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Oil prices fell sharply during the second quarter, after reaching year-to-date highs early in the year.

Between January and the end of June, Brent shed 18.26 percent from US$81.69 to US$66.77. West Texas Intermediate made a similar decline falling 16.94 percent from US$78.86 to US$65.50, over the same time period.

The contraction was largely attributed to OPEC+ easing production cuts and increasing output.

Global supply was further bolstered by China’s strong import volumes and rising domestic output, giving refiners room to delay purchases and adding to a mild US inventory build, both of which added downward pressure.

Conversely, seasonal demand from the US summer driving season and solid Q2 GDP growth in China offered some support.

Despite that backdrop, the five top-performing oil and gas stocks on the TSX and TSXV have seen share price growth over Q2 2025. All year-to-date performance and share price data was obtained on July 16, 2025, using TradingView’s stock screener, and oil and gas companies with market caps above C$10 million at that time were considered.

1. Falcon Oil & Gas (TSXV:FO)

Year-to-date gain: 43.75 percent
Market cap: C$127.55 million
Share price: C$0.115

Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, Falcon Oil & Gas is an international oil and gas company incorporated in BC, Canada. The company specializes in the exploration and development of unconventional oil and gas assets, with interests in assets in Australia, South Africa and Hungary.

On January 24, Falcon issued its first corporate update of 2025, announcing the launch of a well stimulation campaign for two wells for the Shenandoah South pilot project in the Beetaloo Sub-Basin, located in Australia’s Northern Territory.

The company has a 22.5 interest in the Beetaloo joint venture, with Tamboran Resources (NYSE:TBN,ASX:TBN) owning the remaining 77.5 percent.

Falcon’s share price spiked several times in June, reaching a year-to-date high of C$0.14 on June 17, which it maintained through late June. The stock movement coincided with Beetaloo updates, including “stellar” flow test results on June 17.

“The IP30 flow rate results announced today of 7.2 million cubic feet per day (MMcf/d), are truly stellar and marks another major data point in the Beetaloo Sub-basin again demonstrating that it compares to the best shale wells in the United States,” CEO Philip O’Quigley wrote in the press release.

2. Imperial Oil (TSX:IMO)

Year-to-date gain: 25.67 percent
Market cap: C$57.37 billion
Share price: C$112.70

Calgary-based Imperial Oil is a prominent Canadian energy company involved in the exploration, production, refining and marketing of petroleum products. With a history spanning over 140 years, Imperial operates diverse assets across Canada, including oil sands, conventional crude oil and natural gas assets.

On January 31, Imperial released its Q4 2024 results, reporting an estimated net income of C$1.23 billion in Q4 2024, slightly down from C$1.24 billion in Q3. The decline was attributed to lower price realizations, partly offset by higher production and improved refinery utilization in the Downstream segment.

On May 2, the company announced a Q2 2025 dividend of C$0.72 payable on July 1.

Imperial shares reached a year-to-date high of C$113.05 on July 13. The rally occurred after Scotiabank raised its share price target for Imperial from C$100 to C$110 on July 11, citing stronger refining margins and earnings outlook.

3. MEG Energy (TSX:MEG)

Year-to-date gain: 10.07 percent
Market cap: C$6.7 billion
Share price: C$26.35

MEG is an energy company solely focused on in-situ thermal oil production in the southern Athabasca oil region of Alberta, Canada. Utilizing innovative enhanced oil recovery projects, including steam-assisted gravity drainage extraction methods, the company aims to increase oil recovery responsibly while reducing carbon emissions.

In mid-May, Strathcona Resources (TSX:SCR) made an unsolicited C$4.1 billion offer for MEG, a move company executives quickly denounced.

In a subsequent press release on June 16, MEG called the offer “inadequate, opportunistic, and NOT in the best interests of MEG or its shareholders.”

Chairman of the Board James McFarland stated in the release, ‘A combination with Strathcona would expose shareholders to inferior assets and significant capital markets risks, including a C$6 billion overhang resulting from Waterous Energy Fund’s 51 percent ownership in the combined company.”

MEG has launched a strategic review and welcomed alternative bids from other companies.

Shares of MEG rose to a year-to-date high of C$26.14 on June 20, on the heels of the statement and alongside news that operations at the company’s Christina Lake operations in Alberta would resume at full capacity following wildfire interruptions.

4. Headwater Exploration (TSX:HWX)

Year-to-date gain: 3.75 percent
Market cap: C$1.65 billion
Share price: C$6.92

Headwater Exploration is a Canadian oil and gas company focused on developing high-quality assets in Alberta’s Clearwater play and low-decline natural gas in New Brunswick’s McCully Field.

In March, Headwater reported strong 2024 results, with annual production up 13 percent year-over-year to 20,310 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d) and net income rising 20 percent to C$188 million.

Headwater released its Q1 2025 results and a company update in May, highlighting the receipt of TSX approval for a normal course issuer bid, allowing it to repurchase up to 10 percent of its public float over the next year.

Additionally the company reported record production of 22,066 boe/d during Q1 and adjusted funds flow of C$92.4 million. Net income for the period came in at C$50 million. The company declared a quarterly dividend of C$0.11 per share during Q1 and ended the quarter with no debt and C$63.6 million in adjusted working capital.

Company shares spiked to a year-to-date high of C$7.43 on January 9, and reached a Q2 high of C$7.22 on June 19, which coincided with a broader surge in the oil market.

5. Athabasca Oil (TSX:ATH)

Year-to-date gain: 3.72 percent
Market cap: C$2.84 billion
Share price: C$5.57

Athabasca Oil is focused on developing thermal and light oil assets within Alberta’s Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin. The company has established a substantial land base with high-quality resources. Its light oil operations are managed through its private subsidiary, Duvernay Energy, in which the company holds a 70 percent equity interest.

On March 5, Athabasca Oil released its 2024 year end results, highlighting strong production and significant cash flow increases. The company averaged 36,815 boe/d during 2024, marking a 7 percent year-over-year increase.

Its Q1 2025 results released on May 7 reported further production growth, with average petroleum and natural gas production of 37,714 boe/d and average thermal oil output of 34,742 barrels per day.

Athabasca Oil generated C$130 million in adjusted funds flow and C$71 million in free cash flow. The company returns capital to shareholders through annual share buybacks, and at the time of the release, it had completed C$94 million in buybacks since the start of 2025.

Broad market positivity in mid-June pushed shares of Athabasca Oil to a year-to-date high of C$6.16 on June 20.

Securities Disclosure: I, Georgia Williams, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

This post appeared first on investingnews.com

Here’s a quick recap of the crypto landscape for Wednesday (July 23) as of 9:00 p.m. UTC.

Get the latest insights on Bitcoin, Ethereum and altcoins, along with a round-up of key cryptocurrency market news.

Bitcoin and Ethereum price update

Bitcoin (BTC) was priced at US$118,148, down by 0.7 percent over the last 24 hours. Its highest valuation on Wednesday was US$118,462, while its lowest valuation was US$117,583.

Bitcoin price performance, July 23, 2025.

Chart via TradingView.

Bitcoin traded lower over the past 24 hours, hovering between $117,000 and $120,000 amid several market pressures.

A major whale moved over US$1.2 billion in dormant BTC, sparking speculation of potential selling.

After a rotation into altcoins, investors took profits following recent highs, while outflows from spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs) signaled weaker institutional demand.

Ethereum (ETH) was priced at US$3,592.65, down by 1.9 percent over the past 24 hours. Its lowest valuation as of Wednesday was US$3,568.86, and its highest was US$3,657.02.

