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Deadspin | Flyers, Devils both focused on reaching playoffs in crowded Metro Apr 2, 2026; Newark, New Jersey, USA; New Jersey Devils center Jack Hughes (86) celebrates his goal against the Washington Capitals during the third period at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images The Philadelphia Flyers have picked the right time to get hot. With five games remaining, they sit in a playoff spot and start a three-game road trip Tuesday against the rival New Jersey Devils in Newark, N.J. The Flyers (39-26-12, 90 points) find themselves in third place in the Metropolitan Division after Sunday’s 2-1 overtime win against the visiting Boston Bruins. Coach Rick Tocchet’s team has won two straight and eight out of 11. Since play resumed after the Olympic break, the Flyers are 14-6-1, and Tocchet said his team cannot become transfixed on how its fortunes have changed. “When you’re chasing somebody, it’s still hard, but when you’re getting hunted, it’s harder,” he said after Sunday’s win. “We’re going to have to learn that. We can only worry about tomorrow’s practice … and then we worry about the Devils. That’s the only way you can do it. We can’t worry about it.” Sunday was a breakout game for Porter Martone. The sixth overall pick in last year’s draft joined the club last Tuesday. He assisted on the Flyers’ first goal by Christian Dvorak, then scored the overtime winner, which also happened to be his first NHL goal. Tocchet said that Martone has impressed him in his first week as a pro, noting how he’s talked to his veteran teammates about positioning on power plays. “I like that. A young kid like that doing that?” Tocchet added. “You can just tell he’s been around. He’s just a hockey player. Love the kid.” New Jersey (40-34-3, 83 points) is one of the teams chasing the Flyers in the playoff race, but the Devils are seventh in the Metropolitan and would need a lot to fall their way over the final two weeks to sneak in. Coach Sheldon Keefe’s squad has alternated wins and losses over its last six games (3-2-1). On Sunday, the Devils scored a 3-0 win over the Montreal Canadiens, another team trying to crash the playoffs in the Eastern Conference. Keefe said players told one another after the win that they are not out of the playoff race. “That’s what you like to see,” he said. “It’s shown up in different ways in the last few weeks, with how we played overall. The vibes and the energy, the team’s been really good and healthy. … But (against Montreal) it goes to another level in all regards.” Jack Hughes set up two of New Jersey’s goals in the win at Montreal, continuing a hot streak he’s been on since play resumed in late February. The center — the top overall draft pick in 2019 — has 36 points (13 goals, 23 assists) in the 20 games since the Olympic break. He’s been held without a point in just four games in that span. Despite missing 21 games this season, Hughes, 24, leads the team in points with 72. He’s second behind Nico Hischier (26) with 25 goals and one behind Jesper Bratt’s team-best 48 assists. On Monday, Hughes earned the NHL’s Second Star of the Week honor, after scoring three times and posting six assists in four games. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Flyers #Devils #focused #reaching #playoffs #crowded #Metro

Deadspin | Flyers, Devils both focused on reaching playoffs in crowded Metro
Deadspin | Flyers, Devils both focused on reaching playoffs in crowded Metro Apr 2, 2026; Newark, New Jersey, USA; New Jersey Devils center Jack Hughes (86) celebrates his goal against the Washington Capitals during the third period at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images The Philadelphia Flyers have picked the right time to get hot. With five games remaining, they sit in a playoff spot and start a three-game road trip Tuesday against the rival New Jersey Devils in Newark, N.J. The Flyers (39-26-12, 90 points) find themselves in third place in the Metropolitan Division after Sunday’s 2-1 overtime win against the visiting Boston Bruins. Coach Rick Tocchet’s team has won two straight and eight out of 11. Since play resumed after the Olympic break, the Flyers are 14-6-1, and Tocchet said his team cannot become transfixed on how its fortunes have changed. “When you’re chasing somebody, it’s still hard, but when you’re getting hunted, it’s harder,” he said after Sunday’s win. “We’re going to have to learn that. We can only worry about tomorrow’s practice … and then we worry about the Devils. That’s the only way you can do it. We can’t worry about it.” Sunday was a breakout game for Porter Martone. The sixth overall pick in last year’s draft joined the club last Tuesday. He assisted on the Flyers’ first goal by Christian Dvorak, then scored the overtime winner, which also happened to be his first NHL goal. Tocchet said that Martone has impressed him in his first week as a pro, noting how he’s talked to his veteran teammates about positioning on power plays. “I like that. A young kid like that doing that?” Tocchet added. “You can just tell he’s been around. He’s just a hockey player. Love the kid.” New Jersey (40-34-3, 83 points) is one of the teams chasing the Flyers in the playoff race, but the Devils are seventh in the Metropolitan and would need a lot to fall their way over the final two weeks to sneak in. Coach Sheldon Keefe’s squad has alternated wins and losses over its last six games (3-2-1). On Sunday, the Devils scored a 3-0 win over the Montreal Canadiens, another team trying to crash the playoffs in the Eastern Conference. Keefe said players told one another after the win that they are not out of the playoff race. “That’s what you like to see,” he said. “It’s shown up in different ways in the last few weeks, with how we played overall. The vibes and the energy, the team’s been really good and healthy. … But (against Montreal) it goes to another level in all regards.” Jack Hughes set up two of New Jersey’s goals in the win at Montreal, continuing a hot streak he’s been on since play resumed in late February. The center — the top overall draft pick in 2019 — has 36 points (13 goals, 23 assists) in the 20 games since the Olympic break. He’s been held without a point in just four games in that span. Despite missing 21 games this season, Hughes, 24, leads the team in points with 72. He’s second behind Nico Hischier (26) with 25 goals and one behind Jesper Bratt’s team-best 48 assists. On Monday, Hughes earned the NHL’s Second Star of the Week honor, after scoring three times and posting six assists in four games. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Flyers #Devils #focused #reaching #playoffs #crowded #MetroApr 2, 2026; Newark, New Jersey, USA; New Jersey Devils center Jack Hughes (86) celebrates his goal against the Washington Capitals during the third period at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images

