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NCAA Schools Cleared to Pay Athletes in Landmark Settlement

By
Stephen Patrick
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0
Photo Cred: Linkedin

In a historic shift that marks the end of more than a century of amateurism in college athletics, NCAA institutions will soon be allowed to directly compensate student-athletes. The change follows the approval of a landmark federal court settlement that is expected to reshape the financial and legal landscape of college sports. No longer can the NCAA rule over payments off players.

For decades, NCAA rules prohibited student-athletes from receiving direct payment for their athletic contributions, upholding a long-standing model rooted in amateurism. However, mounting legal challenges, increased athlete advocacy, and shifting public sentiment have eroded that foundation. With the approval of the sweeping antitrust settlement, that era is officially coming to a close.

Beginning with the 2025–26 academic year, schools will be permitted to share a portion of their athletic revenue with student-athletes. Payments could reach as much as $20.5 million per school annually. Athletes will also retain the right to profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL) through deals with third-party sponsors. A centralized clearinghouse, managed by Deloitte, will be established to oversee these agreements.

Athletes express concern over NCAA settlement's impact on non-revenue sports - ABC News

The entity will ensure deals fall within fair market value and are in compliance with institutional compensation caps. Governance of the new system will largely fall to the NCAA’s four most powerful conferences—the Atlantic Coast Conference, Big Ten, Big 12, and Southeastern Conference—which will manage and enforce the new compensation guidelines. The settlement mandates the creation of oversight structures designed to promote transparency and prevent abuse.

The clearinghouse will also monitor NIL transactions to ensure they are not used to circumvent the new revenue-sharing rules. This agreement settles three major antitrust lawsuits brought by current and former college athletes who claimed the NCAA’s compensation restrictions violated federal law. In addition to future revenue-sharing provisions, the settlement includes $2.8 billion in retroactive payments to thousands of former athletes.

Despite the settlement’s approval, NCAA officials and conference leaders are lobbying Congress to pass federal legislation that would formalize and protect the new compensation model. Supporters argue that nationwide legislation is essential to create uniform standards, preempt further litigation, and safeguard the financial stability of college athletics. The settlement marks a watershed moment in the history of collegiate athletics.

For the first time, student-athletes will be compensated directly for their contributions to a multi-billion-dollar industry. While the full implications of this transition remain to be seen, one thing is clear: the definition of what it means to be a student-athlete is changing. As institutions, athletes, and fans adapt to this new era, the legacy of amateurism gives way to a future grounded in equity, transparency, and economic recognition.

NFL Foundation Awards Grants to More Than 400 NFL Players, Legends and Coaches to Host Free Youth Football Camps

By
Stephen Patrick
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0

NEW YORK – June 5, 2025 – The NFL Foundation announced today that it is awarding grants totaling approximately $1 million to more than 400 NFL players, legends and coaches who are hosting free youth football camps in communities across the country this summer. For more than 25 years, the NFL Foundation – the league’s philanthropic arm – has provided funding through the Youth Football Camp Grant program to members of the NFL family to help them organize and host free, non-contact youth football summer camps.

Through this program, the NFL Foundation supports players, legends and coaches in hosting free youth football camps that focus on engaging underserved communities while emphasizing the importance of sportsmanship and staying active. Grant recipients also have the opportunity to work directly with USA Football, the National Governing Body for American Football in the U.S., to establish USA Football’s First Down Clinic program – a fun, free introduction to football focused on age-appropriate instruction in basic skills such as running, jumping, passing and catching. In 2024, NFL players hosted over 300 First Down Clinics, and USA Football held these camps at more than 10 major NFL events serving over 60,000 participants.

“For more than 25 years, the NFL Foundation has been proud to support the incredible efforts of the NFL family in growing the game of football and ensuring that youth have the opportunity to stay active and healthy through America’s favorite sport,” said NFL Vice President of Philanthropy and Executive Director of the NFL Foundation Alexia Gallagher. “The more than 400 NFL players, legends and coaches who are hosting free youth football camps this summer are great ambassadors for our game, and we are excited to see the impact they’ll make in communities across the country this year and beyond.”

NFL players and legends who are hosting free youth football camps this summer include: Jacksonville Jaguars defensive lineman and 2024 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Arik Armstead, Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans, Tennessee Titans defensive lineman Jeffery Simmons, Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver DK Metcalf, and Los Angeles Rams legend Aaron Donald, among many others.

“Throughout my career, I’ve made it my mission off the field to empower youth by providing them with the resources and support they need to thrive,” said Jacksonville Jaguars defensive lineman Arik Armstead. “I’m excited to continue bringing this mission to life by returning to my hometown of Sacramento this summer and hosting a free football camp for local youth. All children deserve access to safe places where they can play and grow, and I’m proud to create that space for Sacramento youth this summer.”

The NFL Foundation is dedicated to providing youth with the resources and tools needed to become the next generation of leaders. Throughout the year, NFL Foundation grants play a crucial role in funding the league’s PLAY 60 initiative, which encourages youth to engage in physical activity for at least 60 minutes a day, as well as Character Playbook, the league’s program designed to help kids foster healthier relationships and protect their mental health. Through these efforts and other initiatives designed to support communities across the country, the NFL Foundation recently surpassed $1 billion in total philanthropic donations throughout its more than 50-year history.

About NFL Foundation

The National Football League Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of those touched by the game of football – from players at all levels to communities across the country. The NFL Foundation and its members, the 32 NFL clubs, support the health, safety and wellness of athletes, youth football, and the communities that support our game. Over the past 50 years, the NFL Foundation has become one of the leading philanthropic entities in America, contributing to NFL team communities, national and international disaster relief efforts, and societal issues. For more information on the NFL Foundation, visit: www.NFLFoundation.org.

Media Contact:

Ian Martin, Ian.Martin@nfl.com

How the Thunder and Pacers Built Team-First Identities

By
Arnav Sarkar
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Photo Cred: NBA

The NBA Finals Will Look Different—But Don’t Expect Less Drama

This year’s NBA Finals will look a little different from years past. Instead of the traditional powerhouses—the Lakers, Celtics, Knicks, or Warriors—the spotlight now shines on two of the league’s smallest markets. But don’t mistake a lack of big brands for a lack of big-time basketball. The Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder bring contrasting, high-level styles of play, led by superstar point guards Tyrese Haliburton and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, who embody team-first cultures that allow their teammates to thrive.

