×
IPL 2026: Sai Sudharsan wants to keep evolving as T20 batter In B. Sai Sudharsan’s case, it is usually his exquisite timing and effortless ability to pierce gaps that aid his prolific run-making.He isn’t one to bludgeon the cricket ball, and yet he managed to achieve a strike-rate of 156.17 in the Indian Premier League (IPL) last year whilst compiling a chart-topping 759 runs for Gujarat Titans.Impressive as that is, batters around the world are constantly enhancing their power game and pushing the envelope. Does that influence Sudharsan to tweak his own style?READ | Gill set to return as Gujarat Titans visits Delhi Capitals“The sport is definitely evolving, and T20 batting is getting greater and greater every season or even every five to six months. It’s very important to learn from it and be versatile enough to have that in my kitty and equip myself with that. So, definitely there are improvements to be made, and of course I’m looking at it,” the 24-year-old left-hand batter told reporters on Tuesday.Probed on a specific area that he worked on in the tune-up to this season, Sudharsan pointed to preparing for steep run chases. “The biggest awareness I had was if we are going to chase something really big, how I’m going to approach the innings. So it was just about awareness and mindset,” he revealed.Though Sudharsan forms a robust top-three for GT alongside Shubman Gill and Jos Buttler, there is a sense that the middle-order is fragile. “We believe in our middle-order. This is the team in which we played last year and we qualified,” the southpaw asserted.Published on Apr 07, 2026 #IPL #Sai #Sudharsan #evolving #T20 #batter

IPL 2026: Sai Sudharsan wants to keep evolving as T20 batter

In B. Sai Sudharsan’s case, it is usually his exquisite timing and effortless ability to pierce gaps that aid his prolific run-making.

He isn’t one to bludgeon the cricket ball, and yet he managed to achieve a strike-rate of 156.17 in the Indian Premier League (IPL) last year whilst compiling a chart-topping 759 runs for Gujarat Titans.

Impressive as that is, batters around the world are constantly enhancing their power game and pushing the envelope. Does that influence Sudharsan to tweak his own style?

READ | Gill set to return as Gujarat Titans visits Delhi Capitals

“The sport is definitely evolving, and T20 batting is getting greater and greater every season or even every five to six months. It’s very important to learn from it and be versatile enough to have that in my kitty and equip myself with that. So, definitely there are improvements to be made, and of course I’m looking at it,” the 24-year-old left-hand batter told reporters on Tuesday.

Probed on a specific area that he worked on in the tune-up to this season, Sudharsan pointed to preparing for steep run chases. “The biggest awareness I had was if we are going to chase something really big, how I’m going to approach the innings. So it was just about awareness and mindset,” he revealed.

Though Sudharsan forms a robust top-three for GT alongside Shubman Gill and Jos Buttler, there is a sense that the middle-order is fragile. “We believe in our middle-order. This is the team in which we played last year and we qualified,” the southpaw asserted.

Published on Apr 07, 2026

#IPL #Sai #Sudharsan #evolving #T20 #batter

Sports news , , , , , ,

In B. Sai Sudharsan’s case, it is usually his exquisite timing and effortless ability to pierce gaps that aid his prolific run-making.

He isn’t one to bludgeon the cricket ball, and yet he managed to achieve a strike-rate of 156.17 in the Indian Premier League (IPL) last year whilst compiling a chart-topping 759 runs for Gujarat Titans.

Impressive as that is, batters around the world are constantly enhancing their power game and pushing the envelope. Does that influence Sudharsan to tweak his own style?

READ | Gill set to return as Gujarat Titans visits Delhi Capitals

“The sport is definitely evolving, and T20 batting is getting greater and greater every season or even every five to six months. It’s very important to learn from it and be versatile enough to have that in my kitty and equip myself with that. So, definitely there are improvements to be made, and of course I’m looking at it,” the 24-year-old left-hand batter told reporters on Tuesday.

Probed on a specific area that he worked on in the tune-up to this season, Sudharsan pointed to preparing for steep run chases. “The biggest awareness I had was if we are going to chase something really big, how I’m going to approach the innings. So it was just about awareness and mindset,” he revealed.

Though Sudharsan forms a robust top-three for GT alongside Shubman Gill and Jos Buttler, there is a sense that the middle-order is fragile. “We believe in our middle-order. This is the team in which we played last year and we qualified,” the southpaw asserted.

Published on Apr 07, 2026

Source link
#IPL #Sai #Sudharsan #evolving #T20 #batter

Tag
Previous post

Deadspin | Dodgers (5 HRs) crush Blue Jays in World Series rematch <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28671826.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28671826.jpg" alt="MLB: Los Angeles Dodgers at Toronto Blue Jays" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 6, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman (5) hits a two-run home run against the Toronto Blue Jays during the third inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>Dalton Rushing had two home runs among his four hits Monday night and the visiting Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Toronto Blue Jays 14-2.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>Former Blue Jay Teoscar Hernandez had a two-run homer and four RBIs while Freddie Freeman added a two-run homer and three RBIs in a rematch of the 2025 World Series.</p> </section><section id="section-3"> <p>Shohei Ohtani contributed two hits and a solo shot for the Dodgers, who have won four straight.</p> </section><section id="section-4"> <p>Kazuma Okamoto had two hits for the Blue Jays, who have lost five in a row.</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>Max Scherzer (1-1) walked Kyle Tucker with one out in the first and after Freeman struck out, Hernandez roped a 1-0 slider down the left field line for his second homer in two games.</p> </section><section id="section-6"> <p>Justin Wrobleski (1-0) allowed one run in the bottom of the first. George Springer led off with a walk, Okamoto singled with two outs and Ernie Clement stroked an RBI single to center.</p> </section><section id="section-7"> <p>Josh Fleming, promoted from Triple-A Buffalo on Monday, replaced Scherzer in the third. Ohtani reached second on an infield single and Fleming’s throwing error. Two batters later, Freeman crushed a 3-2 fastball for a homer to right center.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-8"> <p>Los Angeles added a run in the fourth. Rushing was hit by a pitch, Hyeseong Kim walked, Ohtani’s flyball advanced the runners and Tucker hit a sacrifice fly.</p> </section> <section id="section-9"> <p>The Dodgers scored again in the fifth. Max Muncy led off with an infield single, took third on Andy Pages single and scored when Alex Freeland grounded into a double play.</p> </section><section id="section-10"> <p>Ohtani led off the sixth against Joe Mantiply with his third homer in four games. Tucker and Hernandez then walked. Tommy Nance replaced Mantiply and, after a double steal, Pages cranked a two-run double to right center.</p> </section><section id="section-11"> <p>Will Klein took over in the sixth from Wrobleski, who allowed one run, two hits and four walks while striking out two in five innings.</p> </section><section id="section-12"> <p>Rushing led off the seventh with a first-pitch homer against Nance. Kim followed with an infield hit and Tucker singled. Freeman hit an RBI double and Hernandez had a two-run single.</p> </section><section id="section-13"> <p>Rushing homered with one out in the eighth against Spencer Miles.</p> </section><section id="section-14"> <p>Toronto catcher Tyler Heineman pitched a perfect ninth and Dodgers infielder Miguel Rojas followed suit in the bottom of the ninth and surrendered a run.</p> </section><section id="section-15"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section></div> #Deadspin #Dodgers #HRs #crush #Blue #Jays #World #Series #rematch

