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Top Remaining Veterans Teams Should Target After NFL Draft | Deadspin.com Dec 28, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) looks on after the game against the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images Dust settled on free agency weeks ago, but the talent pool wasn’t entirely drained.Dallas found another receiver post-draft, agreeing to terms on a one-year deal with Marquez Valdes-Scantling on Monday, in a sign of life left in veteran free agency. “MVS” had 14 receptions and one touchdown last season. That’s not exactly the kind of production that brings teams knocking on your door in March.But in Dallas, he was targeted to fill a clearly defined role that might include holdout insurance should negotiations with George Pickens shift from cordial to contentious as owner Jerry Jones’ history with holdouts suggests.Here are a few other veterans capable of filling a role, big or small, despite their known shortcomings:QB Aaron RodgersWeek 1 Age: 42Last season: 24 TDs, led Steelers to AFC North division titleRodgers and Mike McCarthy are both wearing the knowing smirk we read as an almost obvious sign of the pending reunion of former Packers in Pittsburgh. Rodgers can still get the job done — he had only seven interceptions with a very modest skill-position group in 2025 — and starred in this system in his physical prime. Who else is bidding? Barring injury, most teams are not likely interest in the Rodgers Rodeo. Father Time can wipe away those facial expressions quickly, and Rodgers’ next IR trip if likely his last.WR Deebo SamuelWeek 1 Age: 30Last season: 72 receptions for 727 yards, five TD receptions with CommandersSamuel’s lone season with the Commanders was a struggle and it’s hard to know how much of it was the revolving door at quarterback, a new offense, friction with jettisoned offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury or the physical toll of playing wide receiver like a running back. He has 406 career catches and could still hold down a role in the right scheme.DE Joey BosaWeek 1 Age: 31Last season: Led NFL with five forced fumbles; had 16 QB hits in 16 games Jan 30, 2025; Orlando, FL, USA; AFC linebacker Joey Bosa of the Los Angeles Chargers during the Pro Bowl Skills Challenge at Nicholson Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Bosa had 54 pressures in his only season with the Bills, which is enough for a team to think about taking a flier on the longtime Chargers’ edge rusher. He had 5.0 sacks and would make sense for a handful of contenders, including the San Francisco 49ers, where little brother Nick Bosa wouldn’t mind the help. San Francisco’s abysmal pass rush to end last season was sans Nick Bosa because of a season-ending ACL injury, and didn’t get a lot of attention in the offseason.RB Najee HarrisWeek 1 Age: 28Last season: 15 carries, 61 yards, season-ending Achilles injury Sept. 21 vs. BroncosHarris isn’t to the magical downhill decline age for running backs but there’s no denying his mileage is high, making the return from a season-ending injury last September far larger than a footnote to his 2026 status. But the 21st pick in the 2021 draft had four 1,000-yard seasons in a row, 28 rushing TDs and never missed a game in four previous seasons with the Steelers before his wheels gave him issues with the Chargers last season.WR Stefon DiggsWeek 1 Age: 33Last season: 85 receptions, 1,013 yards with Patriots Oct 5, 2025; Orchard Park, New York, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs (8) protects the ball from Buffalo Bills cornerback Taron Johnson (7) after making a catch in the fourth quarter at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images Diggs is dealing with a legal headache and won’t be considered for sainthood as a teammate, which might have something to do with him playing for the Vikings, Bills, Texans and Patriots since 2019. A disappearing act in the playoffs won’t help his cause. Diggs had 14 receptions in four games but averaged 7.9 yards per catch and his inability to consistently separate was a problem. His longest playoff catch of 13 receptions before the contested, acrobatic grab in the Super Bowl was 14 yards. #Top #Remaining #Veterans #Teams #Target #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.com