Every game of the Oklahoma City Thunder and Indiana Pacers NBA Finals Series Live on ESPN - TV Central

Photo Cred: ESPN

This Finals matchup represents the Midwest: gritty, unselfish, system-driven basketball. Both teams play with pace and purpose. The Pacers lean into offensive efficiency and relentless ball movement, while the Thunder are defined by elite defense, transition scoring, and a versatile, positionless attack. Here’s a look at how each franchise built its identity—and what it might mean when they clash for the championship.

Indiana Pacers: Offense in Full Motion

Indiana’s two biggest stars weren’t homegrown—they arrived via bold trades. Tyrese Haliburton, the face of the franchise, was acquired from the Sacramento Kings in exchange for All-Star big man Domantas Sabonis. The Kings may have seen regular-season improvement since the trade, but Indiana has had the deeper postseason run. Haliburton, a pass-first floor general, has averaged 19.2 points and 9.8 assists over the past two seasons, transforming the Pacers’ offense into one of the league’s most dynamic.

The other star, Pascal Siakam, came from Toronto after the Raptors entered a rebuild. Indiana gave up three first-round picks but no players, clearing cap space by parting ways with veterans like Bruce Brown. Siakam—now Eastern Conference Finals MVP—has seamlessly fit alongside Haliburton, giving the Pacers a powerful one-two punch.

NBA Finals 2025: How the Pacers wisely and efficiently built a championship finalist - Yahoo Sports

Photo Cred: Yahoo Sports

Complementing this star duo is a carefully assembled core. Myles Turner, drafted 11th overall in 2015, has evolved into a modern All-Star center who spaces the floor and protects the rim. Benedict Mathurin, selected in 2022, brings physicality and scoring punch off the bench. Fellow 2022 draftee Andrew Nembhard, originally seen as a pure point guard, has flourished as a combo guard next to Haliburton.

General Manager Chad Buchanan has consistently made savvy moves. The Malcolm Brogdon trade brought in Aaron Nesmith, a sharpshooter and defensive ace who’s now a two-way starter and clutch performer—he buried the Knicks with a fourth-quarter three-point barrage in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. Nesmith’s $33 million extension in 2023 is considered one of the league’s best-value deals. Buchanan also added Obi Toppin and veteran sparkplug T.J. McConnell, who lead a high-energy second unit.

Head coach Rick Carlisle has unleashed a beautiful, high-tempo offense based on spacing, movement, and shot creation. The Pacers lead the league in effective field goal percentage, assist ratio, and play at the third-fastest pace—only behind the Thunder and one other team. In the playoffs, Nembhard, Nesmith, Turner, and Siakam are all shooting over 40% from three, while Haliburton continues to deliver in crunch time. Indiana has made a habit of late-game comebacks, stunning the Bucks, Cavaliers, and Knicks with explosive fourth quarters. No lead is safe against the Pacers, whose relentless offense turns deficits into demoralizing defeats.

Expect fireworks. Indiana’s Finals appearance may not come with Hollywood lights, but their play has all the makings of an offensive masterpiece.

Oklahoma City Thunder: Built Through Patience, Fueled by Defense

The Oklahoma City Thunder may be the NBA’s best example of long-term planning done right. The Paul George trade to the Clippers will go down as one of the most lopsided deals in NBA history—OKC landed current MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, veteran Danilo Gallinari, five first-round picks, and multiple pick swaps. With more draft capital through 2031, General Manager Sam Presti has set up a dynasty pipeline, whether via trade or the draft.

OKC’s second star, Jalen Williams, was a 2022 draft gem. After earning All-Rookie honors, Williams blossomed into an All-Star and All-NBA Third Team selection this season. A two-way wing with size, athleticism, and skill, Williams is a matchup nightmare and the perfect running mate for SGA. Then there’s Chet Holmgren. Drafted second overall in 2022, the seven-foot unicorn missed his rookie year due to injury but has made an immediate impact this season.

With guard-like skills in a center’s frame, Holmgren offers rim protection, floor spacing, and playmaking—giving OKC stars at every position. Around them is a well-constructed, defensive-minded roster. Lu Dort, once an undrafted prospect, is now one of the league’s premier stoppers, earning All-Defensive First Team honors. Nicknamed the “Dorture Chamber,” his ability to shut down opposing stars is unmatched. Rookie Cason Wallace has quickly become a playoff contributor, defending and spacing the floor.

Thunder's Season Is Over, But This Era In OKC Is Just Getting Started

Photo Cred: Forbes

Veteran Alex Caruso brings championship pedigree and glue-guy energy, seamlessly blending into OKC’s scheme. He shoots over 40% from deep and defends multiple positions. Isaiah Hartenstein, acquired from the Knicks, offers rebounding and physicality to complement Holmgren’s finesse. Sharpshooter Isaiah Joe and slasher Aaron Wiggins round out a deep rotation filled with two-way contributors.

Defense is where OKC truly shines. They own the NBA’s best defensive rating, holding opponents to contested looks and forcing turnovers with relentless energy. Their pressure often leads to fastbreaks and transition points—turning tight games into blowouts. They’ve recorded multiple 30- and 40-point playoff wins, including series victories over the Nuggets and Timberwolves.

Offensively, the Thunder embrace positionless basketball. Under head coach Mark Daigneault, OKC executes a drive-and-kick system where any player can create offense. The result is constant movement, open threes, and smart shot selection. They rank third in offensive rating, complementing their No. 1 defense—a rare and lethal combination. Their 68-win season wasn’t a fluke; it was a warning.

2025 Preseason Schedule Announced

By
Stephen Patrick
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0
Photo Cred: USA Today

2025 Preseason National Television Schedule

 

DATE GAME NETWORK (TIME)
     
Thursday, July 31 NFL/Hall of Fame Game; Canton, Ohio:

Los Angeles Chargers vs. Detroit Lions

 NBC (8 p.m. ET)
Preseason Week 2
     
Sunday, August 17 Buffalo Bills at Chicago Bears FOX (8 p.m. ET)
Monday, August 18 Cincinnati Bengals at Washington Commanders ESPN (8 p.m. ET)
     
Preseason Week 3
     
Thursday, August 21 New England Patriots at New York Giants Prime Video (8 p.m. ET)
Friday, August 22 Minnesota Vikings at Tennessee Titans CBS (8 p.m. ET)

2025 Preseason Week-by-Week Schedule

(All times Eastern/p.m.)