Altcoin price update

  • Solana (SOL) was priced at US$188.86, down by 5.5 percent over 24 hours. Its lowest valuation on Wednesday was US$186.95, and its highest was US$192.58.
  • XRP was trading for US$3.25, down 8.9 percent in the past 24 hours. Its lowest valuation of the day was US$3.18, and its highest valuation was US$3.36.
  • Sui (SUI) is trading at US$3.70, down 5.5 percent over the past 24 hours. Its lowest valuation of the day was US$3.67, and its highest was US$3.84.
  • Cardano (ADA) was trading at US$0.8152, down by 6.9 percent over 24 hours. Its lowest valuation on Wednesday was US$0.8058, and its highest was US$0.8370.

Today’s crypto news to know

PNC Bank and Coinbase partner to advance digital asset solutions

PNC Bank and Coinbase Global (NASDAQ:COIN) have announced a strategic partnership to broaden access to digital asset solutions for PNC’s clients and institutional investors.

The collaboration will leverage Coinbase’s crypto-as-a-service platform, enabling PNC to offer secure and scalable cryptocurrency access. PNC clients will be able to buy, hold and sell cryptocurrencies directly through PNC’s platform.

PNC will also provide essential banking services to Coinbase, signifying a mutual commitment to strengthening the digital financial system. Both companies emphasize that this partnership will meet the increasing demand for secure and streamlined digital asset access.

Goldman Sachs and BNY to launch tokenized money market funds

Goldman Sachs (NYSE:GS) and BNY (NYSE:BK) are preparing to offer institutional investors access to tokenized money market funds, aiming to enhance capital markets with real-time settlement, 24/7 access and increased efficiencies.

BNY clients will soon be able to invest in money market funds with ownership recorded on Goldman Sachs’ private blockchain, as per a Wednesday news release.

“As the financial system transitions toward a more digital, real-time architecture, BNY is committed to enabling scalable and secure solutions that shape the future of finance,” said Laide Majiyagbe, global head of liquidity, financing and collateral at BNY, adding that mirrored tokenization of money market funds is the first step.

This initiative involves major players such as BlackRock (NYSE:BLK), Fidelity Investments, Federated Hermes and the asset management divisions of Goldman and BNY.

Tokenized money market funds offer a contrast to interest-bearing stablecoins, which are specifically prohibited under the GENIUS Act, which was signed into law last week. They provide yield, which makes them a low-volatility tool for hedge funds, pensions and corporations.

SEC halts Bitwise crypto index ETF conversion for review

On Tuesday (July 22), the US Securities and Exchange Commission’s (SEC) Division of Trading and Markets approved the Bitwise 10 Crypto Index to convert to an ETF, only to immediately pause it for review.

In a letter issued later that day, SEC Assistant Secretary Sherry Haywood said that the order will remain “stayed until the Commission orders otherwise.” Bloomberg ETF analyst Eric Balchunas has suggested that the SEC might be delaying its approval until it establishes a listing standard for crypto ETFs.

Bitwise had applied for this conversion in November for its fund, which offers exposure to a range of cryptocurrencies.

Nate Geraci, president of NovaDius Wealth Management, described the situation as “bizarre,” drawing parallels to the Grayscale Digital Large Cap ETF conversion, which experienced a similar approval and subsequent pause on July 1.

Bitcoin millionaires surge by 16,000 in 2025, according to report

Nearly 16,000 new Bitcoin wallets have crossed the million-dollar threshold since Donald Trump assumed the presidency in January 2025, according to a Finbold report. The number of Bitcoin millionaires is up from 132,842 in November 2024 to 192,205 as of July 20, marking a 45 percent increase in just eight months.

Large holders with over US$10 million in BTC also saw gains exceeding 16 percent in the same period.

The surge has been linked to renewed investor optimism following Trump’s re-election, along with clear signals of regulatory support and clarity for digital assets.

A significant boost came this week when the US House passed the Genius Act. The legislation, expected to streamline compliance for institutions, is widely seen as the most comprehensive federal crypto framework to date.

The rapidly changing policy environment has encouraged capital inflows and bolstered confidence in US-based crypto markets, with the resulting daily average tallying to 88 new Bitcoin millionaires in 2025 alone.

South Korea warns fund managers to reduce exposure to crypto stocks

South Korea’s Financial Supervisory Service (FSS) has issued informal warnings to asset managers over their exposure to crypto-related stocks and ETFs. According to the Korea Herald, firms with significant holdings in US-listed crypto companies such as Coinbase and Strategy (NASDAQ:MSTR) were reportedly told to scale back.

The directive follows the FSS’s longstanding 2017 stance prohibiting direct investment in virtual assets by financial institutions, despite recent global shifts in crypto regulation. While the agency has been reviewing possible easing of crypto rules, officials reportedly said that licensed entities must continue observing current guidelines.

The FSS has not yet issued a formal statement regarding the report.

PayPal unveils cross-border wallet platform

PayPal (NASDAQ:PYPL) has launched PayPal World, a cross-border payments network that integrates several of the world’s largest digital wallets, aiming to simplify international commerce for billions.

The platform’s initial partners include India’s UPI (via NPCI International), China’s Weixin Pay (via Tenpay Global) and PayPal’s own services including Venmo.

A memorandum of understanding has also been signed with Mercado Pago in Latin America.

According to PayPal CEO Alex Chriss, the initiative allows users to pay with their native wallets regardless of location. Chriss called it a potential “game changer” for frictionless payments in travel and e-commerce.

“The challenge of moving money across borders is incredibly complex, and yet this platform will make it so simple for nearly two billion consumers and businesses,’ Chriss said a recent press release.

Securities Disclosure: I, Giann Liguid, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

Securities Disclosure: I, Meagen Seatter, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

This post appeared first on investingnews.com

Joe Cavatoni, senior market strategist, Americas, at the World Gold Council, explains that market risk and uncertainty are driving gold, with H1 2025 seeing multiple record highs.

‘Think strategically when you think about gold, and keep that allocation in mind,’ he said.

He also shares thoughts on the importance of central bank allocations and the potential impact of tariffs and US economic conditions on gold during the second half of 2025.

Securities Disclosure: I, Georgia Williams, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

This post appeared first on investingnews.com

The White House on Wednesday (July 23) released a sweeping national strategy for artificial intelligence (AI), outlining over 90 federal actions designed to strengthen America’s position as the global leader in AI development.

The document fulfills a mandate laid out in President Donald Trump’s January 23 executive order, which called for the removal of what the administration described as “barriers to American leadership” in the field.

Titled “Winning the AI Race: America’s AI Action Plan,” the plan sets priorities across three core pillars: accelerating innovation, building domestic infrastructure and leading on global AI diplomacy and security.

The White House said parts of the strategy will be enacted via executive orders in the coming weeks.

Trump and senior officials are set to promote the initiative at an event on Thursday (July 2) night that will be hosted by the Hill and Valley Forum, a group of influential tech donors and investors.

“President Trump has prioritized AI as a cornerstone of American innovation,” said Michael Kratsios, director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.

“This plan galvanizes federal efforts to turbocharge our innovation capacity, build cutting-edge infrastructure, and lead globally, ensuring that American workers and families thrive in the AI era.”

The new initiative marks a clear departure from previous federal policy, explicitly revoking the Biden-era Executive Order 14110, “Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence,” which had emphasized caution, regulation and ethical oversight. In contrast, the Trump administration’s AI directive aims to remove what it describes as “onerous” federal restrictions and foster what it calls innovation free from “ideological bias.”