Top Remaining Veterans Teams Should Target After NFL Draft | Deadspin.com
Top Remaining Veterans Teams Should Target After NFL Draft | Deadspin.com Dec 28, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) looks on after the game against the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images Dust settled on free agency weeks ago, but the talent pool wasn’t entirely drained.Dallas found another receiver post-draft, agreeing to terms on a one-year deal with Marquez Valdes-Scantling on Monday, in a sign of life left in veteran free agency. “MVS” had 14 receptions and one touchdown last season. That’s not exactly the kind of production that brings teams knocking on your door in March.But in Dallas, he was targeted to fill a clearly defined role that might include holdout insurance should negotiations with George Pickens shift from cordial to contentious as owner Jerry Jones’ history with holdouts suggests.Here are a few other veterans capable of filling a role, big or small, despite their known shortcomings:QB Aaron RodgersWeek 1 Age: 42Last season: 24 TDs, led Steelers to AFC North division titleRodgers and Mike McCarthy are both wearing the knowing smirk we read as an almost obvious sign of the pending reunion of former Packers in Pittsburgh. Rodgers can still get the job done — he had only seven interceptions with a very modest skill-position group in 2025 — and starred in this system in his physical prime. Who else is bidding? Barring injury, most teams are not likely interest in the Rodgers Rodeo. Father Time can wipe away those facial expressions quickly, and Rodgers’ next IR trip if likely his last.WR Deebo SamuelWeek 1 Age: 30Last season: 72 receptions for 727 yards, five TD receptions with CommandersSamuel’s lone season with the Commanders was a struggle and it’s hard to know how much of it was the revolving door at quarterback, a new offense, friction with jettisoned offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury or the physical toll of playing wide receiver like a running back. He has 406 career catches and could still hold down a role in the right scheme.DE Joey BosaWeek 1 Age: 31Last season: Led NFL with five forced fumbles; had 16 QB hits in 16 games Jan 30, 2025; Orlando, FL, USA; AFC linebacker Joey Bosa of the Los Angeles Chargers during the Pro Bowl Skills Challenge at Nicholson Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Bosa had 54 pressures in his only season with the Bills, which is enough for a team to think about taking a flier on the longtime Chargers’ edge rusher. He had 5.0 sacks and would make sense for a handful of contenders, including the San Francisco 49ers, where little brother Nick Bosa wouldn’t mind the help. San Francisco’s abysmal pass rush to end last season was sans Nick Bosa because of a season-ending ACL injury, and didn’t get a lot of attention in the offseason.RB Najee HarrisWeek 1 Age: 28Last season: 15 carries, 61 yards, season-ending Achilles injury Sept. 21 vs. BroncosHarris isn’t to the magical downhill decline age for running backs but there’s no denying his mileage is high, making the return from a season-ending injury last September far larger than a footnote to his 2026 status. But the 21st pick in the 2021 draft had four 1,000-yard seasons in a row, 28 rushing TDs and never missed a game in four previous seasons with the Steelers before his wheels gave him issues with the Chargers last season.WR Stefon DiggsWeek 1 Age: 33Last season: 85 receptions, 1,013 yards with Patriots Oct 5, 2025; Orchard Park, New York, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs (8) protects the ball from Buffalo Bills cornerback Taron Johnson (7) after making a catch in the fourth quarter at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images Diggs is dealing with a legal headache and won’t be considered for sainthood as a teammate, which might have something to do with him playing for the Vikings, Bills, Texans and Patriots since 2019. A disappearing act in the playoffs won’t help his cause. Diggs had 14 receptions in four games but averaged 7.9 yards per catch and his inability to consistently separate was a problem. His longest playoff catch of 13 receptions before the contested, acrobatic grab in the Super Bowl was 14 yards. #Top #Remaining #Veterans #Teams #Target #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.comDec 28, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) looks on after the game against the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Dust settled on free agency weeks ago, but the talent pool wasn’t entirely drained.

Dallas found another receiver post-draft, agreeing to terms on a one-year deal with Marquez Valdes-Scantling on Monday, in a sign of life left in veteran free agency. “MVS” had 14 receptions and one touchdown last season. That’s not exactly the kind of production that brings teams knocking on your door in March.

But in Dallas, he was targeted to fill a clearly defined role that might include holdout insurance should negotiations with George Pickens shift from cordial to contentious as owner Jerry Jones’ history with holdouts suggests.

