising stars.

But while she takes her role seriously, Colson is also one of the most charismatic and entertaining players on and off the court. In this episode, she shares how she keeps the locker room atmosphere light while also pushing her teammates to be their best. Her ability to blend humor with hard work has made her not just a fan favorite but also a crucial part of the team’s chemistry.

Of course, Colson knows what it takes to win at the highest level—she’s a national champion, and that experience is invaluable. She reflects on the journey to securing a championship and what it means to bring that winning mindset into this season. Her insight into what separates good teams from great ones is something every basketball fan will want to hear.

As the season opener inches closer, the Fever are gearing up for what promises to be an electrifying campaign. With Sydney Colson leading the charge as both a mentor and motivator, the team is in great hands.

Tune in to Inside Fever Basketball to catch this engaging and insightful conversation with Sydney Colson—you won’t want to miss it!

Could the Raiders Be Looking to Reunite with Star Pro Bowl WR?

Raiders Eyeing Potential Reunion with Star Pro Bowl WR: Could a Return Be in the Cards?

The Las Vegas Raiders may be setting their sights on a familiar face this offseason, with rumors swirling that the team is exploring the possibility of reuniting with a popular Pro Bowl wide receiver. Fans are buzzing with excitement at the thought of seeing this star receiver back in a Raiders uniform, as he could be just the missing piece for the team’s offensive lineup.

 

While the details are still unfolding, the potential reunion has sparked significant interest due to the receiver’s proven track record and explosive playmaking ability. This wideout, who once made a name for himself with the Raiders, has established himself as one of the league’s most dynamic and reliable pass catchers. Throughout his career, he’s earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and established himself as a key contributor to his previous teams’ offenses.

The Raiders, coming off a season with ups and downs, are looking to bolster their receiving corps to help their offense reach new heights. Adding a player of this caliber could provide a major boost to the team’s ability to stretch the field, make critical third-down conversions, and provide a reliable target for the quarterback.

What makes this reunion even more intriguing is the player’s familiarity with the Raiders’ system, locker room, and culture. His prior success in Las Vegas suggests he could seamlessly transition back and rekindle the chemistry he once had with the team’s offensive leaders. The fit is there, but it all depends on the terms and whether the Raiders can work out a deal that benefits both sides.

The team is currently evaluating all options, considering the impact this signing could have on their playoff aspirations for the upcoming season. If the Raiders can land this Pro Bowl wide receiver, it would not only add a proven playmaker to the roster but also send a clear message that the team is all-in on making a championship run.

As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on the Raiders to see if they can pull off this high-profile reunion. Could this Pro Bowl WR return to Las Vegas? Fans are eagerly awaiting an answer.