NFL/Hall of Fame Game – July 31

L.A. Chargers vs. Detroit (NBC), 8:00

Week 1

Thursday, August 7
Indianapolis at Baltimore, 7:00
Cincinnati at Philadelphia, 7:30
Las Vegas at Seattle, 10:00

Friday, August 8
Detroit at Atlanta, 7:00
Cleveland at Carolina, 7:00
Washington at New England, 7:30

Saturday, August 9

N.Y. Giants at Buffalo, 1:00
Houston at Minnesota, 4:00
Pittsburgh at Jacksonville, 7:00
Dallas at L.A. Rams, 7:00
Tennessee at Tampa Bay, 7:30
Kansas City at Arizona, 8:00
N.Y. Jets at Green Bay, 8:00
Denver at San Francisco, 8:30

Sunday, August 10
Miami at Chicago, 1:00
New Orleans at L.A. Chargers, 4:05

Week 2

Friday, August 15
Tennessee at Atlanta, 7:00
Kansas City at Seattle, 10:00

Saturday, August 16
Miami at Detroit, 1:00
Carolina at Houston, 1:00
Green Bay at Indianapolis, 1:00
New England at Minnesota, 1:00
Cleveland at Philadelphia, 1:00
San Francisco at Las Vegas, 4:00
Baltimore at Dallas, 7:00
L.A. Chargers at L.A. Rams, 7:00
N.Y. Jets at N.Y. Giants, 7:00
Tampa Bay at Pittsburgh, 7:00
Arizona at Denver, 9:30

Sunday, August 17
Jacksonville at New Orleans, 1:00
Buffalo at Chicago (FOX), 8:00

Monday, August 18
Cincinnati at Washington (ESPN), 8:00

Week 3

Thursday, August 21
Carolina at Pittsburgh, 7:00
New England at N.Y. Giants (Prime Video), 8:00

Friday, August 22
Philadelphia at N.Y. Jets, 7:30
Atlanta at Dallas, 8:00
Minnesota at Tennessee (CBS), 8:00
Chicago at Kansas City, 8:20

Saturday, August 23
Baltimore at Washington, noon
Indianapolis at Cincinnati, 1:00
L.A. Rams at Cleveland, 1:00
Houston at Detroit, 1:00
Denver at New Orleans, 1:00
Seattle at Green Bay, 4:00
Jacksonville at Miami, 7:00
Buffalo at Tampa Bay, 7:30
L.A. Chargers at San Francisco, 8:30
Las Vegas at Arizona, 10:00

2025 PRESEASON TEAM-BY-TEAM SCHEDULE
(All times Eastern/p.m.)

AFC

Buffalo

Miami

New England

N.Y. Jets
8/9 N.Y. Giants, 1:00 8/10 at Chicago, 1:00 8/8 Washington, 7:30 8/9 at Green Bay, 8:00
8/17 at Chicago, 8:00 8/16 at Detroit, 1:00 8/16 at Minnesota, 1:00 8/16 at N.Y. Giants, 7:00
8/23 at Tampa Bay, 7:30

 8/23 Jacksonville, 7:00 8/21 at N.Y. Giants, 8:00 8/22 Philadelphia, 7:30

Baltimore

Cincinnati

Cleveland

Pittsburgh
8/7 Indianapolis, 7:00 8/7 at Philadelphia, 7:30 8/8 at Carolina, 7:00 8/9 at Jacksonville, 7:00
8/16 at Dallas, 7:00 8/18 at Washington, 8:00 8/16 at Philadelphia, 1:00 8/16 Tampa Bay, 7:00
8/23 at Washington, noon

 8/23 Indianapolis, 1:00 8/23 L.A. Rams, 1:00 8/21 at Carolina, 7:00

Houston

Indianapolis

Jacksonville

Tennessee
8/9 at Minnesota, 4:00 8/7 at Baltimore, 7:00 8/9 Pittsburgh, 7:00 8/9 at Tampa Bay, 7:30
8/16 Carolina, 1:00 8/16 Green Bay, 1:00 8/17 at New Orleans, 1:00 8/15 at Atlanta, 7:00
8/23 at Detroit, 1:00 8/23 at Cincinnati, 1:00 8/23 at Miami, 7:00 8/22 Minnesota, 8:00

Denver

Kansas City

Las Vegas

L.A. Chargers
8/9 at San Francisco, 8:30 8/9 at Arizona, 8:00 8/7 at Seattle, 10:00 7/31 vs. Detroit*, 8:00
8/16 Arizona, 9:30 8/15 at Seattle, 10:00 8/16 San Francisco, 4:00 8/10 New Orleans, 4:05
8/23 at New Orleans, 1:00 8/22 Chicago, 8:20 8/23 at Arizona, 10:00 8/16 at L.A. Rams, 7:00
8/23 at San Francisco, 8:30
NFC

Dallas

N.Y. Giants

Philadelphia

Washington
8/9 at L.A. Rams, 7:00 8/9 at Buffalo, 1:00 8/7 Cincinnati, 7:30 8/8 at New England, 7:30
8/16 Baltimore, 7:00 8/16 N.Y. Jets, 7:00 8/16 Cleveland, 1:00 8/18 Cincinnati, 8:00
8/22 Atlanta, 8:00 8/21 New England, 8:00 8/22 at N.Y. Jets, 7:30 8/23 Baltimore, noon

Chicago

Detroit

Green Bay

Minnesota
8/10 Miami, 1:00 7/31 vs. L.A. Chargers*, 8:00 8/9 N.Y. Jets, 8:00 8/9 Houston, 4:00
8/17 Buffalo, 8:00 8/8 at Atlanta, 7:00 8/16 at Indianapolis, 1:00 8/16 New England, 1:00
8/22 at Kansas City, 8:20 8/16 Miami, 1:00 8/23 Seattle, 4:00 8/22 at Tennessee, 8:00
8/23 Houston, 1:00

