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2027 NFL Draft: Teams Most Likely To Land the No. 1 Overall Pick | Deadspin.com Dec 31, 2025; Orlando, FL, USA; Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs with the ball against the Michigan Wolverines during the first half at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images There are always signs of what’s to come in the NFL. Knowing where to look is the cheat code.The 2027 NFL Draft class is stacked. Incredible players with No. 1 pick potential at multiple positions are chasing Ohio State receiver Jeremiah Smith and Texas quarterback Arch Manning, who is tasked with the heavy burden of carrying on his family legacy.Peeking back at the 2025 preseason, there were obvious cracks in the plan devised by the Raiders to give a rejuvenated Pete Carroll and last-chance (or not) quarterback Geno Smith a chance at reviving the franchise that wound up with the top pick in the 2026 draft. The same is true of the Jets, who were trying again to resuscitate Justin Fields before disarming the defense in the midst of a run of failures and injuries. Arizona? Tennessee? The Giants? Yeah, we guessed they’d be this bad.The easiest way to make the list is doubt or a complete lack of clarity at the quarterback position.Fast forward to the present, and it’s rather easy to project failures in team-building — or large-scale rebuilding efforts to clean up the mess of a prior regime — to cast these teams as the best candidates to be drafting at the top in 2027.Miami DolphinsThe Dolphins have an absolutely barren roster built on extremely limited foundational pieces. While they made a couple splash additions in free agency, including bridge quarterback and former Packers backup Malik Willis, they’re mostly primed for a rebuild. If Willis is not able to elevate the team above the sum of its shaky parts, the Dolphins could be a prime candidate for the first overall pick in the 2027 draft. The question becomes if they give up on Willis immediately or take one of the blue-chip edge rushers or receivers this class has on hand.Arizona Cardinals Dec 7, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing with quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) against the Los Angeles Rams at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The Cardinals are currently rolling out either a third-round rookie, Gardner Minshew, or Jacoby Brissett to start on week one, none of whom are particularly inspiring options. Ossenfort has been questioned about his ability to put foundational pieces together in the later rounds, and his big-time selection, Marvin Harrison Jr., has so far been a bit of a disappointment. It would not shock me if the Cardinals went into full tank mode under Mike LaFleur, cleaned house in the front office, and went into the next season with a new quarterback taken with the number one pick.Cleveland Browns Quarterbacks Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel practice together at the Browns mini camp in Berea on April 21, 2026. You can blow smoke all you want that Deshaun Watson is back in pre-suspension form, but it’s hard to believe that the Browns will be a competent team with him at the helm, both from a morale and a pure play standpoint. The team does not seem committed to either of their sophomore players, and even if you wanted to try giving Taylen Green the reins, that seems like a long-term play and not a day-one option. More than likely, there will be too many cooks in the kitchen and the Browns will just lose out as much as possible. Here’s hoping the future is brighter for them.Atlanta FalconsWhile Michael Penix Jr. and Tua Tagovailoa are competent enough quarterbacks, their list of injuries combined is longer than a CVS receipt. If both of them bite the injury bug, their defense is not going to be able to drag them to more than a few wins, which could result in them obtaining the number one pick. Their whole offense could use a revamp, so this might not be the worst for them, but it would be a mild surprise considering the perceived weakness of the NFC South for the last several seasons. #NFL #Draft #Teams #Land #Pick #Deadspin.com

2027 NFL Draft: Teams Most Likely To Land the No. 1 Overall Pick | Deadspin.com
2027 NFL Draft: Teams Most Likely To Land the No. 1 Overall Pick | Deadspin.com Dec 31, 2025; Orlando, FL, USA; Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs with the ball against the Michigan Wolverines during the first half at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images There are always signs of what’s to come in the NFL. Knowing where to look is the cheat code.The 2027 NFL Draft class is stacked. Incredible players with No. 1 pick potential at multiple positions are chasing Ohio State receiver Jeremiah Smith and Texas quarterback Arch Manning, who is tasked with the heavy burden of carrying on his family legacy.Peeking back at the 2025 preseason, there were obvious cracks in the plan devised by the Raiders to give a rejuvenated Pete Carroll and last-chance (or not) quarterback Geno Smith a chance at reviving the franchise that wound up with the top pick in the 2026 draft. The same is true of the Jets, who were trying again to resuscitate Justin Fields before disarming the defense in the midst of a run of failures and injuries. Arizona? Tennessee? The Giants? Yeah, we guessed they’d be this bad.The easiest way to make the list is doubt or a complete lack of clarity at the quarterback position.Fast forward to the present, and it’s rather easy to project failures in team-building — or large-scale rebuilding efforts to clean up the mess of a prior regime — to cast these teams as the best candidates to be drafting at the top in 2027.Miami DolphinsThe Dolphins have an absolutely barren roster built on extremely limited foundational pieces. While they made a couple splash additions in free agency, including bridge quarterback and former Packers backup Malik Willis, they’re mostly primed for a rebuild. If Willis is not able to elevate the team above the sum of its shaky parts, the Dolphins could be a prime candidate for the first overall pick in the 2027 draft. The question becomes if they give up on Willis immediately or take one of the blue-chip edge rushers or receivers this class has on hand.Arizona Cardinals Dec 7, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing with quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) against the Los Angeles Rams at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The Cardinals are currently rolling out either a third-round rookie, Gardner Minshew, or Jacoby Brissett to start on week one, none of whom are particularly inspiring options. Ossenfort has been questioned about his ability to put foundational pieces together in the later rounds, and his big-time selection, Marvin Harrison Jr., has so far been a bit of a disappointment. It would not shock me if the Cardinals went into full tank mode under Mike LaFleur, cleaned house in the front office, and went into the next season with a new quarterback taken with the number one pick.Cleveland Browns Quarterbacks Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel practice together at the Browns mini camp in Berea on April 21, 2026. You can blow smoke all you want that Deshaun Watson is back in pre-suspension form, but it’s hard to believe that the Browns will be a competent team with him at the helm, both from a morale and a pure play standpoint. The team does not seem committed to either of their sophomore players, and even if you wanted to try giving Taylen Green the reins, that seems like a long-term play and not a day-one option. More than likely, there will be too many cooks in the kitchen and the Browns will just lose out as much as possible. Here’s hoping the future is brighter for them.Atlanta FalconsWhile Michael Penix Jr. and Tua Tagovailoa are competent enough quarterbacks, their list of injuries combined is longer than a CVS receipt. If both of them bite the injury bug, their defense is not going to be able to drag them to more than a few wins, which could result in them obtaining the number one pick. Their whole offense could use a revamp, so this might not be the worst for them, but it would be a mild surprise considering the perceived weakness of the NFC South for the last several seasons. #NFL #Draft #Teams #Land #Pick #Deadspin.comDec 31, 2025; Orlando, FL, USA; Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs with the ball against the Michigan Wolverines during the first half at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images

There are always signs of what’s to come in the NFL. Knowing where to look is the cheat code.