The Philadelphia Flyers have picked the right time to get hot. With five games remaining, they sit in a playoff spot and start a three-game road trip Tuesday against the rival New Jersey Devils in Newark, N.J.

The Flyers (39-26-12, 90 points) find themselves in third place in the Metropolitan Division after Sunday’s 2-1 overtime win against the visiting Boston Bruins. Coach Rick Tocchet’s team has won two straight and eight out of 11.

Since play resumed after the Olympic break, the Flyers are 14-6-1, and Tocchet said his team cannot become transfixed on how its fortunes have changed.

“When you’re chasing somebody, it’s still hard, but when you’re getting hunted, it’s harder,” he said after Sunday’s win. “We’re going to have to learn that. We can only worry about tomorrow’s practice … and then we worry about the Devils. That’s the only way you can do it. We can’t worry about it.”

Sunday was a breakout game for Porter Martone. The sixth overall pick in last year’s draft joined the club last Tuesday. He assisted on the Flyers’ first goal by Christian Dvorak, then scored the overtime winner, which also happened to be his first NHL goal.

Tocchet said that Martone has impressed him in his first week as a pro, noting how he’s talked to his veteran teammates about positioning on power plays.

“I like that. A young kid like that doing that?” Tocchet added. “You can just tell he’s been around. He’s just a hockey player. Love the kid.”


New Jersey (40-34-3, 83 points) is one of the teams chasing the Flyers in the playoff race, but the Devils are seventh in the Metropolitan and would need a lot to fall their way over the final two weeks to sneak in.

Coach Sheldon Keefe’s squad has alternated wins and losses over its last six games (3-2-1). On Sunday, the Devils scored a 3-0 win over the Montreal Canadiens, another team trying to crash the playoffs in the Eastern Conference.

Keefe said players told one another after the win that they are not out of the playoff race.

“That’s what you like to see,” he said. “It’s shown up in different ways in the last few weeks, with how we played overall. The vibes and the energy, the team’s been really good and healthy. … But (against Montreal) it goes to another level in all regards.”

Jack Hughes set up two of New Jersey’s goals in the win at Montreal, continuing a hot streak he’s been on since play resumed in late February. The center — the top overall draft pick in 2019 — has 36 points (13 goals, 23 assists) in the 20 games since the Olympic break. He’s been held without a point in just four games in that span.

Despite missing 21 games this season, Hughes, 24, leads the team in points with 72. He’s second behind Nico Hischier (26) with 25 goals and one behind Jesper Bratt’s team-best 48 assists.

On Monday, Hughes earned the NHL’s Second Star of the Week honor, after scoring three times and posting six assists in four games.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Flyers #Devils #focused #reaching #playoffs #crowded #Metro

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Apr 2, 2026; Newark, New Jersey, USA; New Jersey Devils center Jack Hughes (86) celebrates his goal against the Washington Capitals during the third period at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-Imagn Images

The Philadelphia Flyers have picked the right time to get hot. With five games remaining, they sit in a playoff spot and start a three-game road trip Tuesday against the rival New Jersey Devils in Newark, N.J.

