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AJ Dybantsa’s Decision Proves NIL Still Can’t Compete With NBA Money | Deadspin.com Mar 12, 2026; Kansas City, MO, USA; BYU Cougars forward AJ Dybantsa (3) protects the ball from Houston Cougars guard Milos Uzan (7) during the second half at T-Mobile Center. Mandatory Credit: William Purnell-Imagn Images Future top-5 NBA draft pick, AJ Dybantsa, announced via his social media that he will be declaring for the draft, forgoing his final three years of eligibility at BYU. This comes as no surprise to anyone with a brain, as Kalshi’s markets show that Dybantsa has a 75% chance of being taken first overall at the draft this June. Last year’s first overall pick, Cooper Flagg, signed a four-year deal, totaling -million, the highest in NBA history up until this point. This number will only be higher in 2026, so Dybantsa will likely be making over million in his rookie year if he’s taken with the top selection. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: basketball During his time at BYU, it was rumored that Dybantsa had NIL packages totaling over million, one of the highest in the short history of NIL. If he returned for a sophomore season, he would’ve had a chance to improve on that, but would still likely be making a good chunk less than any NBA contract, before even considering additional brand deals.Dybantsa had joked before that his mom was going to make him stay in college for four years to earn his degree, but generational wealth can definitely change that mindset. Moreso, I’m kinda over top draft picks pretending like they’re actually going to come back for a second year of college basketball.I’m sure most of these guys had the time of their lives at college. Being the king of the campus, where the red carpet is always laid out for you, has to be awesome at 18 or 19, but what’s even cooler than that is millions of dollars and not having to go to college classes.Of course, people try to argue that NIL could offset those lost years, not making NBA money, but those people have a fundamental misunderstanding of NBA contracts. The younger you are, the more money you can make in the NBA. Of course, injuries and players struggling to adjust to the NBA level can prevent that from occurring, but the statement is true for most cases.If a young, top draft pick even shows flashes of All-Star potential, teams are kind of forced into paying these guys max contracts as early as possible. At just 23 years old, guys can be making + million if they leave college after their rookie seasons. If these players continue to blossom and have productive, long NBA careers, the number of max deals they can sign increases over time.A player that sticks around for four college seasons wouldn’t reach a max deal until their 26 or 27. One-and-done athletes will be looking at their second max deal at that same point. It’s financially irresponsible for kids to turn down this level of wealth just to play a little bit more college hoops.Also, being the big man on campus at BYU can’t even be that great. I could understand why a guy from Wisconsin or Arizona State might want to stick around college, but being an NBA superstar has to be cooler than being a BYU superstar. Quit pretending you’re going back to college; these guys are never turning down NBA money. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: basketball #Dybantsas #Decision #Proves #NIL #Compete #NBA #Money #Deadspin.com

AJ Dybantsa’s Decision Proves NIL Still Can’t Compete With NBA Money | Deadspin.com
AJ Dybantsa’s Decision Proves NIL Still Can’t Compete With NBA Money | Deadspin.com Mar 12, 2026; Kansas City, MO, USA; BYU Cougars forward AJ Dybantsa (3) protects the ball from Houston Cougars guard Milos Uzan (7) during the second half at T-Mobile Center. Mandatory Credit: William Purnell-Imagn Images Future top-5 NBA draft pick, AJ Dybantsa, announced via his social media that he will be declaring for the draft, forgoing his final three years of eligibility at BYU. This comes as no surprise to anyone with a brain, as Kalshi’s markets show that Dybantsa has a 75% chance of being taken first overall at the draft this June. Last year’s first overall pick, Cooper Flagg, signed a four-year deal, totaling -million, the highest in NBA history up until this point. This number will only be higher in 2026, so Dybantsa will likely be making over million in his rookie year if he’s taken with the top selection. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: basketball During his time at BYU, it was rumored that Dybantsa had NIL packages totaling over million, one of the highest in the short history of NIL. If he returned for a sophomore season, he would’ve had a chance to improve on that, but would still likely be making a good chunk less than any NBA contract, before even considering additional brand deals.Dybantsa had joked before that his mom was going to make him stay in college for four years to earn his degree, but generational wealth can definitely change that mindset. Moreso, I’m kinda over top draft picks pretending like they’re actually going to come back for a second year of college basketball.I’m sure most of these guys had the time of their lives at college. Being the king of the campus, where the red carpet is always laid out for you, has to be awesome at 18 or 19, but what’s even cooler than that is millions of dollars and not having to go to college classes.Of course, people try to argue that NIL could offset those lost years, not making NBA money, but those people have a fundamental misunderstanding of NBA contracts. The younger you are, the more money you can make in the NBA. Of course, injuries and players struggling to adjust to the NBA level can prevent that from occurring, but the statement is true for most cases.If a young, top draft pick even shows flashes of All-Star potential, teams are kind of forced into paying these guys max contracts as early as possible. At just 23 years old, guys can be making + million if they leave college after their rookie seasons. If these players continue to blossom and have productive, long NBA careers, the number of max deals they can sign increases over time.A player that sticks around for four college seasons wouldn’t reach a max deal until their 26 or 27. One-and-done athletes will be looking at their second max deal at that same point. It’s financially irresponsible for kids to turn down this level of wealth just to play a little bit more college hoops.Also, being the big man on campus at BYU can’t even be that great. I could understand why a guy from Wisconsin or Arizona State might want to stick around college, but being an NBA superstar has to be cooler than being a BYU superstar. Quit pretending you’re going back to college; these guys are never turning down NBA money. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: basketball #Dybantsas #Decision #Proves #NIL #Compete #NBA #Money #Deadspin.comMar 12, 2026; Kansas City, MO, USA; BYU Cougars forward AJ Dybantsa (3) protects the ball from Houston Cougars guard Milos Uzan (7) during the second half at T-Mobile Center. Mandatory Credit: William Purnell-Imagn Images

Future top-5 NBA draft pick, AJ Dybantsa, announced via his social media that he will be declaring for the draft, forgoing his final three years of eligibility at BYU.


