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Deadspin | Wyndham Clark, J.J. Spaun part of 4-way tie for Memorial lead  May 31, 2026; Fort Worth, Texas, USA; J.J. Spaun plays his shot from the sixth tee during the final round of the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images   Former U.S. Open winners Wyndham Clark and J.J. Spaun share the first-round lead of the Memorial Tournament with Ryan Gerard and Englishman Tommy Fleetwood after they each shot 5-under-par 67 on Thursday in Dublin, Ohio.  Two weeks out from the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills, Clark and Spaun showed where their games stood as they prepare to contend for a second major title. Clark won the U.S. Open in 2023 and Spaun is the reigning champion.  Clark putted from off the green to convert a 45 1/2-foot eagle at the par-5 15th hole Thursday. That got him to 6 under par, but he bogeyed the penultimate hole at Muirfield Village Golf Club to drop back.  Clark only qualified for the signature event after he won the Charles Schwab Challenge on Sunday in Fort Worth, Texas, which earned him enough points via the “Aon Swing 5” pathway.  Spaun birdied his final hole to get to 5 under, while Fleetwood posted the only bogey-free card among the leaders.   Gerard had a much wilder afternoon and finished with only five pars on his card. He went out in even-par 36 with two bogeys, two bounce-back birdies, then an eagle and a double bogey at Nos. 7 and 8. But he caught fire on the back nine with six birdies, including five straight at Nos. 12-16, before a bogey at No. 17 knocked him back to 5 under.  Canada’s Nick Taylor is alone in fifth at 4-under 68, and Sam Burns and England’s Justin Rose are tied at 3-under 69.  Two-time defending champion Scottie Scheffler had a number of mistakes on the back nine, including a tee shot into the water at the par-3 16th that led to a double bogey. The World No. 1 settled for a 1-over 73 and isn’t a lock to make Friday’s 36-hole cut (top 50 and ties, plus anyone within 10 shots of the lead).  World No. 2 Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland, seeking his first victory at Jack Nicklaus’ tournament, opened with a 1-under 71.  –Field Level Media    #Deadspin #Wyndham #Clark #J.J #Spaun #part #4way #tie #Memorial #lead

Deadspin | Wyndham Clark, J.J. Spaun part of 4-way tie for Memorial lead
Deadspin | Wyndham Clark, J.J. Spaun part of 4-way tie for Memorial lead  May 31, 2026; Fort Worth, Texas, USA; J.J. Spaun plays his shot from the sixth tee during the final round of the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images   Former U.S. Open winners Wyndham Clark and J.J. Spaun share the first-round lead of the Memorial Tournament with Ryan Gerard and Englishman Tommy Fleetwood after they each shot 5-under-par 67 on Thursday in Dublin, Ohio.  Two weeks out from the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills, Clark and Spaun showed where their games stood as they prepare to contend for a second major title. Clark won the U.S. Open in 2023 and Spaun is the reigning champion.  Clark putted from off the green to convert a 45 1/2-foot eagle at the par-5 15th hole Thursday. That got him to 6 under par, but he bogeyed the penultimate hole at Muirfield Village Golf Club to drop back.  Clark only qualified for the signature event after he won the Charles Schwab Challenge on Sunday in Fort Worth, Texas, which earned him enough points via the “Aon Swing 5” pathway.  Spaun birdied his final hole to get to 5 under, while Fleetwood posted the only bogey-free card among the leaders.   Gerard had a much wilder afternoon and finished with only five pars on his card. He went out in even-par 36 with two bogeys, two bounce-back birdies, then an eagle and a double bogey at Nos. 7 and 8. But he caught fire on the back nine with six birdies, including five straight at Nos. 12-16, before a bogey at No. 17 knocked him back to 5 under.  Canada’s Nick Taylor is alone in fifth at 4-under 68, and Sam Burns and England’s Justin Rose are tied at 3-under 69.  Two-time defending champion Scottie Scheffler had a number of mistakes on the back nine, including a tee shot into the water at the par-3 16th that led to a double bogey. The World No. 1 settled for a 1-over 73 and isn’t a lock to make Friday’s 36-hole cut (top 50 and ties, plus anyone within 10 shots of the lead).  World No. 2 Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland, seeking his first victory at Jack Nicklaus’ tournament, opened with a 1-under 71.  –Field Level Media    #Deadspin #Wyndham #Clark #J.J #Spaun #part #4way #tie #Memorial #leadMay 31, 2026; Fort Worth, Texas, USA; J.J. Spaun plays his shot from the sixth tee during the final round of the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images