Here are a few other veterans capable of filling a role, big or small, despite their known shortcomings:

QB Aaron Rodgers

Week 1 Age: 42
Last season: 24 TDs, led Steelers to AFC North division title

Rodgers and Mike McCarthy are both wearing the knowing smirk we read as an almost obvious sign of the pending reunion of former Packers in Pittsburgh. Rodgers can still get the job done — he had only seven interceptions with a very modest skill-position group in 2025 — and starred in this system in his physical prime. Who else is bidding? Barring injury, most teams are not likely interest in the Rodgers Rodeo. Father Time can wipe away those facial expressions quickly, and Rodgers’ next IR trip if likely his last.

WR Deebo Samuel

Week 1 Age: 30
Last season: 72 receptions for 727 yards, five TD receptions with Commanders

Samuel’s lone season with the Commanders was a struggle and it’s hard to know how much of it was the revolving door at quarterback, a new offense, friction with jettisoned offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury or the physical toll of playing wide receiver like a running back. He has 406 career catches and could still hold down a role in the right scheme.

DE Joey Bosa

Week 1 Age: 31
Last season: Led NFL with five forced fumbles; had 16 QB hits in 16 games

Jan 30, 2025; Orlando, FL, USA; AFC linebacker Joey Bosa of the Los Angeles Chargers during the Pro Bowl Skills Challenge at Nicholson Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesJan 30, 2025; Orlando, FL, USA; AFC linebacker Joey Bosa of the Los Angeles Chargers during the Pro Bowl Skills Challenge at Nicholson Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Bosa had 54 pressures in his only season with the Bills, which is enough for a team to think about taking a flier on the longtime Chargers’ edge rusher. He had 5.0 sacks and would make sense for a handful of contenders, including the San Francisco 49ers, where little brother Nick Bosa wouldn’t mind the help. San Francisco’s abysmal pass rush to end last season was sans Nick Bosa because of a season-ending ACL injury, and didn’t get a lot of attention in the offseason.

RB Najee Harris

Week 1 Age: 28
Last season: 15 carries, 61 yards, season-ending Achilles injury Sept. 21 vs. Broncos

Harris isn’t to the magical downhill decline age for running backs but there’s no denying his mileage is high, making the return from a season-ending injury last September far larger than a footnote to his 2026 status. But the 21st pick in the 2021 draft had four 1,000-yard seasons in a row, 28 rushing TDs and never missed a game in four previous seasons with the Steelers before his wheels gave him issues with the Chargers last season.

WR Stefon Diggs

Week 1 Age: 33
Last season: 85 receptions, 1,013 yards with Patriots

Oct 5, 2025; Orchard Park, New York, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs (8) protects the ball from Buffalo Bills cornerback Taron Johnson (7) after making a catch in the fourth quarter at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn ImagesOct 5, 2025; Orchard Park, New York, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs (8) protects the ball from Buffalo Bills cornerback Taron Johnson (7) after making a catch in the fourth quarter at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images

Diggs is dealing with a legal headache and won’t be considered for sainthood as a teammate, which might have something to do with him playing for the Vikings, Bills, Texans and Patriots since 2019. A disappearing act in the playoffs won’t help his cause. Diggs had 14 receptions in four games but averaged 7.9 yards per catch and his inability to consistently separate was a problem. His longest playoff catch of 13 receptions before the contested, acrobatic grab in the Super Bowl was 14 yards.

#Top #Remaining #Veterans #Teams #Target #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.com

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Dec 28, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) looks on after the game against the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-Imagn Images

Dust settled on free agency weeks ago, but the talent pool wasn’t entirely drained.

Dallas found another receiver post-draft, agreeing to terms on a one-year deal with Marquez Valdes-Scantling on Monday, in a sign of life left in veteran free agency. “MVS” had 14 receptions and one touchdown last season. That’s not exactly the kind of production that brings teams knocking on your door in March.

But in Dallas, he was targeted to fill a clearly defined role that might include holdout insurance should negotiations with George Pickens shift from cordial to contentious as owner Jerry Jones’ history with holdouts suggests.

Here are a few other veterans capable of filling a role, big or small, despite their known shortcomings:

QB Aaron Rodgers

Week 1 Age: 42
Last season: 24 TDs, led Steelers to AFC North division title

Rodgers and Mike McCarthy are both wearing the knowing smirk we read as an almost obvious sign of the pending reunion of former Packers in Pittsburgh. Rodgers can still get the job done — he had only seven interceptions with a very modest skill-position group in 2025 — and starred in this system in his physical prime. Who else is bidding? Barring injury, most teams are not likely interest in the Rodgers Rodeo. Father Time can wipe away those facial expressions quickly, and Rodgers’ next IR trip if likely his last.