This comes as no surprise to anyone with a brain, as Kalshi’s markets show that Dybantsa has a 75% chance of being taken first overall at the draft this June. 

Last year’s first overall pick, Cooper Flagg, signed a four-year deal, totaling $62-million, the highest in NBA history up until this point. This number will only be higher in 2026, so Dybantsa will likely be making over $15 million in his rookie year if he’s taken with the top selection.

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During his time at BYU, it was rumored that Dybantsa had NIL packages totaling over $7 million, one of the highest in the short history of NIL. If he returned for a sophomore season, he would’ve had a chance to improve on that, but would still likely be making a good chunk less than any NBA contract, before even considering additional brand deals.

Dybantsa had joked before that his mom was going to make him stay in college for four years to earn his degree, but generational wealth can definitely change that mindset. Moreso, I’m kinda over top draft picks pretending like they’re actually going to come back for a second year of college basketball.

I’m sure most of these guys had the time of their lives at college. Being the king of the campus, where the red carpet is always laid out for you, has to be awesome at 18 or 19, but what’s even cooler than that is millions of dollars and not having to go to college classes.

Of course, people try to argue that NIL could offset those lost years, not making NBA money, but those people have a fundamental misunderstanding of NBA contracts. The younger you are, the more money you can make in the NBA. Of course, injuries and players struggling to adjust to the NBA level can prevent that from occurring, but the statement is true for most cases.

If a young, top draft pick even shows flashes of All-Star potential, teams are kind of forced into paying these guys max contracts as early as possible. At just 23 years old, guys can be making $40+ million if they leave college after their rookie seasons. If these players continue to blossom and have productive, long NBA careers, the number of max deals they can sign increases over time.

A player that sticks around for four college seasons wouldn’t reach a max deal until their 26 or 27. One-and-done athletes will be looking at their second max deal at that same point. It’s financially irresponsible for kids to turn down this level of wealth just to play a little bit more college hoops.

Also, being the big man on campus at BYU can’t even be that great. I could understand why a guy from Wisconsin or Arizona State might want to stick around college, but being an NBA superstar has to be cooler than being a BYU superstar. Quit pretending you’re going back to college; these guys are never turning down NBA money.

Our Current Best Offers

Channel debug: basketball

#Dybantsas #Decision #Proves #NIL #Compete #NBA #Money #Deadspin.com

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Mar 12, 2026; Kansas City, MO, USA; BYU Cougars forward AJ Dybantsa (3) protects the ball from Houston Cougars guard Milos Uzan (7) during the second half at T-Mobile Center. Mandatory Credit: William Purnell-Imagn Images

Future top-5 NBA draft pick, AJ Dybantsa, announced via his social media that he will be declaring for the draft, forgoing his final three years of eligibility at BYU.

This comes as no surprise to anyone with a brain, as Kalshi’s markets show that Dybantsa has a 75% chance of being taken first overall at the draft this June. 

Last year’s first overall pick, Cooper Flagg, signed a four-year deal, totaling $62-million, the highest in NBA history up until this point. This number will only be higher in 2026, so Dybantsa will likely be making over $15 million in his rookie year if he’s taken with the top selection.

Our Current Best Offers

Channel debug: basketball

During his time at BYU, it was rumored that Dybantsa had NIL packages totaling over $7 million, one of the highest in the short history of NIL. If he returned for a sophomore season, he would’ve had a chance to improve on that, but would still likely be making a good chunk less than any NBA contract, before even considering additional brand deals.

Dybantsa had joked before that his mom was going to make him stay in college for four years to earn his degree, but generational wealth can definitely change that mindset. Moreso, I’m kinda over top draft picks pretending like they’re actually going to come back for a second year of college basketball.

I’m sure most of these guys had the time of their lives at college. Being the king of the campus, where the red carpet is always laid out for you, has to be awesome at 18 or 19, but what’s even cooler than that is millions of dollars and not having to go to college classes.

Of course, people try to argue that NIL could offset those lost years, not making NBA money, but those people have a fundamental misunderstanding of NBA contracts. The younger you are, the more money you can make in the NBA. Of course, injuries and players struggling to adjust to the NBA level can prevent that from occurring, but the statement is true for most cases.

If a young, top draft pick even shows flashes of All-Star potential, teams are kind of forced into paying these guys max contracts as early as possible. At just 23 years old, guys can be making $40+ million if they leave college after their rookie seasons. If these players continue to blossom and have productive, long NBA careers, the number of max deals they can sign increases over time.

A player that sticks around for four college seasons wouldn’t reach a max deal until their 26 or 27. One-and-done athletes will be looking at their second max deal at that same point. It’s financially irresponsible for kids to turn down this level of wealth just to play a little bit more college hoops.

Also, being the big man on campus at BYU can’t even be that great. I could understand why a guy from Wisconsin or Arizona State might want to stick around college, but being an NBA superstar has to be cooler than being a BYU superstar. Quit pretending you’re going back to college; these guys are never turning down NBA money.