Next post

Deadspin | Spurs’ Victor Wembanyama (shoulder) won’t return vs. 76ers <div id=""><section id="0" class=" w-full"><div class="xl:container mx-0 !px-4 py-0 pb-4 !mx-0 !px-0"><img src="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28672517.jpg" srcset="https://images.deadspin.com/tr:w-900/28672517.jpg" alt="NBA: Philadelphia 76ers at San Antonio Spurs" class="w-full" fetchpriority="high" loading="eager"/><span class="text-0.8 leading-tight">Apr 6, 2026; San Antonio, Texas, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Victor Wembanyama (1) grabs his left shoulder during the first half against the Philadelphia 76ers at Frost Bank Center. Mandatory Credit: Scott Wachter-Imagn Images<!-- --> <!-- --> </span></div></section><section id="section-1"> <p>San Antonio Spurs star center Victor Wembanyama will not play in the second half of Monday’s game against the Philadelphia 76ers after suffering a left rib contusion during a first-half collision with the 76ers’ Paul George.</p> </section><section id="section-2"> <p>Wembanyama went to the Spurs’ locker room twice in the second quarter after the collision but finished the half on the court. He scored 17 points, took five rebounds and had three blocked shots in more than 16 minutes of court time, which counts as an official game for the purpose of postseason award consideration.</p> </section><br/><section id="section-3"> <p>Wembanyama, 22, is in the mix for Most Valuable Player in his third year in the NBA. He entered the game averaging 24.9 points, 11.6 rebounds, 3.1 assists and a league-high 3.1 blocks per game.</p> </section> <section id="section-4"> <p>Monday was Wembanyama’s 63rd game of the season. Players must appear in 65 games to qualify for postseason awards. The Spurs have three games remaining after Monday.</p> </section><section id="section-5"> <p>–Field Level Media</p> </section></div> #Deadspin #Spurs #Victor #Wembanyama #shoulder #wont #return #76ers

Related Posts

Deadspin | Rory McIlroy to begin Masters defense paired with Cameron Young Apr 7, 2026; Augusta, Georgia, USA; Rory McIlroy walks off of no. 7 with his caddie, Harry Diamond, during a practice round for the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. Mandatory Credit: Katie Goodale-Imagn Images AUGUSTA, Ga. — Rory McIlroy will begin the defense of his first Masters title paired with World No. 3 Cameron Young at 10:31 a.m. on Thursday. McIlroy of Northern Ireland and Young, who won The Players Championship last month, will be paired with 18-year-old amateur Mason Howell for the first two rounds at Augusta National. They comprise the penultimate group in the Thursday’s morning wave. Howell, a Thomasville, Ga., native who has committed to play for the University of Georgia next year, earned the traditional spot in this grouping as the reigning U.S. Amateur champion. The group will tee off at 1:44 p.m. in Friday’s second round. The 90th edition of the Masters will officially begin at 7:25 a.m. on Thursday with honorary starters Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Watson. The first official playing group will then be John Keefer and China’s Haotong Li, one of only two twosomes in the 91-player field. World No. 1 and two-time Masters champion Scottie Scheffler will tee off in the penultimate grouping at 1:44 p.m. along with Gary Woodland and Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre. Two other featured groupings are Bryson DeChambeau, Xander Schauffele and England’s Matt Fitzpatrick at 10:07 a.m., and Chris Gotterup, Spain’s Jon Rahm and Sweden’s Ludvig Aberg at 1:08 p.m. PAIRINGS | THURSDAY/FRIDAY –Gary Player (honorary starter), Jack Nicklaus (honorary starter), Tom Watson (honorary starter) | 7:25 a.m. –John Keefer, Haotong Li (China) | 7:40 a.m., 10:51 a.m. –Naoyuki Kataoka (Japan), Max Homa, Carlos Ortiz (Mexico) | 7:50 a.m., 11:03 a.m. –Jose Maria Olazabal (Spain), Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen (Denmark), Aldrich Potgieter (South Africa) | 8:02 a.m., 11:15 a.m. –Angel Cabrera (Argentina), Sami Valimaki (Finland), *Jackson Herrington | 8:14 a.m. 11:27 a.m. –Charl Schwartzel (S. Africa), Max Greyserman, Ryan Fox (New Zealand) | 8:26 a.m./11:39 a.m. –Vijay Singh (Fiji), Matt McCarty, Rasmus Hojgaard (Denmark) | 8:38 a.m./11:51 a.m. –Kurt Kitayama, Kristoffer Reitan (Norway), Casey Jarvis (S. Africa) | 8:50 a.m./12:03 p.m. –Bubba Watson, Nicolas Echavarria (Colombia), *Brandon Holtz | 9:02 a.m./12:15 p.m. –Cameron Smith (Australia), Sam Burns, Jake Knapp | 9:19 a.m./12:32 p.m. –Keegan Bradley, Ryan Gerard, Nick Taylor (Canada) | 9:31 a.m./12:44 p.m. –Dustin Johnson, Shane Lowry (Ireland), Jason Day (Australia) | 9:43 a.m./12:56 p.m. –Patrick Reed, Tommy Fleetwood (England), Akshay Bhatia | 9:55 a.m./1:08 p.m. –Bryson DeChambeau, Matt Fitzpatrick (England), Xander Schauffele | 10:07 a.m./1:20 p.m. –Hideki Matsuyama (Japan) , Collin Morikawa, Russell Henley | 10:19 a.m./1:32 p.m. –Rory McIlroy (N. Ireland), Cameron Young, *Mason Howell | 10:31 a.m./1:44 p.m. –Viktor Hovland (Norway), Patrick Cantlay, Alex Noren (Sweden) | 10:43 a.m./1:56 p.m. –Samuel Stevens, Sungjae Im (Korea) | 11:03 a.m./7:40 a.m. –Andrew Novak, Tom McKibbin (N. Ireland), Brian Campbell | 11:15 a.m./7:50 a.m. –Mike Weir (Canada), Wyndham Clark, *Mateo Pulcini (Argentina) | 11:27 a.m./8:02 a.m. –Zach Johnson, Michael Kim, Nicolai Hojgaard (Denmark) | 11:39 a.m./8:14 a.m. –Danny Willett (England), Davis Riley, *Ethan Fang | 11:51 a.m./8:26 a.m. –Adam Scott (Australia), Daniel Berger, Brian Harman | 12:03 p.m./8:38 a.m. –Fred Couples, Min Woo Lee (Australia), *Fifa Laopakdee (Thailand) | 12:15 p.m./8:50 a.m. –Sergio Garcia (Spain), Aaron Rai (England), Jacob Bridgeman | 12:27 p.m./9:02 a.m. –Harry Hall (England), Corey Conners (Canada), Michael Brennan | 12:44 p.m./9:19 a.m. –J.J. Spaun, Maverick McNealy, Tyrrell Hatton (England) | 12:56 p.m./9:31 a.m. –Jon Rahm (Spain), Chris Gotterup, Ludvig Aberg (Sweden) | 1:08 p.m./9:43 a.m. –Jordan Spieth, Justin Rose (England), Brooks Koepka | 1:20 p.m./9:55 a.m. –Sepp Straka (Austria), Ben Griffin, Justin Thomas | 1:32 p.m./10:07 a.m. –Scottie Scheffler, Robert MacIntyre (Scotland), Gary Woodland | 1:44 p.m./10:19 a.m. –Harris English, Marco Penge (England), Si Woo Kim (Korea) | 1:56 p.m./10:31 a.m. *Denotes amateur The broadcast for the Masters will begin for the first time on Amazon Prime Video, which will begin its live coverage with an exclusive two-hour window beginning at 1 p.m. That will lead into the start of ESPN’s coverage at 3 p.m. –Derek Harper, Field Level Media #Deadspin #Rory #McIlroy #Masters #defense #paired #Cameron #YoungApr 7, 2026; Augusta, Georgia, USA; Rory McIlroy walks off of no. 7 with his caddie, Harry Diamond, during a practice round for the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. Mandatory Credit: Katie Goodale-Imagn Images