The 2027 NFL Draft class is stacked. Incredible players with No. 1 pick potential at multiple positions are chasing Ohio State receiver Jeremiah Smith and Texas quarterback Arch Manning, who is tasked with the heavy burden of carrying on his family legacy.

Peeking back at the 2025 preseason, there were obvious cracks in the plan devised by the Raiders to give a rejuvenated Pete Carroll and last-chance (or not) quarterback Geno Smith a chance at reviving the franchise that wound up with the top pick in the 2026 draft. The same is true of the Jets, who were trying again to resuscitate Justin Fields before disarming the defense in the midst of a run of failures and injuries. Arizona? Tennessee? The Giants? Yeah, we guessed they’d be this bad.

The easiest way to make the list is doubt or a complete lack of clarity at the quarterback position.

Fast forward to the present, and it’s rather easy to project failures in team-building — or large-scale rebuilding efforts to clean up the mess of a prior regime — to cast these teams as the best candidates to be drafting at the top in 2027.

Miami Dolphins

The Dolphins have an absolutely barren roster built on extremely limited foundational pieces. While they made a couple splash additions in free agency, including bridge quarterback and former Packers backup Malik Willis, they’re mostly primed for a rebuild. If Willis is not able to elevate the team above the sum of its shaky parts, the Dolphins could be a prime candidate for the first overall pick in the 2027 draft. The question becomes if they give up on Willis immediately or take one of the blue-chip edge rushers or receivers this class has on hand.

Arizona Cardinals

Dec 7, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing with quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) against the Los Angeles Rams at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesDec 7, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing with quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) against the Los Angeles Rams at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Cardinals are currently rolling out either a third-round rookie, Gardner Minshew, or Jacoby Brissett to start on week one, none of whom are particularly inspiring options. Ossenfort has been questioned about his ability to put foundational pieces together in the later rounds, and his big-time selection, Marvin Harrison Jr., has so far been a bit of a disappointment. It would not shock me if the Cardinals went into full tank mode under Mike LaFleur, cleaned house in the front office, and went into the next season with a new quarterback taken with the number one pick.

Cleveland Browns

Quarterbacks Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel practice together at the Browns mini camp in Berea on April 21, 2026.Quarterbacks Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel practice together at the Browns mini camp in Berea on April 21, 2026.

You can blow smoke all you want that Deshaun Watson is back in pre-suspension form, but it’s hard to believe that the Browns will be a competent team with him at the helm, both from a morale and a pure play standpoint. The team does not seem committed to either of their sophomore players, and even if you wanted to try giving Taylen Green the reins, that seems like a long-term play and not a day-one option. More than likely, there will be too many cooks in the kitchen and the Browns will just lose out as much as possible. Here’s hoping the future is brighter for them.

Atlanta Falcons

While Michael Penix Jr. and Tua Tagovailoa are competent enough quarterbacks, their list of injuries combined is longer than a CVS receipt. If both of them bite the injury bug, their defense is not going to be able to drag them to more than a few wins, which could result in them obtaining the number one pick. Their whole offense could use a revamp, so this might not be the worst for them, but it would be a mild surprise considering the perceived weakness of the NFC South for the last several seasons.

#NFL #Draft #Teams #Land #Pick #Deadspin.com

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Dec 31, 2025; Orlando, FL, USA; Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs with the ball against the Michigan Wolverines during the first half at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images

There are always signs of what’s to come in the NFL. Knowing where to look is the cheat code.

The 2027 NFL Draft class is stacked. Incredible players with No. 1 pick potential at multiple positions are chasing Ohio State receiver Jeremiah Smith and Texas quarterback Arch Manning, who is tasked with the heavy burden of carrying on his family legacy.

Peeking back at the 2025 preseason, there were obvious cracks in the plan devised by the Raiders to give a rejuvenated Pete Carroll and last-chance (or not) quarterback Geno Smith a chance at reviving the franchise that wound up with the top pick in the 2026 draft. The same is true of the Jets, who were trying again to resuscitate Justin Fields before disarming the defense in the midst of a run of failures and injuries. Arizona? Tennessee? The Giants? Yeah, we guessed they’d be this bad.

The easiest way to make the list is doubt or a complete lack of clarity at the quarterback position.

Fast forward to the present, and it’s rather easy to project failures in team-building — or large-scale rebuilding efforts to clean up the mess of a prior regime — to cast these teams as the best candidates to be drafting at the top in 2027.

Miami Dolphins

The Dolphins have an absolutely barren roster built on extremely limited foundational pieces. While they made a couple splash additions in free agency, including bridge quarterback and former Packers backup Malik Willis, they’re mostly primed for a rebuild. If Willis is not able to elevate the team above the sum of its shaky parts, the Dolphins could be a prime candidate for the first overall pick in the 2027 draft. The question becomes if they give up on Willis immediately or take one of the blue-chip edge rushers or receivers this class has on hand.

Arizona Cardinals

Dec 7, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing with quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) against the Los Angeles Rams at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesDec 7, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing with quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) against the Los Angeles Rams at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Cardinals are currently rolling out either a third-round rookie, Gardner Minshew, or Jacoby Brissett to start on week one, none of whom are particularly inspiring options. Ossenfort has been questioned about his ability to put foundational pieces together in the later rounds, and his big-time selection, Marvin Harrison Jr., has so far been a bit of a disappointment. It would not shock me if the Cardinals went into full tank mode under Mike LaFleur, cleaned house in the front office, and went into the next season with a new quarterback taken with the number one pick.

Cleveland Browns

Quarterbacks Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel practice together at the Browns mini camp in Berea on April 21, 2026.Quarterbacks Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel practice together at the Browns mini camp in Berea on April 21, 2026.

You can blow smoke all you want that Deshaun Watson is back in pre-suspension form, but it’s hard to believe that the Browns will be a competent team with him at the helm, both from a morale and a pure play standpoint. The team does not seem committed to either of their sophomore players, and even if you wanted to try giving Taylen Green the reins, that seems like a long-term play and not a day-one option. More than likely, there will be too many cooks in the kitchen and the Browns will just lose out as much as possible. Here’s hoping the future is brighter for them.

Atlanta Falcons

While Michael Penix Jr. and Tua Tagovailoa are competent enough quarterbacks, their list of injuries combined is longer than a CVS receipt. If both of them bite the injury bug, their defense is not going to be able to drag them to more than a few wins, which could result in them obtaining the number one pick. Their whole offense could use a revamp, so this might not be the worst for them, but it would be a mild surprise considering the perceived weakness of the NFC South for the last several seasons.

