Recently Retired NFL Players Have Created Some Challenges

By

-

August 30, 2024

Several NFL players have recently announced their retirements, catching fans and teams by surprise. These retirements can be grouped into two main categories:

Retirements Before Playing a Game for New Teams:

Rashad Penny: Signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in free agency, Penny was expected to make an impact in their backfield. His retirement leaves a notable void that the team will need to address.
Tarik Cohen: Cohen’s retirement was unexpected, given his unique skill set and recent play with the Bears. He had signed with the Carolina Panthers but never suited up for them.
Shaquil Barrett: Barrett’s sudden retirement followed a season-ending injury, leaving Tampa Bay to adjust their defensive strategy and likely seek another defensive back to bolster their defense.
Gareon Conley: Conley retired before playing a game for the Kansas City Chiefs, which raises questions about his future in football. As a former first-round pick, his decision is surprising, as many believed he still had value to offer.
Michael Gallup: Gallup’s retirement is particularly shocking. Having shown promise with the Dallas Cowboys, many expected him to be valuable to any team. The Cowboys will need to re-evaluate their wide receiver position. While CeeDee Lamb’s recent contract extension helps, they may need to add another wideout.
DeVante Parker: After signing with the New England Patriots, Parker’s sudden retirement creates a gap in their receiving corps. Despite the Patriots’ underwhelming expectations for the season, this leaves them needing to find a replacement.
Randy Gregory: Known for his pass-rushing prowess, Gregory’s retirement before playing for the Denver Broncos presents a challenge for their defense. The Broncos will now need to add another defender to their roster.Photo Cred: PR News Wire

Retirements After a Previous Season or Recent Contract Re-signing:

Markus Golden: Golden’s retirement after re-signing with the Arizona Cardinals removes a key player from their defense. The Cardinals will need to find a replacement for this valuable contributor.
Saahdiq Charles: Charles’s early retirement after recently signing with the New England Patriots raises concerns about their offensive line depth. The Patriots were already thin up front, and this exacerbates the issue.
Tyler Vrabel: Vrabel’s retirement is another setback for the Patriots’ offensive line, putting them at a greater disadvantage. Given the current state of their roster, it’s possible the Patriots could contend for the first overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

The sudden retirements of these players, especially those who had yet to play for their new teams or had recently re-signed, pose significant challenges for their respective teams. With the season approaching, teams must quickly finalize their rosters and address these gaps.

Wide Receivers Looking to Make a Comeback

By

Rives Reucassel

-

August 30, 2024

0

Photo Cred: NFL

The NFL is a league defined by high drama, with each offseason bringing its own set of twists and turns. Playing in the NFL is inherently dangerous, and a player’s career can end at any moment. Some athletes may spend years away from the field but still hold out hope for a comeback.

This year, four wide receivers have made headlines by receiving minicamp invitations, signaling their efforts to return to the NFL: John Ross, Jarvis Landry, Corey Davis, and Jakeem Grant.

John Ross: Known for his exceptional speed, Ross has struggled with injuries and consistency since his breakout rookie season with the Cincinnati Bengals. His speed was once a game-changer. If he can regain his previous form, he could become a valuable deep threat for any team willing to take a chance on him. Ross is determined to make a comeback and contribute in any way possible.Photo Cred: John Ross
Jarvis Landry: Renowned for his reliable hands and gritty play, Landry has been a dependable receiver throughout his career. After spending a year away from the league, he aims to prove he can still perform at a high level. Landry could be especially valuable for teams seeking a veteran presence in their locker room and someone to mentor younger receivers. He remains confident in his ability to make a significant impact.
Corey Davis: The former top-5 pick had notable moments with the Tennessee Titans and New York Jets. But his career has been marred by injuries and inconsistent play. Despite these challenges, Davis believes he can still be a valuable contributor and hopes to find a team willing to sign him. With his strength and power, he is optimistic about his potential to produce at a high level.Photo Cred: MLive
Jakeem Grant: Known for his speed and return skills, Grant has not played since 2021. His special teams abilities might give him an edge as he attempts to make a comeback. Grant is eager to rejoin a team and is ready to contribute in any capacity.