WR Deebo Samuel

Week 1 Age: 30
Last season: 72 receptions for 727 yards, five TD receptions with Commanders

Samuel’s lone season with the Commanders was a struggle and it’s hard to know how much of it was the revolving door at quarterback, a new offense, friction with jettisoned offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury or the physical toll of playing wide receiver like a running back. He has 406 career catches and could still hold down a role in the right scheme.

DE Joey Bosa

Week 1 Age: 31
Last season: Led NFL with five forced fumbles; had 16 QB hits in 16 games

Jan 30, 2025; Orlando, FL, USA; AFC linebacker Joey Bosa of the Los Angeles Chargers during the Pro Bowl Skills Challenge at Nicholson Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn ImagesJan 30, 2025; Orlando, FL, USA; AFC linebacker Joey Bosa of the Los Angeles Chargers during the Pro Bowl Skills Challenge at Nicholson Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Bosa had 54 pressures in his only season with the Bills, which is enough for a team to think about taking a flier on the longtime Chargers’ edge rusher. He had 5.0 sacks and would make sense for a handful of contenders, including the San Francisco 49ers, where little brother Nick Bosa wouldn’t mind the help. San Francisco’s abysmal pass rush to end last season was sans Nick Bosa because of a season-ending ACL injury, and didn’t get a lot of attention in the offseason.

RB Najee Harris

Week 1 Age: 28
Last season: 15 carries, 61 yards, season-ending Achilles injury Sept. 21 vs. Broncos

Harris isn’t to the magical downhill decline age for running backs but there’s no denying his mileage is high, making the return from a season-ending injury last September far larger than a footnote to his 2026 status. But the 21st pick in the 2021 draft had four 1,000-yard seasons in a row, 28 rushing TDs and never missed a game in four previous seasons with the Steelers before his wheels gave him issues with the Chargers last season.

WR Stefon Diggs

Week 1 Age: 33
Last season: 85 receptions, 1,013 yards with Patriots

Oct 5, 2025; Orchard Park, New York, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs (8) protects the ball from Buffalo Bills cornerback Taron Johnson (7) after making a catch in the fourth quarter at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn ImagesOct 5, 2025; Orchard Park, New York, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs (8) protects the ball from Buffalo Bills cornerback Taron Johnson (7) after making a catch in the fourth quarter at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images

Diggs is dealing with a legal headache and won’t be considered for sainthood as a teammate, which might have something to do with him playing for the Vikings, Bills, Texans and Patriots since 2019. A disappearing act in the playoffs won’t help his cause. Diggs had 14 receptions in four games but averaged 7.9 yards per catch and his inability to consistently separate was a problem. His longest playoff catch of 13 receptions before the contested, acrobatic grab in the Super Bowl was 14 yards.

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#Top #Remaining #Veterans #Teams #Target #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.com

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John Stones to leave Manchester City at end of season <div id="content-body-70916663" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Manchester City defender John Stones will leave the club at the end of the ongoing season, the Premier League side announced on Tuesday.</p><p>He joined Man City in 2016 and was Pep Guardiola’s second signing, going on to make 293 appearances, recording 19 goals and nine assists in that time.</p><p>“They say all good things must come to an end… but this thing we have had has been the greatest, and it will remain a part of me forever,” the 31-year-old said in a post on social media.</p><p><b>ALSO READ | <a href="https://sportstar.thehindu.com/football/international-football/eder-militao-real-madrid-brazil-out-of-world-cup-hamstring-tear-latest-news/article70916550.ece" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Real Madrid centre-back Militao ruled out of World Cup with hamstring injury</a></b></p><p>Stones has won 19 major trophies with Man City, including six Premier Leagues and its maiden UEFA Champions League title. His most recent triumph came last month when Man City beat Arsenal in the League Cup final.</p><p>Man City remains in contention ⁠to win the Premier League and FA Cup this season, second in ‌the table with 70 points, three behind Arsenal, but with a game in ​hand.</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 28, 2026</p></div> #John #Stones #leave #Manchester #City #season

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It wasn’t like there was any real decision, was there?

