Deadspin | WR Zay Flowers blames ex-coach for Ravens’ injury issues Jan 4, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers warms up for game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers theorized the cause of injury issues in Baltimore was former coach John Harbaugh’s demanding practice schedule. Flowers said on the podcast “4th and South” the Ravens were in “full pads all the time” and didn’t have ample time for recovery and treatment of injuries. Harbaugh was fired at the end of the 2025 regular season after 19 years with the team and quickly hired by the New York Giants. “However many practices in pads you can get, every single one. We’re doing one-on-ones in Week 17,” said Flowers. “Week 17, we’re doing one-on-ones, everybody out there, we’re tired, we’re still going.” Padded practices are permitted under the NFL’s collective bargaining agreement with restrictions. A total of 14 padded practices — and no more than one padded practice per week — are allowed during the regular season. Eleven of the total padded practices in the regular season must be held during the first 11 weeks of the season. Quarterback Lamar Jackson was a regular non-participant in practices last season. When was asked how players handled Harbaugh’s practice schedule, Flowers replied, “We don’t. That’s why we had a lot of injuries, because of how we practiced, how we went. The load was heavy.” Former Ravens assistant Jesse Minter, hired to replace Harbaugh, is making changes after hearing from players, according to Flowers. “He knows how we worked with Harbaugh,” Flowers said. “So, he’s like, ‘You’re going to get your work, but it’s going to be a little easier on your body. You’re going to be fresher for the game.’” Minter worked for Harbaugh and the Ravens from 2017-20 and joined Jim Harbaugh as defensive coordinator at Michigan in 2022 and 2023. When Jim Harbaugh won a national title with the Wolverines and returned to the NFL as head coach of the Chargers, he hired Minter as his defensive coordinator (2024-25). John Harbaugh led the Ravens to six AFC North titles and a Super Bowl in the 2012 postseason, compiling an overall record of 193-124. –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Zay #Flowers #blames #excoach #Ravens #injury #issues

Deadspin | WR Zay Flowers blames ex-coach for Ravens’ injury issues
Jan 4, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers warms up for game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers theorized the cause of injury issues in Baltimore was former coach John Harbaugh’s demanding practice schedule.

Flowers said on the podcast “4th and South” the Ravens were in “full pads all the time” and didn’t have ample time for recovery and treatment of injuries. Harbaugh was fired at the end of the 2025 regular season after 19 years with the team and quickly hired by the New York Giants.

“However many practices in pads you can get, every single one. We’re doing one-on-ones in Week 17,” said Flowers. “Week 17, we’re doing one-on-ones, everybody out there, we’re tired, we’re still going.”

Padded practices are permitted under the NFL’s collective bargaining agreement with restrictions. A total of 14 padded practices — and no more than one padded practice per week — are allowed during the regular season. Eleven of the total padded practices in the regular season must be held during the first 11 weeks of the season.

Quarterback Lamar Jackson was a regular non-participant in practices last season. When was asked how players handled Harbaugh’s practice schedule, Flowers replied, “We don’t. That’s why we had a lot of injuries, because of how we practiced, how we went. The load was heavy.”

Former Ravens assistant Jesse Minter, hired to replace Harbaugh, is making changes after hearing from players, according to Flowers.

“He knows how we worked with Harbaugh,” Flowers said. “So, he’s like, ‘You’re going to get your work, but it’s going to be a little easier on your body. You’re going to be fresher for the game.'”

Minter worked for Harbaugh and the Ravens from 2017-20 and joined Jim Harbaugh as defensive coordinator at Michigan in 2022 and 2023. When Jim Harbaugh won a national title with the Wolverines and returned to the NFL as head coach of the Chargers, he hired Minter as his defensive coordinator (2024-25).

John Harbaugh led the Ravens to six AFC North titles and a Super Bowl in the 2012 postseason, compiling an overall record of 193-124.

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Zay #Flowers #blames #excoach #Ravens #injury #issues

Sports news April 17, 2026

Jan 4, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers warms up for game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers theorized the cause of injury issues in Baltimore was former coach John Harbaugh’s demanding practice schedule.

Flowers said on the podcast “4th and South” the Ravens were in “full pads all the time” and didn’t have ample time for recovery and treatment of injuries. Harbaugh was fired at the end of the 2025 regular season after 19 years with the team and quickly hired by the New York Giants.

“However many practices in pads you can get, every single one. We’re doing one-on-ones in Week 17,” said Flowers. “Week 17, we’re doing one-on-ones, everybody out there, we’re tired, we’re still going.”