Atlanta

Carolina

New Orleans

Tampa Bay
8/8 Detroit, 7:00 8/8 Cleveland, 7:00 8/10 at L.A. Chargers, 4:05 8/9 Tennessee, 7:30
8/15 Tennessee, 7:00 8/16 at Houston, 1:00 8/17 Jacksonville, 1:00 8/16 at Pittsburgh, 7:00
8/22 at Dallas, 8:00 8/21 Pittsburgh, 7:00 8/23 Denver, 1:00 8/23 Buffalo, 7:30

Arizona

L.A. Rams

San Francisco

Seattle
8/9 Kansas City, 8:00 8/9 Dallas, 7:00 8/9 Denver, 8:30 8/7 Las Vegas, 10:00
8/16 at Denver, 9:30 8/16 L.A. Chargers, 7:00 8/16 at Las Vegas, 4:00 8/15 Kansas City, 10:00
8/23 Las Vegas, 10:00 8/23 at Cleveland, 1:00 8/23 L.A. Chargers, 8:30 8/23 at Green Bay, 4:00
*NFL/Hall of Fame Game; Canton, Ohio
For more from NFL Communications, visit  media.nfl.com

The Greatest NBA Playoff Performers of All Time: Part Two

By
Stephen Patrick
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Photo Cred: NBA.com

The NBA playoffs are the true proving ground for greatness. While regular season success builds stars, it’s in the postseason that legends are made and legacies are solidified. In this multi-part series, we break down some of the most impactful and iconic playoff performers in NBA history. Here’s Part Two, counting down from 5 to 1.

5. Larry Bird

Legends profile: Larry Bird | NBA.com

Photo Cred: NBA


3× NBA Champion | 2× Finals MVP | 12th in Career Playoff Box Plus/Minus
Larry Bird was a playoff force throughout the 1980s, showcasing a rare combination of scoring, rebounding, and playmaking. Between 1980 and 1990, he averaged 24.5 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 6.5 assists in the postseason—numbers that reflect both talent and consistency. Bird’s 1986 playoff run stands out, where he averaged 25.9 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 8.2 assists to lead the Celtics to one of the most dominant championship runs in NBA history. With elite shooting, basketball IQ, and fierce competitiveness, Bird elevated not only his game but also that of the Hall of Fame teammates around him.

4. Magic Johnson
5× NBA Champion | 3× Finals MVP | 7th in Career Playoff Box Plus/Minus
Magic Johnson changed the way basketball was played. Standing 6’9” and running the point, he redefined the position with unmatched vision, creativity, and leadership. In his playoff prime from 1983 to 1991, he averaged 20.0 points, 13.2 assists, and 7.0 rebounds per game, routinely orchestrating an offense that became known as “Showtime.” Magic didn’t just pile up stats—he controlled the rhythm of games and elevated the Lakers into a dynasty. His flair and unselfishness helped shape the modern NBA, and his playoff résumé remains among the most complete ever.

3. Shaquille O’Neal

Shaquille O' Neal Retires | Los Angeles Lakers

Photo Cred: NBA.com


4× NBA Champion | 3× Finals MVP | 26th in Career Playoff Box Plus/Minus
Shaquille O’Neal’s sheer dominance during his prime was something the NBA had rarely seen. From 1994 to 2004, he averaged 27.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 2.4 blocks per postseason. His 2000 Finals performance—38.0 points and 16.7 rebounds per game—is etched in history as one of the most overpowering playoff displays ever. Shaq was nearly impossible to contain in the paint, combining massive size with surprising agility and soft touch. While his later years lowered some of his advanced metrics, at his peak, he was simply unstoppable on both ends of the court.

2. LeBron James
4× NBA Champion | 4× Finals MVP | 3rd in Career Playoff Box Plus/Minus
LeBron James has set a new standard for postseason longevity and excellence. With career playoff averages of 28.4 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 7.2 assists, he’s been a consistent force over two decades. He holds all-time playoff records in points, minutes, and 25-5-5 games—highlighting both his durability and versatility. Even at age 39, he remains elite, recently averaging nearly 28 points and 9 assists in the postseason. Beyond the numbers, LeBron’s ability to control games, adjust to any opponent, and carry teams deep into the playoffs cements his place among the all-time greats.

1. Michael Jordan

Legends profile: Michael Jordan | NBA.com

Photo Cred: NBA.com


6× NBA Champion | 6× Finals MVP | 1st in Career Playoff Box Plus/Minus
No one defined playoff greatness like Michael Jordan. He never lost in the Finals and was named Finals MVP in each of his six appearances. His playoff scoring average of 33.6 points per game in the Finals remains unmatched. Jordan also holds the record for most 40- and 50-point playoff games and led the league in playoff scoring ten times. His intensity, killer instinct, and clutch performances became the stuff of legend. MJ’s blend of scoring, defense, and leadership made him the ultimate postseason performer and set a benchmark that, even today, no one has quite reached.

The Buffalo Bills and the NFC East to be Featured on HBO and NFL Films’ ‘Hard Knocks’ in 2025

By
Stephen Patrick
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0
Screenshot
Buffalo Bills Selected to Appear on Training Camp Edition of ‘Hard Knocks’ Premiering Tuesday, Aug. 5 at 9 p.m. ET/PT
‘Hard Knocks: In Season with the NFC East’ Debuts in December

NEW YORK — May 21, 2025 — HBO and NFL Films re-team to present two upcoming editions of the groundbreaking series, Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the Buffalo Bills debuting Tuesday, Aug. 5 at 9 p.m. ET/PT on HBO with new episodes of the five-part series premiering on subsequent Tuesdays through Sept. 2, and Hard Knocks: In Season with the NFC East debuting this December. Both series will be available to stream on HBO Max.

Hard Knocks: Training Camp with the Buffalo Bills marks the first time the iconic franchise has been selected to take part in the 19-time Sports Emmy®-winning series. Head coach Sean McDermott and general manager Brandon Beane will be featured alongside the 2024 NFL Most Valuable Player, quarterback Josh Allen, and an array of veteran and rookie players training at St. John Fisher University in Pittsford, New York.