The PGA Tour announced on Tuesday that Alex Fitzpatrick, who won the Zurich Classic on Sunday with his brother Matt Fitzpatrick, officially accepted his membership on Tuesday.

AVONDALE, LOUISIANA - APRIL 26: Alex Fitzpatrick of England reacts on the 18th green during the final round of the Zurich Classic of New Orleans 2026 at TPC Louisiana on April 26, 2026 in Avondale, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

AVONDALE, LOUISIANA – APRIL 26: Alex Fitzpatrick of England reacts on the 18th green during the final round of the Zurich Classic of New Orleans 2026 at TPC Louisiana on April 26, 2026 in Avondale, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
Getty Images

Alex Fitzpatrick is officially a PGA Tour member and has a wide-ranging list of benefits that came as a result of his win with Matt down in New Orleans:

  • Full PGA Tour membership through the 2028 season
  • Entry into the remaining Signature Events this season
    • Starting with this week’s Cadillac Championship, the fifth of eight overall Signature Events
  • Entry into the PGA Championship this season
  • Entry into The Players next season

The CBS broadcast noted in the aftermath of the brothers winning last week that the collective lives of their whole family has now changed. Consider that while Alex is now a Tour member and has entry into these events, they can now all travel together and do things of the like. It is a pretty awesome thing for the Fitzpatricks.

It will be interesting to see how Alex fares down in Miami this week.

#Alex #Fitzpatrick #officially #accepts #PGA #Tour #membership">Alex Fitzpatrick officially accepts PGA Tour membership It wasn’t like there was any real decision, was there?The PGA Tour announced on Tuesday that Alex Fitzpatrick, who won the Zurich Classic on Sunday with his brother Matt Fitzpatrick, officially accepted his membership on Tuesday.AVONDALE, LOUISIANA – APRIL 26: Alex Fitzpatrick of England reacts on the 18th green during the final round of the Zurich Classic of New Orleans 2026 at TPC Louisiana on April 26, 2026 in Avondale, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) Getty ImagesAlex Fitzpatrick is officially a PGA Tour member and has a wide-ranging list of benefits that came as a result of his win with Matt down in New Orleans:Full PGA Tour membership through the 2028 seasonEntry into the remaining Signature Events this seasonStarting with this week’s Cadillac Championship, the fifth of eight overall Signature EventsEntry into the PGA Championship this seasonEntry into The Players next seasonThe CBS broadcast noted in the aftermath of the brothers winning last week that the collective lives of their whole family has now changed. Consider that while Alex is now a Tour member and has entry into these events, they can now all travel together and do things of the like. It is a pretty awesome thing for the Fitzpatricks.It will be interesting to see how Alex fares down in Miami this week. #Alex #Fitzpatrick #officially #accepts #PGA #Tour #membership

AVONDALE, LOUISIANA - APRIL 26: Alex Fitzpatrick of England reacts on the 18th green during the final round of the Zurich Classic of New Orleans 2026 at TPC Louisiana on April 26, 2026 in Avondale, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

AVONDALE, LOUISIANA – APRIL 26: Alex Fitzpatrick of England reacts on the 18th green during the final round of the Zurich Classic of New Orleans 2026 at TPC Louisiana on April 26, 2026 in Avondale, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
Getty Images

Alex Fitzpatrick is officially a PGA Tour member and has a wide-ranging list of benefits that came as a result of his win with Matt down in New Orleans:

  • Full PGA Tour membership through the 2028 season
  • Entry into the remaining Signature Events this season
    • Starting with this week’s Cadillac Championship, the fifth of eight overall Signature Events
  • Entry into the PGA Championship this season
  • Entry into The Players next season

The CBS broadcast noted in the aftermath of the brothers winning last week that the collective lives of their whole family has now changed. Consider that while Alex is now a Tour member and has entry into these events, they can now all travel together and do things of the like. It is a pretty awesome thing for the Fitzpatricks.

It will be interesting to see how Alex fares down in Miami this week.

#Alex #Fitzpatrick #officially #accepts #PGA #Tour #membership">Alex Fitzpatrick officially accepts PGA Tour membership

It wasn’t like there was any real decision, was there?