Former U.S. Open winners Wyndham Clark and J.J. Spaun share the first-round lead of the Memorial Tournament with Ryan Gerard and Englishman Tommy Fleetwood after they each shot 5-under-par 67 on Thursday in Dublin, Ohio.

Two weeks out from the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills, Clark and Spaun showed where their games stood as they prepare to contend for a second major title. Clark won the U.S. Open in 2023 and Spaun is the reigning champion.

Clark putted from off the green to convert a 45 1/2-foot eagle at the par-5 15th hole Thursday. That got him to 6 under par, but he bogeyed the penultimate hole at Muirfield Village Golf Club to drop back.

Clark only qualified for the signature event after he won the Charles Schwab Challenge on Sunday in Fort Worth, Texas, which earned him enough points via the “Aon Swing 5” pathway.


Spaun birdied his final hole to get to 5 under, while Fleetwood posted the only bogey-free card among the leaders.

Gerard had a much wilder afternoon and finished with only five pars on his card. He went out in even-par 36 with two bogeys, two bounce-back birdies, then an eagle and a double bogey at Nos. 7 and 8. But he caught fire on the back nine with six birdies, including five straight at Nos. 12-16, before a bogey at No. 17 knocked him back to 5 under.

Canada’s Nick Taylor is alone in fifth at 4-under 68, and Sam Burns and England’s Justin Rose are tied at 3-under 69.

Two-time defending champion Scottie Scheffler had a number of mistakes on the back nine, including a tee shot into the water at the par-3 16th that led to a double bogey. The World No. 1 settled for a 1-over 73 and isn’t a lock to make Friday’s 36-hole cut (top 50 and ties, plus anyone within 10 shots of the lead).

World No. 2 Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland, seeking his first victory at Jack Nicklaus’ tournament, opened with a 1-under 71.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Wyndham #Clark #J.J #Spaun #part #4way #tie #Memorial #lead

May 31, 2026; Fort Worth, Texas, USA; J.J. Spaun plays his shot from the sixth tee during the final round of the Charles Schwab Challenge golf tournament. Mandatory Credit: Raymond Carlin III-Imagn Images

Former U.S. Open winners Wyndham Clark and J.J. Spaun share the first-round lead of the Memorial Tournament with Ryan Gerard and Englishman Tommy Fleetwood after they each shot 5-under-par 67 on Thursday in Dublin, Ohio.

Two weeks out from the U.S. Open at Shinnecock Hills, Clark and Spaun showed where their games stood as they prepare to contend for a second major title. Clark won the U.S. Open in 2023 and Spaun is the reigning champion.

Clark putted from off the green to convert a 45 1/2-foot eagle at the par-5 15th hole Thursday. That got him to 6 under par, but he bogeyed the penultimate hole at Muirfield Village Golf Club to drop back.

Clark only qualified for the signature event after he won the Charles Schwab Challenge on Sunday in Fort Worth, Texas, which earned him enough points via the “Aon Swing 5” pathway.

Spaun birdied his final hole to get to 5 under, while Fleetwood posted the only bogey-free card among the leaders.

Gerard had a much wilder afternoon and finished with only five pars on his card. He went out in even-par 36 with two bogeys, two bounce-back birdies, then an eagle and a double bogey at Nos. 7 and 8. But he caught fire on the back nine with six birdies, including five straight at Nos. 12-16, before a bogey at No. 17 knocked him back to 5 under.

Canada’s Nick Taylor is alone in fifth at 4-under 68, and Sam Burns and England’s Justin Rose are tied at 3-under 69.

Two-time defending champion Scottie Scheffler had a number of mistakes on the back nine, including a tee shot into the water at the par-3 16th that led to a double bogey. The World No. 1 settled for a 1-over 73 and isn’t a lock to make Friday’s 36-hole cut (top 50 and ties, plus anyone within 10 shots of the lead).