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Sourav Kothari calls for cue sports’ inclusion in 2030 Commonwealth Games after World Championships title defence <div id="content-body-70925093" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Sourav Kothari on Thursday said the bubble of numbness around him, following the death of his father and former World champion Manoj Kothari in January, insulated him from pressure and helped him retain his IBSF World Billiards title in Carlow, Ireland.</p><p>In a repeat of last year’s World championships final, Kothari defeated Pankaj Advani 1133-477 to defend his crown. Kothari, who was close to his father-cum-coach, described his achievement as ‘bittersweet.’</p><p>“I didn’t have any expectations. The world around me has suddenly become a little empty, I’ve just become numb. That probably helped me win this world title,” said Kothari at a virtual press conference, organised by the Sports Authority of India (SAI), on Thursday.</p><p>About his Carlow campaign, Kothari – who clinched the National title within weeks of his father’s demise – said, “It’s contrasting. Last year no one really threatened me. This year, in every match, starting from David Causier (757-498) in the quarterfinal, Dhvaj Haria (633-443) in the semis and (Advani in the) final, my opponents started with a bang. Luckily, I came from behind. In the final, Pankaj made a 167 break, and I replied with a 485 break, which took me one hour and two minutes.”</p><p><b>ALSO READ: <a href="https://sportstar.thehindu.com/football/india-afc-u17-womens-asian-cup-campaign-coach-pamela-conti-mantra-no-pressure-enjoy/article70923860.ece" target="_self">‘No pressure’ is the mantra for Pamela Conti as India kicks off AFC U-17 Women’s Asian Cup campaign</a></b></p><p>The 41-year-old Kolkata cueist said even though he missed his daily routine of neck and back exercises, he managed to pull off the crucial break. He revealed that his decision to walk from the hotel to the venue, despite wearing leather shoes and nursing a dodgy left foot, every time in the ‘crisp and pollution-free air’ of the countryside was also beneficial. “It was a good 20-minute walk. It helped me so much.”</p><p>Kothari hoped that cue sports would feature in the 2030 Commonwealth Games to be hosted by India.</p><p>“We are back in the Asian Games in 2030. Our federation, the Billiards and Snooker Federation of India (BSFI), is trying to get the sport into the 2030 Commonwealth Games. We’ve won multiple gold medals at the Asian Games. It will be great, not just for our sport but also for India’s medal tally, if we are included in the Commonwealth Games,” said Kothari.</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 30, 2026</p></div> #Sourav #Kothari #calls #cue #sports #inclusion #Commonwealth #Games #World #Championships #title #defence

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FIDE reveals provisional dates for Gukesh-Sindarov World Championship match, opens bidding process <div id="content-body-70925325" itemprop="articleBody"><p>The FIDE World Championship match between reigning champion D. Gukesh and challenger Javokhir Sindarov is provisionally scheduled to be held from November 23 to December 17 later this year, with the world body opening the bidding process for countries to host the event on Thursday.</p><p>It remains to be seen whether India, and Chennai in particular, will show strong interest in hosting the marquee event, given that Gukesh is from the city. R. Vaishali, the challenger for the Women’s World Championship, is also from Tamil Nadu.</p><p>The match between Gukesh and Sindarov, who remained unbeaten at the Candidates 2026, will be the youngest World Championship clash in chess history, with both players set to be 20 when the event begins.</p><p><b>ALSO READ: <a href="https://sportstar.thehindu.com/chess/fide-world-championship-host-chennai-india-bid/article70880039.ece" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">FIDE World Championship host: Chennai eyes bid as India pushes for historic opportunity</a></b></p><p>Earlier this year, A.K. Verma, Head of Operations at the All India Chess Federation, told <b><i>Sportstar </i></b>that India would make a strong push to bring the World Championship matches to the country, especially with Indians featuring in both categories.</p><p>FIDE has released a list of requirements for potential bidders, including an estimated total event budget of USD 8.5 million. The minimum prize fund has been set at USD 2.5 million, while the FIDE fee will be USD 1.1 million.</p><p>Payments for commercial, sponsorship and broadcasting rights will have to be specified in the bidders’ proposals.</p><p>FIDE has also stated that its final decision will be based on the overall conditions offered by the bidders and the interests of chess development.</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 30, 2026</p></div> #FIDE #reveals #provisional #dates #GukeshSindarov #World #Championship #match #opens #bidding #process

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April 30th NBA Playoffs Best Betting Picks and Predictions | Deadspin.com Apr 28, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) shoots the ball against Boston Celtics center Neemias Queta (88)nin the first quarter during game five of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images Two home teams are facing elimination in the NBA playoffs on Thursday night.The Philadelphia 76ers extended their series back home for Game 6 against the Boston Celtics, while the Atlanta Hawks try to stay alive against the New York Knicks in Atlanta.We’ll break down three plays for the Thursday action. Remember to monitor the odds throughout the day, as the sides and totals market is constantly changing.Here are the free NBA picks for Thursday, April 30. Odds Courtesy of DraftKingsBest NBA plays todayCeltics (-5.5) at 76ersKnicks (-2.5) at HawksNuggets/Timberwolves Under (224.5)Celtics (-5.5) at 76ers – 8:00 p.m. ETPhiladelphia stunned Boston in Game 5 as 10.5-point road underdogs, 113-97 to stay alive. The 76ers return home looking to force a Game 7, but Philadelphia has lost both home games to Boston.The Celtics were held to 11 points in the fourth quarter in Game 5, while shooting 28% from 3-point range. Boston limited Philadelphia to an average of 98.0 points per game in two road wins, capped off by a 128-96 blowout in Game 4.Philadelphia is 2-11 straight-up and 3-9-1 against the spread in the last 13 games as a single-digit underdog. Boston should bounce back tonight and eliminate Philadelphia with a road cover in Game 6. Our Current Best Offers1UnderdogClaim your Special Pick via Code + First Time Deposit up to 0 in bonus!T&Cs apply, 18+2ParlayPlay100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+3OwnersBox100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+4FanDuel Fantasy value with just a + depositT&Cs apply, 18+ Knicks (-2.5) at Hawks – 8:00 p.m. ETThe Hawks led the Knicks, 2-1 through three games, but New York has rebounded with consecutive victories. New York seeks its fourth consecutive trip to the second round as the Knicks are favored on the road.In each of the past two wins, the Knicks dominated with a pair of double-digit blowouts. Jalen Brunson dropped 39 points in the Game 5 rout, as the Knicks shot 57% from the floor.Hawks G CJ McCollum is coming off his worst offensive game of the series, getting held to six points on 3-of-10 shooting. Atlanta’s two victories came by one point apiece, so New York was that close to sweeping this series. Let’s lay the short number with the Knicks to finish off the series. Our Current Best Offers1UnderdogClaim your Special Pick via Code + First Time Deposit up to 0 in bonus!T&Cs apply, 18+2ParlayPlay100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+3OwnersBox100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+4FanDuel Fantasy value with just a + depositT&Cs apply, 18+ Nuggets/Timberwolves Under (224.5) – 9:30 p.m. ETMinnesota Timberwolves can finish off the Denver Nuggets at home tonight, but has to do so without leading scorer Anthony Edwards. He remains sidelined after getting injured in Game 4, as the Nuggets took advantage with a Game 5 home triumph.The Wolves still lead the series, 3-2 returning to Target Center off a 125-113 loss in Denver on a 225.5 total. Tonight’s total has dipped one point after the teams combined for 39 points from the foul line in Game 4.Each of the two games in Minneapolis finished under the total easily, with the Nuggets getting held to 96 points each time. Look for a defensive battle after the highest-scoring game of the series in tonight’s pivotal Game 6. Our Current Best Offers1UnderdogClaim your Special Pick via Code + First Time Deposit up to 0 in bonus!T&Cs apply, 18+2ParlayPlay100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+3OwnersBox100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+4FanDuel Fantasy value with just a + depositT&Cs apply, 18+ #April #30th #NBA #Playoffs #Betting #Picks #Predictions #Deadspin.comApr 28, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) shoots the ball against Boston Celtics center Neemias Queta (88)nin the first quarter during game five of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images