The Flyers (39-26-12, 90 points) find themselves in third place in the Metropolitan Division after Sunday’s 2-1 overtime win against the visiting Boston Bruins. Coach Rick Tocchet’s team has won two straight and eight out of 11.

Since play resumed after the Olympic break, the Flyers are 14-6-1, and Tocchet said his team cannot become transfixed on how its fortunes have changed.

“When you’re chasing somebody, it’s still hard, but when you’re getting hunted, it’s harder,” he said after Sunday’s win. “We’re going to have to learn that. We can only worry about tomorrow’s practice … and then we worry about the Devils. That’s the only way you can do it. We can’t worry about it.”

Sunday was a breakout game for Porter Martone. The sixth overall pick in last year’s draft joined the club last Tuesday. He assisted on the Flyers’ first goal by Christian Dvorak, then scored the overtime winner, which also happened to be his first NHL goal.

Tocchet said that Martone has impressed him in his first week as a pro, noting how he’s talked to his veteran teammates about positioning on power plays.

“I like that. A young kid like that doing that?” Tocchet added. “You can just tell he’s been around. He’s just a hockey player. Love the kid.”

New Jersey (40-34-3, 83 points) is one of the teams chasing the Flyers in the playoff race, but the Devils are seventh in the Metropolitan and would need a lot to fall their way over the final two weeks to sneak in.

Coach Sheldon Keefe’s squad has alternated wins and losses over its last six games (3-2-1). On Sunday, the Devils scored a 3-0 win over the Montreal Canadiens, another team trying to crash the playoffs in the Eastern Conference.

Keefe said players told one another after the win that they are not out of the playoff race.

“That’s what you like to see,” he said. “It’s shown up in different ways in the last few weeks, with how we played overall. The vibes and the energy, the team’s been really good and healthy. … But (against Montreal) it goes to another level in all regards.”

Jack Hughes set up two of New Jersey’s goals in the win at Montreal, continuing a hot streak he’s been on since play resumed in late February. The center — the top overall draft pick in 2019 — has 36 points (13 goals, 23 assists) in the 20 games since the Olympic break. He’s been held without a point in just four games in that span.

Despite missing 21 games this season, Hughes, 24, leads the team in points with 72. He’s second behind Nico Hischier (26) with 25 goals and one behind Jesper Bratt’s team-best 48 assists.

On Monday, Hughes earned the NHL’s Second Star of the Week honor, after scoring three times and posting six assists in four games.

–Field Level Media

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Former World Anti-Doping Agency chief Craig Reedie dies aged 84 <div id="content-body-70832805" itemprop="articleBody"><p>Craig Reedie, the former World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) president whose position on the Russian doping scandal a decade ago brought him into conflict with the IOC where he was a vice president, has died. He was 84.</p><p>The International Olympic Committee (IOC) confirmed his death on Monday without stating the cause.</p><p>Reedie played key roles in London’s unexpected win in bidding to host the 2012 Olympics and in getting his own sport badminton on to the Olympic program for the 1992 Barcelona Games.</p><p>“Craig was my mentor, wise counsel, passionate advisor, and great friend,” said Sebastian Coe, who worked alongside Reedie in bidding for and organizing the London Summer Games.</p><p>“He was the distinguished elder statesman with a reservoir of Olympic knowledge and experience which he shared willingly and to great effect,” Coe wrote in a social media post on Monday.</p><p>Reedie’s standing in Olympic politics helped to elevate him to lead the global anti-doping watchdog in 2013, when the presidential nomination was effectively the turn of the IOC to decide.</p><p>Three years later, the lead-in to the Rio de Janeiro Summer Games was dominated by the scandal of learning the scale of Russia’s state-backed doping program at the 2014 Sochi Winter Games.</p><p>The push by Reedie’s WADA to remove the entire Russian team from Rio was fiercely resisted by the IOC and its president Thomas Bach. Both men sat on the IOC’s 15-member executive board that ultimately decided to let governing bodies of Olympic sports decide their entry policy for Russian athletes.</p><p>The public pressure put on Reedie by influential Olympic figures continued for months until he and Bach met to clear the air. Since Rio, no Russian team has competed at an Olympics with its own country name, flag and anthem.</p><p>Current IOC president Kirsty Coventry said on Monday that Reedie’s contribution “to the Olympic Games, to clean sport and to the development of athletes worldwide will endure for generations to come.” “He was a steadfast guardian of integrity, guiding the global sporting community through some of its most challenging moments with dignity and resolve,” Coventry added in an IOC statement.</p><p>Coe described Reedie, a Scotsman who was knighted in 2006, as the “epitome of a gentleman.” “He was equal parts opinionated, wise, canny, and, most of all, loyal to those who legitimately wanted to serve sport,” the World Athletics president said. “He certainly did not suffer fools gladly, was authentic, and would speak his mind.” Reedie was elected as an IOC member in 1994 and became an honorary member in 2021.</p><p>The IOC said its flag would fly at half-staff for three days at its headquarters in Lausanne, Switzerland.</p><p class="publish-time" id="end-of-article">Published on Apr 07, 2026</p></div> #World #AntiDoping #Agency #chief #Craig #Reedie #dies #aged