World No. 2 Rory McIlroy of Northern Ireland, seeking his first victory at Jack Nicklaus’ tournament, opened with a 1-under 71.

–Field Level Media

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#Deadspin #Wyndham #Clark #J.J #Spaun #part #4way #tie #Memorial #lead

Polish qualifier Maja Chwalinska continued her fairytale run ​with a 7-6(4), 6-4 win over Diana Shnaider ‌on Thursday, reaching her maiden Grand ​Slam final at the French Open ⁠and booking a title showdown with Russian Mirra Andreeva.

After 19-year-old Andreeva sealed a 6-1, 6-3 ‌semi-final win over Ukrainian Marta Kostyuk, it was Chwalinska’s turn to shine ‌under the roof of Court Philippe ‌Chatrier, ⁠and the 24-year-old delivered her best ⁠tennis when it mattered to go through.

Shnaider cut a frustrated figure in the opening set as her ​opponent came up ‌with some stunning winners that showcased her power and precision, but the 22-year-old Russian hit back to recover a second break ‌and draw level at 4-4.

ALSO READ: French Open 2026 — Andreeva thrashes Kostyuk to reach maiden Grand Slam final

Chwalinska turned ​up the style further in the battle of the left-handers, unleashing ⁠a backhand winner to hold in a marathon 11th game, before earning a set point ‌in the ensuing tiebreak with the perfect lob.

The crowd favourite, playing in her ninth match at Roland Garros this year and sporting strapping on her left thigh, took the opening set to roaring ‌applause before going toe-to-toe with Shnaider in the opening ​eight games of the next.

A decisive break in the next game ⁠gave Chwalinska a great opportunity to close out ⁠an absorbing contest in two sets, and the world number 114 stayed ‌focused to finish her opponent off on her first match point with a ​forehand winner.

Published on Jun 04, 2026

#French #Open #Maja #Chwalinska #qualifier #history #reach #Grand #Slam #final">French Open 2026 — Maja Chwalinska becomes second qualifier in history to reach Grand Slam final  Polish qualifier Maja Chwalinska continued her fairytale run ​with a 7-6(4), 6-4 win over Diana Shnaider ‌on Thursday, reaching her maiden Grand ​Slam final at the French Open ⁠and booking a title showdown with Russian Mirra Andreeva.After 19-year-old Andreeva sealed a 6-1, 6-3 ‌semi-final win over Ukrainian Marta Kostyuk, it was Chwalinska’s turn to shine ‌under the roof of Court Philippe ‌Chatrier, ⁠and the 24-year-old delivered her best ⁠tennis when it mattered to go through.Shnaider cut a frustrated figure in the opening set as her ​opponent came up ‌with some stunning winners that showcased her power and precision, but the 22-year-old Russian hit back to recover a second break ‌and draw level at 4-4.ALSO READ: French Open 2026 — Andreeva thrashes Kostyuk to reach maiden Grand Slam finalChwalinska turned ​up the style further in the battle of the left-handers, unleashing ⁠a backhand winner to hold in a marathon 11th game, before earning a set point ‌in the ensuing tiebreak with the perfect lob.The crowd favourite, playing in her ninth match at Roland Garros this year and sporting strapping on her left thigh, took the opening set to roaring ‌applause before going toe-to-toe with Shnaider in the opening ​eight games of the next.A decisive break in the next game ⁠gave Chwalinska a great opportunity to close out ⁠an absorbing contest in two sets, and the world number 114 stayed ‌focused to finish her opponent off on her first match point with a ​forehand winner.Published on Jun 04, 2026  #French #Open #Maja #Chwalinska #qualifier #history #reach #Grand #Slam #final

French Open 2026 — Andreeva thrashes Kostyuk to reach maiden Grand Slam final

Chwalinska turned ​up the style further in the battle of the left-handers, unleashing ⁠a backhand winner to hold in a marathon 11th game, before earning a set point ‌in the ensuing tiebreak with the perfect lob.

The crowd favourite, playing in her ninth match at Roland Garros this year and sporting strapping on her left thigh, took the opening set to roaring ‌applause before going toe-to-toe with Shnaider in the opening ​eight games of the next.