Two home teams are facing elimination in the NBA playoffs on Thursday night.

The Philadelphia 76ers extended their series back home for Game 6 against the Boston Celtics, while the Atlanta Hawks try to stay alive against the New York Knicks in Atlanta.

We’ll break down three plays for the Thursday action. Remember to monitor the odds throughout the day, as the sides and totals market is constantly changing.

Here are the free NBA picks for Thursday, April 30. Odds Courtesy of DraftKings

Best NBA plays today

  • Celtics (-5.5) at 76ers
  • Knicks (-2.5) at Hawks
  • Nuggets/Timberwolves Under (224.5)

Celtics (-5.5) at 76ers – 8:00 p.m. ET

Philadelphia stunned Boston in Game 5 as 10.5-point road underdogs, 113-97 to stay alive. The 76ers return home looking to force a Game 7, but Philadelphia has lost both home games to Boston.

The Celtics were held to 11 points in the fourth quarter in Game 5, while shooting 28% from 3-point range. Boston limited Philadelphia to an average of 98.0 points per game in two road wins, capped off by a 128-96 blowout in Game 4.

Philadelphia is 2-11 straight-up and 3-9-1 against the spread in the last 13 games as a single-digit underdog. Boston should bounce back tonight and eliminate Philadelphia with a road cover in Game 6.

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Knicks (-2.5) at Hawks – 8:00 p.m. ET

The Hawks led the Knicks, 2-1 through three games, but New York has rebounded with consecutive victories. New York seeks its fourth consecutive trip to the second round as the Knicks are favored on the road.

In each of the past two wins, the Knicks dominated with a pair of double-digit blowouts. Jalen Brunson dropped 39 points in the Game 5 rout, as the Knicks shot 57% from the floor.

Hawks G CJ McCollum is coming off his worst offensive game of the series, getting held to six points on 3-of-10 shooting. Atlanta’s two victories came by one point apiece, so New York was that close to sweeping this series. Let’s lay the short number with the Knicks to finish off the series.

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Nuggets/Timberwolves Under (224.5) – 9:30 p.m. ET

Minnesota Timberwolves can finish off the Denver Nuggets at home tonight, but has to do so without leading scorer Anthony Edwards. He remains sidelined after getting injured in Game 4, as the Nuggets took advantage with a Game 5 home triumph.

The Wolves still lead the series, 3-2 returning to Target Center off a 125-113 loss in Denver on a 225.5 total. Tonight’s total has dipped one point after the teams combined for 39 points from the foul line in Game 4.

Each of the two games in Minneapolis finished under the total easily, with the Nuggets getting held to 96 points each time. Look for a defensive battle after the highest-scoring game of the series in tonight’s pivotal Game 6.

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#April #30th #NBA #Playoffs #Betting #Picks #Predictions #Deadspin.com">April 30th NBA Playoffs Best Betting Picks and Predictions | Deadspin.com Apr 28, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) shoots the ball against Boston Celtics center Neemias Queta (88)nin the first quarter during game five of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images Two home teams are facing elimination in the NBA playoffs on Thursday night.The Philadelphia 76ers extended their series back home for Game 6 against the Boston Celtics, while the Atlanta Hawks try to stay alive against the New York Knicks in Atlanta.We’ll break down three plays for the Thursday action. Remember to monitor the odds throughout the day, as the sides and totals market is constantly changing.Here are the free NBA picks for Thursday, April 30. Odds Courtesy of DraftKingsBest NBA plays todayCeltics (-5.5) at 76ersKnicks (-2.5) at HawksNuggets/Timberwolves Under (224.5)Celtics (-5.5) at 76ers – 8:00 p.m. ETPhiladelphia stunned Boston in Game 5 as 10.5-point road underdogs, 113-97 to stay alive. The 76ers return home looking to force a Game 7, but Philadelphia has lost both home games to Boston.The Celtics were held to 11 points in the fourth quarter in Game 5, while shooting 28% from 3-point range. Boston limited Philadelphia to an average of 98.0 points per game in two road wins, capped off by a 128-96 blowout in Game 4.Philadelphia is 2-11 straight-up and 3-9-1 against the spread in the last 13 games as a single-digit underdog. Boston should bounce back tonight and eliminate Philadelphia with a road cover in Game 6. Our Current Best Offers1UnderdogClaim your Special Pick via Code + First Time Deposit up to 0 in bonus!T&Cs apply, 18+2ParlayPlay100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+3OwnersBox100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+4FanDuel Fantasy value with just a + depositT&Cs apply, 18+ Knicks (-2.5) at Hawks – 8:00 p.m. ETThe Hawks led the Knicks, 2-1 through three games, but New York has rebounded with consecutive victories. New York seeks its fourth consecutive trip to the second round as the Knicks are favored on the road.In each of the past two wins, the Knicks dominated with a pair of double-digit blowouts. Jalen Brunson dropped 39 points in the Game 5 rout, as the Knicks shot 57% from the floor.Hawks G CJ McCollum is coming off his worst offensive game of the series, getting held to six points on 3-of-10 shooting. Atlanta’s two victories came by one point apiece, so New York was that close to sweeping this series. Let’s lay the short number with the Knicks to finish off the series. Our Current Best Offers1UnderdogClaim your Special Pick via Code + First Time Deposit up to 0 in bonus!T&Cs apply, 18+2ParlayPlay100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+3OwnersBox100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+4FanDuel Fantasy value with just a + depositT&Cs apply, 18+ Nuggets/Timberwolves Under (224.5) – 9:30 p.m. ETMinnesota Timberwolves can finish off the Denver Nuggets at home tonight, but has to do so without leading scorer Anthony Edwards. He remains sidelined after getting injured in Game 4, as the Nuggets took advantage with a Game 5 home triumph.The Wolves still lead the series, 3-2 returning to Target Center off a 125-113 loss in Denver on a 225.5 total. Tonight’s total has dipped one point after the teams combined for 39 points from the foul line in Game 4.Each of the two games in Minneapolis finished under the total easily, with the Nuggets getting held to 96 points each time. Look for a defensive battle after the highest-scoring game of the series in tonight’s pivotal Game 6. Our Current Best Offers1UnderdogClaim your Special Pick via Code + First Time Deposit up to 0 in bonus!T&Cs apply, 18+2ParlayPlay100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+3OwnersBox100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+4FanDuel Fantasy value with just a + depositT&Cs apply, 18+ #April #30th #NBA #Playoffs #Betting #Picks #Predictions #Deadspin.com