Our Current Best Offers

Channel debug: basketball

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NFL mock draft: 2nd round projection with 49ers on the clock <div id="zephr-anchor"><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">The first round of the 2026 NFL Draft is in the books, and it did not play out according to expectations.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Fernando Mendoza came off the board at No. 1 to the Las Vegas Raiders, which was expected, but the draft began to veer into chaos-land shortly thereafter. Perhaps the biggest surprise came at No. 13, when the Los Angeles Rams addressed the future, not the present, and selected Ty Simpson as the eventual heir to Matthew Stafford’s throne.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">However, there are still 225 slots remaining in the 2026 NFL Draft, culminating with the Denver Broncos currently set to draft Mr. Irrelevant at pick No. 257. <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/1112114/nfl-draft-2026-the-best-players-available-for-day-2">Check out our list of the best players still available after Day 1 here</a>. Now that the dust has settled a bit from night one, here is a look at how the second round could unfold, with some thoughts following the picks.</p></div><div class="duet--article--block-placement jgpyd53 jgpyd50 duet--article--article-body-component"><div class="duet--article--table eqjv3q0"><table class="eqjv3q2"><thead><tr><th class="eqjv3q5"><h3 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Pick</h3></th><th class="eqjv3q5"><h3 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Team</h3></th><th class="eqjv3q5"><h3 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Player</h3></th><th class="eqjv3q5"><h3 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Position</h3></th><th class="eqjv3q5"><h3 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">School</h3></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">33</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">San Francisco 49ers (via NYJ)</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Denzel Boston</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">WR</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Washington</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">34</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Arizona Cardinals</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Garrett Nussmeier</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">QB</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">LSU</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">35</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Buffalo Bills (via TEN)</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Zion Young</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">EDGE</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Missouri</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">36</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Las Vegas Raiders</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Emmanuel McNeil-Warren</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">S</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Toledo</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">37</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">New York Giants</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Jermod McCoy</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">CB</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Tennessee</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">38</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Houston Texans (via WAS)</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Kayden McDonald</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">DT</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Ohio State</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">39</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Cleveland Browns</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">A.J. Haulcy</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">S</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">LSU</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">40</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Kansas City Chiefs</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Germie Bernard</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">WR</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Alabama</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">41</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Cincinnati Bengals</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Avieon Terrell</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">CB</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Clemson</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">42</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">New Orleans Saints</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Colton Hood</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">CB</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Tennessee</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">43</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Miami Dolphins</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Chris Bell</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">WR</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Louisville</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">44</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">New York Jets (via DAL)</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Brandon Cisse</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">CB</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">South Carolina</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">45</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Baltimore Ravens</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Cashius Howell</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">EDGE</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Texas A&M</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">46</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Jacob Rodriguez</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">LB</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Texas Tech</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">47</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Indianapolis Colts</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">CJ Allen</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">LB</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Georgia</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">48</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Atlanta Falcons</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Lee Hunter</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">DT</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Texas Tech</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">49</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Minnesota Vikings</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Treydan Stukes</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">S</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Arizona</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">50</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Detroit Lions</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">T.J. Parker</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">EDGE</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Clemson</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">51</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Carolina Panthers</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Eli Stowers</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">TE</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Vanderbilt</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">52</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Green Bay Packers</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Anthony Hill Jr.</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">LB</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Texas</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">53</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Pittsburgh Steelers</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Christian Miller</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">DT</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Georgia</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">54</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Philadelphia Eagles</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Emmanuel Pregnon</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">IOL</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Oregon</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">55</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Los Angeles Chargers</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Chase Bisontis</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">IOL</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Texas A&M</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">56</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Jacksonville Jaguars</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Gabe Jacas</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">EDGE</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Illinois</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">57</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Chicago Bears</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">R Mason Thomas</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">EDGE</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Oklahoma</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">58</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">San Francisco 49ers</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Derrick Moore</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">EDGE</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Michigan</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">59</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Houston Texans</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Keionte Scott</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">CB</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Miami</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">60</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Chicago Bears (via BUF)</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Sam Hecht</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">IOL</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Kansas State</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">61</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Los Angeles Rams</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Chris Brazzell</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">WR</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Tennessee</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">62</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Denver Broncos</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Jake Golday</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">LB</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Cincinnati</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">63</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">New England Patriots</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Josiah Trotter</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">LB</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Missouri</td></tr><tr class="eqjv3q6"><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">64</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Seattle Seahawks</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Romello Height</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">EDGE</td><td class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup eqjv3q7">Texas Tech</td></tr></tbody></table></div></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">San Francisco adds a wide receiver</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Denzel Boston was a popular selection near the end of mock drafts, often to the Buffalo Bills to give Josh Allen more help on the outside, but the Washington wide receiver slid out of the first round entirely.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">The San Francisco 49ers might be glad he did.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">While the 49ers did make some additions at wide receiver, including Mike Evans and Christian Kirk, questions remain regarding Brandon Aiyuk and Jauan Jennings. In Boston, the 49ers are getting a ball-winning receiver on the outside, and in San Francisco, Boston gets a chance to learn from one of the NFL’s best in Evans.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Arizona gets their quarterback</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Might this be too early for Garrett Nussmeier? Perhaps. But as we <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/1111521/garrett-nussmeier-injury-cyst-spine-lsu-scouting-report-steal">argued earlier this week</a>, the revelation that Nussmeier was dealing with a cyst on his spine, which was pressing on a nerve and causing significant pain and discomfort, changes his evaluation.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Nussmeier is still an undersized quarterback prospect, but the timing, rhythm, and anticipation he showed at LSU, particularly when healthy, is a strong foundation for his NFL journey. He also might be an ideal fit for what we expect this offense to look like under new head coach Mike LaFleur.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Tampa Bay gets their Lavonte David replacement</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Lavonte David’s retirement created a big hole in the heart of the Buccaneers’ defense.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Tampa Bay fills that with linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, whose play-making skills and nose for the football saw him finish fifth in Heisman Trophy voting. He might give up the occasional big play in pass coverage, but his run-stopping skills and athleticism are fantastic building blocks for an NFL career.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">Jermod McCoy’s slide ends in New York</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">On film alone, Jermod McCoy’s draft profile is among the best in this entire class.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">However, as we saw last year with Will Johnson, injury concerns pushed McCoy out of the first round entirely. At some point, a team is going to accept the injury risk, and we think that will be John Harbaugh and the New York Giants tonight. McCoy’s 2024 tape is close to elite, with excellent footwork and movement skills. His press technique could use some refinement, but what I love about McCoy when he is in press alignment is his patience. He does not panic, and that trait was on display on this interception against Alabama:</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">It’s one thing to stay calm as a press corner with the ball at midfield, it’s another to do so with your feet near the goal line. But this is a fantastic play from McCoy, who stays patient, is strong with the jam, and then gets his eyes and hand to the football.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p><h2 class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup">DeMeco Ryans gets more defensive help</h2></p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Last season, the Houston Texans defense was terrifying.</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Imagine that defense … improving?</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">In this mock draft, not only do the Texans get Kayden McDonald, one of the top defensive tackles in the class and a player who was in Pittsburgh as a potential first-round pick, but they add one of our favorite players in Keionte Scott, a slot corner who can create havoc all over the field. Just watch him blow up this screen against Texas A&M in the college football playoff:</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Or time up this blitz against Louisville:</p></div><div class="duet--article--article-body-component"><p class="duet--article--dangerously-set-cms-markup duet--article--standard-paragraph _1nfb3k4i _16w9vov1 _16w9vov0 ls9zuh1">Dropping him into this Houston defense? That’s just mean.</p></div></div> #NFL #mock #draft #2nd #projection #49ers #clock