A decisive break in the next game ⁠gave Chwalinska a great opportunity to close out ⁠an absorbing contest in two sets, and the world number 114 stayed ‌focused to finish her opponent off on her first match point with a ​forehand winner.

Published on Jun 04, 2026

#French #Open #Maja #Chwalinska #qualifier #history #reach #Grand #Slam #final">French Open 2026 — Maja Chwalinska becomes second qualifier in history to reach Grand Slam final

Polish qualifier Maja Chwalinska continued her fairytale run ​with a 7-6(4), 6-4 win over Diana Shnaider ‌on Thursday, reaching her maiden Grand ​Slam final at the French Open ⁠and booking a title showdown with Russian Mirra Andreeva.

After 19-year-old Andreeva sealed a 6-1, 6-3 ‌semi-final win over Ukrainian Marta Kostyuk, it was Chwalinska’s turn to shine ‌under the roof of Court Philippe ‌Chatrier, ⁠and the 24-year-old delivered her best ⁠tennis when it mattered to go through.

Shnaider cut a frustrated figure in the opening set as her ​opponent came up ‌with some stunning winners that showcased her power and precision, but the 22-year-old Russian hit back to recover a second break ‌and draw level at 4-4.

ALSO READ: French Open 2026 — Andreeva thrashes Kostyuk to reach maiden Grand Slam final

Chwalinska turned ​up the style further in the battle of the left-handers, unleashing ⁠a backhand winner to hold in a marathon 11th game, before earning a set point ‌in the ensuing tiebreak with the perfect lob.

The crowd favourite, playing in her ninth match at Roland Garros this year and sporting strapping on her left thigh, took the opening set to roaring ‌applause before going toe-to-toe with Shnaider in the opening ​eight games of the next.

A decisive break in the next game ⁠gave Chwalinska a great opportunity to close out ⁠an absorbing contest in two sets, and the world number 114 stayed ‌focused to finish her opponent off on her first match point with a ​forehand winner.

Published on Jun 04, 2026

#French #Open #Maja #Chwalinska #qualifier #history #reach #Grand #Slam #final
Five NFL Quarterbacks Who Appear Poised To Win Starting Jobs In 2026 | Deadspin.com  Nov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) warms up before the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images   It’s an easy year for predicting NFL quarterback competitions.As teams across the NFL landscape put a bow on voluntary OTAs this week before turning the page to mandatory veteran minicamps, quarterback competitions will begin to take form.This year, it feels like the quarterback competitions are a little bit more obvious than they’ve been in previous years. Let’s look at the obvious winners first, before we get into some of the more complex battles.Minnesota Vikings: Kyler MurrayThere’s no way that Murray signed with the Vikings in free agency without some sort of guarantee that he’d have an upper hand over J.J. McCarthy.The Vikings should probably give up on McCarthy, the No. 10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, who underwhelmed during his first season as the starter, throwing more interceptions than touchdown passes. Minnesota employed Justin Jefferson, the best receiver in the NFL. The Vikings should see if Murray could get Jefferson the football and turn his career around similar to Sam Darnold a few seasons ago.Indianapolis Colts: Daniel Jones Oct 19, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) speaks with head coach Shane Steichen in the first quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images   At the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, the Colts gave Anthony Richardson’s representatives permission to seek a trade.While Richardson could still be moved before Week 1 in mid-September, it feels like there aren’t many suitors for the 24-year-old quarterback. The Colts looked prime to finish as a top seed in the AFC before Jones ruptured his Achilles tendon last season. He’s a no-brainer QB1 in 2026, assuming he’s fully recovered.Atlanta Falcons: Tua TagovailoaKevin Stefanski just can’t help himself from starting quarterback controversies. He arrived in Atlanta with Michael Penix Jr. on his rookie deal after the Falcons selected the former Washington quarterback with the No. 8 overall selection in 2024.Injuries have complicated Penix’s outlook, clearing the way for the veteran Tagovailoa to start the season in Atlanta.The Falcons gave Stefanski a high price tag coaching contract to turn Atlanta around in a very winnable division. Expect the former two-time Coach of the Year to trust Tagovailoa over Penix.Las Vegas Raiders: Kirk Cousins  Aug 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Las Vegas Raiders helmet during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images   The Raiders gave Cousins a five-year, 2 million contract, but the deal is essentially a one-year, fully guaranteed  million contract. It’s split between the Raiders and Falcons, who had to release him after just two seasons. million is an expensive backup. The Raiders could decide to let the veteran start the first few games before turning the keys over to No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza.Cleveland Browns: Shedeur SandersEven though all reports indicate that Deshaun Watson is ahead of Shedeur Sanders to start Cleveland’s quarterback competition, the Myles Garrett trade to the Los Angeles Rams should change some things.There’s no denying that the youth movement is underway in Cleveland, moving on from Garrett in favor of 25-year-old EDGE Jared Verse. That benefits Sanders, who is six years younger than Watson.Watson hasn’t played good football since 2020, and after three big injuries and two full seasons on the sideline, it’s impossible to expect the 30-year-old to return to form in the final year of the disastrous contract he received upon arriving in Cleveland.   #NFL #Quarterbacks #Poised #Win #Starting #Jobs #Deadspin.comNov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) warms up before the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