The NFL’s offseason is never short of surprises, and this year is no exception. Each snap is precious in a sport as dangerous as football, where the average career lasts only about three years. Players are motivated to secure their futures and maximize their earnings. The comeback attempts by receivers like John Ross and Jarvis Landry could reshape team rosters and create compelling storylines for the upcoming season. As the NFL continues to evolve, these developments remind us of the unpredictable nature of professional football.

NFL Expands Loans from Minority Banks to Nearly $100 Million

By

Stephen Patrick

-

August 30, 2024

0

Photo Courtesy of the Associated Press (AP Photo/Seth Wenig) — Photo Cred: Associated Press (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

League Reinforces its Commitment to Drive Economic Opportunity in Underserved Communities

NEW YORK – August 29, 2024 –The NFL is expanding its commitment to support diverse enterprises across the country to help drive economic opportunity in underserved communities.

Last year, the league secured $78 million in funding from 16 Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs), Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), and minority- and women-focused lenders. Today, the league has doubled down on its commitment by securing an additional $21 million in loans from 10 additional banking partners, totaling $99 million in funding from 26 institutions in the last two years.

“The NFL is committed to closing the economic opportunity gap by providing underrepresented community banks broader visibility and opportunities typically only available to larger financial institutions,” said Christine Dorfler, chief financial officer of the NFL. “We see this initiative as an investment in our fans and communities across underrepresented regions of the country. Because of this initiative, organizations and individuals who may not have access to capital will have an opportunity to finance their dreams and ambitions.”

In partnership with Bank of America, the NFL identified financial institutions dedicated to providing essential investments to a diverse range of individuals, businesses, and communities to help drive economic progress and opportunity.

“The ‘Impact Banking’ Movement is growing thanks to partners like the NFL that are banking with their values,” said Ashley Bell, co-founder of National Black Bank Foundation. “By including cornerstone institutions of culture and community in these transactions, community-based banks are stronger and better equipped to fulfill their missions: to extend hope and credit to neighborhoods that have relied on them through the years.”

This year’s new banking partners include:

· Piermont Bank (MDI, Asian American Women-owned and led in New York, NY)

· Nave Bank (MDI, Hispanic Owned in San Juan, PR)

· Legacy Bank (MDI, Black or African American Owned in Murrieta, CA)

· Carver Federal Savings Bank (MDI, Black or African American Owned in New York, NY)

· Commonwealth National Bank (MDI, Black or African American Owned in Mobile, AL)

· Carver State Bank (MDI, Black or African American Owned in Savannah, GA)

· Anchor Bank (MDI and CDFI, Hispanic Owned in Palm Beach Gardens, FL)

· Liberty Bank & Trust Co. (MDI, Black or African American Owned in New Orleans, LA)

· Tioga-Franklin Savings Bank (MDI in Philadelphia, PA)

· Alamerica Bank (MDI, Black or African American Owned in Birmingham, AL)

The NFL continues to make headway in its commitment to advancing inclusion and opportunity across the League, its clubs, and communities. Recently, the NFL announced the rollout of NFL Source, an evolution of the league’s supplier diversity commitments which seek to standardize how the NFL and its partners support working with underrepresented businesses locally and nationally, year-round. To learn more about the program and to join the NFL’s directory, visit source.nfl.com.

Media Contact:

Morgan Rubin, Morgan.Rubin@nfl.com

For more from NFL Communications, visitmedia.nfl.com

NFL Teams Up Once Again with LOVE SIGN ® for New American Sign Language Apparel

By

Stephen Patrick

-

August 30, 2024

0

NEW YORK – Aug. 29, 2024 – The National Football League and LOVE SIGN ® announced today the latest drop of t-shirts in the NFL ASL Collection by LOVE SIGN ®, the exclusive NFL-licensed merchandise collection featuring American Sign Language (ASL).