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England’s run at the 1986 World Cup came to a dramatic end due to the “Hand of God” goal scored by Diego Maradona.

Could their run at the 2026 World Cup continue due to the “Cable of God?”

Norway took a 1-0 lead late in the first half during Saturday’s Quarterfinal match between the two teams, thanks to a thunderous strike from Andreas Schjelderup.

However, England pulled level moments later, on a lovely left-footed strike from Jude Bellingham:

But should the goal have even counted?

FOX Sports cameras spotted Norway coach Stale Solbakken chatting with referee Clement Turpin after the goal, and Norway striker Erling Haaland was frustrated as well:

Eventually, replay angles showed why. After a goal kick from keeper Orjan Nyland, the ball appeared to strike one of the FIFA skycam cables, falling to the feet of England’s Anthony Gordon:

On the FOX Sports broadcast, former referee Mark Clattenburg noted that under FIFA rules, the play should have stopped, and a dropped-ball resulted.

A review did come later in the match, but that potential go-ahead goal was taken off the board after VAR noted a foul by Haaland before Norway’s corner kick:

The match remains tied at 1-1 deep into the second half, but no matter the result, expect that non-review to be part of the discussion.

Update: Following the match, FIFA shared this on social media:

#Englands #equalizer #Norway #counted">Why England’s equalizer against Norway should not have counted England’s run at the 1986 World Cup came to a dramatic end due to the “Hand of God” goal scored by Diego Maradona.Could their run at the 2026 World Cup continue due to the “Cable of God?”Norway took a 1-0 lead late in the first half during Saturday’s Quarterfinal match between the two teams, thanks to a thunderous strike from Andreas Schjelderup.However, England pulled level moments later, on a lovely left-footed strike from Jude Bellingham:But should the goal have even counted?FOX Sports cameras spotted Norway coach Stale Solbakken chatting with referee Clement Turpin after the goal, and Norway striker Erling Haaland was frustrated as well:Eventually, replay angles showed why. After a goal kick from keeper Orjan Nyland, the ball appeared to strike one of the FIFA skycam cables, falling to the feet of England’s Anthony Gordon:On the FOX Sports broadcast, former referee Mark Clattenburg noted that under FIFA rules, the play should have stopped, and a dropped-ball resulted.A review did come later in the match, but that potential go-ahead goal was taken off the board after VAR noted a foul by Haaland before Norway’s corner kick:The match remains tied at 1-1 deep into the second half, but no matter the result, expect that non-review to be part of the discussion.Update: Following the match, FIFA shared this on social media: #Englands #equalizer #Norway #counted

Argentina vs Switzerland LIVE score, FIFA World Cup 2026: ARG 2-1 SUI; Alvarez scores screamer in extra time Argentina (4-4-2): Emi Martinez (gk), Molina, Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Tagliafico, De Paul, Paredes, Mac Allister, Fernandez, Messi, AlvarezSwitzerland (4-2-3-1): Kobel (gk), Zakaria, Elvedi, Akanji, Rodriguez, Freuler, Xhaka, Ndoye, Sow, Vargas, Embolo #Argentina #Switzerland #LIVE #score #FIFA #World #Cup #ARG #SUI #Alvarez #scores #screamer #extra #time