It’s an easy year for predicting NFL quarterback competitions.

As teams across the NFL landscape put a bow on voluntary OTAs this week before turning the page to mandatory veteran minicamps, quarterback competitions will begin to take form.

This year, it feels like the quarterback competitions are a little bit more obvious than they’ve been in previous years. Let’s look at the obvious winners first, before we get into some of the more complex battles.

Minnesota Vikings: Kyler Murray

There’s no way that Murray signed with the Vikings in free agency without some sort of guarantee that he’d have an upper hand over J.J. McCarthy.

The Vikings should probably give up on McCarthy, the No. 10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, who underwhelmed during his first season as the starter, throwing more interceptions than touchdown passes. Minnesota employed Justin Jefferson, the best receiver in the NFL. The Vikings should see if Murray could get Jefferson the football and turn his career around similar to Sam Darnold a few seasons ago.

Indianapolis Colts: Daniel Jones

Oct 19, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) speaks with head coach Shane Steichen in the first quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn ImagesOct 19, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) speaks with head coach Shane Steichen in the first quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

At the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, the Colts gave Anthony Richardson’s representatives permission to seek a trade.

While Richardson could still be moved before Week 1 in mid-September, it feels like there aren’t many suitors for the 24-year-old quarterback. The Colts looked prime to finish as a top seed in the AFC before Jones ruptured his Achilles tendon last season. He’s a no-brainer QB1 in 2026, assuming he’s fully recovered.

Atlanta Falcons: Tua Tagovailoa

Kevin Stefanski just can’t help himself from starting quarterback controversies. He arrived in Atlanta with Michael Penix Jr. on his rookie deal after the Falcons selected the former Washington quarterback with the No. 8 overall selection in 2024.

Injuries have complicated Penix’s outlook, clearing the way for the veteran Tagovailoa to start the season in Atlanta.

The Falcons gave Stefanski a high price tag coaching contract to turn Atlanta around in a very winnable division. Expect the former two-time Coach of the Year to trust Tagovailoa over Penix.

Las Vegas Raiders: Kirk Cousins

Aug 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Las Vegas Raiders helmet during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesAug 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Las Vegas Raiders helmet during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Raiders gave Cousins a five-year, $172 million contract, but the deal is essentially a one-year, fully guaranteed $20 million contract. It’s split between the Raiders and Falcons, who had to release him after just two seasons.

$20 million is an expensive backup. The Raiders could decide to let the veteran start the first few games before turning the keys over to No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza.

Cleveland Browns: Shedeur Sanders

Even though all reports indicate that Deshaun Watson is ahead of Shedeur Sanders to start Cleveland’s quarterback competition, the Myles Garrett trade to the Los Angeles Rams should change some things.

There’s no denying that the youth movement is underway in Cleveland, moving on from Garrett in favor of 25-year-old EDGE Jared Verse. That benefits Sanders, who is six years younger than Watson.