AUGUSTA, Ga. — Rory McIlroy will begin the defense of his first Masters title paired with World No. 3 Cameron Young at 10:31 a.m. on Thursday.

McIlroy of Northern Ireland and Young, who won The Players Championship last month, will be paired with 18-year-old amateur Mason Howell for the first two rounds at Augusta National. They comprise the penultimate group in the Thursday’s morning wave.

Howell, a Thomasville, Ga., native who has committed to play for the University of Georgia next year, earned the traditional spot in this grouping as the reigning U.S. Amateur champion. The group will tee off at 1:44 p.m. in Friday’s second round.

The 90th edition of the Masters will officially begin at 7:25 a.m. on Thursday with honorary starters Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Watson. The first official playing group will then be John Keefer and China’s Haotong Li, one of only two twosomes in the 91-player field.

World No. 1 and two-time Masters champion Scottie Scheffler will tee off in the penultimate grouping at 1:44 p.m. along with Gary Woodland and Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre.

Two other featured groupings are Bryson DeChambeau, Xander Schauffele and England’s Matt Fitzpatrick at 10:07 a.m., and Chris Gotterup, Spain’s Jon Rahm and Sweden’s Ludvig Aberg at 1:08 p.m.

PAIRINGS | THURSDAY/FRIDAY

–Gary Player (honorary starter), Jack Nicklaus (honorary starter), Tom Watson (honorary starter) | 7:25 a.m.

–John Keefer, Haotong Li (China) | 7:40 a.m., 10:51 a.m.

–Naoyuki Kataoka (Japan), Max Homa, Carlos Ortiz (Mexico) | 7:50 a.m., 11:03 a.m.

–Jose Maria Olazabal (Spain), Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen (Denmark), Aldrich Potgieter (South Africa) | 8:02 a.m., 11:15 a.m.

–Angel Cabrera (Argentina), Sami Valimaki (Finland), *Jackson Herrington | 8:14 a.m. 11:27 a.m.

–Charl Schwartzel (S. Africa), Max Greyserman, Ryan Fox (New Zealand) | 8:26 a.m./11:39 a.m.

–Vijay Singh (Fiji), Matt McCarty, Rasmus Hojgaard (Denmark) | 8:38 a.m./11:51 a.m.

–Kurt Kitayama, Kristoffer Reitan (Norway), Casey Jarvis (S. Africa) | 8:50 a.m./12:03 p.m.

–Bubba Watson, Nicolas Echavarria (Colombia), *Brandon Holtz | 9:02 a.m./12:15 p.m.

–Cameron Smith (Australia), Sam Burns, Jake Knapp | 9:19 a.m./12:32 p.m.

–Keegan Bradley, Ryan Gerard, Nick Taylor (Canada) | 9:31 a.m./12:44 p.m.

–Dustin Johnson, Shane Lowry (Ireland), Jason Day (Australia) | 9:43 a.m./12:56 p.m.

–Patrick Reed, Tommy Fleetwood (England), Akshay Bhatia | 9:55 a.m./1:08 p.m.


–Bryson DeChambeau, Matt Fitzpatrick (England), Xander Schauffele | 10:07 a.m./1:20 p.m.

–Hideki Matsuyama (Japan) , Collin Morikawa, Russell Henley | 10:19 a.m./1:32 p.m.

–Rory McIlroy (N. Ireland), Cameron Young, *Mason Howell | 10:31 a.m./1:44 p.m.

–Viktor Hovland (Norway), Patrick Cantlay, Alex Noren (Sweden) | 10:43 a.m./1:56 p.m.

–Samuel Stevens, Sungjae Im (Korea) | 11:03 a.m./7:40 a.m.