Deadspin | Veteran Grant Enfinger wins wild NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Race at historic Lime Rock Park Feb 12, 2026; Daytona Beach, Florida, USA; NASCAR Truck Series driver Grant Enfinger (9) during practice for the Fresh from Florida 250 at Daytona International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images LAKEVILLE, Conn. — Popular veteran Grant Enfinger took the lead on a late race restart and held off a hard-charging Landen Lewis to make his first visit to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Victory Lane in more than a season — earning his first career road course win Saturday afternoon in the LiUNA 150 at Connecticut’s historic Lime Rock Park. Enfinger, who lined up alongside Gio Ruggiero for a restart with three laps remaining, got the jump at the green flag and then held off Lewis — who was racing for his first career series win. It was a fittingly exhilarating way to close out the race which included an 18-minute red flag and thrilling door-to-door competition particularly in the closing laps. Enfinger’s No. 9 CR7 Motorsports Chevrolet crossed the line only a slight .483-second ahead of the Niece Motorsports driver Lewis. “I feel like we had some things play into our hand,” Enfinger said, noting of the day’s strongest cars, “I don’t think we had anything for the 11 (Honeycutt) or the 34 (Scott Riggs) straight up.” Of the final restart, Enfinger said he was enthused to get the edge out front on then-leader Gio Ruggiero at the drop of the green. He had considered taking the preferable position outside but opted to start alongside Guggiero on the front row and honorably vie for the lead that way. This marks his 13th career win. “I wanted to beat him straight up on the outside,” Enfinger added. “A lot went into that decision but I didn’t want to go in there and purposefully take him out of the way for the win. I feel like we beat him on the launch. And I think we had a better car. “Just an amazing job with this Chevrolet. … I think this is only my second top 10 at a road course. We have had road course trucks this year, but I think today we were a solid top five truck and the seas parted and the good Lord blessed us today and we were able to come home for a win.” Championship contender Kaden Honeycutt claimed third place after an absolutely amazing drive back up through the field. The TRICON Garage Toyota driver had dropped to 24th position with 28 laps to go after being involved in a multi-car accident late in the race. Popular driver and television analyst Parker Kligerman — a part-owner of Lime Rock Park — finished fourth in the Spire Motorsports No. 77 Chevrolet. Christian Eckes was fifth in the No. 91 McAnally Hilgemann Chevrolet. Honeycutt’s finish to the day came after he won Stage 2 and kept polesitter, and the series championship points leader Riggs honest for the majority of the race. Riggs led the first 34 laps with one or the other leading through the opening 62 laps of the 100-lap event. Riggs won Stage 1 and Honeycutt won Stage 2. And then the chaos set in. Four caution flags — and the red flag — came out in the closing 40 laps. Varying pit strategies shook up the front of the field, relegating Riggs and Honeycutt to play catch-up following the Stage 2 break at Lap 60. The two who have dominated the championship standings for the last two months collided while trying to race through the field. The damage to Riggs’ No. 34 Front Row Chevrolet proved to be too much for him to contend up front. His 48 laps out front was the most on the afternoon, but he ended up 23rd, the first driver a lap down. He retained the championship lead, however, and is now 44 points up on Honeycutt with four races remaining to settle the regular season championship. They officially clinched a spot in the Chase today. Enfinger’s victory was crucial in that it moved him inside the championship top 10 that will ultimately advance to the Chase. He’s now ninth in points, 25 points up on 10th place Tyler Ankrum. Stewart Friesen and Jake Garcia are tied, 17 points behind Ankrum. Daniel Hemric, Andres Perez De Lara, Tanner Grey, Friesen and Colin Braun — an IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Series full-timer — rounded out the top 10 Saturday. Thomas Annunziata, who ran up front all day after winning the ARCA Menards Series race at Lime Rock on Friday, ended up sidelined in the most dramatic incident of the day. He pulled off track with his No. 1 truck in flames while running second with 22 laps to go. Annunziata climbed out his No. 1 truck quickly and bent over to catch his breath next to a track wall. He was transported to a local area medical facility for further evaluation. He finished 29th. The NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series returns to competition next week with Saturday’s Faith Fest 250 (12:30 p.m. ET on FS1, NRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio) at the historic North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway. Front Row Motorsports’ Chandler Smith is the defending race winner. NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Race — LiUNA 150 at Lime Rock Park Lime Rock Park Lakeville, Connecticut Saturday, July 11, 2026 1. (12) Grant Enfinger, Chevrolet, 100. 2. (6) Landen Lewis, Chevrolet, 100. 3. (3) Kaden Honeycutt, Toyota, 100. 4. (16) Parker Kligerman, Chevrolet, 100. 5. (13) Christian Eckes, Chevrolet, 100. 6. (8) Daniel Hemric, Chevrolet, 100. 7. (14) Andres Perez De Lara, Chevrolet, 100. 8. (20) Tanner Gray, Toyota, 100. 9. (18) Stewart Friesen, Toyota, 100. 10. (33) Colin Braun, RAM, 100. 11. (22) Cole Butcher #, Ford, 100. 12. (29) Brenden Queen #, RAM, 100. 13. (30) Jackson Lee, Ford, 100. 14. (23) Justin Haley, RAM, 100. 15. (21) Dawson Sutton, Chevrolet, 100. 16. (24) Wesley Slimp, Toyota, 100. 17. (19) Kris Wright, Chevrolet, 100. 18. (2) Connor Mosack, Chevrolet, 100. 19. (27) Graham Doyle, Toyota, 100. 20. (7) Giovanni Ruggiero, Toyota, 100. 21. (26) Louis Foster, Chevrolet, 100. 22. (10) Jake Garcia, Ford, 100. 23. (1) Layne Riggs, Ford, 99. 24. (28) Mini Tyrrell #, RAM, 99. 25. (11) Tyler Ankrum, Chevrolet, 98. 26. (31) Frankie Muniz, Ford, 98. 27. (32) Josh Reaume, Ford, 98. 28. (25) Corey LaJoie, RAM, Engine, 90. 29. (4) Thomas Annunziata, Toyota, Engine, 79. 30. (9) Chandler Smith, Ford, Driveshaft, 56. 31. (17) Ben Rhodes, Ford, Accident, 50. 32. (5) Ty Majeski, Ford, Accident, 44. 33. (15) Ben Maier, Chevrolet, Electrical, 33. Average Speed of Race Winner: 57.929 mph. Time of Race: 2 Hrs, 33 Mins, 5 Secs. Margin of Victory: 0.483 Seconds. Caution Flags: 7 for 39 laps. Lead Changes: 9 among 6 drivers. Lap Leaders: L. Riggs 1-34;K. Honeycutt 35;L. Riggs 36-49;K. Honeycutt 50-62;C. Butcher # 63-73;S. Friesen 74;G. Ruggiero 75-85;G. Enfinger 86;G. Ruggiero 87-96;G. Enfinger 97-100. Leaders Summary (Driver, Times Lead, Laps Led): Layne Riggs 2 times for 48 laps; Giovanni Ruggiero 2 times for 21 laps; Kaden Honeycutt 2 times for 14 laps; Cole Butcher # 1 time for 11 laps; Grant Enfinger 2 times for 5 laps; Stewart Friesen 1 time for 1 lap. Stage #1 Top Ten: 34,11,45,7,1,88,17,19,9,44 Stage #2 Top Ten: 11,34,9,19,44,18,77,98,15,13 –By Holly Cain, NASCAR Wire Service. Special to Field Level Media #Deadspin #Veteran #Grant #Enfinger #wins #wild #NASCAR #CRAFTSMAN #Truck #Series #Race #historic #Lime #Rock #ParkFeb 12, 2026; Daytona Beach, Florida, USA; NASCAR Truck Series driver Grant Enfinger (9) during practice for the Fresh from Florida 250 at Daytona International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