The PGA Tour announced on Tuesday that Alex Fitzpatrick, who won the Zurich Classic on Sunday with his brother Matt Fitzpatrick, officially accepted his membership on Tuesday.

AVONDALE, LOUISIANA - APRIL 26: Alex Fitzpatrick of England reacts on the 18th green during the final round of the Zurich Classic of New Orleans 2026 at TPC Louisiana on April 26, 2026 in Avondale, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)

AVONDALE, LOUISIANA – APRIL 26: Alex Fitzpatrick of England reacts on the 18th green during the final round of the Zurich Classic of New Orleans 2026 at TPC Louisiana on April 26, 2026 in Avondale, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images)
Getty Images

Alex Fitzpatrick is officially a PGA Tour member and has a wide-ranging list of benefits that came as a result of his win with Matt down in New Orleans:

  • Full PGA Tour membership through the 2028 season
  • Entry into the remaining Signature Events this season
    • Starting with this week’s Cadillac Championship, the fifth of eight overall Signature Events
  • Entry into the PGA Championship this season
  • Entry into The Players next season

The CBS broadcast noted in the aftermath of the brothers winning last week that the collective lives of their whole family has now changed. Consider that while Alex is now a Tour member and has entry into these events, they can now all travel together and do things of the like. It is a pretty awesome thing for the Fitzpatricks.

It will be interesting to see how Alex fares down in Miami this week.

#Alex #Fitzpatrick #officially #accepts #PGA #Tour #membership

The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association recently called out for applicants to appear for the State Panel Umpire exams. For the first time, the application form allowed a person to select ‘Other’ in the gender category, in addition to Male and Female. While it may look like a small change, it came thanks to the sheer grit and determination of a 31-year-old umpire from Coimbatore.

R. Rithika Sri is a transwoman from Salem who has been umpiring in the Salem and Coimbatore circuit since 2021 and has been instrumental in forcing this through.

Rithika is the first transgender umpire in Tamil Nadu. Born as R. Muthuraj, she is a diploma holder in Mechanical Engineering. The engineering dropout was working in Mohali at a call centre when she caught the umpiring bug while watching the IPL.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit and forced her to return to her hometown, Rithika decided to try to become an umpire.

“I contacted the Salem District Cricket Association through social media. U. Jayaraman, the umpire committee chairman, played a key role in guiding me. I also have to credit two senior umpires, R. Parthasarathy and V. Santhi Booshan, for teaching me everything about umpiring,” Rithika told Sportstar.

“She was a quick learner and rose through the ranks to become one of the best in our district,” said Jayaraman, who is also a psychometric assessor.

It was around this time that Rithika was contemplating a gender transition. “Jayaraman sir and his wife supported me through this phase. Then, he advised me to establish myself as an umpire for a few years before transitioning, so that my progress is not halted. They were worried I would face discrimination otherwise,” she added.

After deciding to undergo transition in Coimbatore in 2024, Rithika shifted to the CDCA league last year.

Speaking about the challenges, Rithika recalls being turned away from a cricket ground. “The first time in Coimbatore, I went to watch because they wanted me to get familiar with the new district, but I was denied entry, and there were hurtful comments. I went back home crying after an hour, but not before fighting back against them. People often accuse trans people of begging, but then, at the same time, they don’t allow us to pursue a dignified livelihood. Can’t a transperson become an umpire?” she asks.

It was then that CDCA secretary R. Chandramouli and joint secretary K. Mahalingam ensured no ground would discriminate against her.

“CDCA held a meeting and informed all the grounds about me and ensured my safety. Since then, I have officiated in over 15 matches from the first to sixth division in the CDCA league.

“I have never had an issue on the field. The players have been respectful. During the games, there is little scope to talk, and it is only about the game. Over time, once they get to know us, they might open up and become friendly.”

Chandramouli revealed he even shifted matches from one ground which would not allow her. “She is a bold woman, and the feedback from the players and other umpires has been good. She recently cleared the CDCA umpiring exam in February and the Viva last month. She will now give the TNCA exam in June, and we will support her,” said Chandramouli.

Looking ahead, Rithika says she wants to prove to society that a trans person can be successful in a variety of fields. “I don’t think society is ever going to change, but still, I want to achieve something and leave a mark. My focus is now to clear the TNCA exams and then eventually clear the BCCI exams as well,” said Rithika.