Available starting today on NFLShop.com/ASL, the NFL ASL Collection by LOVE SIGN ®

t-shirts designed by HOMAGE featuring the logos of all 32 clubs will include each team’s name spelled out in ASL. The new t-shirts in the collection create another opportunity to engage fans while providing a new inclusive option for the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing community.

“Last season the NFL proudly launched the NFL ASL Collection by LOVE SIGN ® with the ASL sign for ‘I Love You,’ representing a first for the NFL as we aim to create more inclusive apparel for fans,” said Sean Greene, senior director of licensing at the NFL. “We are taking our commitment to inclusivity a step further by adding t-shirts that educate fans on how to sign their team’s name in ASL.”

“LOVE SIGN ® is proud to be a part of this collaboration with the NFL to help shine a light on the power of sports to bring people together,” said Alexis Kashar, founder of LOVE SIGN ®. “By harnessing the power of sports, we elevate awareness of American Sign Language and emphasize the importance of an inclusive society. We are thrilled to be a part of it.”

“It’s an honor to partner with the NFL to help amplify Alexis Kashar’s passion for spreading the power of human connection,” said Ryan Vesler, founder and CEO at HOMAGE. “At HOMAGE, we believe that clothing and storytelling go hand-in-hand, and when paired with American Sign Language it becomes even more powerful.”

The NFL’s engagement with the Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing community goes beyond the merchandise collection. Since 2009, the NFL has collaborated with leading advocates like Alexis Kashar and others to promote the closed captioning of Super Bowl commercials to ensure full access to this cultural phenomenon. In 2010, the NFL began bringing talented Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing performers to the Super Bowl to present ASL renditions of the National Anthem, America the Beautiful and other pregame songs. In 2022, for the first time, Deaf and Hard-of-Hearing artists performed a live ASL rendition of the Super Bowl Halftime Show, which was streamed worldwide. In addition, the NFL Kickoff game on Sept. 5, 2024, will include an in-stadium ASL performance of the National Anthem.

To shop the new t-shirts in the NFL ASL Collection by LOVE SIGN ®, visit NFLShop.com/ASL.

###

Media Contact: Liana Bailey, liana.bailey@nfl.com

About Alexis Kashar and LOVE SIGN ®

Alexis Kashar comes from a multi-generational Deaf family with a rich legacy in advocacy and innovation. As a civil rights lawyer, she discovered that the most compelling form of advocacy comes from the power of human connection that is created in mainstream culture through sports and fashion. Rooted in authenticity, LOVE SIGN ®, a Deaf and female-run company has already been featured at the Oscars red carpet, QVC, and the White House with their jewelry collection. In 2023, LOVE SIGN ® expanded into apparel through collaborations including the Academy Museum of Motion Films and the NFL to celebrate the beauty of a more inclusive society.

Website: https://lovesign.shop/

Instagram: @LoveSign.ASL

About HOMAGE

HOMAGE, Inc. is an apparel brand that combines authentic storytelling and legendary comfort. Its content and collections pay homage to people, places, and moments that matter, and help to connect fans. The company is an official license partner to the NFL, NBA, WNBA, and MLB, as well as TOPPS, Starter, numerous colleges and universities, and many beloved pop culture brands. HOMAGE apparel is available online at HOMAGE.com and stadium team stores across the country. HOMAGE is proudly based in Columbus, Ohio.