against the Boston Celtics, while the Atlanta Hawks try to stay alive against the New York Knicks in Atlanta.

We’ll break down three plays for the Thursday action. Remember to monitor the odds throughout the day, as the sides and totals market is constantly changing.

Here are the free NBA picks for Thursday, April 30. Odds Courtesy of DraftKings

Best NBA plays today

  • Celtics (-5.5) at 76ers
  • Knicks (-2.5) at Hawks
  • Nuggets/Timberwolves Under (224.5)

Celtics (-5.5) at 76ers – 8:00 p.m. ET

Philadelphia stunned Boston in Game 5 as 10.5-point road underdogs, 113-97 to stay alive. The 76ers return home looking to force a Game 7, but Philadelphia has lost both home games to Boston.

The Celtics were held to 11 points in the fourth quarter in Game 5, while shooting 28% from 3-point range. Boston limited Philadelphia to an average of 98.0 points per game in two road wins, capped off by a 128-96 blowout in Game 4.

Philadelphia is 2-11 straight-up and 3-9-1 against the spread in the last 13 games as a single-digit underdog. Boston should bounce back tonight and eliminate Philadelphia with a road cover in Game 6.

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Knicks (-2.5) at Hawks – 8:00 p.m. ET

The Hawks led the Knicks, 2-1 through three games, but New York has rebounded with consecutive victories. New York seeks its fourth consecutive trip to the second round as the Knicks are favored on the road.

In each of the past two wins, the Knicks dominated with a pair of double-digit blowouts. Jalen Brunson dropped 39 points in the Game 5 rout, as the Knicks shot 57% from the floor.

Hawks G CJ McCollum is coming off his worst offensive game of the series, getting held to six points on 3-of-10 shooting. Atlanta’s two victories came by one point apiece, so New York was that close to sweeping this series. Let’s lay the short number with the Knicks to finish off the series.

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Nuggets/Timberwolves Under (224.5) – 9:30 p.m. ET

Minnesota Timberwolves can finish off the Denver Nuggets at home tonight, but has to do so without leading scorer Anthony Edwards. He remains sidelined after getting injured in Game 4, as the Nuggets took advantage with a Game 5 home triumph.

The Wolves still lead the series, 3-2 returning to Target Center off a 125-113 loss in Denver on a 225.5 total. Tonight’s total has dipped one point after the teams combined for 39 points from the foul line in Game 4.

Each of the two games in Minneapolis finished under the total easily, with the Nuggets getting held to 96 points each time. Look for a defensive battle after the highest-scoring game of the series in tonight’s pivotal Game 6.

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#April #30th #NBA #Playoffs #Betting #Picks #Predictions #Deadspin.com">April 30th NBA Playoffs Best Betting Picks and Predictions | Deadspin.com
April 30th NBA Playoffs Best Betting Picks and Predictions | Deadspin.com Apr 28, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) shoots the ball against Boston Celtics center Neemias Queta (88)nin the first quarter during game five of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images Two home teams are facing elimination in the NBA playoffs on Thursday night.The Philadelphia 76ers extended their series back home for Game 6 against the Boston Celtics, while the Atlanta Hawks try to stay alive against the New York Knicks in Atlanta.We’ll break down three plays for the Thursday action. Remember to monitor the odds throughout the day, as the sides and totals market is constantly changing.Here are the free NBA picks for Thursday, April 30. Odds Courtesy of DraftKingsBest NBA plays todayCeltics (-5.5) at 76ersKnicks (-2.5) at HawksNuggets/Timberwolves Under (224.5)Celtics (-5.5) at 76ers – 8:00 p.m. ETPhiladelphia stunned Boston in Game 5 as 10.5-point road underdogs, 113-97 to stay alive. The 76ers return home looking to force a Game 7, but Philadelphia has lost both home games to Boston.The Celtics were held to 11 points in the fourth quarter in Game 5, while shooting 28% from 3-point range. Boston limited Philadelphia to an average of 98.0 points per game in two road wins, capped off by a 128-96 blowout in Game 4.Philadelphia is 2-11 straight-up and 3-9-1 against the spread in the last 13 games as a single-digit underdog. Boston should bounce back tonight and eliminate Philadelphia with a road cover in Game 6. Our Current Best Offers1UnderdogClaim your Special Pick via Code + First Time Deposit up to 0 in bonus!T&Cs apply, 18+2ParlayPlay100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+3OwnersBox100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+4FanDuel Fantasy value with just a + depositT&Cs apply, 18+ Knicks (-2.5) at Hawks – 8:00 p.m. ETThe Hawks led the Knicks, 2-1 through three games, but New York has rebounded with consecutive victories. New York seeks its fourth consecutive trip to the second round as the Knicks are favored on the road.In each of the past two wins, the Knicks dominated with a pair of double-digit blowouts. Jalen Brunson dropped 39 points in the Game 5 rout, as the Knicks shot 57% from the floor.Hawks G CJ McCollum is coming off his worst offensive game of the series, getting held to six points on 3-of-10 shooting. Atlanta’s two victories came by one point apiece, so New York was that close to sweeping this series. Let’s lay the short number with the Knicks to finish off the series. Our Current Best Offers1UnderdogClaim your Special Pick via Code + First Time Deposit up to 0 in bonus!T&Cs apply, 18+2ParlayPlay100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+3OwnersBox100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+4FanDuel Fantasy value with just a + depositT&Cs apply, 18+ Nuggets/Timberwolves Under (224.5) – 9:30 p.m. ETMinnesota Timberwolves can finish off the Denver Nuggets at home tonight, but has to do so without leading scorer Anthony Edwards. He remains sidelined after getting injured in Game 4, as the Nuggets took advantage with a Game 5 home triumph.The Wolves still lead the series, 3-2 returning to Target Center off a 125-113 loss in Denver on a 225.5 total. Tonight’s total has dipped one point after the teams combined for 39 points from the foul line in Game 4.Each of the two games in Minneapolis finished under the total easily, with the Nuggets getting held to 96 points each time. Look for a defensive battle after the highest-scoring game of the series in tonight’s pivotal Game 6. Our Current Best Offers1UnderdogClaim your Special Pick via Code + First Time Deposit up to 0 in bonus!T&Cs apply, 18+2ParlayPlay100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+3OwnersBox100% up to 0T&Cs apply, 18+4FanDuel Fantasy value with just a + depositT&Cs apply, 18+ #April #30th #NBA #Playoffs #Betting #Picks #Predictions #Deadspin.comApr 28, 2026; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Philadelphia 76ers center Joel Embiid (21) shoots the ball against Boston Celtics center Neemias Queta (88)nin the first quarter during game five of the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images

