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đGood morning, especially to NFL fans!
Though preseason games are just a taste before the regular season, they still offer exciting glimpses of potential. The first week of the preseason kicks off tonight with Colts vs. Ravens (I attended their joint practice), Bengals vs. Wool, and Raiders vs. Seahawks.
While many starters may see limited action, notable players from Indianapolis include Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones. Cincinnati is expected to play Joe Burrow early to prevent a slow start, as both quarterbacks are key in Tyler Sullivanâs “Top 10 preseason storylines.” For context, the Bengals struggled with losing their first three games in 2024 and started 2-2 last season.
Most playing time will be for backups and rookies, such as Josh Edwards, a top rookie to watch with two plays tonight.
Two big storylines focus on Mika Parsons and Terry McCrowlâs contract statuses. Jerry Jones mentioned he hasnât spoken to Parsons since his trade request and doubts heâll be ready for week one, which is concerning at least for Dak Prescottâs support.
đ Honorable mention section follows.
đ€ Not so great news…
Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams are dealing with back issues. Stafford, aged 37, has a severe disc problem and recently had an epidural to ease pain. Coach Sean McVay says Staffordâs condition is assessed weekly.
The Rams face the Texansâ fierce pass rush led by Daniel Hunter and Will Anderson Jr. in less than five weeks, but Stafford hasnât yet joined training camp. Backup Jimmy Garoppolo, though a top NFL backup, is not ideal to lead a high-level team like the Rams. Even if Stafford suits up for week one, his back condition is a serious concern with a past injury history that worries fans. For now, Garoppolo takes first-team reps as the Rams hope Stafford improves. If needed, the team could look at emergency options like Cody Benjamin.
Not so honorable mention:
The latest rankings of the top 10 NFL players at each offensive position were revealed. Patrick Mahomes remains the top quarterback, though not unanimously. The top five are Mahomes, Lamar Jackson, Josh Allen, Joe Burrow, and Jaden Danielsâa nod to Danielsâ impressive rookie year.
A new No. 1 wide receiver emerged: JaâMarr Chase leads, followed by Justin Jefferson, CeeDee Lamb, AJ Brown, and Amon-Ra St. Brown.
Baseball update: Roman Anthony signed a long-term $130 million, 8-year extension with the Red Sox, a significant investment in their young talent pipeline. At just 21, Anthony is one of CBS Sportsâ top prospects and has contributed to the Red Soxâs surge to second place in the AL East. The contract could escalate to $230 million with awards or All-Star appearances and keeps him with the team through 2034 alongside other young stars like Ceddanne Rafaela, Christian Campbell, and Garrett Crochet.
These early super-extensions are a gamble for teams, but Anthony has given Boston every reason to believe he can be the franchise cornerstone. As CBS Sports’ Julian McWilliams notes, Anthonyâs rise is authentic and refreshing, handling the pressure of playing in Fenwayâs packed crowds with poise and purpose.
Thursday highlights to watch:
– Nationals vs. Athletics at 12:05 pm on MLB Network
– Mariners vs. White Sox at 4:10 pm on MLB Network
– Pirates vs. Reds at 6:40 pm on MLB Network
– Ravens vs. Colts at 7 pm on NFL Network
– Dreamers at Sky at 8 pm on Prime Video
– Braves vs. Marlins at 7:15 pm on MLB Network
– Seahawks vs. Raiders at 10 pm on NFL Network
– Fever vs. Mercury at 10 pm on Prime Video
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Fan Take: This news matters to basketball fans because it highlights key NFL preseason narratives and player health concerns that could shape the upcoming season, especially the impact of injuries on star players like Matthew Stafford. Additionally, spotlighting young athletes like Roman Anthony and their big contracts reflects a trend that may influence roster strategies and fan engagement in multiple sports, including basketball.