Watson hasn’t played good football since 2020, and after three big injuries and two full seasons on the sideline, it’s impossible to expect the 30-year-old to return to form in the final year of the disastrous contract he received upon arriving in Cleveland.

#NFL #Quarterbacks #Poised #Win #Starting #Jobs #Deadspin.com">Five NFL Quarterbacks Who Appear Poised To Win Starting Jobs In 2026 | Deadspin.com  Nov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) warms up before the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images   It’s an easy year for predicting NFL quarterback competitions.As teams across the NFL landscape put a bow on voluntary OTAs this week before turning the page to mandatory veteran minicamps, quarterback competitions will begin to take form.This year, it feels like the quarterback competitions are a little bit more obvious than they’ve been in previous years. Let’s look at the obvious winners first, before we get into some of the more complex battles.Minnesota Vikings: Kyler MurrayThere’s no way that Murray signed with the Vikings in free agency without some sort of guarantee that he’d have an upper hand over J.J. McCarthy.The Vikings should probably give up on McCarthy, the No. 10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, who underwhelmed during his first season as the starter, throwing more interceptions than touchdown passes. Minnesota employed Justin Jefferson, the best receiver in the NFL. The Vikings should see if Murray could get Jefferson the football and turn his career around similar to Sam Darnold a few seasons ago.Indianapolis Colts: Daniel Jones Oct 19, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) speaks with head coach Shane Steichen in the first quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images   At the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, the Colts gave Anthony Richardson’s representatives permission to seek a trade.While Richardson could still be moved before Week 1 in mid-September, it feels like there aren’t many suitors for the 24-year-old quarterback. The Colts looked prime to finish as a top seed in the AFC before Jones ruptured his Achilles tendon last season. He’s a no-brainer QB1 in 2026, assuming he’s fully recovered.Atlanta Falcons: Tua TagovailoaKevin Stefanski just can’t help himself from starting quarterback controversies. He arrived in Atlanta with Michael Penix Jr. on his rookie deal after the Falcons selected the former Washington quarterback with the No. 8 overall selection in 2024.Injuries have complicated Penix’s outlook, clearing the way for the veteran Tagovailoa to start the season in Atlanta.The Falcons gave Stefanski a high price tag coaching contract to turn Atlanta around in a very winnable division. Expect the former two-time Coach of the Year to trust Tagovailoa over Penix.Las Vegas Raiders: Kirk Cousins  Aug 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Las Vegas Raiders helmet during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images   The Raiders gave Cousins a five-year, 2 million contract, but the deal is essentially a one-year, fully guaranteed  million contract. It’s split between the Raiders and Falcons, who had to release him after just two seasons. million is an expensive backup. The Raiders could decide to let the veteran start the first few games before turning the keys over to No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza.Cleveland Browns: Shedeur SandersEven though all reports indicate that Deshaun Watson is ahead of Shedeur Sanders to start Cleveland’s quarterback competition, the Myles Garrett trade to the Los Angeles Rams should change some things.There’s no denying that the youth movement is underway in Cleveland, moving on from Garrett in favor of 25-year-old EDGE Jared Verse. That benefits Sanders, who is six years younger than Watson.Watson hasn’t played good football since 2020, and after three big injuries and two full seasons on the sideline, it’s impossible to expect the 30-year-old to return to form in the final year of the disastrous contract he received upon arriving in Cleveland.   #NFL #Quarterbacks #Poised #Win #Starting #Jobs #Deadspin.com

should probably give up on McCarthy, the No. 10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, who underwhelmed during his first season as the starter, throwing more interceptions than touchdown passes. Minnesota employed Justin Jefferson, the best receiver in the NFL. The Vikings should see if Murray could get Jefferson the football and turn his career around similar to Sam Darnold a few seasons ago.

Indianapolis Colts: Daniel Jones

Oct 19, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) speaks with head coach Shane Steichen in the first quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn ImagesOct 19, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) speaks with head coach Shane Steichen in the first quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

At the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, the Colts gave Anthony Richardson’s representatives permission to seek a trade.

While Richardson could still be moved before Week 1 in mid-September, it feels like there aren’t many suitors for the 24-year-old quarterback. The Colts looked prime to finish as a top seed in the AFC before Jones ruptured his Achilles tendon last season. He’s a no-brainer QB1 in 2026, assuming he’s fully recovered.