Hard Knocks: In Season with the NFC East will debut in December with the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Washington Commanders and reigning Super Bowl LIX champion Philadelphia Eagles, following some of the most storied teams and biggest names in football during the final stretch of the NFL season and into the playoffs. The Cowboys’ Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb, the Giants’ Russell Wilson and Malik Nabers, Jayden Daniels and Terry McLaurin of the Commanders, and Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley of the Eagles are among the stars to be featured in the series. This will be the second edition of the division format, following Hard Knocks: In Season with the AFC North in 2024.

Training Camp with the Buffalo Bills and In Season with the NFC East are the first two Hard Knocks installments in a new multi-year deal between longtime partners HBO and NFL Films.

“We are thrilled to provide ‘Hard Knocks’ fans a summer with the Bills and winter with the Cowboys, Giants, Commanders and Eagles in the first year of our exciting new deal with NFL Films,” said Nancy Abraham and Lisa Heller, co-executive vice presidents HBO Documentary and Family Programming, and Bentley Weiner, senior vice president HBO Sports Documentaries. “There will be no shortage of star power.”

“There aren’t many shows in history that have had a successful 25-year run,” said Ross Ketover, NFL Films senior executive. “We are thrilled that the partnership between NFL Films and HBO – which has captivated football fans for so long – will continue years into the future.”

Both series will be narrated by Liev Schreiber.

Winner of 141 Sports Emmy® Awards, NFL Films remains a gold standard in premium sports content, providing an elevated and connected viewer experience with privileged access to the athlete story. NFL Films is a part of NFL Media, the owned and operated media division of the National Football League, which is comprised of NFL Network, NFL Films, the NFL App, NFL.com., NFL+, NFL RedZone and free ad-supported television streaming service NFL Channel.

NFL programming is the most valuable content in all of sports and entertainment. NFL games ranked as 90 of the top 100 telecasts during the 2024 season.

For the latest news on NFL Media – comprising of NFL Network, NFL Films, NFL.com, NFL+, the NFL app, NFL RedZone and free ad-supported television streaming service NFL Channel – please follow @NFLMedia on X and Instagram. Additionally, for general league news visit media.nfl.com.

NFL Contact: Andrew Howard, Andrew.Howard@nfl.com

HBO Contacts: Erica Rosenthal, Erica.Rosenthal@wbd.com & Kerline Batista, Kerline.Batista@wbd.com
For more from NFL Communications, visit  media.nfl.com

2025 NFL Season Schedule — Major Games & Prime Time Clashes

By
Stephen Patrick
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Photo Cred: NFL
Links available: 2025 NFL regular-season schedule by week | 2025 NFL regular-season schedule by team | 2025 NFL preseason schedule

NEW YORK — May 14, 2025 — The NFL announced its 18-week, 272-game regular-season schedule for 2025, which kicks off on Thursday night, September 4, in Philadelphia and concludes with 16 division games in Week 18 – two on Saturday, January 3, and 14 on Sunday, January 4.

The 2025 NFL schedule, powered by Amazon Web Services (AWS), will feature each team playing 17 regular-season games and three preseason games for the fifth consecutive year. The 17th game will feature teams from opposing conferences that finished in the same standing within their respective divisions the previous season. The AFC will be the home conference for the 17th game in 2025. For how opponents were determined for the 2025 season, click here.

The NFL uses AWS to power its schedule-making process. There are approximately a quadrillion possible schedule combinations each NFL season and over 26,000 factors to take into consideration such as stadium availability, travel requirements, primetime games, competitive fairness and division rivalries. The NFL uses AWS to run high performance computing workloads to find the best possible schedule each year. For more information, click here.

The NFL’s 106th season begins with the league’s annual primetime kickoff game, as the defending Super Bowl Champion Philadelphia Eagles host the Dallas Cowboys at Lincoln Financial Field on Thursday, September 4 (8:20 p.m. ET, NBC).

On Friday, September 5 (8 p.m. ET, YouTube/YouTube TV), the Kansas City Chiefs and the Los Angeles Chargers will meet at Corinthians Arena in São Paulo, Brazil, the second-ever regular-season NFL game to be played in South America. It will mark the first NFL game to be streamed live and for free in its entirety exclusively on YouTube.

Week 1 continues on Sunday, September 7, with three divisional games in the 1 p.m. ET window, as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers visit the Atlanta Falcons, the Cincinnati Bengals visit the Cleveland Browns and the Washington Commanders host the New York Giants. Six of the eight teams participating in the late window on Kickoff Weekend presented by YouTube TV won at least 10 games last season. On FOX at 4:05 p.m. ET, Denver hosts Tennessee while San Francisco visits Seattle, and on CBS at 4:25 p.m. ET, Detroit visits Green Bay and the Los Angeles Rams host Houston.

Later that day, NBC’s Sunday Night Football begins with Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens visiting Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills (8:20 p.m. ET), in a rematch of last season’s AFC Divisional round. NBC will televise one game each Sunday night in Weeks 1-17 as well as feature Cincinnati at Baltimore (8:20 p.m. ET) on Thanksgiving night.

Kickoff Weekend concludes on Monday, September 8, with ESPN/ABC’s Monday Night Football, featuring the Minnesota Vikings visiting the Chicago Bears (8:15 p.m. ET). YouTube TV is the presenting sponsor of Kickoff Weekend, inclusive of the entire Thursday through Monday slate.

ESPN will televise one game each Monday night in Weeks 1-17 and will be simulcast on ABC in Weeks 1-3, 5, 7-11 and 14. In Weeks 2 and 7, there will be two Monday night games with broadcasts at 7 p.m. ET and 10 p.m. ET. In Weeks 4 and 6, there will be two Monday night games with broadcasts at 7:15 p.m. ET on ESPN and 8:15 p.m. ET on ABC.

Additionally, ESPN/ABC will air two games with playoff implications on the Saturday of Week 18, January 3, at 4:30 p.m. ET and 8 p.m. ET. These games will be selected following the conclusion of Week 17. There will be no Monday night game on the final regular-season weekend (Week 18) to provide more flexibility for the scheduling of the opening weekend of the NFL playoffs.