LAKEVILLE, Conn. — Popular veteran Grant Enfinger took the lead on a late race restart and held off a hard-charging Landen Lewis to make his first visit to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Victory Lane in more than a season — earning his first career road course win Saturday afternoon in the LiUNA 150 at Connecticut’s historic Lime Rock Park.

Enfinger, who lined up alongside Gio Ruggiero for a restart with three laps remaining, got the jump at the green flag and then held off Lewis — who was racing for his first career series win. It was a fittingly exhilarating way to close out the race which included an 18-minute red flag and thrilling door-to-door competition particularly in the closing laps.

Enfinger’s No. 9 CR7 Motorsports Chevrolet crossed the line only a slight .483-second ahead of the Niece Motorsports driver Lewis.

“I feel like we had some things play into our hand,” Enfinger said, noting of the day’s strongest cars, “I don’t think we had anything for the 11 (Honeycutt) or the 34 (Scott Riggs) straight up.”

Of the final restart, Enfinger said he was enthused to get the edge out front on then-leader Gio Ruggiero at the drop of the green. He had considered taking the preferable position outside but opted to start alongside Guggiero on the front row and honorably vie for the lead that way. This marks his 13th career win.

“I wanted to beat him straight up on the outside,” Enfinger added. “A lot went into that decision but I didn’t want to go in there and purposefully take him out of the way for the win. I feel like we beat him on the launch. And I think we had a better car.

“Just an amazing job with this Chevrolet. … I think this is only my second top 10 at a road course. We have had road course trucks this year, but I think today we were a solid top five truck and the seas parted and the good Lord blessed us today and we were able to come home for a win.”

Championship contender Kaden Honeycutt claimed third place after an absolutely amazing drive back up through the field. The TRICON Garage Toyota driver had dropped to 24th position with 28 laps to go after being involved in a multi-car accident late in the race.

Popular driver and television analyst Parker Kligerman — a part-owner of Lime Rock Park — finished fourth in the Spire Motorsports No. 77 Chevrolet. Christian Eckes was fifth in the No. 91 McAnally Hilgemann Chevrolet.

Honeycutt’s finish to the day came after he won Stage 2 and kept polesitter, and the series championship points leader Riggs honest for the majority of the race. Riggs led the first 34 laps with one or the other leading through the opening 62 laps of the 100-lap event. Riggs won Stage 1 and Honeycutt won Stage 2.

And then the chaos set in. Four caution flags — and the red flag — came out in the closing 40 laps.

Varying pit strategies shook up the front of the field, relegating Riggs and Honeycutt to play catch-up following the Stage 2 break at Lap 60. The two who have dominated the championship standings for the last two months collided while trying to race through the field.

The damage to Riggs’ No. 34 Front Row Chevrolet proved to be too much for him to contend up front. His 48 laps out front was the most on the afternoon, but he ended up 23rd, the first driver a lap down.

He retained the championship lead, however, and is now 44 points up on Honeycutt with four races remaining to settle the regular season championship. They officially clinched a spot in the Chase today.

Enfinger’s victory was crucial in that it moved him inside the championship top 10 that will ultimately advance to the Chase. He’s now ninth in points, 25 points up on 10th place Tyler Ankrum. Stewart Friesen and Jake Garcia are tied, 17 points behind Ankrum.

Daniel Hemric, Andres Perez De Lara, Tanner Grey, Friesen and Colin Braun — an IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Series full-timer — rounded out the top 10 Saturday.

Thomas Annunziata, who ran up front all day after winning the ARCA Menards Series race at Lime Rock on Friday, ended up sidelined in the most dramatic incident of the day. He pulled off track with his No. 1 truck in flames while running second with 22 laps to go. Annunziata climbed out his No. 1 truck quickly and bent over to catch his breath next to a track wall. He was transported to a local area medical facility for further evaluation. He finished 29th.

The NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series returns to competition next week with Saturday’s Faith Fest 250 (12:30 p.m. ET on FS1, NRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio) at the historic North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway. Front Row Motorsports’ Chandler Smith is the defending race winner.

NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Race — LiUNA 150 at Lime Rock Park

Lime Rock Park

Lakeville, Connecticut

Saturday, July 11, 2026

1. (12) Grant Enfinger, Chevrolet, 100.

2. (6) Landen Lewis, Chevrolet, 100.

3. (3) Kaden Honeycutt, Toyota, 100.

4. (16) Parker Kligerman, Chevrolet, 100.

5. (13) Christian Eckes, Chevrolet, 100.

6. (8) Daniel Hemric, Chevrolet, 100.

7. (14) Andres Perez De Lara, Chevrolet, 100.

8. (20) Tanner Gray, Toyota, 100.

9. (18) Stewart Friesen, Toyota, 100.


10. (33) Colin Braun, RAM, 100.

11. (22) Cole Butcher #, Ford, 100.

12. (29) Brenden Queen #, RAM, 100.

13. (30) Jackson Lee, Ford, 100.

14. (23) Justin Haley, RAM, 100.

15. (21) Dawson Sutton, Chevrolet, 100.

16. (24) Wesley Slimp, Toyota, 100.

17. (19) Kris Wright, Chevrolet, 100.

18. (2) Connor Mosack, Chevrolet, 100.

19. (27) Graham Doyle, Toyota, 100.

20. (7) Giovanni Ruggiero, Toyota, 100.

21. (26) Louis Foster, Chevrolet, 100.

22. (10) Jake Garcia, Ford, 100.

23. (1) Layne Riggs, Ford, 99.

24. (28) Mini Tyrrell #, RAM, 99.

25. (11) Tyler Ankrum, Chevrolet, 98.

26. (31) Frankie Muniz, Ford, 98.

27. (32) Josh Reaume, Ford, 98.

28. (25) Corey LaJoie, RAM, Engine, 90.

29. (4) Thomas Annunziata, Toyota, Engine, 79.

30. (9) Chandler Smith, Ford, Driveshaft, 56.

31. (17) Ben Rhodes, Ford, Accident, 50.

32. (5) Ty Majeski, Ford, Accident, 44.

33. (15) Ben Maier, Chevrolet, Electrical, 33.

Average Speed of Race Winner: 57.929 mph.

Time of Race: 2 Hrs, 33 Mins, 5 Secs. Margin of Victory: 0.483 Seconds.

Caution Flags: 7 for 39 laps.

Lead Changes: 9 among 6 drivers.

Lap Leaders: L. Riggs 1-34;K. Honeycutt 35;L. Riggs 36-49;K. Honeycutt 50-62;C. Butcher # 63-73;S. Friesen 74;G. Ruggiero 75-85;G. Enfinger 86;G. Ruggiero 87-96;G. Enfinger 97-100.

Leaders Summary (Driver, Times Lead, Laps Led): Layne Riggs 2 times for 48 laps; Giovanni Ruggiero 2 times for 21 laps; Kaden Honeycutt 2 times for 14 laps; Cole Butcher # 1 time for 11 laps; Grant Enfinger 2 times for 5 laps; Stewart Friesen 1 time for 1 lap.