The goal, according to Trump administration officials, is to secure the global proliferation of US-made AI technologies and prevent the dominance of foreign alternatives. Domestically, the plan pledges to fast track the permitting process for building new data centers and semiconductor fabs, and to launch national workforce initiatives targeting technical trades essential to AI infrastructure, such as electricians and HVAC technicians.

David Sacks, White House special advisor for AI and crypto, framed the plan in strategic and geopolitical terms.

“Artificial intelligence is a revolutionary technology with the potential to transform the global economy and alter the balance of power in the world,” Sacks said, adding that in order to win the AI race, the US must center its innovation domestically and “avoid Orwellian uses of AI.”

In May, the Trump administration reached agreements with the United Arab Emirates to grant the country access to advanced AI chips — part of a broader US$200 billion cooperation deal announced alongside plans for a 5 gigawatt AI campus in the United Arab Emirates. .

As of now, the White House has not provided a timeline for the full rollout of the 90 outlined actions, but officials said implementation would begin “in the coming weeks.”

Securities Disclosure: I, Giann Liguid, hold no direct investment interest in any company mentioned in this article.

This post appeared first on investingnews.com

 

Walker Lane Resources Ltd. (TSX – V: WLR) (F r ankfurt:6YL ) (‘WLR’ o r t h e ‘ Comp a ny’) is pleased to announce, further to its news releases of June 10, 2025, that it has received TSX Venture Exchange approval to close the non-brokered private placement (the ‘ Private Placement ‘). On July 23, 2025, the Company issued 2,508,335 non-flow through Units (each a ‘ NFT Unit ‘) at a price of $0.12 per NFT Unit, for gross proceeds of $301,000, and 607,143 flow-through Units (each a ‘ FT Unit ‘) at a price of $0.14 per FT Unit, for gross proceeds of $85,000, for aggregate gross proceeds of $386,000. Each NFT Unit is composed of one common share and one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a ‘ NFT Warrant ‘). Each FT Unit is composed of one common share and one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a ‘ FT Warrant ‘), each NFT Warrant and each FT Warrant are exercisable for two (2) years at $0.16 per common share.

 

An insider of the Company subscribed for an aggregate of 1,178,571 Units, composed of 750,000 NFT Units and 428,571 FT Units. Such participation was considered to be a ‘related party transaction’ as this term is defined in Multilateral Instrument 61-101 – Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions (‘ MI 61-101 ‘). The Company relied on the exemption from valuation requirement and minority approval pursuant to subsection 5.5(a) and 5.7(a) of MI 61-101, respectively, for the insider participation in the Offering, as the securities do not represent more than 25% of the Company’s market capitalization, as determined in accordance with MI 61-101.

 

The Company intends to use the proceeds from the sale of FT Units to incur ‘Canadian exploration expenses’ and ‘flow through mining expenditures’ as these terms are defined in the Income Tax Act (Canada) and, in particular, the Company’s exploration program at its Amy and Silver Hart Properties in the Rancheria Silver District, (Yukon/British Columbia), and potentially limited activities at Logjam (Yukon). Such proceeds will be renounced to the subscribers with an effective date not later than December 31, 2025, in the aggregate amount of not less than the total amount of gross proceeds raised from the issue of FT Units. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the sale of NFT units for its properties in Nevada including Tule Canyon, Cambridge and Silver Mountain and for general working capital. The FT and NFT Units issued under the financing are subject to a four-month hold.

 

   A     bout Walker Lane Resources Ltd.   

 

 Walker Lane Resources Ltd. is a growth-stage exploration company focused on the exploration of high-grade gold, silver and polymetallic deposits in the Walker Lane Gold Trend District in Nevada and the Rancheria Silver District in Yukon/B.C. and other property assets in Yukon. The Company intends to initiate exploration programs to advance the drill-ready Tule Canyon (Walker Lane, Nevada) and Amy (Rancheria Silver, B.C.) projects to resource definition stage through proposed drilling campaigns that the Company desires to undertake in the near future.

 

The company intends to conduct early stage exploration efforts on its Cambridge and Silver Mountain Properties in the Walker Lane Area, Nevada, evaluate its Silver Hart/Blue Heaven property for medium term development, and advancing exploration on its Logjam property in Yukon.

 

On behalf of the Board:
   ‘Kevin Brewer’    
Kevin Brewer, President, CEO and Director
Walker Lane Resources Ltd.

For Further Information and Investor Inquiries:  

 

Kevin Brewer, P. Geo., MBA, B.Sc. (Hons), Dip. Mine Eng.
President, CEO and Director
Tel: (709) 327 8013
  kbrewer80@hotmail.com   
 
Telephone (604) 602-0001   
  www.walkerlaneresources.com  
 
Suite 1600-409 Granville St.,
Vancouver, BC, V6C 1T2

 

   Ne     i     t     h     er     t     h     e     TS     X     Ven     t     ure     Exc     h     a     n     ge     n     o     r     its     Reg     u     l     a     ti     o     n     S     ervices     Prov     i     der     (as     t     h     at     term     is     de     fi     ned     in     t     h     e p     o     li     c     ies     of     the     T     SX     Vent     u     re     Excha     n     ge)     accepts     re     s     ponsi     b     ility     f     or     t     he     ade     q     u     acy     or     accuracy     of     this     release.   

 

  Cautionary and Forward-Looking Statements  

 