Thursday Night Football will air exclusively on Prime Video, kicking off its slate in Week 2 with Jordan Love and the Green Bay Packers hosting Jayden Daniels and the Washington Commanders (8:15 p.m. ET). Prime Video will broadcast 15 Thursday Night Football games between Weeks 2-17 (excluding Thanksgiving night and including Christmas) and exclusively stream the third annual NFL Black Friday game when the Philadelphia Eagles host the Chicago Bears in Week 13 (3 p.m. ET).

For the second consecutive season, Netflix will stream two NFL games on Christmas Day in Week 17, as the Dallas Cowboys visit the Washington Commanders (1 p.m. ET) and the Minnesota Vikings host the Detroit Lions (4:30 p.m. ET). Additionally, Netflix will stream at least one holiday game in 2026.

The NFL schedule features seven international games, the most-ever in a season, with six of the games exclusively televised on NFL Network. Along with three games in the UK and one in Brazil, the NFL will play the first regular season game in three new cities in 2025 – Berlin (Germany), Dublin (Ireland) and Madrid (Spain). As part of the league’s expansion of the regular season to 17 games, it was determined that, beginning with the 2022 season, teams from the conference whose teams were eligible for a ninth regular-season home game would be among the designated group to play a neutral-site international game each year.

The international slate begins in Week 1 in Brazil with Kansas City and the Los Angeles Chargers (8 p.m. ET, YouTube) and follows with games in four consecutive weeks, beginning in Dublin at Croke Park in Week 4 with the Minnesota Vikings and Pittsburgh Steelers (Sunday, 9:30 a.m. ET, NFL Network). In Week 5, Minnesota will become the first team to play in consecutive international games in different countries when they meet the Cleveland Browns (Sunday, 9:30 a.m. ET, NFL Network) at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London. In Week 6, the Denver Broncos and New York Jets (Sunday, 9:30 a.m. ET, NFL Network) will meet at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium before the London action shifts to Wembley Stadium in Week 7, when the Jacksonville Jaguars will play the Los Angeles Rams (Sunday, 9:30 a.m. ET, NFL Network).

As part of the league’s commitment to playing regular-season games in Germany, the NFL will continue the international slate of games with the first-ever regular season game in Berlin in Week 10 as the Atlanta Falcons meet the Indianapolis Colts (Sunday, 9:30 a.m. ET, NFL Network) at the Olympic Stadium Berlin. The international schedule will conclude the following week with the first-ever regular-season game in Madrid, Spain, when the Miami Dolphins take on the Washington Commanders (Sunday, 9:30 a.m. ET, NFL Network) at the Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid C.F.

The Madden Thanksgiving Celebration will feature a tripleheader on Thursday, November 27. The first game will match a pair of NFC North foes, as the Packers travel to Detroit to face the Lions (1 p.m. ET, FOX). At 4:30 p.m. ET on CBS, the Kansas City Chiefs will visit the Dallas Cowboys, followed by an AFC North matchup between Baltimore and Cincinnati on NBC (8:20 p.m. ET) to close out the Thanksgiving Day festivities.

The regular season will conclude with Week 18 on Saturday, January 3, and Sunday, January 4. For the 16th consecutive year, all 16 games scheduled for the final week of the season are division contests, enhancing the potential for more games with playoff ramifications.

The NFL’s 32 teams will each play 17 games over 18 weeks. Byes will begin in Week 5 and end in Week 14.

Fifteen games will be Super Bowl rematches and 12 games are rematches from the 2024 playoffs, including Super Bowl LIX (Philadelphia at Kansas City in Week 2), both Championship Games (Kansas City at Buffalo in Week 9; Philadelphia and Washington in Weeks 16 and 18) and each of the four Divisional playoff games (Baltimore at Buffalo in Week 1; Los Angeles Rams at Philadelphia in Week 3; Detroit at Washington in Week 10; Houston at Kansas City in Week 14).

The NFL will continue to use “flexible scheduling” this season to ensure exciting and meaningful games are available for viewing by the largest number of fans. For up-to-date information about “flexible scheduling” for the 2025 season, please visit https://www.nfl.com/schedules/flexible-scheduling-procedures.

As in prior seasons, for Week 18, the final weekend of the season, the scheduling of the Saturday, Sunday afternoon, and Sunday night games are not assigned.  In Week 18, two games will be played on Saturday (4:30 p.m. ET and 8 p.m. ET) with the remainder to be played on Sunday afternoon (1 p.m. ET and 4:25 p.m. ET) and one matchup to be played on Sunday night (8:20 p.m. ET). Specific dates, start times, and networks for Week 18 matchups will be determined and announced following the conclusion of Week 17.

Introduced in 2020 and continuing for a sixth-consecutive year, a total of 14 teams – seven each in the American and National Football Conferences – will make the postseason. The No. 1 seed in each conference will receive a bye in the Wild Card round. The remaining division champions in each conference with the best records will be seeded 2, 3 and 4, followed by the next three teams per conference with the best records seeded 5, 6 and 7.

Since 1990 – a streak of 35 consecutive seasons – at least four new teams have qualified for the playoffs that missed the postseason the year before.

AFC and NFC Wild Card games will feature the 2 seed hosting the 7 seed, the 3 seed hosting the 6 seed and the 4 seed hosting the 5 seed.

Wild Card Weekend powered by Verizon for the 2025 season will feature six games, starting on Saturday, January 10.

Wild Card winners join the top seeds in each conference in the Divisional Playoffs, presented by Intuit TurboTax, on Saturday and Sunday, January 17-18. The AFC and NFC Championship Games, presented by Intuit TurboTax, will be played on Sunday, January 25. The winners meet two weeks later on Sunday, February 8, in Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California (NBC), marking the third time the league’s final game will be played in the Bay Area.

The NFL is the only sports league that presents all regular-season and postseason games on free, over-the-air television in local markets. All postseason games are distributed nationally.

Westwood One will broadcast NFL primetime games on radio and digital, the three Thanksgiving Day games and the entire NFL playoffs. SiriusXM subscribers will have access to every live NFL game, as well as exclusive 24/7 talk channel coverage on SXM NFL Radio. All live and local prime time games will be available to stream on mobile devices with NFL+.

Once each matchup is announced, individual game tickets will go on sale immediately through Ticketmaster, the Official Ticketing Partner of the NFL. Tickets will also go on sale through SeatGeek and Sports Illustrated Tickets, members of the NFL Ticket Network. To purchase tickets, visit NFL.com/tickets.