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The past and the present converged in a dazzling celebration of culture even as team spirit and the joy of sportsmanship came alive at the Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony at the Hydro here on Thursday.

It was an unforgettable evening as Scotland’s rich traditions blended seamlessly with a top-class, cutting-edge spectacle, offering a visual and musical treat to a packed audience. 

Against a backdrop of native folk/modern melodies and vibrant performances by a range of artists, history and modernity shook hands in a riveting theatre, underlining why Glasgow remains one of the finest hosts and keeps building on the success of the 2014 Commonwealth edition.

The Ceremony began with a journey through Scotland’s heritage. Track cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, regarded as the nation’s greatest sporting icon, and Scottish actor Greg McHugh appeared magically from the LED screen to the stage through the TARDIS box, accompanied by King Charles and Queen Camilla.

ALSO READ: How boxer Lovlina Borgohain confirmed India’s first medal at CWG Glasgow 2026 before opening ceremony

The TARDIS, a tribute to the legendary British science-fiction series Doctor Who, became a storytelling device for the memorable occasion.

But the moment that truly captured the spirit of the Commonwealth Games was the athletes’ parade. For the parade, the classic-modern soundtrack, created by Scottish electronic folk Valtos was spectacular; the duo collaborating with artists from Scotland and across the Commonwealth.

As the 74 Commonwealth Games associations marched into the arena, each one of them received an introduction on the LED screen. The Commonwealth baton was brought alive through colourful animations inspired by Scotland’s native flora, creating a connection between the host nation and the visiting sportspersons. Team Scotland, the tail of the pack, earned the biggest roar from the rapturous crowd.

From the mythical Loch Ness Monster, the legendary creature of Scottish freshwater folklore, to the “Voice of Time” symbolised by the Glasgow clock; from Nathan Evans’ sizzling show to the eye-catching dance of Glaswegians at Glasgow Central; from showcasing the city’s historic prowess in shipbuilding, textiles, locomotives and steam engines to singer Callum Beattie’s remarkable rendition of ‘Yes Sir, I Can Boogie’, the Opening Ceremony had it all.

Singer Nina Nesbitt produced a stirring performance of the 1988 Scottish classic ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’, transporting those gathered to that period. 

Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, and George Black, Chair of Glasgow 2026, explained how the Games belonged to the people.

King Charles officially declared the Games open. 

Published on Jul 24, 2026

#CWG #Opening #Ceremony #Glasgow #glows #celebration #present #future">CWG 2026 Opening Ceremony: Glasgow glows in celebration of past, present and future The past and the present converged in a dazzling celebration of culture even as team spirit and the joy of sportsmanship came alive at the Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony at the Hydro here on Thursday.It was an unforgettable evening as Scotland’s rich traditions blended seamlessly with a top-class, cutting-edge spectacle, offering a visual and musical treat to a packed audience. Against a backdrop of native folk/modern melodies and vibrant performances by a range of artists, history and modernity shook hands in a riveting theatre, underlining why Glasgow remains one of the finest hosts and keeps building on the success of the 2014 Commonwealth edition.The Ceremony began with a journey through Scotland’s heritage. Track cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, regarded as the nation’s greatest sporting icon, and Scottish actor Greg McHugh appeared magically from the LED screen to the stage through the TARDIS box, accompanied by King Charles and Queen Camilla.ALSO READ: How boxer Lovlina Borgohain confirmed India’s first medal at CWG Glasgow 2026 before opening ceremonyThe TARDIS, a tribute to the legendary British science-fiction series Doctor Who, became a storytelling device for the memorable occasion.But the moment that truly captured the spirit of the Commonwealth Games was the athletes’ parade. For the parade, the classic-modern soundtrack, created by Scottish electronic folk Valtos was spectacular; the duo collaborating with artists from Scotland and across the Commonwealth.As the 74 Commonwealth Games associations marched into the arena, each one of them received an introduction on the LED screen. The Commonwealth baton was brought alive through colourful animations inspired by Scotland’s native flora, creating a connection between the host nation and the visiting sportspersons. Team Scotland, the tail of the pack, earned the biggest roar from the rapturous crowd.From the mythical Loch Ness Monster, the legendary creature of Scottish freshwater folklore, to the “Voice of Time” symbolised by the Glasgow clock; from Nathan Evans’ sizzling show to the eye-catching dance of Glaswegians at Glasgow Central; from showcasing the city’s historic prowess in shipbuilding, textiles, locomotives and steam engines to singer Callum Beattie’s remarkable rendition of ‘Yes Sir, I Can Boogie’, the Opening Ceremony had it all.Singer Nina Nesbitt produced a stirring performance of the 1988 Scottish classic ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’, transporting those gathered to that period. Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, and George Black, Chair of Glasgow 2026, explained how the Games belonged to the people.King Charles officially declared the Games open. Published on Jul 24, 2026 #CWG #Opening #Ceremony #Glasgow #glows #celebration #present #future