This press release and related figures, contain certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements as defined in applicable securities laws (collectively referred to as forward-looking statements). These statements relate to future events or our future performance. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. The use of any of the words ‘anticipate’, ‘plans’, ‘continue’, ‘estimate’, ‘expect’, ‘may’, ‘will’, ‘project’, ‘predict’, ‘potential’, ‘should’, ‘believe’ ‘targeted’, ‘can’, ‘anticipates’, ‘intends’, ‘likely’, ‘should’, ‘could’ or grammatical variations thereof and similar expressions is intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. These statements speak only as of the date of this presentation. These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements concerning: our strategy and priorities including certain statements included in this presentation are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Canadian securities laws, including statements regarding the Tule Canyon, Cambridge, Silver Mountain, and Shamrock Properties in Nevada (USA), and its Silverknife and Amy properties in British Columbia, the Silver Hart, Blue Heaven and Logjam properties in Yukon all of which now comprise the mineral property assets of WLR. WLR has assumed other assets of CMC Metals Ltd. including common share holdings of North Bay Resources Inc. and all conditions and agreements pertaining to the sale of the Bishop mill gold processing facility and remains subject to the condition of the option of the Silverknife Property with Coeur Silvertip Holdings Ltd. These forward-looking statements reflect the Company’s current beliefs and are based on information currently available to the Company and assumptions the Company believes are reasonable. The Company has made various assumptions, including, among others, that: the historical information related to the Company’s properties is reliable; the Company’s operations are not disrupted or delayed by unusual geological or technical problems; the Company has the ability to explore the Company’s properties; the Company will be able to raise any necessary additional capital on reasonable terms to execute its business plan; the Company’s current corporate activities will proceed as expected; general business and economic conditions will not change in a material adverse manner; and budgeted costs and expenditures are and will continue to be accurate. Actual results and developments may differ materially from results and developments discussed in the forward looking statements as they are subject to a number of significant risks and uncertainties, including: public health threats; fluctuations in metals prices, price of consumed commodities and currency markets; future profitability of mining operations; access to personnel; results of exploration and development activities, accuracy of technical information; risks related to ownership of properties; risks related to mining operations; risks related to mineral resource figures being estimates based on interpretations and assumptions which may result in less mineral production under actual conditions than is currently anticipated; the interpretation of drilling results and other geological data; receipt, maintenance and security of permits and mineral property titles; environmental and other regulatory risks; changes in operating expenses; changes in general market and industry conditions; changes in legal or regulatory requirements; other risk factors set out in this presentation; and other risk factors set out in the Company’s public disclosure documents. Although the Company has attempted to identify significant risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other risks that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Certain of these risks and uncertainties are beyond the Company’s control. Consequently, all of the forward-looking statements are qualified by these cautionary statements, and there can be no assurances that the actual results or developments will be realized or, even if substantially realized, that they will have the expected consequences or benefits to, or effect on, the Company. The information contained in this presentation is derived from management of the Company and otherwise from publicly available information and does not purport to contain all of the information that an investor may desire to have in evaluating the Company. The information has not been independently verified, may prove to be imprecise, and is subject to material updating, revision and further amendment. While management is not aware of any misstatements regarding any industry data presented herein, no representation or warranty, express or implied, is made or given by or on behalf of the Company as to the accuracy, completeness or fairness of the information or opinions contained in this presentation and no responsibility or liability is accepted by any person for such information or opinions. The forward-looking statements and information in this presentation speak only as of the date of this presentation and the Company assumes no obligation to update or revise such information to reflect new events or circumstances, except as may be required by applicable law. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements and information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Because of the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, prospective investors should not read forward-looking information as guarantees of future performance or results and should not place undue reliance on forward looking information. Nothing in this presentation is, or should be relied upon as, a promise or representation as to the future. To the extent any forward-looking statement in this presentation constitutes ‘future-oriented financial information’ or ‘financial outlooks’ within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws, such information is being provided to demonstrate the anticipated market penetration and the reader is cautioned that this information may not be appropriate for any other purpose and the reader should not place undue reliance on such future-oriented financial information and financial outlooks. Future-oriented financial information and financial outlooks, as with forward-looking statements generally, are, without limitation, based on the assumptions and subject to the risks set out above. The Company’s actual financial position and results of operations may differ materially from management’s current expectations and, as a result, the Company’s revenue and expenses. The Company’s financial projections were not prepared with a view toward compliance with published guidelines of International Financial Reporting Standards and have not been examined, reviewed or compiled by the Company’s accountants or auditors. The Company’s financial projections represent management’s estimates as of the dates indicated thereon.

 

   

 

 

News Provided by GlobeNewswire via QuoteMedia

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The NFL offseason, such as it is, officially ends today as the remainder of the league’s 32 teams kick off their training camps. Or, as Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh said after his team was the first to fully report last week: ‘It’s being reborn. It’s the start of the year. Some would think it’s January 1st. Those espoused to Catholicism, Christianity would think it’s the birth of Christ. Us in football, it’s the first day of training camp.’

As far as we know, it’s not New Year’s Day, nor are Three Wise Men set to report to Bethlehem. But we get it, Coach. Back to the football.

And while positional battles, injuries and the constant churn of league-wide transactions will continue to impact every club’s roster and depth chart, issuing report cards for each team’s showing since the 2024 season ended can no longer wait now that squads have essentially taken their full shapes for the upcoming campaign.

So, without further ado, here are each team’s grades for their performances off the field over the past few months:

Chicago Bears: A

They might have won the offseason the minute they hired highly, highly regarded Ben Johnson as their head coach, not only adding an offensive wunderkind but damaging the rival Lions in the process given the impact he’d had on their attack, which ranked in the top five each of the past three seasons.

Recently extended GM Ryan Poles made a series of other moves to not only help Johnson but also boost second-year QB Caleb Williams, who had an uneven rookie season (to put it mildly). Poles buttressed the blocking by trading for Gs Joe Thuney, an All-Pro, and Jonah Jackson before signing highly regarded C Drew Dalman. The draft also brought two new toys for Williams, TE Colston Loveland and WR Luther Burden plus, maybe, his next left tackle (Ozzy Trapilo). Poles also put in work on the defensive side, extending LB T.J. Edwards for two years, signing two-time Pro Bowler Grady Jarrett and up-and-coming pass rusher Dayo Odeyingbo before snagging DL Shemar Turner in the draft’s second round.

Little room for further excuses here, though Johnson and Poles now seem to have far more security than the players.

New England Patriots: A

The return of Mike Vrabel to Foxborough as this team’s new head coach should have the broadest impact on this franchise now and well into the future – and is also the stroke that should be the primary accelerant to second-year QB Drake Maye’s career. But the Pats also did plenty from a roster standpoint to bulwark the league’s worst offense – notably earmarking its first draft four picks to that side of the ball. First-round OT Will Campbell and second-round RB TreVeyon Henderson are both expected to immediately have major roles. New WR Stefon Diggs and RT Morgan Moses are veteran additions and somewhat damaged goods – both coming off knee surgery – but benefit Maye.

Expect a big jump defensively after most of the team’s copious free agent budget went there in order to sign DT Milton Williams (4 years, $104 million), considered perhaps the crown jewel of a thin free agent crop. LB Robert Spillane, OLB Harold Landry and DB Carlton Davis III all got three-year deals worth more than $130 million in sum – a lot to shell out for a trio with all of one Pro Bowl nod on their collective résumés. The return of DT Christian Barmore, who was sidelined by blood clots last season, is a bonus.

If Maye continues along his trajectory, a team that won four games in 2024 could easily double that total.

New York Jets: A-

Last week was the cherry on top of Phase One of their cultural reset, WR Garrett Wilson and CB Sauce Gardner signing four-year extensions that not only solidify the roster’s foundation but underscore the philosophical buy-in no-frills rookie coach Aaron Glenn is getting before even working a game. Those deals followed what seemed like a strong draft anchored by first-round RT Armand Membou and second-round TE Mason Taylor, who should both be Week 1 starters while adding further steel to this club’s backbone. New QB1 Justin Fields, tabbed to replace Aaron Rodgers after Glenn put an end to that era (error?), represented new GM Darren Mougey’s biggest foray into free agency and will either put a wedge in the team’s revolving door behind center or put them back in the market for a passer in what should be a strong 2026 draft at the position. CB D.J. Reed will be missed.

Philadelphia Eagles: A-

As has been the case with nearly every reigning champion during the salary cap portion of the Super Bowl era, you can’t keep everyone. And while the Eagles will return their offense nearly intact – it should be fine sans RG Mekhi Becton – the defense took some hits. Among the departed: Williams, OLB Josh Sweat, DBs Darius Slay and C.J. Gardner-Johnson and retired DE Brandon Graham.

However EVP/GM Howie Roseman, who always seems ready for what’s next, issued smart raises to RB Saquon Barkley and RT Lane Johnson, got new deals done for LB Zack Baun and C Cam Jurgens and, thanks to his drafting acumen, the defense appears backfilled by capable replacements, though there’s no sugarcoating the loss of depth. (However Roseman did bring in a lot of accomplished veterans at low cost, a list that includes LBs Azeez Ojulari and Josh Uche, CB Adoree’ Jackson, TE Harrison Bryant and RB AJ Dillon.)

Versatile first-round LB Jihaad Campbell, who likely wouldn’t have fallen to the 31st overall pick had his shoulder been healthy, could also make up some of the shortfall. And watch out for second-round S Andrew Mukuba. In other good news, coach Nick Sirianni got an extension … as did the “Tush Push,” perhaps partially thanks to a late shove from former pusher Jason Kelce to the league’s owners.