Atlanta Falcons: Tua Tagovailoa

Kevin Stefanski just can’t help himself from starting quarterback controversies. He arrived in Atlanta with Michael Penix Jr. on his rookie deal after the Falcons selected the former Washington quarterback with the No. 8 overall selection in 2024.

Injuries have complicated Penix’s outlook, clearing the way for the veteran Tagovailoa to start the season in Atlanta.

The Falcons gave Stefanski a high price tag coaching contract to turn Atlanta around in a very winnable division. Expect the former two-time Coach of the Year to trust Tagovailoa over Penix.

Las Vegas Raiders: Kirk Cousins

Aug 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Las Vegas Raiders helmet during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesAug 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Las Vegas Raiders helmet during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Raiders gave Cousins a five-year, $172 million contract, but the deal is essentially a one-year, fully guaranteed $20 million contract. It’s split between the Raiders and Falcons, who had to release him after just two seasons.

$20 million is an expensive backup. The Raiders could decide to let the veteran start the first few games before turning the keys over to No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza.

Cleveland Browns: Shedeur Sanders

Even though all reports indicate that Deshaun Watson is ahead of Shedeur Sanders to start Cleveland’s quarterback competition, the Myles Garrett trade to the Los Angeles Rams should change some things.

There’s no denying that the youth movement is underway in Cleveland, moving on from Garrett in favor of 25-year-old EDGE Jared Verse. That benefits Sanders, who is six years younger than Watson.

Watson hasn’t played good football since 2020, and after three big injuries and two full seasons on the sideline, it’s impossible to expect the 30-year-old to return to form in the final year of the disastrous contract he received upon arriving in Cleveland.

#NFL #Quarterbacks #Poised #Win #Starting #Jobs #Deadspin.com">Five NFL Quarterbacks Who Appear Poised To Win Starting Jobs In 2026 | Deadspin.com
Five NFL Quarterbacks Who Appear Poised To Win Starting Jobs In 2026 | Deadspin.com  Nov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) warms up before the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images   It’s an easy year for predicting NFL quarterback competitions.As teams across the NFL landscape put a bow on voluntary OTAs this week before turning the page to mandatory veteran minicamps, quarterback competitions will begin to take form.This year, it feels like the quarterback competitions are a little bit more obvious than they’ve been in previous years. Let’s look at the obvious winners first, before we get into some of the more complex battles.Minnesota Vikings: Kyler MurrayThere’s no way that Murray signed with the Vikings in free agency without some sort of guarantee that he’d have an upper hand over J.J. McCarthy.The Vikings should probably give up on McCarthy, the No. 10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, who underwhelmed during his first season as the starter, throwing more interceptions than touchdown passes. Minnesota employed Justin Jefferson, the best receiver in the NFL. The Vikings should see if Murray could get Jefferson the football and turn his career around similar to Sam Darnold a few seasons ago.Indianapolis Colts: Daniel Jones Oct 19, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) speaks with head coach Shane Steichen in the first quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images   At the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, the Colts gave Anthony Richardson’s representatives permission to seek a trade.While Richardson could still be moved before Week 1 in mid-September, it feels like there aren’t many suitors for the 24-year-old quarterback. The Colts looked prime to finish as a top seed in the AFC before Jones ruptured his Achilles tendon last season. He’s a no-brainer QB1 in 2026, assuming he’s fully recovered.Atlanta Falcons: Tua TagovailoaKevin Stefanski just can’t help himself from starting quarterback controversies. He arrived in Atlanta with Michael Penix Jr. on his rookie deal after the Falcons selected the former Washington quarterback with the No. 8 overall selection in 2024.Injuries have complicated Penix’s outlook, clearing the way for the veteran Tagovailoa to start the season in Atlanta.The Falcons gave Stefanski a high price tag coaching contract to turn Atlanta around in a very winnable division. Expect the former two-time Coach of the Year to trust Tagovailoa over Penix.Las Vegas Raiders: Kirk Cousins  Aug 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Las Vegas Raiders helmet during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images   The Raiders gave Cousins a five-year, 2 million contract, but the deal is essentially a one-year, fully guaranteed  million contract. It’s split between the Raiders and Falcons, who had to release him after just two seasons. million is an expensive backup. The Raiders could decide to let the veteran start the first few games before turning the keys over to No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza.Cleveland Browns: Shedeur SandersEven though all reports indicate that Deshaun Watson is ahead of Shedeur Sanders to start Cleveland’s quarterback competition, the Myles Garrett trade to the Los Angeles Rams should change some things.There’s no denying that the youth movement is underway in Cleveland, moving on from Garrett in favor of 25-year-old EDGE Jared Verse. That benefits Sanders, who is six years younger than Watson.Watson hasn’t played good football since 2020, and after three big injuries and two full seasons on the sideline, it’s impossible to expect the 30-year-old to return to form in the final year of the disastrous contract he received upon arriving in Cleveland.   #NFL #Quarterbacks #Poised #Win #Starting #Jobs #Deadspin.comNov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) warms up before the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