Two home teams are facing elimination in the NBA playoffs on Thursday night.

The Philadelphia 76ers extended their series back home for Game 6 against the Boston Celtics, while the Atlanta Hawks try to stay alive against the New York Knicks in Atlanta.

We’ll break down three plays for the Thursday action. Remember to monitor the odds throughout the day, as the sides and totals market is constantly changing.

Here are the free NBA picks for Thursday, April 30. Odds Courtesy of DraftKings

Best NBA plays today

  • Celtics (-5.5) at 76ers
  • Knicks (-2.5) at Hawks
  • Nuggets/Timberwolves Under (224.5)

Celtics (-5.5) at 76ers – 8:00 p.m. ET

Philadelphia stunned Boston in Game 5 as 10.5-point road underdogs, 113-97 to stay alive. The 76ers return home looking to force a Game 7, but Philadelphia has lost both home games to Boston.

The Celtics were held to 11 points in the fourth quarter in Game 5, while shooting 28% from 3-point range. Boston limited Philadelphia to an average of 98.0 points per game in two road wins, capped off by a 128-96 blowout in Game 4.

Philadelphia is 2-11 straight-up and 3-9-1 against the spread in the last 13 games as a single-digit underdog. Boston should bounce back tonight and eliminate Philadelphia with a road cover in Game 6.

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Knicks (-2.5) at Hawks – 8:00 p.m. ET

The Hawks led the Knicks, 2-1 through three games, but New York has rebounded with consecutive victories. New York seeks its fourth consecutive trip to the second round as the Knicks are favored on the road.

In each of the past two wins, the Knicks dominated with a pair of double-digit blowouts. Jalen Brunson dropped 39 points in the Game 5 rout, as the Knicks shot 57% from the floor.

Hawks G CJ McCollum is coming off his worst offensive game of the series, getting held to six points on 3-of-10 shooting. Atlanta’s two victories came by one point apiece, so New York was that close to sweeping this series. Let’s lay the short number with the Knicks to finish off the series.

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Nuggets/Timberwolves Under (224.5) – 9:30 p.m. ET

Minnesota Timberwolves can finish off the Denver Nuggets at home tonight, but has to do so without leading scorer Anthony Edwards. He remains sidelined after getting injured in Game 4, as the Nuggets took advantage with a Game 5 home triumph.

The Wolves still lead the series, 3-2 returning to Target Center off a 125-113 loss in Denver on a 225.5 total. Tonight’s total has dipped one point after the teams combined for 39 points from the foul line in Game 4.

Each of the two games in Minneapolis finished under the total easily, with the Nuggets getting held to 96 points each time. Look for a defensive battle after the highest-scoring game of the series in tonight’s pivotal Game 6.

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#April #30th #NBA #Playoffs #Betting #Picks #Predictions #Deadspin.com

While most things have gone right for Rajasthan Royals on the field this season, the same cannot be said about what has happened off it. First, there was the incident of the team’s manager Romi Bhinder using the mobile phone in the dugout during the IPL match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.

He was fined Rs. 1 lakh and issued a warning by the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption and Security Unit. Royals made the world’s richest cricket body even richer on Thursday, with captain Riyan Parag being fined 25 per cent of his match fee for vaping in the dressing room during the match against Punjab Kings.

The Royals head coach Kumar Sangakkara admitted the controversies didn’t really help them. “Such controversies are no positives for the team and all I can say is that both issues have been addressed by the BCCI and the franchise,” he said on the eve of RR’s match against Delhi Capitals. “It is a reminder to the players that they have to maintain the team’s culture.”

About the match, the former Sri Lankan captain said he was expecting a tough challenge from the Capitals, despite their lack of form. “And it looks like another good pitch out there,” he said. “We don’t expect anything less than the best out of DC.”

His skipper may not be in great form, but he pointed out the importance of his knock in the victory against Punjab Kings. “His little innings shifted the momentum in our way,” Sangakkara said. “He brought the momentum back in our favour.”

Published on Apr 30, 2026

#Riyan #Parags #vaping #incident #reminder #players #maintain #teams #culture #Sangakkara">Riyan Parag’s vaping incident a reminder that players have to maintain team’s culture: Sangakkara While most things have gone right for Rajasthan Royals on the field this season, the same cannot be said about what has happened off it. First, there was the incident of the team’s manager Romi Bhinder using the mobile phone in the dugout during the IPL match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.He was fined Rs. 1 lakh and issued a warning by the BCCI’s Anti-Corruption and Security Unit. Royals made the world’s richest cricket body even richer on Thursday, with captain Riyan Parag being fined 25 per cent of his match fee for vaping in the dressing room during the match against Punjab Kings.The Royals head coach Kumar Sangakkara admitted the controversies didn’t really help them. “Such controversies are no positives for the team and all I can say is that both issues have been addressed by the BCCI and the franchise,” he said on the eve of RR’s match against Delhi Capitals. “It is a reminder to the players that they have to maintain the team’s culture.”About the match, the former Sri Lankan captain said he was expecting a tough challenge from the Capitals, despite their lack of form. “And it looks like another good pitch out there,” he said. “We don’t expect anything less than the best out of DC.”His skipper may not be in great form, but he pointed out the importance of his knock in the victory against Punjab Kings. “His little innings shifted the momentum in our way,” Sangakkara said. “He brought the momentum back in our favour.”Published on Apr 30, 2026 #Riyan #Parags #vaping #incident #reminder #players #maintain #teams #culture #Sangakkara

It’s typically a problem when an NFL team can’t instantly identify their starting quarterback and it is really troublesome if three are in the mix.

Well, hello Cleveland Browns, it appears you still have a quarterback problem even after drafting two in 2025 and another in last week’s draft.

At this point, the Browns might consider inviting the starting quarterbacks from Bowling Green, Toledo, Akron, Miami (Ohio), Ohio University and Youngstown State to put their names in the hat.