Published on Apr 28, 2026

#Meet #Rithika #Sri #transgender #umpire #Tamil #Nadu">Meet Rithika Sri, the first transgender umpire from Tamil Nadu The Tamil Nadu Cricket Association recently called out for applicants to appear for the State Panel Umpire exams. For the first time, the application form allowed a person to select ‘Other’ in the gender category, in addition to Male and Female. While it may look like a small change, it came thanks to the sheer grit and determination of a 31-year-old umpire from Coimbatore.R. Rithika Sri is a transwoman from Salem who has been umpiring in the Salem and Coimbatore circuit since 2021 and has been instrumental in forcing this through.Rithika is the first transgender umpire in Tamil Nadu. Born as R. Muthuraj, she is a diploma holder in Mechanical Engineering. The engineering dropout was working in Mohali at a call centre when she caught the umpiring bug while watching the IPL.When the COVID-19 pandemic hit and forced her to return to her hometown, Rithika decided to try to become an umpire.“I contacted the Salem District Cricket Association through social media. U. Jayaraman, the umpire committee chairman, played a key role in guiding me. I also have to credit two senior umpires, R. Parthasarathy and V. Santhi Booshan, for teaching me everything about umpiring,” Rithika told Sportstar.“She was a quick learner and rose through the ranks to become one of the best in our district,” said Jayaraman, who is also a psychometric assessor.It was around this time that Rithika was contemplating a gender transition. “Jayaraman sir and his wife supported me through this phase. Then, he advised me to establish myself as an umpire for a few years before transitioning, so that my progress is not halted. They were worried I would face discrimination otherwise,” she added.After deciding to undergo transition in Coimbatore in 2024, Rithika shifted to the CDCA league last year.Speaking about the challenges, Rithika recalls being turned away from a cricket ground. “The first time in Coimbatore, I went to watch because they wanted me to get familiar with the new district, but I was denied entry, and there were hurtful comments. I went back home crying after an hour, but not before fighting back against them. People often accuse trans people of begging, but then, at the same time, they don’t allow us to pursue a dignified livelihood. Can’t a transperson become an umpire?” she asks.It was then that CDCA secretary R. Chandramouli and joint secretary K. Mahalingam ensured no ground would discriminate against her.“CDCA held a meeting and informed all the grounds about me and ensured my safety. Since then, I have officiated in over 15 matches from the first to sixth division in the CDCA league.“I have never had an issue on the field. The players have been respectful. During the games, there is little scope to talk, and it is only about the game. Over time, once they get to know us, they might open up and become friendly.”Chandramouli revealed he even shifted matches from one ground which would not allow her. “She is a bold woman, and the feedback from the players and other umpires has been good. She recently cleared the CDCA umpiring exam in February and the Viva last month. She will now give the TNCA exam in June, and we will support her,” said Chandramouli.Looking ahead, Rithika says she wants to prove to society that a trans person can be successful in a variety of fields. “I don’t think society is ever going to change, but still, I want to achieve something and leave a mark. My focus is now to clear the TNCA exams and then eventually clear the BCCI exams as well,” said Rithika.Published on Apr 28, 2026 #Meet #Rithika #Sri #transgender #umpire #Tamil #Nadu