It’s an easy year for predicting NFL quarterback competitions.

As teams across the NFL landscape put a bow on voluntary OTAs this week before turning the page to mandatory veteran minicamps, quarterback competitions will begin to take form.

This year, it feels like the quarterback competitions are a little bit more obvious than they’ve been in previous years. Let’s look at the obvious winners first, before we get into some of the more complex battles.

Minnesota Vikings: Kyler Murray

There’s no way that Murray signed with the Vikings in free agency without some sort of guarantee that he’d have an upper hand over J.J. McCarthy.

The Vikings should probably give up on McCarthy, the No. 10 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, who underwhelmed during his first season as the starter, throwing more interceptions than touchdown passes. Minnesota employed Justin Jefferson, the best receiver in the NFL. The Vikings should see if Murray could get Jefferson the football and turn his career around similar to Sam Darnold a few seasons ago.

Indianapolis Colts: Daniel Jones

Oct 19, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) speaks with head coach Shane Steichen in the first quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn ImagesOct 19, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (17) speaks with head coach Shane Steichen in the first quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

At the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, the Colts gave Anthony Richardson’s representatives permission to seek a trade.

While Richardson could still be moved before Week 1 in mid-September, it feels like there aren’t many suitors for the 24-year-old quarterback. The Colts looked prime to finish as a top seed in the AFC before Jones ruptured his Achilles tendon last season. He’s a no-brainer QB1 in 2026, assuming he’s fully recovered.

Atlanta Falcons: Tua Tagovailoa

Kevin Stefanski just can’t help himself from starting quarterback controversies. He arrived in Atlanta with Michael Penix Jr. on his rookie deal after the Falcons selected the former Washington quarterback with the No. 8 overall selection in 2024.

Injuries have complicated Penix’s outlook, clearing the way for the veteran Tagovailoa to start the season in Atlanta.

The Falcons gave Stefanski a high price tag coaching contract to turn Atlanta around in a very winnable division. Expect the former two-time Coach of the Year to trust Tagovailoa over Penix.

Las Vegas Raiders: Kirk Cousins

Aug 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Las Vegas Raiders helmet during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesAug 23, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Las Vegas Raiders helmet during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Raiders gave Cousins a five-year, $172 million contract, but the deal is essentially a one-year, fully guaranteed $20 million contract. It’s split between the Raiders and Falcons, who had to release him after just two seasons.

$20 million is an expensive backup. The Raiders could decide to let the veteran start the first few games before turning the keys over to No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza.

Cleveland Browns: Shedeur Sanders

Even though all reports indicate that Deshaun Watson is ahead of Shedeur Sanders to start Cleveland’s quarterback competition, the Myles Garrett trade to the Los Angeles Rams should change some things.

There’s no denying that the youth movement is underway in Cleveland, moving on from Garrett in favor of 25-year-old EDGE Jared Verse. That benefits Sanders, who is six years younger than Watson.

Watson hasn’t played good football since 2020, and after three big injuries and two full seasons on the sideline, it’s impossible to expect the 30-year-old to return to form in the final year of the disastrous contract he received upon arriving in Cleveland.

#NFL #Quarterbacks #Poised #Win #Starting #Jobs #Deadspin.com

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