How boxer Lovlina Borgohain confirmed India’s first medal at CWG Glasgow 2026 before opening ceremony

The TARDIS, a tribute to the legendary British science-fiction series Doctor Who, became a storytelling device for the memorable occasion.

But the moment that truly captured the spirit of the Commonwealth Games was the athletes’ parade. For the parade, the classic-modern soundtrack, created by Scottish electronic folk Valtos was spectacular; the duo collaborating with artists from Scotland and across the Commonwealth.

As the 74 Commonwealth Games associations marched into the arena, each one of them received an introduction on the LED screen. The Commonwealth baton was brought alive through colourful animations inspired by Scotland’s native flora, creating a connection between the host nation and the visiting sportspersons. Team Scotland, the tail of the pack, earned the biggest roar from the rapturous crowd.

From the mythical Loch Ness Monster, the legendary creature of Scottish freshwater folklore, to the “Voice of Time” symbolised by the Glasgow clock; from Nathan Evans’ sizzling show to the eye-catching dance of Glaswegians at Glasgow Central; from showcasing the city’s historic prowess in shipbuilding, textiles, locomotives and steam engines to singer Callum Beattie’s remarkable rendition of ‘Yes Sir, I Can Boogie’, the Opening Ceremony had it all.

Singer Nina Nesbitt produced a stirring performance of the 1988 Scottish classic ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’, transporting those gathered to that period. 

Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, and George Black, Chair of Glasgow 2026, explained how the Games belonged to the people.

King Charles officially declared the Games open. 

Published on Jul 24, 2026

#CWG #Opening #Ceremony #Glasgow #glows #celebration #present #future">CWG 2026 Opening Ceremony: Glasgow glows in celebration of past, present and future

The past and the present converged in a dazzling celebration of culture even as team spirit and the joy of sportsmanship came alive at the Commonwealth Games Opening Ceremony at the Hydro here on Thursday.

It was an unforgettable evening as Scotland’s rich traditions blended seamlessly with a top-class, cutting-edge spectacle, offering a visual and musical treat to a packed audience. 

Against a backdrop of native folk/modern melodies and vibrant performances by a range of artists, history and modernity shook hands in a riveting theatre, underlining why Glasgow remains one of the finest hosts and keeps building on the success of the 2014 Commonwealth edition.

The Ceremony began with a journey through Scotland’s heritage. Track cyclist Sir Chris Hoy, regarded as the nation’s greatest sporting icon, and Scottish actor Greg McHugh appeared magically from the LED screen to the stage through the TARDIS box, accompanied by King Charles and Queen Camilla.

ALSO READ: How boxer Lovlina Borgohain confirmed India’s first medal at CWG Glasgow 2026 before opening ceremony

The TARDIS, a tribute to the legendary British science-fiction series Doctor Who, became a storytelling device for the memorable occasion.

But the moment that truly captured the spirit of the Commonwealth Games was the athletes’ parade. For the parade, the classic-modern soundtrack, created by Scottish electronic folk Valtos was spectacular; the duo collaborating with artists from Scotland and across the Commonwealth.

As the 74 Commonwealth Games associations marched into the arena, each one of them received an introduction on the LED screen. The Commonwealth baton was brought alive through colourful animations inspired by Scotland’s native flora, creating a connection between the host nation and the visiting sportspersons. Team Scotland, the tail of the pack, earned the biggest roar from the rapturous crowd.