Padded practices are permitted under the NFL’s collective bargaining agreement with restrictions. A total of 14 padded practices — and no more than one padded practice per week — are allowed during the regular season. Eleven of the total padded practices in the regular season must be held during the first 11 weeks of the season.

Quarterback Lamar Jackson was a regular non-participant in practices last season. When was asked how players handled Harbaugh’s practice schedule, Flowers replied, “We don’t. That’s why we had a lot of injuries, because of how we practiced, how we went. The load was heavy.”

Former Ravens assistant Jesse Minter, hired to replace Harbaugh, is making changes after hearing from players, according to Flowers.

“He knows how we worked with Harbaugh,” Flowers said. “So, he’s like, ‘You’re going to get your work, but it’s going to be a little easier on your body. You’re going to be fresher for the game.'”

Minter worked for Harbaugh and the Ravens from 2017-20 and joined Jim Harbaugh as defensive coordinator at Michigan in 2022 and 2023. When Jim Harbaugh won a national title with the Wolverines and returned to the NFL as head coach of the Chargers, he hired Minter as his defensive coordinator (2024-25).

John Harbaugh led the Ravens to six AFC North titles and a Super Bowl in the 2012 postseason, compiling an overall record of 193-124.

–Field Level Media

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#Deadspin #Zay #Flowers #blames #excoach #Ravens #injury #issues

Beckham Family’s Drama Through the Years: Feuds, Rumored Affair and More

Who Will New York Jets Draft at No. 2 Overall in 2026 NFL Draft? | Deadspin.com Dec 31, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese (8) gets into position during the 2025 Cotton Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images The NFL Draft is just a few days away, and it’s a foregone conclusion that Fernando Mendoza will be the No. 1 overall pick to the Las Vegas Raiders.But who goes No. 2 overall at the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh?That’s still up for some debate, as the New York Jets own the keys to when the draft actually begins. There’s been plenty of debate between Texas Tech defensive end David Bailey and Ohio State EDGE Arvell Reese.The Jets have plenty of needs, including a franchise quarterback. Unfortunately, after Mendoza, a quarterback doesn’t exist. That means the Jets are likely to get defensive-minded head coach Aaron Glenn a difference maker on defense.On popular prediction market site, Kalshi, Reese is more likely to be the No. 2 overall selection as of Friday evening. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting He’s 59% to be the No. 2 overall selection at 61¢. Bailey is 43% to be the No. 2 overall selection at 48¢. Miami defensive end Rueben Bain Jr. is <1% – a true long shot.There’s actually some debate here – and that favors Bailey, who is the less likely player to be selected by the Jets at No. 2 overall.After a dominant first three seasons at Stanford, Bailey cemented his NFL Draft stock by showcasing his ability in 14 games at Texas Tech. He had career-highs in almost every category, finishing the season with 52 total tackles, 19.5 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks. Of course, that was good enough for a consensus All-American.Reese’s story is just as impressive – but much different.As a true freshman, Reese appeared in just six games for the Buckeyes. In 2024, Reese played in 16 games for the national championship winning team, recording half a sack and 3.5 tackles for loss. In his final season, Reese exploded onto the scene at Ohio State. He had 10 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks. He joined Bailey as a consensus All-American.Most organizations would prefer Reese’s age, which is just 20 years old. Bailey isn’t a dinosaur at 22 years old, but extending Reese on his second contract before he’s 25 years old is very ideal. That maximizes the window for how great players can be in one organization.They’re also similar in size – but Reese had some real naysayers at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis because of his unorthodox pass rushing style.There’s plenty of reason to believe that Reese should be the No. 2 overall pick. But the value on Bailey makes sense, especially if the Jets don’t feel comfortable with drafting a player that could be perceived as a bit of a tweener. Our Current Best OffersChannel debug: betting #York #Jets #Draft #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.com

#York #Jets #Draft #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.com">

mwasimuddin125 0

Dec 31, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese (8) gets into position during the 2025 Cotton Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

The NFL Draft is just a few days away, and it’s a foregone conclusion that Fernando Mendoza will be the No. 1 overall pick to the Las Vegas Raiders.
But who goes No. 2 overall at the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh?
That’s still up for some debate, as the New York Jets own the keys to when the draft actually begins. There’s been plenty of debate between Texas Tech defensive end David Bailey and Ohio State EDGE Arvell Reese.
The Jets have plenty of needs, including a franchise quarterback. Unfortunately, after Mendoza, a quarterback doesn’t exist. That means the Jets are likely to get defensive-minded head coach Aaron Glenn a difference maker on defense.
On popular prediction market site, Kalshi, Reese is more likely to be the No. 2 overall selection as of Friday evening.