Baltimore Ravens: B+

AFC North champs the past two seasons, they’re nicely set up to make another strong Super Bowl push – getting Pro Bowl LT Ronnie Stanley re-signed while adding accomplished veterans such as WR DeAndre Hopkins and CB Jaire Alexander. Their top two draft picks, S Malaki Starks and OLB Mike Green, could make instant impacts. A tight cap could make anything further on the personnel side a challenge, but an extension needs to get done fairly soon for All-Pro QB Lamar Jackson – he carries a prohibitive $74.5 million cap hit in 2026 and ’27 – and then new deals for young core players such as S Kyle Hamilton, C Tyler Linderbaum and TE Isaiah Likely should follow. Also, it remains to be seen what Baltimore gets from whomever replaces disgraced former K Justin Tucker, who was released last month.

Denver Broncos: B+

A team that made a surprising playoff run in 2024 behind rookie QB Bo Nix could be poised to take the next step. Denver drafted DB Jahdae Barron and RB RJ Harvey – both could play a ton of snaps as rookies – and took a targeted approach to free agency, which brought TE Evan Engram, RB J.K. Dobbins, LB Dre Greenlaw and S Talanoa Hufanga … though all of those veterans come with extensive injuries in their backgrounds. Yet if half of them pan out, Sean Payton’s team could challenge K.C. for AFC West supremacy.

Kansas City Chiefs: B+

You wouldn’t think a cemented dynasty would have this productive an offseason or this much financial flexibility – and QB Patrick Mahomes deserves more credit on that front given his ongoing willingness to restructure his contract and allocate money elsewhere. And while not everyone will be back, notably Thuney and S Justin Reid, the team managed to extend G Trey Smith and DE George Karlaftis, re-signed LB Nick Bolton, WRs Hollywood Brown and JuJu Smith-Schuster and RB Kareem Hunt.

GM Brett Veach was also able to add OT Jaylon Moore and CB Kristian Fulton. TE Travis Kelce will, at minimum, play out the final year of his contract, and WR Rashee Rice returns after last year’s season-ending knee injury − though he could miss the early part of the season if the NFL hands down a suspension in the aftermath of his legal issues being resolved. The defense was heavily augmented by the draft, but the spotlight will be on first-round OT Josh Simmons who, along with Moore, will be vying to solidify the new-look left side of a line that failed the team during its Super Bowl 59 three-peat bid.

It’s a fascinating mix of stability and churn for a team that’s only missed the Super Bowl once in the past six seasons. Yet the O-line does remain something of a question aside from Smith and C Creed Humphrey.

New York Giants: B+

If HC Brian Daboll and GM Joe Schoen are truly on the hot seat … gonna be interesting. First-round QB Jaxson Dart is clearly the future here, but will Daboll have the luxury of developing him in a redshirt manner after Schoen brought in veterans Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston? How much will the secondary benefit after New York invested three years and nearly $100 million collectively for S Jevon Holland and CB Paulson Adebo? (Maybe a lot with No. 3 overall pick Abdul Carter, Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux rushing quarterbacks.) A draft that brought Carter, Dart and RB Cam Skattebo could pay off handsomely … whether it’s for this front office or the next one.

Seattle Seahawks: B+

A team that unexpectedly won 10 games and fell a tiebreaker short of postseason in 2024, Mike Macdonald’s first as head coach, nevertheless took something of a sledgehammer to the top of its roster. Gone are QB Geno Smith and WRs DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett, among others. In are Pro Bowl QB Sam Darnold, WR Cooper Kupp and DE DeMarcus Lawrence, among others. The trades of Smith and Metcalf paved the way for a big-time draft that brought OL Grey Zabel, S Nick Emmanwori, TE Elijah Arroyo and highly intriguing third-round QB Jalen Milroe. Should be fascinating to see how a team more tailored to Macdonald’s philosophy coalesces.

Tennessee Titans: B

Given QB Cam Ward was the top pick of this year’s draft, there’s been remarkably little national buzz around the player or his new team. And maybe that’s not such a bad thing – ask the 2024 Bears. Ward has decent weaponry around him, and rookie GM Mike Borgonzi prepared for his arrival by securing veteran G Kevin Zeitler and LT Dan Moore in free agency. And now it’s undoubtedly full speed ahead with Ward following Monday’s news that last year’s starter, Will Levis, will miss the 2025 season after opting to undergo shoulder surgery.

Arizona Cardinals: B

Heavy defensive emphasis, GM Monti Ossenfort taking DT Walter Nolen and highly regarded CB Will Johnson with his first two draft picks after plucking Sweat from the champion Eagles during free agency. Trey McBride got a deal that briefly made him the league’s best paid-tight end at $19 million annually. Will it be enough to vault a team that doubled its win total to eight last season into the playoffs? If WR Marvin Harrison Jr. has improved as much as he and the team think, maybe.

Buffalo Bills: B

Is their interminable Super Bowl quest going over the top? Buffalo’s biggest move was re-signing QB Josh Allen to a six-year, $330 million extension – which is actually below market value at $55 million annually. Securing the reigning league MVP is a huge plus, and GM Brandon Beane also reinvested heavily elsewhere in his roster (DE Greg Rousseau, WR Khalil Shakir, LB Terrel Bernard, CB Christian Benford). The team seems confident the development of WR Keon Coleman, addition of WR Josh Palmer and return to health by TE Dalton Kincaid can take the passing game up a notch. But will a generally conservative reliance on continuity be enough? Also, first-round CB Maxwell Hairston is dealing with legal issues, and DE Joey Bosa (calf) is already coping with an injury.

Green Bay Packers: B

They made a splash – by Wisconsin standards – after taking Matthew Golden in the first round of the draft, breaking a 23-year streak when they’d avoided Round 1 wideouts. If he can establish himself as the No. 1 receiver, much as HC Matt LaFleur hates that label, this offense could reach a new level. GM Brian Gutekunst made other significant, if less noted, moves, extending OL Zach Tom and bringing in free agent G Aaron Banks and CB Nate Hobbs, all on four-year contracts. Hobbs basically replaces now-departed Alexander.

Houston Texans: B

After the offense regressed around second-year QB C.J. Stroud in 2024, a team that’s won the past two AFC South crowns should probably be given credit for not resting on its laurels, largely remaking the O-line and receiver room while firing coordinator Bobby Slowik, who was taking head coach interviews just a year ago. It remains to be seen how Stroud fares with new play caller Nick Caley or behind a line that could have a different player in every spot but right tackle compared to the combinations Houston used in last season’s playoffs. But with newly acquired vets like WR Christian Kirk and Gardner-Johnson plus a nice haul of rookies – OL Aireontae Ersery, WRs Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel – and perhaps six picks in the first three rounds of next year’s draft, it’s easy to understand GM Nick Caserio’s logic. And he gets extra points for moving quickly to extend All-Pro CB Derek Stingley Jr.

Jacksonville Jaguars: B

With the bold move up to get WR/CB Travis Hunter, rookie GM James Gladstone is banking on this as a transformative offseason that’s potentially netted a new face of the franchise. Whether Hunter, who cost the Jags their second-rounder this year and a first in 2026, can effectively gain this team a roster spot or even consistently be a major presence on both sides of the ball game in and game out remains to be seen. His impact will also be largely dictated by the health of QB Trevor Lawrence, who underwent surgery on his non-throwing shoulder and is adapting to yet another head coach with rookie Liam Coen now in the post.