From the mythical Loch Ness Monster, the legendary creature of Scottish freshwater folklore, to the “Voice of Time” symbolised by the Glasgow clock; from Nathan Evans’ sizzling show to the eye-catching dance of Glaswegians at Glasgow Central; from showcasing the city’s historic prowess in shipbuilding, textiles, locomotives and steam engines to singer Callum Beattie’s remarkable rendition of ‘Yes Sir, I Can Boogie’, the Opening Ceremony had it all.

Singer Nina Nesbitt produced a stirring performance of the 1988 Scottish classic ‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’, transporting those gathered to that period. 

Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, and George Black, Chair of Glasgow 2026, explained how the Games belonged to the people.

King Charles officially declared the Games open. 

Published on Jul 24, 2026

#CWG #Opening #Ceremony #Glasgow #glows #celebration #present #future
Deadspin | Raiders sign No. 1 overall pick QB Fernando Mendoza Jun 3, 2026; Henderson, NV, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) warms up during organized team activities at Intermountain Health Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-Imagn Images The Las Vegas Raiders signed quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, on Thursday. The Heisman Trophy winner’s four-year rookie deal is worth a fully guaranteed .27 million and includes a fifth-year option. Mendoza, 22, guided Indiana to its first national championship and a 16-0 season in 2025. He completed 72.0% of his passes for 3,535 yards with 41 touchdowns and six interceptions in his lone season with the Hoosiers. The Raiders signed veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins as the likely Week 1 starter for this season, with Mendoza as the long-term face of the franchise. Mendoza and the Raiders reportedly had been at odds over his signing bonus. The team did not disclose those details on Thursday. Rookies were due to report to training camp for Las Vegas on Wednesday. Mendoza played his first two collegiate campaigns at Cal from 2023-24, throwing for a combined 4,712 yards with 30 TDs and 16 interceptions in 20 games for the Golden Bears. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Raiders #sign #pick #Fernando #MendozaJun 3, 2026; Henderson, NV, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) warms up during organized team activities at Intermountain Health Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-Imagn Images

The Las Vegas Raiders signed quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, on Thursday.

The Heisman Trophy winner’s four-year rookie deal is worth a fully guaranteed $57.27 million and includes a fifth-year option.

Mendoza, 22, guided Indiana to its first national championship and a 16-0 season in 2025. He completed 72.0% of his passes for 3,535 yards with 41 touchdowns and six interceptions in his lone season with the Hoosiers.


The Raiders signed veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins as the likely Week 1 starter for this season, with Mendoza as the long-term face of the franchise.

Mendoza and the Raiders reportedly had been at odds over his signing bonus. The team did not disclose those details on Thursday.

Rookies were due to report to training camp for Las Vegas on Wednesday.

Mendoza played his first two collegiate campaigns at Cal from 2023-24, throwing for a combined 4,712 yards with 30 TDs and 16 interceptions in 20 games for the Golden Bears.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Raiders #sign #pick #Fernando #Mendoza">Deadspin | Raiders sign No. 1 overall pick QB Fernando Mendoza Jun 3, 2026; Henderson, NV, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) warms up during organized team activities at Intermountain Health Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Candice Ward-Imagn Images The Las Vegas Raiders signed quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, on Thursday. The Heisman Trophy winner’s four-year rookie deal is worth a fully guaranteed .27 million and includes a fifth-year option. Mendoza, 22, guided Indiana to its first national championship and a 16-0 season in 2025. He completed 72.0% of his passes for 3,535 yards with 41 touchdowns and six interceptions in his lone season with the Hoosiers. The Raiders signed veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins as the likely Week 1 starter for this season, with Mendoza as the long-term face of the franchise. Mendoza and the Raiders reportedly had been at odds over his signing bonus. The team did not disclose those details on Thursday. Rookies were due to report to training camp for Las Vegas on Wednesday. Mendoza played his first two collegiate campaigns at Cal from 2023-24, throwing for a combined 4,712 yards with 30 TDs and 16 interceptions in 20 games for the Golden Bears. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Raiders #sign #pick #Fernando #Mendoza

Kevin Knight’s rise has been nothing short of stratospheric. A year that began with Knight having a promising run as one of All Elite Wrestling’s up-and-coming stars morphed over the course of 2026 into something much, much larger. Knight captured individual gold by winning the TNT Championship in April, and now he’s on the precipice of the biggest match of his career. Knight will stand across the ring from AEW World Champion Kenny Omega at Redemption in Montreal, headlining a pay-per-view and looking to shatter expectations in the process.

I talked with Knight this week in the lead up to his match against Omega to learn what makes him tick as a wrestler, understand the decision behind joining The Don Callis Family, and learn that in a world of heroes and villans, Knight is perfectly comfortable to exist in the grey area.