–Andrew Novak, Tom McKibbin (N. Ireland), Brian Campbell | 11:15 a.m./7:50 a.m.

–Mike Weir (Canada), Wyndham Clark, *Mateo Pulcini (Argentina) | 11:27 a.m./8:02 a.m.

–Zach Johnson, Michael Kim, Nicolai Hojgaard (Denmark) | 11:39 a.m./8:14 a.m.

–Danny Willett (England), Davis Riley, *Ethan Fang | 11:51 a.m./8:26 a.m.

–Adam Scott (Australia), Daniel Berger, Brian Harman | 12:03 p.m./8:38 a.m.

–Fred Couples, Min Woo Lee (Australia), *Fifa Laopakdee (Thailand) | 12:15 p.m./8:50 a.m.

–Sergio Garcia (Spain), Aaron Rai (England), Jacob Bridgeman | 12:27 p.m./9:02 a.m.

–Harry Hall (England), Corey Conners (Canada), Michael Brennan | 12:44 p.m./9:19 a.m.

–J.J. Spaun, Maverick McNealy, Tyrrell Hatton (England) | 12:56 p.m./9:31 a.m.

–Jon Rahm (Spain), Chris Gotterup, Ludvig Aberg (Sweden) | 1:08 p.m./9:43 a.m.

–Jordan Spieth, Justin Rose (England), Brooks Koepka | 1:20 p.m./9:55 a.m.

–Sepp Straka (Austria), Ben Griffin, Justin Thomas | 1:32 p.m./10:07 a.m.

–Scottie Scheffler, Robert MacIntyre (Scotland), Gary Woodland | 1:44 p.m./10:19 a.m.

–Harris English, Marco Penge (England), Si Woo Kim (Korea) | 1:56 p.m./10:31 a.m.

*Denotes amateur

The broadcast for the Masters will begin for the first time on Amazon Prime Video, which will begin its live coverage with an exclusive two-hour window beginning at 1 p.m. That will lead into the start of ESPN’s coverage at 3 p.m.


–Derek Harper, Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Rory #McIlroy #Masters #defense #paired #Cameron #Young">Deadspin | Rory McIlroy to begin Masters defense paired with Cameron Young Apr 7, 2026; Augusta, Georgia, USA; Rory McIlroy walks off of no. 7 with his caddie, Harry Diamond, during a practice round for the Masters Tournament at Augusta National Golf Club. Mandatory Credit: Katie Goodale-Imagn Images AUGUSTA, Ga. — Rory McIlroy will begin the defense of his first Masters title paired with World No. 3 Cameron Young at 10:31 a.m. on Thursday. McIlroy of Northern Ireland and Young, who won The Players Championship last month, will be paired with 18-year-old amateur Mason Howell for the first two rounds at Augusta National. They comprise the penultimate group in the Thursday’s morning wave. Howell, a Thomasville, Ga., native who has committed to play for the University of Georgia next year, earned the traditional spot in this grouping as the reigning U.S. Amateur champion. The group will tee off at 1:44 p.m. in Friday’s second round. The 90th edition of the Masters will officially begin at 7:25 a.m. on Thursday with honorary starters Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player and Tom Watson. The first official playing group will then be John Keefer and China’s Haotong Li, one of only two twosomes in the 91-player field. World No. 1 and two-time Masters champion Scottie Scheffler will tee off in the penultimate grouping at 1:44 p.m. along with Gary Woodland and Scotland’s Robert MacIntyre. Two other featured groupings are Bryson DeChambeau, Xander Schauffele and England’s Matt Fitzpatrick at 10:07 a.m., and Chris Gotterup, Spain’s Jon Rahm and Sweden’s Ludvig Aberg at 1:08 p.m. PAIRINGS | THURSDAY/FRIDAY –Gary Player (honorary starter), Jack Nicklaus (honorary starter), Tom Watson (honorary starter) | 7:25 a.m. –John Keefer, Haotong Li (China) | 7:40 a.m., 10:51 a.m. –Naoyuki Kataoka (Japan), Max Homa, Carlos Ortiz (Mexico) | 7:50 a.m., 11:03 a.m. –Jose Maria Olazabal (Spain), Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen (Denmark), Aldrich Potgieter (South Africa) | 8:02 a.m., 11:15 a.m. –Angel Cabrera (Argentina), Sami Valimaki (Finland), *Jackson Herrington | 8:14 a.m. 11:27 a.m. –Charl Schwartzel (S. Africa), Max Greyserman, Ryan Fox (New Zealand) | 8:26 a.m./11:39 a.m. –Vijay Singh (Fiji), Matt McCarty, Rasmus Hojgaard (Denmark) | 8:38 a.m./11:51 a.m. –Kurt Kitayama, Kristoffer Reitan (Norway), Casey Jarvis (S. Africa) | 8:50 a.m./12:03 p.m. –Bubba Watson, Nicolas Echavarria (Colombia), *Brandon Holtz | 9:02 a.m./12:15 p.m. –Cameron Smith (Australia), Sam Burns, Jake Knapp | 9:19 a.m./12:32 p.m. –Keegan Bradley, Ryan Gerard, Nick Taylor (Canada) | 9:31 a.m./12:44 p.m. –Dustin Johnson, Shane Lowry (Ireland), Jason Day (Australia) | 9:43 a.m./12:56 p.m. –Patrick Reed, Tommy Fleetwood (England), Akshay Bhatia | 9:55 a.m./1:08 p.m. –Bryson DeChambeau, Matt Fitzpatrick (England), Xander Schauffele | 10:07 a.m./1:20 p.m. –Hideki Matsuyama (Japan) , Collin Morikawa, Russell Henley | 10:19 a.m./1:32 p.m. –Rory McIlroy (N. Ireland), Cameron Young, *Mason Howell | 10:31 a.m./1:44 p.m. –Viktor Hovland (Norway), Patrick Cantlay, Alex Noren (Sweden) | 10:43 a.m./1:56 p.m. –Samuel Stevens, Sungjae Im (Korea) | 11:03 a.m./7:40 a.m. –Andrew Novak, Tom McKibbin (N. Ireland), Brian Campbell | 11:15 a.m./7:50 a.m. –Mike Weir (Canada), Wyndham Clark, *Mateo Pulcini (Argentina) | 11:27 a.m./8:02 a.m. –Zach Johnson, Michael Kim, Nicolai Hojgaard (Denmark) | 11:39 a.m./8:14 a.m. –Danny Willett (England), Davis Riley, *Ethan Fang | 11:51 a.m./8:26 a.m. –Adam Scott (Australia), Daniel Berger, Brian Harman | 12:03 p.m./8:38 a.m. –Fred Couples, Min Woo Lee (Australia), *Fifa Laopakdee (Thailand) | 12:15 p.m./8:50 a.m. –Sergio Garcia (Spain), Aaron Rai (England), Jacob Bridgeman | 12:27 p.m./9:02 a.m. –Harry Hall (England), Corey Conners (Canada), Michael Brennan | 12:44 p.m./9:19 a.m. –J.J. Spaun, Maverick McNealy, Tyrrell Hatton (England) | 12:56 p.m./9:31 a.m. –Jon Rahm (Spain), Chris Gotterup, Ludvig Aberg (Sweden) | 1:08 p.m./9:43 a.m. –Jordan Spieth, Justin Rose (England), Brooks Koepka | 1:20 p.m./9:55 a.m. –Sepp Straka (Austria), Ben Griffin, Justin Thomas | 1:32 p.m./10:07 a.m. –Scottie Scheffler, Robert MacIntyre (Scotland), Gary Woodland | 1:44 p.m./10:19 a.m. –Harris English, Marco Penge (England), Si Woo Kim (Korea) | 1:56 p.m./10:31 a.m. *Denotes amateur The broadcast for the Masters will begin for the first time on Amazon Prime Video, which will begin its live coverage with an exclusive two-hour window beginning at 1 p.m. That will lead into the start of ESPN’s coverage at 3 p.m. –Derek Harper, Field Level Media #Deadspin #Rory #McIlroy #Masters #defense #paired #Cameron #Young