Contact: Sam Drexler, NFL; Sam.Drexler@NFL.com
For more from NFL Communications, visit  media.nfl.com

How the New York Giants Nailed the 2025 NFL Draft

By
Arnav Sarkar
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0
Photo Cred: AM NY

With free agency in the rearview mirror, all eyes turned to Green Bay for the 2025 NFL Draft. Holding the third overall pick, the New York Giants faced a franchise-defining decision: select the best player available or reach for a quarterback of the future. General manager Joe Schoen chose wisely—doing what many now view as the best move of the entire draft.

With Cam Ward off the board to the Titans at No. 1, the quarterback class saw a significant drop-off. The remaining top names—Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart—were talented, but not top-three material. Instead of forcing the issue, Schoen made the smart, measured call: he selected Abdul Carter, a dominant edge rusher from Penn State.

Abdul Carter: 2025 NFL draft scouting report, rankings - 6abc Philadelphia

Photo Cred: ABC

Carter, an All-American who transitioned from off-ball linebacker to edge rusher, posted 12 sacks and 23.5 tackles for loss last season. His elite explosiveness and versatility made him one of the most disruptive defenders in college football. The Giants landed a cornerstone for their defense, a player with All-Pro potential who perfectly complements Kayvon Thibodeaux and Brian Burns up front.

But Schoen wasn’t done. In a bold and calculated move, the Giants traded their 34th and 99th picks to the Texans for the 25th overall selection—where they grabbed Jaxson Dart, the quarterback from Ole Miss. Dart, known for his arm strength, mobility, and poise under pressure, rose up draft boards after a strong combine and pre-draft process. Like franchise icon Eli Manning, he comes from Ole Miss and brings a fearless edge to his game. While not rushed into starting immediately, Dart is the clear quarterback of the future for Big Blue.

With their third-round pick, the Giants added Darius Alexander, a disruptive defensive tackle from Toledo. Though Dexter Lawrence anchors the middle of the defensive line, depth became a concern after his injury last season. Alexander brings both run-stuffing and pass-rushing prowess, grading out at 90.3 against the run and 78.0 as a pass rusher. He’ll immediately compete for rotational snaps, likely overtaking Rakeem Nunez-Roches.

In the fourth round, New York may have landed its biggest steal in Cam Skattebo, the do-it-all back from Arizona State. Skattebo racked up over 1,500 rushing yards and 500 receiving yards in college and has the power, vision, and hands to be a three-down threat. He’s a perfect complement to last year’s rookie breakout Tyrone Tracy, creating a dynamic one-two punch in the backfield.

Cam Skattebo - Arizona State Sun Devils Running Back - ESPN

Photo Cred: ESPN

The value continued to roll in on Day 3. In the fifth round, the Giants selected Marcus Mbow, an offensive tackle from Purdue who many projected to go a round earlier. Mbow brings depth and versatility to an offensive line that desperately needed both. He reunites with former Purdue teammate Tracy and gives the team flexibility behind a starting unit that’s struggled with health and consistency.

In the seventh round, the Giants added Thomas Fidone II, a tight end from Nebraska. While Daniel Bellinger and Theo Johnson provide solid blocking, the tight end room has lacked a true receiving threat. Fidone fills that void, giving Russell Wilson—or eventually Dart—another weapon in the passing game.

The final pick of the draft was Korie Black, a cornerback who brings much-needed depth to the secondary. The Giants were thin at the position last season, and Black’s ball skills and experience give him a solid chance to earn a roster spot and contribute, especially on special teams or in nickel packages.

From top to bottom, the Giants approached the draft with vision and precision. They landed a generational pass rusher, secured their quarterback of the future without overpaying, added depth to key areas, and found late-round steals who could play immediate roles. Now, the pressure shifts to head coach Brian Daboll and his staff to bring this talented group together. With a retooled offense, a ferocious defense, and a clear identity, the Giants are poised to take a major leap in 2025. The pieces are in place. The foundation is laid. The time to compete is now.

NFL Announces Schedule for 2025 International Games

By
Stephen Patrick
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0
Photo Cred: USA Today
NEW YORK — May 13, 2025 — The National Football League today announced the schedule for the 2025 International Games that will be played across Europe in Dublin, Ireland, London, U.K., Berlin, Germany and Madrid, Spain — as part of the league’s long-term commitment to global expansion, driving year-round engagement in international markets.

On Sunday, Sept. 28, the Pittsburgh Steelers will face the Minnesota Vikings at Croke Park in Dublin, Ireland, in the country’s first-ever regular season NFL game.

The Vikings will then travel to London to play the Cleveland Browns at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium — the only purpose-built NFL stadium outside of the U.S. — on Sunday, Oct. 5, which sees the team play two consecutive international games. This game will also be the 40th regular season game to be played in the capital.

The New York Jets will then take on the Denver Broncos on Sunday, Oct. 12, also at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

The third and final game in London will feature the Jacksonville Jaguars against the Los Angeles Rams at Wembley Stadium on Sunday, Oct. 19. This will be the 14th game in the capital for the Jaguars, as part of the team’s multi-year commitment to playing games in the U.K.

For the first time in Berlin, Germany, the Indianapolis Colts will host the Atlanta Falcons at the Olympic Stadium Berlin on Sunday, Nov. 9. The 2025 Berlin game is part of the NFL’s commitment to playing regular season games across Germany and will be the fifth regular season game in the market, with the league having previously played games in Munich and Frankfurt.

The 2025 international slate will culminate in Madrid, Spain on Sunday, Nov.16 with the Miami Dolphins taking on the Washington Commanders at the Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid C.F., in the league’s first-ever regular season game in Spain.

The Los Angeles Chargers will kick off the 2025 International Games Week 1 of the regular season on Sept. 5 in São Paulo, Brazil at Corinthians Arena. The opponent for this game will be announced on May 14, with the full 2025 NFL schedule release.