A turning point for Knight came in May at Double or Nothing when he shocked the world by turning on Darby Allin and joining with Don Callis to close the show. It felt like a staggering rejection of his role as fan-favorite inside the company, but it was clinical for Knight. This wasn’t about trying to become hated, but trying to elevate himself.

“The goal has stayed the same,” Knight says, “become Jet 2 Belts.” Not only does he want to hold onto his TNT title, but to win the AEW World Championship as well, asserting himself at the top. “I saw the opportunity to overtake this company after Double or Nothing and figured I need to invest in myself.

“Getting myself with the Don Callis Family and, seeing how he moves and how, how he’s brought so many championships to AEW, it was a no-brainer, and it’s been nothing but success ever since.”

Knight speaks plainly in a business so influenced by emotion. Joining Callis wasn’t a conscious decision to make fans angry or to reject his longtime friend “Speedball” Mike Bailey, but came about organically, as with any difficult change an athlete needs to make. The NFL player demanding a trade, the NBA star making a decision — Knight is walking the same line.

“He’s [Callis] been here from day one, and he’s seen people come and go. He’s seen all different types of performers, so he snatched me up. I was tagged with Speedball Mike Bailey, and he had a smile, and he was just naive to the politics of it all. [Don’s] smartened me up, giving me another angle, another perspective in attacking this game that we call wrestling.”

If pro wrestling is a game, then Kenny Omega is its final boss. Not only is “The Best Bout Machine” the world champion, but he is also regarded as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time. Knight might have faced a lot of challenges, but fighting Omega in Canada for a championship is on a different level. Still, Knight feels like he might have an edge — and he’s excited to

“Always attack his weaknesses, attacking his weaknesses and, and knowing who he is as a person, and, and capitalizing on those weaknesses. Don Callis has known Kenny a long, long, long time, so he’s priming me up. He’s giving me some game on Kenny’s blind spots. We all love Kenny as a person, but he’s careless in some ways — so, whenever I see those openings, I’m definitely gonna definitely going to attack, take advantage.”

It’s not lost on Knight that a majority of wrestling fans are writing him off on Sunday. The lingering perception is that Omega will win, move on to All In at Wembley Stadium, and have another epic match against Will Ospreay. That’s a narrative Knight isn’t willing to accept.

“People are expecting this long-life anime fantasy between Omega and Osprey. Redemption is gonna be a change of course, and we’re gonna see a new era. We’re gonna see a new superstar rise to the top. I laugh at the people who look past this match. I use it as more fuel, because I love being a spoiler.”

It’s big talk, but Kevin Knight has backed it up in recent months. He’s on a nine-match win streak, perfectly part of his “vision board,” which includes winning the AEW World Heavyweight Title, and then involves becoming the face of the company.

“If all goes to plan, Jet Two Belts becomes a reality this upcoming Sunday, and I don’t see myself relinquishing it for anybody, that comes my way. I think I will let up and maybe relinquish the TNT title or, you know, let the other people have a little bit of fun. don’t wanna take up all the time at AEW, but AEW is gonna be set up in the next 6 months if The Jet is on top.”

The groundwork for this run, this chance at the championship is built on the backs of people who lifted up Kevin Knight along the way. I asked him for his personal wrestling Mount Rushmore, the individuals who have meant the most to him during his career.

“Katsuyori Shibata and Kushida, because they helped mold me. From a young lion to my first couple of tours in New Japan and being able to do Impact as well alongside Kushida. Those two guys definitely mean a lot to me. I gotta throw in there Speedball Mike Bailey because one of my first tours in Japan, one of my first matches in TNA/ Impact was against him, and then, of course, our whole run as Jet Speed and everything that we’ve been able to accomplish together. It means a lot to me, on a sentimental level. Fourth, I would like to give it up to Tony Khan just for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to go out there and show the world who and what I am, giving me the opportunity to try new things and just always encouraging me.”

This is only the beginning for Kevin Knight, who will be a staple of the pro-wrestling landscape for a long, long time — win or lose.