Deadspin | Alex Cora to Red Sox fans: ‘Boston, we will miss you’ Feb 22, 2026; Fort Myers, Florida, USA; Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora (13) looks on during the first inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at JetBlue Park at Fenway South. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images Fired Red Sox manager Alex Cora sent a short farewell note to Boston via social media on Tuesday. “Boston, we will miss you,” he wrote. “Gracias for making us part of you. #RedSoxNation, you are the [heart emoji] of that team, keep believing, you really care and that’s what pushes everyone in the @RedSox to give it all day in and day out. “With respect and love, AC” Team officials dismissed Cora and five of coaches on Saturday after the Red Sox staggered out of the gate to start the season at 10-17. While Cora’s firing has been met with some support among fans, posts on social media show they largely place the blame for the team’s woes on management, especially owner John Henry and Craig Breslow, the chief baseball owner. After serving as bench coach for the 2017 world champion Houston Astros, Cora was hired as manager in Boston in 2018. He led the Red Sox to a franchise-record 108 victories and a World Series title. However, after the 2019 campaign, Cora was implicated in an MLB investigation involving sign-stealing by the Astros. MLB undertook an investigation into the Red Sox practices, but Cora and the Red Sox mutually agreed to separate before the 2020 season. Cora, 50, was suspended for the 2020 season for his role in Houston, but returned to Boston as manager in 2021. After missing the playoffs from 2022-24, the Red Sox returned last season, but lost a American League wild-card series to the New York Yankees. Cora posted an eight-year regular-season record of 619-541 and postseason mark of 18-10. Chad Tracy has been elevated from manager at Triple-A Worcester to serve as interim manager of the Red Sox. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Alex #Cora #Red #Sox #fans #BostonFeb 22, 2026; Fort Myers, Florida, USA; Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora (13) looks on during the first inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at JetBlue Park at Fenway South. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images

Fired Red Sox manager Alex Cora sent a short farewell note to Boston via social media on Tuesday.

“Boston, we will miss you,” he wrote.

“Gracias for making us part of you. #RedSoxNation, you are the [heart emoji] of that team, keep believing, you really care and that’s what pushes everyone in the @RedSox to give it all day in and day out.

“With respect and love, AC”

Team officials dismissed Cora and five of coaches on Saturday after the Red Sox staggered out of the gate to start the season at 10-17.

While Cora’s firing has been met with some support among fans, posts on social media show they largely place the blame for the team’s woes on management, especially owner John Henry and Craig Breslow, the chief baseball owner.


After serving as bench coach for the 2017 world champion Houston Astros, Cora was hired as manager in Boston in 2018. He led the Red Sox to a franchise-record 108 victories and a World Series title.

However, after the 2019 campaign, Cora was implicated in an MLB investigation involving sign-stealing by the Astros. MLB undertook an investigation into the Red Sox practices, but Cora and the Red Sox mutually agreed to separate before the 2020 season.

Cora, 50, was suspended for the 2020 season for his role in Houston, but returned to Boston as manager in 2021.

After missing the playoffs from 2022-24, the Red Sox returned last season, but lost a American League wild-card series to the New York Yankees.

Cora posted an eight-year regular-season record of 619-541 and postseason mark of 18-10.

Chad Tracy has been elevated from manager at Triple-A Worcester to serve as interim manager of the Red Sox.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Alex #Cora #Red #Sox #fans #Boston">Deadspin | Alex Cora to Red Sox fans: ‘Boston, we will miss you’ Feb 22, 2026; Fort Myers, Florida, USA; Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora (13) looks on during the first inning against the Toronto Blue Jays at JetBlue Park at Fenway South. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images Fired Red Sox manager Alex Cora sent a short farewell note to Boston via social media on Tuesday. “Boston, we will miss you,” he wrote. “Gracias for making us part of you. #RedSoxNation, you are the [heart emoji] of that team, keep believing, you really care and that’s what pushes everyone in the @RedSox to give it all day in and day out. “With respect and love, AC” Team officials dismissed Cora and five of coaches on Saturday after the Red Sox staggered out of the gate to start the season at 10-17. While Cora’s firing has been met with some support among fans, posts on social media show they largely place the blame for the team’s woes on management, especially owner John Henry and Craig Breslow, the chief baseball owner. After serving as bench coach for the 2017 world champion Houston Astros, Cora was hired as manager in Boston in 2018. He led the Red Sox to a franchise-record 108 victories and a World Series title. However, after the 2019 campaign, Cora was implicated in an MLB investigation involving sign-stealing by the Astros. MLB undertook an investigation into the Red Sox practices, but Cora and the Red Sox mutually agreed to separate before the 2020 season. Cora, 50, was suspended for the 2020 season for his role in Houston, but returned to Boston as manager in 2021. After missing the playoffs from 2022-24, the Red Sox returned last season, but lost a American League wild-card series to the New York Yankees. Cora posted an eight-year regular-season record of 619-541 and postseason mark of 18-10. Chad Tracy has been elevated from manager at Triple-A Worcester to serve as interim manager of the Red Sox. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Alex #Cora #Red #Sox #fans #Boston

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