Stage #1 Top Ten: 34,11,45,7,1,88,17,19,9,44

Stage #2 Top Ten: 11,34,9,19,44,18,77,98,15,13


–By Holly Cain, NASCAR Wire Service. Special to Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Veteran #Grant #Enfinger #wins #wild #NASCAR #CRAFTSMAN #Truck #Series #Race #historic #Lime #Rock #Park">Deadspin | Veteran Grant Enfinger wins wild NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Race at historic Lime Rock Park Feb 12, 2026; Daytona Beach, Florida, USA; NASCAR Truck Series driver Grant Enfinger (9) during practice for the Fresh from Florida 250 at Daytona International Speedway. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images LAKEVILLE, Conn. — Popular veteran Grant Enfinger took the lead on a late race restart and held off a hard-charging Landen Lewis to make his first visit to the NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series Victory Lane in more than a season — earning his first career road course win Saturday afternoon in the LiUNA 150 at Connecticut’s historic Lime Rock Park. Enfinger, who lined up alongside Gio Ruggiero for a restart with three laps remaining, got the jump at the green flag and then held off Lewis — who was racing for his first career series win. It was a fittingly exhilarating way to close out the race which included an 18-minute red flag and thrilling door-to-door competition particularly in the closing laps. Enfinger’s No. 9 CR7 Motorsports Chevrolet crossed the line only a slight .483-second ahead of the Niece Motorsports driver Lewis. “I feel like we had some things play into our hand,” Enfinger said, noting of the day’s strongest cars, “I don’t think we had anything for the 11 (Honeycutt) or the 34 (Scott Riggs) straight up.” Of the final restart, Enfinger said he was enthused to get the edge out front on then-leader Gio Ruggiero at the drop of the green. He had considered taking the preferable position outside but opted to start alongside Guggiero on the front row and honorably vie for the lead that way. This marks his 13th career win. “I wanted to beat him straight up on the outside,” Enfinger added. “A lot went into that decision but I didn’t want to go in there and purposefully take him out of the way for the win. I feel like we beat him on the launch. And I think we had a better car. “Just an amazing job with this Chevrolet. … I think this is only my second top 10 at a road course. We have had road course trucks this year, but I think today we were a solid top five truck and the seas parted and the good Lord blessed us today and we were able to come home for a win.” Championship contender Kaden Honeycutt claimed third place after an absolutely amazing drive back up through the field. The TRICON Garage Toyota driver had dropped to 24th position with 28 laps to go after being involved in a multi-car accident late in the race. Popular driver and television analyst Parker Kligerman — a part-owner of Lime Rock Park — finished fourth in the Spire Motorsports No. 77 Chevrolet. Christian Eckes was fifth in the No. 91 McAnally Hilgemann Chevrolet. Honeycutt’s finish to the day came after he won Stage 2 and kept polesitter, and the series championship points leader Riggs honest for the majority of the race. Riggs led the first 34 laps with one or the other leading through the opening 62 laps of the 100-lap event. Riggs won Stage 1 and Honeycutt won Stage 2. And then the chaos set in. Four caution flags — and the red flag — came out in the closing 40 laps. Varying pit strategies shook up the front of the field, relegating Riggs and Honeycutt to play catch-up following the Stage 2 break at Lap 60. The two who have dominated the championship standings for the last two months collided while trying to race through the field. The damage to Riggs’ No. 34 Front Row Chevrolet proved to be too much for him to contend up front. His 48 laps out front was the most on the afternoon, but he ended up 23rd, the first driver a lap down. He retained the championship lead, however, and is now 44 points up on Honeycutt with four races remaining to settle the regular season championship. They officially clinched a spot in the Chase today. Enfinger’s victory was crucial in that it moved him inside the championship top 10 that will ultimately advance to the Chase. He’s now ninth in points, 25 points up on 10th place Tyler Ankrum. Stewart Friesen and Jake Garcia are tied, 17 points behind Ankrum. Daniel Hemric, Andres Perez De Lara, Tanner Grey, Friesen and Colin Braun — an IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Series full-timer — rounded out the top 10 Saturday. Thomas Annunziata, who ran up front all day after winning the ARCA Menards Series race at Lime Rock on Friday, ended up sidelined in the most dramatic incident of the day. He pulled off track with his No. 1 truck in flames while running second with 22 laps to go. Annunziata climbed out his No. 1 truck quickly and bent over to catch his breath next to a track wall. He was transported to a local area medical facility for further evaluation. He finished 29th. The NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series returns to competition next week with Saturday’s Faith Fest 250 (12:30 p.m. ET on FS1, NRN, SiriusXM NASCAR Radio) at the historic North Wilkesboro (N.C.) Speedway. Front Row Motorsports’ Chandler Smith is the defending race winner. NASCAR CRAFTSMAN Truck Series Race — LiUNA 150 at Lime Rock Park Lime Rock Park Lakeville, Connecticut Saturday, July 11, 2026 1. (12) Grant Enfinger, Chevrolet, 100. 2. (6) Landen Lewis, Chevrolet, 100. 3. (3) Kaden Honeycutt, Toyota, 100. 4. (16) Parker Kligerman, Chevrolet, 100. 5. (13) Christian Eckes, Chevrolet, 100. 6. (8) Daniel Hemric, Chevrolet, 100. 7. (14) Andres Perez De Lara, Chevrolet, 100. 8. (20) Tanner Gray, Toyota, 100. 9. (18) Stewart Friesen, Toyota, 100. 10. (33) Colin Braun, RAM, 100. 11. (22) Cole Butcher #, Ford, 100. 12. (29) Brenden Queen #, RAM, 100. 13. (30) Jackson Lee, Ford, 100. 14. (23) Justin Haley, RAM, 100. 15. (21) Dawson Sutton, Chevrolet, 100. 16. (24) Wesley Slimp, Toyota, 100. 17. (19) Kris Wright, Chevrolet, 100. 18. (2) Connor Mosack, Chevrolet, 100. 19. (27) Graham Doyle, Toyota, 100. 20. (7) Giovanni Ruggiero, Toyota, 100. 21. (26) Louis Foster, Chevrolet, 100. 22. (10) Jake Garcia, Ford, 100. 23. (1) Layne Riggs, Ford, 99. 24. (28) Mini Tyrrell #, RAM, 99. 25. (11) Tyler Ankrum, Chevrolet, 98. 26. (31) Frankie Muniz, Ford, 98. 27. (32) Josh Reaume, Ford, 98. 28. (25) Corey LaJoie, RAM, Engine, 90. 29. (4) Thomas Annunziata, Toyota, Engine, 79. 30. (9) Chandler Smith, Ford, Driveshaft, 56. 31. (17) Ben Rhodes, Ford, Accident, 50. 32. (5) Ty Majeski, Ford, Accident, 44. 33. (15) Ben Maier, Chevrolet, Electrical, 33. Average Speed of Race Winner: 57.929 mph. Time of Race: 2 Hrs, 33 Mins, 5 Secs. Margin of Victory: 0.483 Seconds. Caution Flags: 7 for 39 laps. Lead Changes: 9 among 6 drivers. Lap Leaders: L. Riggs 1-34;K. Honeycutt 35;L. Riggs 36-49;K. Honeycutt 50-62;C. Butcher # 63-73;S. Friesen 74;G. Ruggiero 75-85;G. Enfinger 86;G. Ruggiero 87-96;G. Enfinger 97-100. Leaders Summary (Driver, Times Lead, Laps Led): Layne Riggs 2 times for 48 laps; Giovanni Ruggiero 2 times for 21 laps; Kaden Honeycutt 2 times for 14 laps; Cole Butcher # 1 time for 11 laps; Grant Enfinger 2 times for 5 laps; Stewart Friesen 1 time for 1 lap. Stage #1 Top Ten: 34,11,45,7,1,88,17,19,9,44 Stage #2 Top Ten: 11,34,9,19,44,18,77,98,15,13 –By Holly Cain, NASCAR Wire Service. Special to Field Level Media #Deadspin #Veteran #Grant #Enfinger #wins #wild #NASCAR #CRAFTSMAN #Truck #Series #Race #historic #Lime #Rock #Park

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