Cleveland selected Dillon Gabriel in the third round of the 2025 draft and Shedeur Sanders in the fifth. This year, they chose Taylen Green in the sixth round.

Now ponder this – none of those three guys will be the Browns’ quarterback in Week 1 of this season.

Bet you haven’t forgotten this guy: Deshaun Watson.

Everybody has already written him off as one of the biggest busts in NFL history. But with one season to go on his contract and his Achilles tendon now healed, opportunity suddenly knocks.

Cleveland has a new head coach in Todd Monken and it appears he will give Watson every opportunity to earn the job.

Before being suspended and ridiculed for more than two dozen instances of sexual misconduct, Watson was a pretty good quarterback.

He tossed a career-high 33 touchdown passes against a career-low seven interceptions in 2020 while also leading the NFL with 4,823 passing yards. At that point, nobody anywhere was forecasting his career would fall off a cliff.

A contract dispute with the Houston Texans and all the sordid claims by massage therapists delivered repeated blows at Watson’s reputation. He was traded to the Browns in 2022 and received a five-year contract for a then-record $230 million in guaranteed money.

It seemed surreal that anybody would give Watson a contract like that.

And, of course, it was a complete disaster. Watson played in just 19 games over the next four seasons. He’s thrown for 19 touchdowns against 12 interceptions for that wheelbarrow full of money.

He received a bad blow by tearing the Achilles in October 2024 but Cleveland’s record was just 1-6 with him as a starter that season. It seemed the unfortunate injury would be the final time he was seen in a game for the Browns.

But Monken doesn’t seem to care too much about what happened in the past. He remembers that Watson was a three-time Pro Bowler and a completion machine earlier in his career.

He’s now watching Watson on the practice field running his offense and wondering if the player who turns 31 in September can turn things around.

After Monken was hired, he expressed that he had an open mind about Watson.

“Anytime that you have a player that at one time has exhibited the skill set at an elite level,” Monken told reporters. “I think you’re always going to give them the benefit of the doubt that somehow we might be able to get that out of him again, and I think that’s how you should look at every player.”

Cleveland started last season under Kevin Stefanski with veteran Joe Flacco as quarterback. After four games, Gabriel took over and started the next six before sustaining a concussion. He threw seven touchdown passes against two interceptions in 185 attempts.

Sanders started the last seven games and wasn’t always brisk with his decision-making and had seven TD passes against 10 picks in 212 throws. Sanders made the Pro Bowl when several others withdrew or declined invitations.

Green is a raw talent who shouldn’t see the field in 2026. He’s an exceptional athlete who needs time to develop. He played college football at Boise State and Arkansas.

Monken said he wants to have a quarterback order established by the end of the team’s June 9-11 minicamp. That essentially means tabbing a guy who will be QB1 on the first day of July’s training camp.

You see a first-year coach hired to pump up a team’s offensive attack. Sure seems like Watson will be the starting point.

Then, in the Cleveland tradition, you work down the QB depth chart if Watson fails again or gets hurt.

#Deshaun #Watsons #Potential #Return #Headlines #Browns #Drama #Deadspin.com">Deshaun Watson’s Potential Return Headlines Browns QB Drama | Deadspin.com It’s typically a problem when an NFL team can’t instantly identify their starting quarterback and it is really troublesome if three are in the mix.Well, hello Cleveland Browns, it appears you still have a quarterback problem even after drafting two in 2025 and another in last week’s draft.At this point, the Browns might consider inviting the starting quarterbacks from Bowling Green, Toledo, Akron, Miami (Ohio), Ohio University and Youngstown State to put their names in the hat.Cleveland selected Dillon Gabriel in the third round of the 2025 draft and Shedeur Sanders in the fifth. This year, they chose Taylen Green in the sixth round.Now ponder this – none of those three guys will be the Browns’ quarterback in Week 1 of this season.Bet you haven’t forgotten this guy: Deshaun Watson.Everybody has already written him off as one of the biggest busts in NFL history. But with one season to go on his contract and his Achilles tendon now healed, opportunity suddenly knocks.Cleveland has a new head coach in Todd Monken and it appears he will give Watson every opportunity to earn the job.Before being suspended and ridiculed for more than two dozen instances of sexual misconduct, Watson was a pretty good quarterback.He tossed a career-high 33 touchdown passes against a career-low seven interceptions in 2020 while also leading the NFL with 4,823 passing yards. At that point, nobody anywhere was forecasting his career would fall off a cliff.A contract dispute with the Houston Texans and all the sordid claims by massage therapists delivered repeated blows at Watson’s reputation. He was traded to the Browns in 2022 and received a five-year contract for a then-record 0 million in guaranteed money.It seemed surreal that anybody would give Watson a contract like that.And, of course, it was a complete disaster. Watson played in just 19 games over the next four seasons. He’s thrown for 19 touchdowns against 12 interceptions for that wheelbarrow full of money.He received a bad blow by tearing the Achilles in October 2024 but Cleveland’s record was just 1-6 with him as a starter that season. It seemed the unfortunate injury would be the final time he was seen in a game for the Browns.But Monken doesn’t seem to care too much about what happened in the past. He remembers that Watson was a three-time Pro Bowler and a completion machine earlier in his career.He’s now watching Watson on the practice field running his offense and wondering if the player who turns 31 in September can turn things around.After Monken was hired, he expressed that he had an open mind about Watson.“Anytime that you have a player that at one time has exhibited the skill set at an elite level,” Monken told reporters. “I think you’re always going to give them the benefit of the doubt that somehow we might be able to get that out of him again, and I think that’s how you should look at every player.”Cleveland started last season under Kevin Stefanski with veteran Joe Flacco as quarterback. After four games, Gabriel took over and started the next six before sustaining a concussion. He threw seven touchdown passes against two interceptions in 185 attempts.Sanders started the last seven games and wasn’t always brisk with his decision-making and had seven TD passes against 10 picks in 212 throws. Sanders made the Pro Bowl when several others withdrew or declined invitations.Green is a raw talent who shouldn’t see the field in 2026. He’s an exceptional athlete who needs time to develop. He played college football at Boise State and Arkansas.Monken said he wants to have a quarterback order established by the end of the team’s June 9-11 minicamp. That essentially means tabbing a guy who will be QB1 on the first day of July’s training camp.You see a first-year coach hired to pump up a team’s offensive attack. Sure seems like Watson will be the starting point.Then, in the Cleveland tradition, you work down the QB depth chart if Watson fails again or gets hurt. #Deshaun #Watsons #Potential #Return #Headlines #Browns #Drama #Deadspin.com

you still have a quarterback problem even after drafting two in 2025 and another in last week’s draft.