Divya Deshmukh produced one of the standout results of the round, toppling leader Anna Muzychuk to share the lead at the ongoing FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026 in Cyprus on Tuesday.

Playing her first Candidates, Divya weathered sustained pressure before turning the game around in the closing stages. The result lifted her to joint-top alongside Muzychuk, R Vaishali, Zhu Jiner and Kateryna Lagno.

For much of the middlegame and early endgame, Muzychuk appeared in control, maintaining pressure and keeping Divya tied down. The position drifted towards equality, with a draw looking the likely outcome as the players entered a queen endgame.

The turning point came in the sequence beginning 76.Qc8+ Kf5 77.Qh8+ Kg6 78.Qg8+ Kh6, when Divya began forcing checks. Instead of repeating moves, she kept the king on the move, gradually exposing it.

On move 80, Muzychuk chose Kh5, stepping further into the open. Divya seized the moment, forcing the king into a narrow corridor before switching from checks to a decisive attack, leaving Muzychuk without a safe continuation.

ALSO READ: Check out all the live updates from Round 8 as it happened, over here

In the other games in the women’s section, Vaishali drew against Bibisara Assaubayeva, Lagno defeated Aleksandra Goryachkina, and Zhu Jiner beat Tan Zhongyi.

In the open section, leader Javokhir Sindarov could not complete a double over Andrey Esipenko, as their second-half encounter ended in a draw.

The game began at a brisk pace and remained balanced between moves 11 and 18, with both players simplifying the centre and activating their pieces. The critical moment came on move 17, when Sindarov played Na5 to target the c6 bishop, but the sequence that followed led to further simplification. By move 19, both kings were relatively safe, with no clear pawn breaks or attacking chances, and the game drifted towards a draw.

Meanwhile, R Praggnanandhaa’s bid to close the gap on Sindarov suffered a setback, as Anish Giri avenged his first-round loss with a win.

The game remained relatively balanced into the middlegame, but Praggnanandhaa never looked entirely comfortable, with Giri gradually building pressure. The decisive moment came with 36.e6, which created a dangerous passed pawn and disrupted Black’s coordination.

Praggnanandhaa attempted counterplay with 38…h5, but it backfired, forcing him into a passive position. Giri then seized the initiative with 41.Rf8+ Kh7, and with the black king exposed in the final phase, Praggnanandhaa was compelled to resign.

Hikaru Nakamura registered his first win of the tournament, defeating Fabiano Caruana, while Wei Yi drew against Matthias Bluebaum.

Published on Apr 07, 2026

#FIDE #Candidates #Tournament #Sindarov #drops #points #held #draw #Esipenko">FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026, Round 8: Sindarov drops points, held to draw by Esipenko Divya Deshmukh produced one of the standout results of the round, toppling leader Anna Muzychuk to share the lead at the ongoing FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026 in Cyprus on Tuesday.Playing her first Candidates, Divya weathered sustained pressure before turning the game around in the closing stages. The result lifted her to joint-top alongside Muzychuk, R Vaishali, Zhu Jiner and Kateryna Lagno.For much of the middlegame and early endgame, Muzychuk appeared in control, maintaining pressure and keeping Divya tied down. The position drifted towards equality, with a draw looking the likely outcome as the players entered a queen endgame.The turning point came in the sequence beginning 76.Qc8+ Kf5 77.Qh8+ Kg6 78.Qg8+ Kh6, when Divya began forcing checks. Instead of repeating moves, she kept the king on the move, gradually exposing it.On move 80, Muzychuk chose Kh5, stepping further into the open. Divya seized the moment, forcing the king into a narrow corridor before switching from checks to a decisive attack, leaving Muzychuk without a safe continuation.ALSO READ: Check out all the live updates from Round 8 as it happened, over hereIn the other games in the women’s section, Vaishali drew against Bibisara Assaubayeva, Lagno defeated Aleksandra Goryachkina, and Zhu Jiner beat Tan Zhongyi.In the open section, leader Javokhir Sindarov could not complete a double over Andrey Esipenko, as their second-half encounter ended in a draw.The game began at a brisk pace and remained balanced between moves 11 and 18, with both players simplifying the centre and activating their pieces. The critical moment came on move 17, when Sindarov played Na5 to target the c6 bishop, but the sequence that followed led to further simplification. By move 19, both kings were relatively safe, with no clear pawn breaks or attacking chances, and the game drifted towards a draw.Meanwhile, R Praggnanandhaa’s bid to close the gap on Sindarov suffered a setback, as Anish Giri avenged his first-round loss with a win.The game remained relatively balanced into the middlegame, but Praggnanandhaa never looked entirely comfortable, with Giri gradually building pressure. The decisive moment came with 36.e6, which created a dangerous passed pawn and disrupted Black’s coordination.Praggnanandhaa attempted counterplay with 38…h5, but it backfired, forcing him into a passive position. Giri then seized the initiative with 41.Rf8+ Kh7, and with the black king exposed in the final phase, Praggnanandhaa was compelled to resign.Hikaru Nakamura registered his first win of the tournament, defeating Fabiano Caruana, while Wei Yi drew against Matthias Bluebaum.Published on Apr 07, 2026 #FIDE #Candidates #Tournament #Sindarov #drops #points #held #draw #Esipenko

Check out all the live updates from Round 8 as it happened, over here

In the other games in the women’s section, Vaishali drew against Bibisara Assaubayeva, Lagno defeated Aleksandra Goryachkina, and Zhu Jiner beat Tan Zhongyi.