“The 2025 NFL season will see seven regular season games played outside of the U.S. — the most ever regular season international games to date, including historic first games in iconic venues in Berlin, Dublin and Madrid,” said NFL Executive Vice President, Club Business, Major Events & International Peter O’Reilly. “The 2025 International Games schedule showcases an exciting selection of matchups featuring major NFL stars, bringing our game directly to fans around the world, and underscores our collective commitment to global growth as we continue our journey to becoming a truly global sport.”

Fans can register for ticket information at nfl.com/internationalgames. Tickets will go on sale this summer.

The full 2025 NFL International Games schedule includes:

*Indicates designated team

DATE MATCHUP LOCATION NETWORK & TIME
Sept. 5 (Week 1 of the 2025 Regular Season) Los Angeles Chargers* (opponent to be announced May 14) Corinthians Arena

São Paulo, Brazil

 To be announced
Sept. 28 (Week 4 of the 2025 Regular Season) Minnesota Vikings vs. Pittsburgh Steelers* Croke Park

Dublin, Ireland

 NFL Network

9:30 AM EST
Oct. 5 (Week 5 of the 2025 Regular Season) Minnesota Vikings vs. Cleveland Browns* Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

London, U.K.

 NFL Network

9:30 AM EST
Oct. 12 (Week 6 of the 2025 Regular Season) Denver Broncos vs. New York Jets* Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

London, U.K.

 NFL Network

9:30 AM EST
Oct. 19 (Week 7 of the 2025 Regular Season) Los Angeles Rams vs. Jacksonville Jaguars* Wembley Stadium

London, U.K.

 NFL Network

9:30 AM EST
Nov. 9 (Week

10 of the 2025 Regular Season)

 Atlanta Falcons vs. Indianapolis Colts* Olympic Stadium Berlin,

Berlin, Germany

 NFL Network

9:30 AM EST
Nov. 16 (Week 11 of the 2025 Regular Season) Washington Commanders vs. Miami Dolphins* Bernabéu Stadium

Madrid, Spain

 NFL Network

9:30 AM EST

The 2025 NFL Schedule powered by AWS will be released on Wednesday, May 14 at 8 PM ET on NFL Network, NFL.com, the NFL app and NFL+.

NFL Game Pass on DAZN will broadcast all 2025 International Games in international markets outside of the U.S.

For more, visit nfl.com/schedules/nfl-schedule-release/.

NFL 2025 International Games Information:

NFL 2025 São Paulo game, visit: nfl.com/saopaulo 

NFL 2025 Dublin game, visit: nfl.com/dublin

NFL 2025 London games, visit: nfl.com/london

NFL 2025 Berlin game, visit: nfl.com/berlin

NFL 2025 Madrid game, visit: nfl.com/madrid
For more from NFL Communications, visit  media.nfl.com

Giants Offseason Recap- Giants Ace 2025 Free Agency

By
Stephen Patrick
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0
Photo Cred: ESPN

The 2025 NFL offseason was pivotal for many teams—but perhaps none more than the New York Giants. After finishing with a franchise-worst 3-14 record, the pressure mounted on general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll to engineer a swift turnaround. Their jobs may well depend on it. Schoen responded decisively.

New York Giants rumors: Joe Schoen drops first hints of non-QB No. 3 pick at 2025 NFL Draft | amNewYork

Photo Cred: AM New York

With smart free-agent signings and a draft class hailed by fans as the best in the league, the Giants addressed every major roster weakness while building for both the short and long term. The result? A retooled roster that has fans cautiously optimistic for the first time in years. Let’s take a closer look at how Big Blue nailed the offseason.

Free Agency: Rebuilding With Purpose

Unlike the splash-first approach some expected—especially at quarterback—Schoen opted for a more methodical strategy, starting with the defense.

Defensive Upgrades

With Adoree’ Jackson leaving for division rival Philadelphia, cornerback became a glaring need. The Giants responded by signing Paulson Adebo from the New Orleans Saints to a three-year, $54 million deal. Adebo, a ballhawk with three interceptions in just seven games last season, will help stabilize the secondary and ease the pressure on second-year CB Deonte Banks. Safety was another critical hole, and the Giants landed one of the league’s rising stars in Jevon Holland.

The 25-year-old signed a three-year, $45 million contract—arguably a bargain for a player of his caliber. Holland joins rookie Tyler Nubin to form one of the more intriguing young safety tandems in the NFL. On the edge, the Giants added former Cowboys defensive end Chauncey Golston. Known for his physicality and motor, Golston is coming off a career-best 5.5-sack season and will add depth and energy to a front seven that is already one of the best in the league.

Offensive Line Reinforcements

Injuries and poor performance plagued the Giants’ offensive line in 2024, so bolstering that unit was a top priority. The team re-signed veteran right guard Greg Van Roten, maintaining continuity among the starting five. They also added versatile tackle depth in Stone Forsythe and James Hudson III, who will compete with Jermaine Eluemunor for snaps at right tackle. The added depth should help ensure protection for whoever lines up under center in 2025.

Reports: Giants agree to terms with former Seahawks OL Stone Forsythe

Photo Cred: Giants

Weapons and Stability on Offense

At wide receiver, the Giants surprised many by re-signing Darius Slayton. The veteran had openly expressed a desire to join a contender, but ultimately stayed in New York. Slayton, who has posted 700+ receiving yards in four of his first six seasons, gives the team a dependable WR2 opposite rising star Malik Nabers.

Quarterback Room Overhaul

While fans initially called for a quarterback splash, the Giants took a two-step approach.First came Jameis Winston, a high-upside backup brought in on a two-year, $8 million deal. Then came the headline move: signing Russell Wilson to a one-year, $10.5 million contract, with incentives that could bring it up to $21 million. With Aaron Rodgers still undecided at the time, the Giants pounced on Wilson, who showed flashes of his former Pro Bowl form in Pittsburgh—throwing 16 touchdowns in 11 games and helping the Steelers reach the playoffs. His veteran leadership and playoff experience could prove invaluable to a team looking to rebound fast.

A Balanced Blueprint for Success

Rather than chasing headlines, the Giants crafted a balanced, forward-thinking offseason plan. They improved their defense with young, proven talent, stabilized a shaky offensive line, and addressed the quarterback position with both upside and experience. For a team in desperate need of a fresh start, Joe Schoen and the front office delivered—earning widespread praise and giving fans renewed hope for the 2025 season and beyond.

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