At this point, the Browns might consider inviting the starting quarterbacks from Bowling Green, Toledo, Akron, Miami (Ohio), Ohio University and Youngstown State to put their names in the hat.

Cleveland selected Dillon Gabriel in the third round of the 2025 draft and Shedeur Sanders in the fifth. This year, they chose Taylen Green in the sixth round.

Now ponder this – none of those three guys will be the Browns’ quarterback in Week 1 of this season.

Bet you haven’t forgotten this guy: Deshaun Watson.

Everybody has already written him off as one of the biggest busts in NFL history. But with one season to go on his contract and his Achilles tendon now healed, opportunity suddenly knocks.

Cleveland has a new head coach in Todd Monken and it appears he will give Watson every opportunity to earn the job.

Before being suspended and ridiculed for more than two dozen instances of sexual misconduct, Watson was a pretty good quarterback.

He tossed a career-high 33 touchdown passes against a career-low seven interceptions in 2020 while also leading the NFL with 4,823 passing yards. At that point, nobody anywhere was forecasting his career would fall off a cliff.

A contract dispute with the Houston Texans and all the sordid claims by massage therapists delivered repeated blows at Watson’s reputation. He was traded to the Browns in 2022 and received a five-year contract for a then-record $230 million in guaranteed money.

It seemed surreal that anybody would give Watson a contract like that.

And, of course, it was a complete disaster. Watson played in just 19 games over the next four seasons. He’s thrown for 19 touchdowns against 12 interceptions for that wheelbarrow full of money.

He received a bad blow by tearing the Achilles in October 2024 but Cleveland’s record was just 1-6 with him as a starter that season. It seemed the unfortunate injury would be the final time he was seen in a game for the Browns.

But Monken doesn’t seem to care too much about what happened in the past. He remembers that Watson was a three-time Pro Bowler and a completion machine earlier in his career.

He’s now watching Watson on the practice field running his offense and wondering if the player who turns 31 in September can turn things around.

After Monken was hired, he expressed that he had an open mind about Watson.

“Anytime that you have a player that at one time has exhibited the skill set at an elite level,” Monken told reporters. “I think you’re always going to give them the benefit of the doubt that somehow we might be able to get that out of him again, and I think that’s how you should look at every player.”

Cleveland started last season under Kevin Stefanski with veteran Joe Flacco as quarterback. After four games, Gabriel took over and started the next six before sustaining a concussion. He threw seven touchdown passes against two interceptions in 185 attempts.

Sanders started the last seven games and wasn’t always brisk with his decision-making and had seven TD passes against 10 picks in 212 throws. Sanders made the Pro Bowl when several others withdrew or declined invitations.

Green is a raw talent who shouldn’t see the field in 2026. He’s an exceptional athlete who needs time to develop. He played college football at Boise State and Arkansas.

Monken said he wants to have a quarterback order established by the end of the team’s June 9-11 minicamp. That essentially means tabbing a guy who will be QB1 on the first day of July’s training camp.

You see a first-year coach hired to pump up a team’s offensive attack. Sure seems like Watson will be the starting point.

Then, in the Cleveland tradition, you work down the QB depth chart if Watson fails again or gets hurt.

#Deshaun #Watsons #Potential #Return #Headlines #Browns #Drama #Deadspin.com">Deshaun Watson’s Potential Return Headlines Browns QB Drama | Deadspin.com

It’s typically a problem when an NFL team can’t instantly identify their starting quarterback and it is really troublesome if three are in the mix.

Well, hello Cleveland Browns, it appears you still have a quarterback problem even after drafting two in 2025 and another in last week’s draft.

At this point, the Browns might consider inviting the starting quarterbacks from Bowling Green, Toledo, Akron, Miami (Ohio), Ohio University and Youngstown State to put their names in the hat.

Cleveland selected Dillon Gabriel in the third round of the 2025 draft and Shedeur Sanders in the fifth. This year, they chose Taylen Green in the sixth round.

Now ponder this – none of those three guys will be the Browns’ quarterback in Week 1 of this season.

Bet you haven’t forgotten this guy: Deshaun Watson.

Everybody has already written him off as one of the biggest busts in NFL history. But with one season to go on his contract and his Achilles tendon now healed, opportunity suddenly knocks.

Cleveland has a new head coach in Todd Monken and it appears he will give Watson every opportunity to earn the job.

Before being suspended and ridiculed for more than two dozen instances of sexual misconduct, Watson was a pretty good quarterback.

He tossed a career-high 33 touchdown passes against a career-low seven interceptions in 2020 while also leading the NFL with 4,823 passing yards. At that point, nobody anywhere was forecasting his career would fall off a cliff.

A contract dispute with the Houston Texans and all the sordid claims by massage therapists delivered repeated blows at Watson’s reputation. He was traded to the Browns in 2022 and received a five-year contract for a then-record $230 million in guaranteed money.

It seemed surreal that anybody would give Watson a contract like that.

And, of course, it was a complete disaster. Watson played in just 19 games over the next four seasons. He’s thrown for 19 touchdowns against 12 interceptions for that wheelbarrow full of money.

He received a bad blow by tearing the Achilles in October 2024 but Cleveland’s record was just 1-6 with him as a starter that season. It seemed the unfortunate injury would be the final time he was seen in a game for the Browns.

But Monken doesn’t seem to care too much about what happened in the past. He remembers that Watson was a three-time Pro Bowler and a completion machine earlier in his career.

He’s now watching Watson on the practice field running his offense and wondering if the player who turns 31 in September can turn things around.

After Monken was hired, he expressed that he had an open mind about Watson.

“Anytime that you have a player that at one time has exhibited the skill set at an elite level,” Monken told reporters. “I think you’re always going to give them the benefit of the doubt that somehow we might be able to get that out of him again, and I think that’s how you should look at every player.”

Cleveland started last season under Kevin Stefanski with veteran Joe Flacco as quarterback. After four games, Gabriel took over and started the next six before sustaining a concussion. He threw seven touchdown passes against two interceptions in 185 attempts.

Sanders started the last seven games and wasn’t always brisk with his decision-making and had seven TD passes against 10 picks in 212 throws. Sanders made the Pro Bowl when several others withdrew or declined invitations.

Green is a raw talent who shouldn’t see the field in 2026. He’s an exceptional athlete who needs time to develop. He played college football at Boise State and Arkansas.

Monken said he wants to have a quarterback order established by the end of the team’s June 9-11 minicamp. That essentially means tabbing a guy who will be QB1 on the first day of July’s training camp.

You see a first-year coach hired to pump up a team’s offensive attack. Sure seems like Watson will be the starting point.

Then, in the Cleveland tradition, you work down the QB depth chart if Watson fails again or gets hurt.

#Deshaun #Watsons #Potential #Return #Headlines #Browns #Drama #Deadspin.com

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