But Lawrence should enjoy upgraded protection after Gladstone signed free agent OL Patrick Mekari and Robert Hainsey to three-year deals. But the organization really needs Coen, Hunter, WR Brian Thomas Jr. and maybe even new deep threat Dyami Brown to help the No. 1 pick of the 2021 draft blossom into the superstar he was projected to be coming out of Clemson.

Los Angeles Rams: B

You’re forgiven if you thought a team that traded out of the first round basically spent the offseason swapping out Kupp for Davante Adams and tweaking its O-line. But GM Les Snead also got new deals done for QB Matthew Stafford and LT Alaric Jackson while adding NT Poona Ford to an ascending defense. Second-round TE Terrance Ferguson could quickly add a new offensive dimension.

Minnesota Vikings: B

HC Kevin O’Connell and GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah both got deserved extensions in the wake of a surprising 14-win season and busily did what they could to put new QB1 J.J. McCarthy into an optimal situation as he prepares to take his first regular-season snaps following a rookie year completely lost to a knee injury. That’s meant adding OL Will Fries, Ryan Kelly and first-rounder Donovan Jackson plus re-signing RB Aaron Jones. McCarthy should also benefit from a play-making defense reinforced by veteran DTs Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave plus the retention of S Harrison Smith and fast-improving CB Byron Murphy. But this whole thing might be undone if the decision to part with Darnold proves a mistake.

Pittsburgh Steelers: B

Ultimately, this season will be judged by whether a team nearly a decade removed from its last playoff win made the right call at quarterback … something it hasn’t done for some time. But after failing to convince Fields, who was benched for Wilson last season, to re-sign or pry Stafford loose from the Rams, per reports, coach Mike Tomlin and GM Omar Khan settled on Rodgers – for what’s likely a one-year rental – rather than roll the dice on a rookie passer in a draft that seemed thin on QB prospects.

Otherwise? In are Metcalf, CBs Jalen Ramsey and Slay and TE Jonnu Smith. Out are WR George Pickens, RB Najee Harris and S Minkah Fitzpatrick. For better or worse, soon-to-be 31-year-old OLB T.J. Watt just landed an extension averaging $41 million, meaning he’s now the league’s best-compensated non-QB for the next five minutes. A seemingly strong draft class headlined by DL Derrick Harmon and RB Kaleb Johnson effectively gets additional boosts from 2024 first-round RT Troy Fautanu and speedy third-round WR Roman Wilson, who made one appearance apiece as rookies.

Will all that be enough to win more than 10 games and reach the divisional round of postseason? We don’t have to tell you to stay tuned.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: B

A team that values stability as much as any certainly maintained it, extending the contracts of GM Jason Licht and coach Todd Bowles as the organization eyes a fifth straight NFC South crown. WR Chris Godwin and LB Lavonte David are also back. OLB Haason Reddick and rookie WR Emeka Egbuka are probably the most prominent newcomers, though the draft brought quite a few defensive reinforcements. LT Tristan Wirfs (knee surgery) will miss the start of the season, but Godwin is hoping his ankle is ready to go for Week 1.

Dallas Cowboys: B-

Welp, it’s never dull in Big D. The Cowboys began 2025 with the fairly surprising choice of naming Brian Schottenheimer to his first head coaching gig – he replaced Mike McCarthy – and his tenure seems to be off to a good start in the locker room. It helps to have QB Dak Prescott fully recovered from the hamstring injury that cut his 2024 season short. There’s also been ample buzz following the trade with Pittsburgh for Pickens.

Issues certainly remain − though, despite owner Jerry Jones’ rhetoric, expect DE Micah Parsons to soon become the league’s next highest-paid non-quarterback. Figuring out if they have an effective runner to replace departed RB Rico Dowdle, whether Joe Milton III is potentially ready to fill in for Prescott and if recently fined CB Trevon Diggs can get back into the team’s good graces could actually be more difficult answers to find.

Las Vegas Raiders: B-

There’s little doubt they should be more competitive on the heels of a 4-13 campaign. Yet with a soon-to-be 74-year-old coach in Pete Carroll and soon-to-be 35-year-old QB Geno Smith, it all feels very … interim? The team locked up DE Maxx Crosby through the 2029 season. But All-Pro TE Brock Bowers feels like the only other cornerstone right now, though rookie GM John Spytek certainly hopes he found more in RB Ashton Jeanty, WR Jack Bech and others in what could be a strong draft class. The uncertain status of DT Christian Wilkins (foot surgery), signed to a four-year, $110 million deal a year ago, remains a concern.

San Francisco 49ers: B-

Some bills came due, literally and figuratively. Primarily, Brock Purdy finally became eligible to come off the NFL’s version of quarterback welfare, signing a five-year, $265 million extension. Two of the team’s other linchpins, TE George Kittle and LB Fred Warner, also inked new deals.

But there were unavoidable ripple effects, perhaps most notably the trade of WR Deebo Samuel. The defense was also stripped of several former mainstays, including Greenlaw, Hufanga, DE Leonard Floyd, CB Charvarius Ward, and DTs Hargrave and Maliek Collins. Former Jets coach Robert Saleh is back to run the unit but will have to try and revive it with a lot of new players after GM George Lynch devoted his first five 2025 draft picks to the defensive side of the ball before trading for DE Bryce Huff.

On the health front, All-Pros Christian McCaffrey and Trent Williams seem ready to return, but WRs Brandon Aiyuk and Ricky Pearsall are currently on the PUP list.

Washington Commanders: B-

Given QB Jayden Daniels enters his second season as a bona fide MVP candidate, you want to commend a team that’s already going for it by adding veterans like OLB Von Miller. And retaining leaders like LB Bobby Wagner, TE Zach Ertz and QB2 Marcus Mariota should only pay current and future dividends. Rookies Josh Conerly and Trey Amos should contribute heavily early and often.

Yet it’s worth asking if Washington will ultimately be happy with its trades for Samuel, who’s a touch volatile and often banged up, and LT Laremy Tunsil, who led the NFL with 19 penalties in 2024 (12 of them false starts). Also, three years and $45 million for DL Javon Kinlaw? And it probably shouldn’t have taken this long to reach a financial agreement with WR Terry McLaurin, who’s been a good soldier here long before the team got good … or even respectable.

New Orleans Saints: C+

Derek Carr recently retired. Former All-Pro Ryan Ramczyk officially retired. The longtime 4-3 base defense was retired. Tyrann Mathieu juuust retired. At least the team’s often tenuous cap situation improved. Reid, OLB Chase Young and TE Juwan Johnson are all good players who signed three-year deals. Rookies Kelvin Banks, Tyler Shough and Vernon Broughton, might be, too. However expectations for this season should be decidedly in check. Perhaps it’s all ultimately for the best if Shough turns out to be the starting quarterback for rookie HC Kellen Moore much sooner than initially expected.

Carolina Panthers: C

Though they drafted WR Tetairoa McMillan with the eighth pick of the first round, the general lack of tinkering with the offense is indicative of how they feel about QB Bryce Young’s progress last year and the pieces around him. The return of DE Derrick Brown, who missed all but one game in 2024 with a knee injury, should be the best news for a defense that gave up the most points and yards in the league last season. But GM Dan Morgan also paid up to improve that side of the ball, signing S Tre’von Moehrig and DTs Tershawn Wharton to three-year deals averaging at least $15 million after missing out on ex-Eagle Milton Williams. CB Jaycee Horn also got a huge extension. OLB Jadeveon Clowney was released in May, and lingering concussion issues led to LB Josey Jewell’s departure, at least for now.