In the open section, leader Javokhir Sindarov could not complete a double over Andrey Esipenko, as their second-half encounter ended in a draw.

The game began at a brisk pace and remained balanced between moves 11 and 18, with both players simplifying the centre and activating their pieces. The critical moment came on move 17, when Sindarov played Na5 to target the c6 bishop, but the sequence that followed led to further simplification. By move 19, both kings were relatively safe, with no clear pawn breaks or attacking chances, and the game drifted towards a draw.

Meanwhile, R Praggnanandhaa’s bid to close the gap on Sindarov suffered a setback, as Anish Giri avenged his first-round loss with a win.

The game remained relatively balanced into the middlegame, but Praggnanandhaa never looked entirely comfortable, with Giri gradually building pressure. The decisive moment came with 36.e6, which created a dangerous passed pawn and disrupted Black’s coordination.

Praggnanandhaa attempted counterplay with 38…h5, but it backfired, forcing him into a passive position. Giri then seized the initiative with 41.Rf8+ Kh7, and with the black king exposed in the final phase, Praggnanandhaa was compelled to resign.

Hikaru Nakamura registered his first win of the tournament, defeating Fabiano Caruana, while Wei Yi drew against Matthias Bluebaum.

Published on Apr 07, 2026

#FIDE #Candidates #Tournament #Sindarov #drops #points #held #draw #Esipenko">FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026, Round 8: Sindarov drops points, held to draw by Esipenko

Divya Deshmukh produced one of the standout results of the round, toppling leader Anna Muzychuk to share the lead at the ongoing FIDE Candidates Tournament 2026 in Cyprus on Tuesday.

Playing her first Candidates, Divya weathered sustained pressure before turning the game around in the closing stages. The result lifted her to joint-top alongside Muzychuk, R Vaishali, Zhu Jiner and Kateryna Lagno.

For much of the middlegame and early endgame, Muzychuk appeared in control, maintaining pressure and keeping Divya tied down. The position drifted towards equality, with a draw looking the likely outcome as the players entered a queen endgame.

The turning point came in the sequence beginning 76.Qc8+ Kf5 77.Qh8+ Kg6 78.Qg8+ Kh6, when Divya began forcing checks. Instead of repeating moves, she kept the king on the move, gradually exposing it.

On move 80, Muzychuk chose Kh5, stepping further into the open. Divya seized the moment, forcing the king into a narrow corridor before switching from checks to a decisive attack, leaving Muzychuk without a safe continuation.

ALSO READ: Check out all the live updates from Round 8 as it happened, over here

In the other games in the women’s section, Vaishali drew against Bibisara Assaubayeva, Lagno defeated Aleksandra Goryachkina, and Zhu Jiner beat Tan Zhongyi.

In the open section, leader Javokhir Sindarov could not complete a double over Andrey Esipenko, as their second-half encounter ended in a draw.

The game began at a brisk pace and remained balanced between moves 11 and 18, with both players simplifying the centre and activating their pieces. The critical moment came on move 17, when Sindarov played Na5 to target the c6 bishop, but the sequence that followed led to further simplification. By move 19, both kings were relatively safe, with no clear pawn breaks or attacking chances, and the game drifted towards a draw.

Meanwhile, R Praggnanandhaa’s bid to close the gap on Sindarov suffered a setback, as Anish Giri avenged his first-round loss with a win.

The game remained relatively balanced into the middlegame, but Praggnanandhaa never looked entirely comfortable, with Giri gradually building pressure. The decisive moment came with 36.e6, which created a dangerous passed pawn and disrupted Black’s coordination.

Praggnanandhaa attempted counterplay with 38…h5, but it backfired, forcing him into a passive position. Giri then seized the initiative with 41.Rf8+ Kh7, and with the black king exposed in the final phase, Praggnanandhaa was compelled to resign.

Hikaru Nakamura registered his first win of the tournament, defeating Fabiano Caruana, while Wei Yi drew against Matthias Bluebaum.

Published on Apr 07, 2026

#FIDE #Candidates #Tournament #Sindarov #drops #points #held #draw #Esipenko
Three NFL Draft Prospects Who Will Be Selected Higher Than You Think | Deadspin.com Oct 11, 2025; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Drew Allar (15) looks to throw a pass during the first quarter against the Northwestern Wildcats at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images Every year, football fans are stunned when prospects come off of the NFL Draft board sooner than anticipated.NFL mock drafts will get closer to accuracy as April 23rd’s first round grows nearer.Yet still, every year, there are still players who will surprise everybody.Let’s take a look at three NFL Draft prospects who will be selected a lot sooner than you might think.Drew Allar, Penn State QBAt one point, it felt like Allar was poised to be a first-round pick. But his college career at Penn State never materialized that way, James Franklin was fired, and Allar missed half of his final year with the Nittany Lions after a season-ending broken left ankle.Allar is healthy. He showcased his arm strength at the NFL Combine.But it’s Allar’s 6-foot-5, 228 pound frame that NFL decision makers could fall in love with.Allar’s big size, paired with his big arm and above average athleticism drew Josh Allen player comparisons early in his college football career. Even though he never progressed that way as a prospect with the Nittany Lions, an NFL general manager will gamble on his intangibles.The size and arm strength projects more as a starting quarterback than a project, developmental backup. These are all reasons why Allar should be a Day 2 – not a Day 3 – draft selection.Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State WR Nov 28, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils wide receiver Jordyn Tyson (0) against the Arizona Wildcats during the 99th Territorial Cup at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Similar to Allar, Tyson dealt with some injury troubles during his career at ASU. As a result, there’s been some speculation that the 6-foot-2 wide receiver could slide to the end of the first round.But NFL executives understand that premium wide receivers don’t grow on trees. Players like Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson don’t come around too often. While Tyson can’t be compared to those two prospects, he could develop, add weight and stay healthier with an NFL training regimen.Don’t buy that Tyson will be available at the end of the first round. It simply isn’t happening.Sonny Styles, Ohio State LB Feb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles (LB25) runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images It’s rare to see an off-ball linebacker like Styles drafted in the top 10. But could Styles sneak his way into the top five?At the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, there was some chatter that the New York Giants would have no qualms about selecting Styles at No. 5 overall. The Giants picked up free agent linebacker Tremaine Edmunds on a three-year, million deal in free agency.But they still have a need at linebacker, and Styles could be a talented player for many years to come. #NFL #Draft #Prospects #Selected #Higher #Deadspin.comOct 11, 2025; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Drew Allar (15) looks to throw a pass during the first quarter against the Northwestern Wildcats at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images