Our Current Best Offers
Channel debug: betting

He’s 59% to be the No. 2 overall selection at 61¢. Bailey is 43% to be the No. 2 overall selection at 48¢. Miami defensive end Rueben Bain Jr. is <1% – a true long shot.
There’s actually some debate here – and that favors Bailey, who is the less likely player to be selected by the Jets at No. 2 overall.
After a dominant first three seasons at Stanford, Bailey cemented his NFL Draft stock by showcasing his ability in 14 games at Texas Tech. He had career-highs in almost every category, finishing the season with 52 total tackles, 19.5 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks. Of course, that was good enough for a consensus All-American.
Reese’s story is just as impressive – but much different.
As a true freshman, Reese appeared in just six games for the Buckeyes. In 2024, Reese played in 16 games for the national championship winning team, recording half a sack and 3.5 tackles for loss. In his final season, Reese exploded onto the scene at Ohio State. He had 10 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks. He joined Bailey as a consensus All-American.
Most organizations would prefer Reese’s age, which is just 20 years old. Bailey isn’t a dinosaur at 22 years old, but extending Reese on his second contract before he’s 25 years old is very ideal. That maximizes the window for how great players can be in one organization.
They’re also similar in size – but Reese had some real naysayers at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis because of his unorthodox pass rushing style.
There’s plenty of reason to believe that Reese should be the No. 2 overall pick. But the value on Bailey makes sense, especially if the Jets don’t feel comfortable with drafting a player that could be perceived as a bit of a tweener.

Our Current Best Offers
Channel debug: betting

#York #Jets #Draft #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.com">Who Will New York Jets Draft at No. 2 Overall in 2026 NFL Draft? | Deadspin.com

Dec 31, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese (8) gets into position during the 2025 Cotton Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

The NFL Draft is just a few days away, and it’s a foregone conclusion that Fernando Mendoza will be the No. 1 overall pick to the Las Vegas Raiders.

But who goes No. 2 overall at the NFL Draft in Pittsburgh?

That’s still up for some debate, as the New York Jets own the keys to when the draft actually begins. There’s been plenty of debate between Texas Tech defensive end David Bailey and Ohio State EDGE Arvell Reese.

The Jets have plenty of needs, including a franchise quarterback. Unfortunately, after Mendoza, a quarterback doesn’t exist. That means the Jets are likely to get defensive-minded head coach Aaron Glenn a difference maker on defense.

On popular prediction market site, Kalshi, Reese is more likely to be the No. 2 overall selection as of Friday evening.

Our Current Best Offers

Channel debug: betting

He’s 59% to be the No. 2 overall selection at 61¢. Bailey is 43% to be the No. 2 overall selection at 48¢. Miami defensive end Rueben Bain Jr. is <1% – a true long shot.

There’s actually some debate here – and that favors Bailey, who is the less likely player to be selected by the Jets at No. 2 overall.

After a dominant first three seasons at Stanford, Bailey cemented his NFL Draft stock by showcasing his ability in 14 games at Texas Tech. He had career-highs in almost every category, finishing the season with 52 total tackles, 19.5 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks. Of course, that was good enough for a consensus All-American.

Reese’s story is just as impressive – but much different.

As a true freshman, Reese appeared in just six games for the Buckeyes. In 2024, Reese played in 16 games for the national championship winning team, recording half a sack and 3.5 tackles for loss. In his final season, Reese exploded onto the scene at Ohio State. He had 10 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks. He joined Bailey as a consensus All-American.

Most organizations would prefer Reese’s age, which is just 20 years old. Bailey isn’t a dinosaur at 22 years old, but extending Reese on his second contract before he’s 25 years old is very ideal. That maximizes the window for how great players can be in one organization.

They’re also similar in size – but Reese had some real naysayers at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis because of his unorthodox pass rushing style.

There’s plenty of reason to believe that Reese should be the No. 2 overall pick. But the value on Bailey makes sense, especially if the Jets don’t feel comfortable with drafting a player that could be perceived as a bit of a tweener.

Our Current Best Offers

Channel debug: betting

#York #Jets #Draft #NFL #Draft #Deadspin.com

Apr 4, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York City FC forward Talles Magno (11) looks to shoot the ball defended by St. Louis City SC midfielder Miguel Perez (28) during the second half at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark Smith-Imagn Images

Is dynamic offensive threat Talles Magno finally ready to pay dividends in his second stint with New York City FC?

That question may be answered when NYCFC (3-2-2, 11 points) play host to Charlotte FC (3-2-2, 11 points) on Saturday at Citi Field in a matchup of teams part of the four-way fourth-place logjam in the Eastern Conference.