Cincinnati Bengals: C

They deserve some credit after ponying up to extend WRs Ja’Marr Chase, who was the league’s top-paid non-quarterback for a few months, and Tee Higgins, a development that kept QB Joe Burrow happy. But, at least in regard to Chase, an All-Pro who won the league’s receiving triple crown in 2024, that was a no-brainer … as it was last year, when he would have cost significantly less. One would also think giving All-Pro DE Trey Hendrickson the raise he’s earned going into the last year of his contract, or even simply signing first-round DE Shemar Stewart would similarly be no-brainers. But the Bengals have been Bengal-ing and risk immediately crippling their season at its outset if Hendrickson and Stewart, who’s impressive skill set already needed polishing, remain absent from what’s already a highly suspect defense.

Los Angeles Chargers: C-

They’ll likely need to rely even more on their top two draft picks, RB Omarion Hampton and WR Tre Harris, following the July 4 eye injury suffered by RB Najee Harris, a free agent pickup, and WR Mike Williams, who decided to retire last week. (Good thing the Bolts drafted with a sense of redundance.) Beyond that, they hung on to OLB Khalil Mack but let Bosa go. The Chargers’ two other biggest additions were Becton and CB Donte Jackson. Meh. Despite Harbaugh’s optimism, tight end, corner and maybe even who will be QB Justin Herbert’s top pass-catching alternative to WR Ladd McConkey remain concerns. LT Rashawn Slater still needs a new contract. 

Atlanta Falcons: D+

Unlike the Vikings, they haven’t been able to optimize the supporting cast around QB Michael Penix Jr., who enters a season as the starter for the first time, because he’s got a backup, Kirk Cousins, with a nine-figure contract. And now he’ll loom over Penix from the sideline while hovering like a dark cloud over the salary cap. GM Terry Fontenot did manage to extend LT Jake Matthews but couldn’t hang on to promising Dalman. Jarrett also left for Chicago. Maybe Fontenot will get more from a notoriously underwhelming pass rush after signing Floyd and drafting Jalon Walker and James Pearce in Round 1, though Pearce came at the exorbitantly high cost of next year’s first-round pick.

Indianapolis Colts: D+

As Brad Pitt’s “F1” character, Sonny Hayes, said: ‘Hope is not a strategy.’ But kinda feels like that’s where the Colts are as they assess whether Anthony Richardson or Daniel Jones will be their Week 1 quarterback – an issue potentially exacerbated after the offensive line was raided during free agency. First-round TE Tyler Warren projects as an immediate difference maker. Sadly, much will be different in these parts for an organization rocked by the recent death of longtime owner Jim Irsay.

Detroit Lions: D

For those who see water in the glass, DE Aidan Hutchinson is on track to return from the broken leg that prematurely ended a 2024 season in which he seemed destined to win Defensive Player of the Year honors. All-Pro Kerby Joseph also became the league’s highest-paid safety with a four-year, $86 million extension.

But the injury bug also got an extension, DT Levi Onwuzurike already lost to a season-ending knee injury, and DT Alim McNeill still recovering from a torn ACL. C Frank Ragnow belatedly chose retirement over another season of pain. Rookie DL Tyleik Williams and OL Tate Radledge will need to be ready to play straight away. LB Alex Anzalone also seems to have some wounded pride as he awaits an extension heading into his walk year.

But the main issue for this team, which is a bit of a victim of its own recent success, could be the departure of eight assistants, most notably OC Ben Johnson (Bears) and DC Glenn (Jets), both hired to their first head coaching gigs. A team that’s gone 27-7 over the past two regular seasons will be severely challenged to maintain its momentum, much less build on it.

Miami Dolphins: D

A team that’s been unable to win games of importance in recent years has been hemorrhaging talent, LT Terron Armstead retiring, Holland leaving during free agency, then Ramsey and Jonnu Smith traded last month. WR Tyreek Hill admits he’s (still) working on his professionalism. Maybe first-round DT Kenneth Grant and second-round G Jonah Savaiinaea will provide toughness some have said this team lacks. GM Chris Grier and HC Mike McDaniel don’t seem all that well positioned to justify the vote of confidence owner Stephen Ross gave the after last season’s 8-9 finish.

Cleveland Browns: I (for incomplete)

They seem to be playing something of a long game, but it’s just too early to know how it ultimately plays out as a team likely destined to finish last in the AFC North straddles the line between rebuilding and trying to remain competitive.

They compelled DE Myles Garrett to stick around after making him the first non-QB with a contract averaging $40 million annually (over 4 years). Whether Cleveland should have cashed out on a 29-year-old at the peak of his powers who’d requested a trade earlier in the year remains an open question. After all, the Browns divested the No. 2 overall pick of the draft for a package that included Jacksonville’s first-rounder next year.

So what are we doing? TBD, which also sums up the team’s four-way competition to determine its starting quarterback, a scrum that includes former Super Bowl MVP Joe Flacco and fifth-round lightning rod Shedeur Sanders. Otherwise? Though GM Andrew Berry passed on the opportunity to pick Hunter, he brought in some very nice players, including DT Mason Graham, LB Carson Schwesinger and battering ram RB Quinshon Judkins – though his availability is currently in limbo after he was recently charged with misdemeanor domestic battery. Pro Bowl LB Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah (neck) is already out for the year.

But hey, y’all, the team could be playing in a fancy new stadium in four years … a point when we’ll know whether keeping Garrett, bypassing Hunter and picking Judkins and Sanders while likely punting on a long-term quarterback solution until 2026 were wise decisions.

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Sports broadcaster Taylor Rooks revealed Wednesday night that she recently got married, announcing the news in an Instagram post.

Rooks, who has worked broadcasts for TNT and ‘Thursday Night Football’ and will soon be the host for Prime Video’s NBA coverage as Amazon begins NBA broadcasts in 2025-26, had her wedding ceremony in New York.

The guest list included several notable names, including Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley, rapper Jack Harlow and singer Ella Mai.

Several NBA players, including Kevin Durant (Houston Rockets), Draymond Green (Golden State Warriors) and Donovan Mitchell (Cleveland Cavaliers), were in attendance to celebrate.

Who did Taylor Rooks marry?

Rooks’ wedding announcement came as a shock to most on the internet and also left many wondering who her new husband is.

She and her husband were featured together in several photographs in the Instagram post, but the most revealing information about him came in a photograph he wasn’t in.

One of the photos included a menu with the food options available at the celebration, but it also included his first name. The top of the menu read: “Taylor & Shane.”

This post appeared first on USA TODAY

USC men’s basketball freshman Alijah Arenas has suffered a knee injury, according to the university.

The 6-foot-6, 195-pound guard is expected to miss six to eight months after having surgery, which likely would rule him out for the 2025-26 season.

He is the son of former NBA point guard Gilbert Arenas.

Alijah Arenas was tabbed a 5-star recruit and ranked as the 10th overall player in the 2025 class by 247sports. He recently graduated from Chatsworth High School.

Arenas played in the McDonald’s All-American as a member of the West on April 1.

He was placed in a medically induced coma due to smoke inhalation after being involved in a car accident on April 24.

His Tesla Cybertruck had crashed into a fire hydrant and a tree before the car caught on fire.

He did not suffer any major injuries and was released from the hospital a week later.

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Indiana Fever star Caitlin Clark is not expected to play in Thursday’s game against the Las Vegas Aces.

Clark has been dealing with a right groin injury.

The team did not practice on Wednesday but Clark was not listed as a probable starter for Thursday’s game on the team’s website.