Kevin Knight will face Kenny Omega at AEW Redemption, which will air on Sunday, July 26 from CentreBell in Montreal, Canada, beginning at 6 p.m. ET

#Kevin #Knight #hes #hungry #ready #AEW">Kevin Knight is here, he’s hungry, and ready to take over AEW Kevin Knight’s rise has been nothing short of stratospheric. A year that began with Knight having a promising run as one of All Elite Wrestling’s up-and-coming stars morphed over the course of 2026 into something much, much larger. Knight captured individual gold by winning the TNT Championship in April, and now he’s on the precipice of the biggest match of his career. Knight will stand across the ring from AEW World Champion Kenny Omega at Redemption in Montreal, headlining a pay-per-view and looking to shatter expectations in the process.I talked with Knight this week in the lead up to his match against Omega to learn what makes him tick as a wrestler, understand the decision behind joining The Don Callis Family, and learn that in a world of heroes and villans, Knight is perfectly comfortable to exist in the grey area.A turning point for Knight came in May at Double or Nothing when he shocked the world by turning on Darby Allin and joining with Don Callis to close the show. It felt like a staggering rejection of his role as fan-favorite inside the company, but it was clinical for Knight. This wasn’t about trying to become hated, but trying to elevate himself.“The goal has stayed the same,” Knight says, “become Jet 2 Belts.” Not only does he want to hold onto his TNT title, but to win the AEW World Championship as well, asserting himself at the top. “I saw the opportunity to overtake this company after Double or Nothing and figured I need to invest in myself.“Getting myself with the Don Callis Family and, seeing how he moves and how, how he’s brought so many championships to AEW, it was a no-brainer, and it’s been nothing but success ever since.”Knight speaks plainly in a business so influenced by emotion. Joining Callis wasn’t a conscious decision to make fans angry or to reject his longtime friend “Speedball” Mike Bailey, but came about organically, as with any difficult change an athlete needs to make. The NFL player demanding a trade, the NBA star making a decision — Knight is walking the same line.“He’s [Callis] been here from day one, and he’s seen people come and go. He’s seen all different types of performers, so he snatched me up. I was tagged with Speedball Mike Bailey, and he had a smile, and he was just naive to the politics of it all. [Don’s] smartened me up, giving me another angle, another perspective in attacking this game that we call wrestling.”If pro wrestling is a game, then Kenny Omega is its final boss. Not only is “The Best Bout Machine” the world champion, but he is also regarded as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time. Knight might have faced a lot of challenges, but fighting Omega in Canada for a championship is on a different level. Still, Knight feels like he might have an edge — and he’s excited to“Always attack his weaknesses, attacking his weaknesses and, and knowing who he is as a person, and, and capitalizing on those weaknesses. Don Callis has known Kenny a long, long, long time, so he’s priming me up. He’s giving me some game on Kenny’s blind spots. We all love Kenny as a person, but he’s careless in some ways — so, whenever I see those openings, I’m definitely gonna definitely going to attack, take advantage.”It’s not lost on Knight that a majority of wrestling fans are writing him off on Sunday. The lingering perception is that Omega will win, move on to All In at Wembley Stadium, and have another epic match against Will Ospreay. That’s a narrative Knight isn’t willing to accept.“People are expecting this long-life anime fantasy between Omega and Osprey. Redemption is gonna be a change of course, and we’re gonna see a new era. We’re gonna see a new superstar rise to the top. I laugh at the people who look past this match. I use it as more fuel, because I love being a spoiler.”It’s big talk, but Kevin Knight has backed it up in recent months. He’s on a nine-match win streak, perfectly part of his “vision board,” which includes winning the AEW World Heavyweight Title, and then involves becoming the face of the company.“If all goes to plan, Jet Two Belts becomes a reality this upcoming Sunday, and I don’t see myself relinquishing it for anybody, that comes my way. I think I will let up and maybe relinquish the TNT title or, you know, let the other people have a little bit of fun. don’t wanna take up all the time at AEW, but AEW is gonna be set up in the next 6 months if The Jet is on top.”The groundwork for this run, this chance at the championship is built on the backs of people who lifted up Kevin Knight along the way. I asked him for his personal wrestling Mount Rushmore, the individuals who have meant the most to him during his career.“Katsuyori Shibata and Kushida, because they helped mold me. From a young lion to my first couple of tours in New Japan and being able to do Impact as well alongside Kushida. Those two guys definitely mean a lot to me. I gotta throw in there Speedball Mike Bailey because one of my first tours in Japan, one of my first matches in TNA/ Impact was against him, and then, of course, our whole run as Jet Speed and everything that we’ve been able to accomplish together. It means a lot to me, on a sentimental level. Fourth, I would like to give it up to Tony Khan just for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to go out there and show the world who and what I am, giving me the opportunity to try new things and just always encouraging me.”This is only the beginning for Kevin Knight, who will be a staple of the pro-wrestling landscape for a long, long time — win or lose.Kevin Knight will face Kenny Omega at AEW Redemption, which will air on Sunday, July 26 from CentreBell in Montreal, Canada, beginning at 6 p.m. ET #Kevin #Knight #hes #hungry #ready #AEW

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