Magno first made noise as a high-profile teenager in 2021 for the eventual MLS Cup champions. He scored the winning goal as New York City topped Philadelphia Union 2-1 in the conference finals. A year later, Magno posted seven goals and 10 assists.

After being on loan for 17 months to Brazilian team Corinthians, Magno, now 23, returned this season but has yet to start an MLS match.

“There’s a few things he needs to take care of,” coach Pascal Jansen said. “Physically, he’s not at the level yet where he needs to be in order to be competitive enough with the guys that are the starters at the moment.”

Magno flashed his scoring ability on Tuesday, achieving the first hat trick of his professional career while leading NYCFC to a 5-2 win over Westchester SC in a U.S. Open Cup Round of 32 match.

“I’m working very hard on getting my opportunity to start, given everything that’s possible for the team,” Magno said through an interpreter on Thursday. “I’m working with Pascal to see what I can do to get that opportunity.”

In the meantime, Nico Fernandez (five goals), Maxi Moralez (five assists) and Agustin Ojeda (two goals, one assist) have been supplying firepower for NYCFC.

After a hot start, New York City has gone 0-2-1 in its last three MLS matches. That includes last week’s 2-0 loss at Western Conference leader Vancouver.

Charlotte FC have been heading the other direction. They played four straight matches without a loss before falling last week at home to Eastern Conference leader Nashville SC, 2-1.

Pep Biel paces Charlotte with four goals and two assists while Archie Goodwin has notched three goals.

Charlotte FC also are coming off a 6-0 U.S. Open Cup win on Wednesday over Charlotte Independence as six players dented the net.

NYCFC topped Charlotte FC in the opening round of the MLS playoffs last year, holding them to one goal in the three-match series.

“Some of the players might feel scars because of that,” coach Dean Smith said. “There may be some scars where people have some things to prove but for me, it’s just a new season, new game.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Talles #Magno #awaiting #NYCFC #act #Charlotte #visit">

mwasimuddin125 0

Apr 4, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York City FC forward Talles Magno (11) looks to shoot the ball defended by St. Louis City SC midfielder Miguel Perez (28) during the second half at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark Smith-Imagn Images

Is dynamic offensive threat Talles Magno finally ready to pay dividends in his second stint with New York City FC?

That question may be answered when NYCFC (3-2-2, 11 points) play host to Charlotte FC (3-2-2, 11 points) on Saturday at Citi Field in a matchup of teams part of the four-way fourth-place logjam in the Eastern Conference.

Magno first made noise as a high-profile teenager in 2021 for the eventual MLS Cup champions. He scored the winning goal as New York City topped Philadelphia Union 2-1 in the conference finals. A year later, Magno posted seven goals and 10 assists.

After being on loan for 17 months to Brazilian team Corinthians, Magno, now 23, returned this season but has yet to start an MLS match.

“There’s a few things he needs to take care of,” coach Pascal Jansen said. “Physically, he’s not at the level yet where he needs to be in order to be competitive enough with the guys that are the starters at the moment.”

Magno flashed his scoring ability on Tuesday, achieving the first hat trick of his professional career while leading NYCFC to a 5-2 win over Westchester SC in a U.S. Open Cup Round of 32 match.

“I’m working very hard on getting my opportunity to start, given everything that’s possible for the team,” Magno said through an interpreter on Thursday. “I’m working with Pascal to see what I can do to get that opportunity.”

In the meantime, Nico Fernandez (five goals), Maxi Moralez (five assists) and Agustin Ojeda (two goals, one assist) have been supplying firepower for NYCFC.

After a hot start, New York City has gone 0-2-1 in its last three MLS matches. That includes last week’s 2-0 loss at Western Conference leader Vancouver.

Charlotte FC have been heading the other direction. They played four straight matches without a loss before falling last week at home to Eastern Conference leader Nashville SC, 2-1.

Pep Biel paces Charlotte with four goals and two assists while Archie Goodwin has notched three goals.

Charlotte FC also are coming off a 6-0 U.S. Open Cup win on Wednesday over Charlotte Independence as six players dented the net.

NYCFC topped Charlotte FC in the opening round of the MLS playoffs last year, holding them to one goal in the three-match series.

“Some of the players might feel scars because of that,” coach Dean Smith said. “There may be some scars where people have some things to prove but for me, it’s just a new season, new game.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Talles #Magno #awaiting #NYCFC #act #Charlotte #visit">Deadspin | Talles Magno awaiting NYCFC second act as Charlotte FC visit