Fever coach Stephanie White told reporters on Sunday that Clark was going to get another opinion from a doctor regarding her injury. White spoke to the media again on Tuesday before the Fever’s game against the New York Liberty, saying that Clark had visited a doctor in the morning but did not have any other updates.

How was Caitlin Clark injured?

Clark suffered the groin injury during the final moments of a game against the Connecticut Sun on July 15. 

She was voted as a team captain for the WNBA All-Star Game, but was unable to play, stating, ‘I have to rest my body.’

Clark has had other muscle-related injuries this season (left groin, quad tightness, quad strain). She’s missed 11 of the Fever’s 24 games this season, as well as the Commissioner’s Cup title game victory over the first-place Minnesota Lynx.

This post appeared first on USA TODAY

In 2023, the NFC West provided the conference’s challenger for the Super Bowl. In 2024, it was a roller coaster ride that saw all four teams in contention for the division title at some point before the Los Angeles Rams won the crown via tiebreaker over the Seattle Seahawks.

The NFC West had a 10-win champion, tied with the AFC South (Houston) and NFC South (Tampa Bay) for the fewest last season. But its last-placed team in 2024 – the San Francisco 49ers – had more wins (six) than any other last-placed team league-wide.

No team established itself as the dominant force. Things could change in 2025 as teams across the division made significant changes this offseason.

Seattle brought in a new offensive coordinator and quarterback for 2025. The Rams signed a three-time All-Pro wide receiver. Arizona invested heavily in defense via both free agency and the 2025 NFL Draft. San Francisco brought back defensive coordinator Robert Saleh and lost many familiar faces on offense and defense via free agency and trades.

Many of these moves will have fantasy football implications. There are plenty of questions for each team ahead of the 2025 season but we’ve settled on one big one for each franchise.

Here’s our one burning question for each team in the NFC West.

Fantasy football questions: NFC West

Arizona Cardinals

Will Marvin Harrison Jr. make a leap in Year 2?

Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzig operates one of the most diverse and unpredictable run schemes in the league. Defenses are tasked with preparing for all types of schemes for James Conner and company to churn out tough yards.

The same can’t be said for the pass offense. It was head-scratching campaign 2024; tight end Trey McBride enjoyed a breakout season but didn’t score a touchdown until Week 17. Without a designated deep threat in the receiving corps, that fell on Harrison’s shoulders.

Harrison entered the league as one of the top fade route receivers in recent college football history. Quarterback Kyler Murray has a history of throwing those well. But neither could get on the same page. Arizona targeted Harrison on fade routes more than all but one receiver league-wide in 2024 and he caught six of them.

If it wasn’t for the incredible success of fellow 2024 draftees Brian Thomas Jr., Malik Nabers and Ladd McConkey, Harrison’s rookie year might have felt less disappointing. He’s bulked up ahead of the 2025 season and that could help him adjust to the pro game better. But will Petzig and Murray get the most out of him? That could be the difference between WR8 and WR20 this season.

Top players (Fantasy Pros ADP)

  • Trey McBride (TE2, overall: 19)
  • Marvin Harrison Jr. (WR21, overall: 42)
  • James Conner (RB18, overall: 51)
  • Kyler Murray (QB9, overall: 76)
  • Trey Benson (RB47, overall: 145)
  • Michael Wilson (WR74, overall: 195)

Los Angeles Rams

Can Davante Adams be a top-15 fantasy WR again?

Los Angeles brought in one of the top wide receivers of his generation this offseason by signing Davante Adams to a two-year, $46 million deal. The three-time All-Pro should slide in and fill the void left by longtime Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp, now in Seattle.

Adams managed more than 1,000 yards and eight touchdowns in 14 games with the Raiders and Jets in 2024. That made him WR12 in standard scoring leagues and WR11 in PPR formats.

In 2025, he’ll have Matthew Stafford throwing the ball to him in Sean McVay’s scheme, with Puka Nacua taking attention from the defense. That’s a pretty sweet setup.

But Nacua may take a large share of the targets to keep Adams from repeating that performance. Nacua was still WR26 in PPR leagues despite playing just 10 games in 2024. Kupp played in 12 games and was WR38.

Nacua will likely be the top dog in the passing game in 2025. If healthy all season, Adams will be the No. 2 weapon, but he is entering his age-33 season. It’s tempting to paint the best-case scenario for the veteran receiver but this may be a case of a player being a better asset in real-world football than the fantasy realm.

Top players (Fantasy Pros ADP)

  • Puka Nacua (WR4, overall: 6)
  • Davante Adams (WR17, overall: 32)
  • Kyren Williams (RB12, overall: 38)
  • Matthew Stafford (QB21, overall: 126)
  • Blake Corum (RB57, overall: 180)
  • Los Angeles Rams D/ST (D/ST11, overall: 202)

San Francisco 49ers

What will Christian McCaffrey be in 2025?

McCaffrey was a fantasy football championship winner in 2023. He was the top-scoring running back by a country mile, especially in full PPR formats, in addition to winning Offensive Player of the Year.

Last season was a different story. Injuries kept him off the field for much of the season and when he appeared things weren’t very good. He played just under 75% of snaps from Weeks 10 through 13 with 86.5 total yards per game – his lowest figure since his rookie year in 2017 (67.9). He failed to score a touchdown for the first time in his career.

This offseason, McCaffrey’s been on the field for minicamp, an improvement from a year ago. But San Francisco drafted Oregon running back Jordan James in the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft. As a powerful back who excels in short yardage and red zone situations, James could hawk some touchdowns from McCaffrey.

With no timetable for wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk’s return and fellow wideout Ricky Pearsall dealing with a hamstring injury, McCaffrey may end up being deployed more as a de facto wide receiver while James and speedy second-year back Isaac Guerendo take up carries. Or McCaffrey could stay the lead back as the 49ers lean more into the run game early on but see fewer end zone touches with James’ arrival. It’s tough to tell.

Top players (Fantasy Pros ADP)

  • Christian McCaffrey (RB6, overall: 17)
  • George Kittle (TE3, overall: 34)
  • Jauan Jennings (WR39, overall: 83)
  • Brock Purdy (QB11, overall: 92)
  • Ricky Pearsall (WR47, overall: 107)
  • Brandon Aiyuk (WR48, overall: 111)

Seattle Seahawks

Can Jaxon Smith-Njigba be a top-5 fantasy WR in 2025?

Smith-Njigba hit 100 receptions and 1,000 yards in his sophomore season in 2024. The No. 20 overall pick from the 2023 NFL Draft made the Pro Bowl and established himself as the top pass-catcher in Seattle, finishing as a top-10 wide receiver in half and full PPR formats.

Seattle overhauled its offense for 2025 notably with a new coordinator in Klint Kubiak. The former Saints offensive coordinator will bring a different system to Seattle compared to last year’s coordinator, Ryan Grubb, and one that should complement new Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold’s skillset.

Metcalf and longtime Seahawks wideout Tyler Lockett are both out. In their place are Washington native Kupp and Marquez Valdes-Scantling. Neither will likely challenge Smith-Njigba for status as the top target in the passing game.

Smith-Njigba already is a top-10 wide receiver in fantasy football. In Kubiak’s system with Darnold at quarterback, he could conceivably challenge for top-5 status.

Top players (Fantasy Pros ADP)

  • Jaxon Smith-Njigba (WR12, overall: 20)
  • Kenneth Walker III (RB15, overall: 43)
  • Cooper Kupp (WR45, overall: 104)
  • Zach Charbonnet (RB36, overall: 114)
  • Sam Darnold (QB26, overall: 166)
  • Seattle Seahawks D/ST (D/ST12, overall: 206)
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