Every year, football fans are stunned when prospects come off of the NFL Draft board sooner than anticipated.

NFL mock drafts will get closer to accuracy as April 23rd’s first round grows nearer.

Yet still, every year, there are still players who will surprise everybody.

Let’s take a look at three NFL Draft prospects who will be selected a lot sooner than you might think.

Drew Allar, Penn State QB

At one point, it felt like Allar was poised to be a first-round pick. But his college career at Penn State never materialized that way, James Franklin was fired, and Allar missed half of his final year with the Nittany Lions after a season-ending broken left ankle.

Allar is healthy. He showcased his arm strength at the NFL Combine.

But it’s Allar’s 6-foot-5, 228 pound frame that NFL decision makers could fall in love with.

Allar’s big size, paired with his big arm and above average athleticism drew Josh Allen player comparisons early in his college football career. Even though he never progressed that way as a prospect with the Nittany Lions, an NFL general manager will gamble on his intangibles.

The size and arm strength projects more as a starting quarterback than a project, developmental backup. These are all reasons why Allar should be a Day 2 – not a Day 3 – draft selection.

Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State WR

Nov 28, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils wide receiver Jordyn Tyson (0) against the Arizona Wildcats during the 99th Territorial Cup at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesNov 28, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils wide receiver Jordyn Tyson (0) against the Arizona Wildcats during the 99th Territorial Cup at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Similar to Allar, Tyson dealt with some injury troubles during his career at ASU. As a result, there’s been some speculation that the 6-foot-2 wide receiver could slide to the end of the first round.

But NFL executives understand that premium wide receivers don’t grow on trees. Players like Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson don’t come around too often. While Tyson can’t be compared to those two prospects, he could develop, add weight and stay healthier with an NFL training regimen.

Don’t buy that Tyson will be available at the end of the first round. It simply isn’t happening.

Sonny Styles, Ohio State LB

Feb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles (LB25) runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesFeb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles (LB25) runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

It’s rare to see an off-ball linebacker like Styles drafted in the top 10. But could Styles sneak his way into the top five?

At the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, there was some chatter that the New York Giants would have no qualms about selecting Styles at No. 5 overall. The Giants picked up free agent linebacker Tremaine Edmunds on a three-year, $36 million deal in free agency.

But they still have a need at linebacker, and Styles could be a talented player for many years to come.

#NFL #Draft #Prospects #Selected #Higher #Deadspin.com">Three NFL Draft Prospects Who Will Be Selected Higher Than You Think | Deadspin.com Oct 11, 2025; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Drew Allar (15) looks to throw a pass during the first quarter against the Northwestern Wildcats at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images Every year, football fans are stunned when prospects come off of the NFL Draft board sooner than anticipated.NFL mock drafts will get closer to accuracy as April 23rd’s first round grows nearer.Yet still, every year, there are still players who will surprise everybody.Let’s take a look at three NFL Draft prospects who will be selected a lot sooner than you might think.Drew Allar, Penn State QBAt one point, it felt like Allar was poised to be a first-round pick. But his college career at Penn State never materialized that way, James Franklin was fired, and Allar missed half of his final year with the Nittany Lions after a season-ending broken left ankle.Allar is healthy. He showcased his arm strength at the NFL Combine.But it’s Allar’s 6-foot-5, 228 pound frame that NFL decision makers could fall in love with.Allar’s big size, paired with his big arm and above average athleticism drew Josh Allen player comparisons early in his college football career. Even though he never progressed that way as a prospect with the Nittany Lions, an NFL general manager will gamble on his intangibles.The size and arm strength projects more as a starting quarterback than a project, developmental backup. These are all reasons why Allar should be a Day 2 – not a Day 3 – draft selection.Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State WR Nov 28, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils wide receiver Jordyn Tyson (0) against the Arizona Wildcats during the 99th Territorial Cup at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Similar to Allar, Tyson dealt with some injury troubles during his career at ASU. As a result, there’s been some speculation that the 6-foot-2 wide receiver could slide to the end of the first round.But NFL executives understand that premium wide receivers don’t grow on trees. Players like Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson don’t come around too often. While Tyson can’t be compared to those two prospects, he could develop, add weight and stay healthier with an NFL training regimen.Don’t buy that Tyson will be available at the end of the first round. It simply isn’t happening.Sonny Styles, Ohio State LB Feb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles (LB25) runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images It’s rare to see an off-ball linebacker like Styles drafted in the top 10. But could Styles sneak his way into the top five?At the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, there was some chatter that the New York Giants would have no qualms about selecting Styles at No. 5 overall. The Giants picked up free agent linebacker Tremaine Edmunds on a three-year, million deal in free agency.But they still have a need at linebacker, and Styles could be a talented player for many years to come. #NFL #Draft #Prospects #Selected #Higher #Deadspin.com

college career at Penn State never materialized that way, James Franklin was fired, and Allar missed half of his final year with the Nittany Lions after a season-ending broken left ankle.

Allar is healthy. He showcased his arm strength at the NFL Combine.

But it’s Allar’s 6-foot-5, 228 pound frame that NFL decision makers could fall in love with.

Allar’s big size, paired with his big arm and above average athleticism drew Josh Allen player comparisons early in his college football career. Even though he never progressed that way as a prospect with the Nittany Lions, an NFL general manager will gamble on his intangibles.

The size and arm strength projects more as a starting quarterback than a project, developmental backup. These are all reasons why Allar should be a Day 2 – not a Day 3 – draft selection.

Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State WR

Nov 28, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils wide receiver Jordyn Tyson (0) against the Arizona Wildcats during the 99th Territorial Cup at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesNov 28, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils wide receiver Jordyn Tyson (0) against the Arizona Wildcats during the 99th Territorial Cup at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Similar to Allar, Tyson dealt with some injury troubles during his career at ASU. As a result, there’s been some speculation that the 6-foot-2 wide receiver could slide to the end of the first round.

But NFL executives understand that premium wide receivers don’t grow on trees. Players like Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson don’t come around too often. While Tyson can’t be compared to those two prospects, he could develop, add weight and stay healthier with an NFL training regimen.

Don’t buy that Tyson will be available at the end of the first round. It simply isn’t happening.

Sonny Styles, Ohio State LB

Feb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles (LB25) runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesFeb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles (LB25) runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

It’s rare to see an off-ball linebacker like Styles drafted in the top 10. But could Styles sneak his way into the top five?

At the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, there was some chatter that the New York Giants would have no qualms about selecting Styles at No. 5 overall. The Giants picked up free agent linebacker Tremaine Edmunds on a three-year, $36 million deal in free agency.

But they still have a need at linebacker, and Styles could be a talented player for many years to come.

#NFL #Draft #Prospects #Selected #Higher #Deadspin.com">Three NFL Draft Prospects Who Will Be Selected Higher Than You Think | Deadspin.com
Three NFL Draft Prospects Who Will Be Selected Higher Than You Think | Deadspin.com Oct 11, 2025; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Drew Allar (15) looks to throw a pass during the first quarter against the Northwestern Wildcats at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images Every year, football fans are stunned when prospects come off of the NFL Draft board sooner than anticipated.NFL mock drafts will get closer to accuracy as April 23rd’s first round grows nearer.Yet still, every year, there are still players who will surprise everybody.Let’s take a look at three NFL Draft prospects who will be selected a lot sooner than you might think.Drew Allar, Penn State QBAt one point, it felt like Allar was poised to be a first-round pick. But his college career at Penn State never materialized that way, James Franklin was fired, and Allar missed half of his final year with the Nittany Lions after a season-ending broken left ankle.Allar is healthy. He showcased his arm strength at the NFL Combine.But it’s Allar’s 6-foot-5, 228 pound frame that NFL decision makers could fall in love with.Allar’s big size, paired with his big arm and above average athleticism drew Josh Allen player comparisons early in his college football career. Even though he never progressed that way as a prospect with the Nittany Lions, an NFL general manager will gamble on his intangibles.The size and arm strength projects more as a starting quarterback than a project, developmental backup. These are all reasons why Allar should be a Day 2 – not a Day 3 – draft selection.Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State WR Nov 28, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils wide receiver Jordyn Tyson (0) against the Arizona Wildcats during the 99th Territorial Cup at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Similar to Allar, Tyson dealt with some injury troubles during his career at ASU. As a result, there’s been some speculation that the 6-foot-2 wide receiver could slide to the end of the first round.But NFL executives understand that premium wide receivers don’t grow on trees. Players like Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson don’t come around too often. While Tyson can’t be compared to those two prospects, he could develop, add weight and stay healthier with an NFL training regimen.Don’t buy that Tyson will be available at the end of the first round. It simply isn’t happening.Sonny Styles, Ohio State LB Feb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles (LB25) runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images It’s rare to see an off-ball linebacker like Styles drafted in the top 10. But could Styles sneak his way into the top five?At the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, there was some chatter that the New York Giants would have no qualms about selecting Styles at No. 5 overall. The Giants picked up free agent linebacker Tremaine Edmunds on a three-year, million deal in free agency.But they still have a need at linebacker, and Styles could be a talented player for many years to come. #NFL #Draft #Prospects #Selected #Higher #Deadspin.comOct 11, 2025; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Drew Allar (15) looks to throw a pass during the first quarter against the Northwestern Wildcats at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images

Every year, football fans are stunned when prospects come off of the NFL Draft board sooner than anticipated.

NFL mock drafts will get closer to accuracy as April 23rd’s first round grows nearer.

Yet still, every year, there are still players who will surprise everybody.

Let’s take a look at three NFL Draft prospects who will be selected a lot sooner than you might think.

Drew Allar, Penn State QB

At one point, it felt like Allar was poised to be a first-round pick. But his college career at Penn State never materialized that way, James Franklin was fired, and Allar missed half of his final year with the Nittany Lions after a season-ending broken left ankle.

Allar is healthy. He showcased his arm strength at the NFL Combine.

But it’s Allar’s 6-foot-5, 228 pound frame that NFL decision makers could fall in love with.

Allar’s big size, paired with his big arm and above average athleticism drew Josh Allen player comparisons early in his college football career. Even though he never progressed that way as a prospect with the Nittany Lions, an NFL general manager will gamble on his intangibles.

The size and arm strength projects more as a starting quarterback than a project, developmental backup. These are all reasons why Allar should be a Day 2 – not a Day 3 – draft selection.

Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State WR

Nov 28, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils wide receiver Jordyn Tyson (0) against the Arizona Wildcats during the 99th Territorial Cup at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesNov 28, 2025; Tempe, Arizona, USA; Arizona State Sun Devils wide receiver Jordyn Tyson (0) against the Arizona Wildcats during the 99th Territorial Cup at Mountain America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Similar to Allar, Tyson dealt with some injury troubles during his career at ASU. As a result, there’s been some speculation that the 6-foot-2 wide receiver could slide to the end of the first round.

But NFL executives understand that premium wide receivers don’t grow on trees. Players like Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson don’t come around too often. While Tyson can’t be compared to those two prospects, he could develop, add weight and stay healthier with an NFL training regimen.

Don’t buy that Tyson will be available at the end of the first round. It simply isn’t happening.

Sonny Styles, Ohio State LB

Feb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles (LB25) runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesFeb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles (LB25) runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

It’s rare to see an off-ball linebacker like Styles drafted in the top 10. But could Styles sneak his way into the top five?

At the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, there was some chatter that the New York Giants would have no qualms about selecting Styles at No. 5 overall. The Giants picked up free agent linebacker Tremaine Edmunds on a three-year, $36 million deal in free agency.

But they still have a need at linebacker, and Styles could be a talented player for many years to come.

#NFL #Draft #Prospects #Selected #Higher #Deadspin.com

Post Comment