For more from NFL Communications, visitmedia.nfl.com

Predicting the 12-Team College Football Playoff

By

Arnav Sarkar

-

August 29, 2024

0

After a long offseason, college football is nearly upon us. This season, we’re witnessing one of the most dramatic changes in the sport’s history with major conference realignment. Texas and Oklahoma are making their way to the SEC, while Washington, Oregon, UCLA, and USC are joining the Big Ten. The dissolution of the Pac-12 has led to Arizona, Arizona State, Utah, and Colorado heading to the Big 12, while Stanford and Cal, along with SMU, will be part of the newly revamped ACC. In a significant shift, the Power 4 conferences will forgo divisions this year, leading to the top two teams from each conference meeting in their championship games following the regular season.

Photo Cred: SB Nation

The most groundbreaking change, however, is the debut of the 12-team College Football Playoff. Since its inception in 2014, the CFP has featured a four-team format, delivering memorable semifinals like Georgia vs. Ohio State and TCU’s thrilling victory over Michigan. With the expanded 12-team playoff, featuring first-round games hosted on college campuses and subsequent rounds played at traditional bowl venues, fans can expect even more excitement and a fair chance for all deserving teams.

Photo Cred: NCAA

This year’s playoff structure includes automatic berths for the top five conference champions, with the top four receiving first-round byes. The fifth spot will be awarded to the highest-ranked Group of Five champion, and the remaining seven spots are reserved for at-large bids. This new format ensures that undefeated teams like Florida State from last year won’t be left out and provides opportunities for teams with one or two losses, such as Penn State or Ole Miss, to compete for the title. Here are my predictions for the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff field!

First-Round Byes (Seeds 1-4)

Ohio State Buckeyes (Big Ten Champions)

After a few down years by their lofty standards, including losses to Michigan and a narrow miss against Georgia, Ohio State is primed for a resurgence in 2024. They’ve added former Kansas State quarterback Will Howard and superstar running back Quinshon Judkins to bolster an already potent offense. With star receivers like Jeremiah Smith, Emeka Egbuka, and Carnell Tate, and a defense fortified by safety Caleb Downs, the Buckeyes are poised to dominate the Big Ten and contend for the national championship.

Key Games: October 12th @ Oregon, November 30th vs. Michigan

Georgia Bulldogs (SEC Champions)

Georgia, fresh off two consecutive national titles and a tough loss to Alabama in last year’s SEC Championship, returns with a roster brimming with talent. Quarterback Carson Beck is back, and the offense has been reloaded with key portal additions. Despite a daunting SEC schedule, including pivotal matchups against Texas and Alabama, Georgia’s depth and skill should carry them to the top of the conference and deep into the playoffs.

Key Games: September 28th @ Alabama, October 19th @ Texas

Florida State Seminoles (ACC Champions)

Florida State, which finished a perfect 13-0 last season but missed out on the CFP due to an injury to quarterback Jordan Travis, has reloaded with transfer quarterback DJ Uiagalelei. With standout playmakers on both sides of the ball and significant ACC rivals like Clemson and Miami on the schedule, FSU is set to make a strong push for the 12-team playoff, driven by the disappointment of last year’s exclusion.

Key Games: October 5th vs. Clemson, November 9th @ Notre Dame

Utah Utes (Big 12 Champions)

With Texas and Oklahoma departing, the Big 12 is wide open, and Utah stands as a formidable contender. The Utes, coming off back-to-back Pac-12 titles, boast a stout defense and a returning quarterback in Cam Rising. Under the guidance of coach Kyle Whittingham, Utah is well-positioned to surpass teams like Kansas State and Oklahoma State and claim the top spot in the Big 12.

Key Games: September 21st @ Oklahoma State, September 28th vs. Arizona

At-Large Bids (Seeds 5-11)

Oregon Ducks (Big Ten Runners-Up)

Oregon could potentially edge out Ohio State at home, but I anticipate the Buckeyes will get their revenge in the Big Ten Championship. Regardless, the Ducks are primed to make a significant impact in the expanded playoff. With Dillon Gabriel at quarterback and a roster built for high-level competition, Oregon is set for a strong postseason run, potentially facing Boise State in their playoff opener.

Key Games: October 12th vs. Ohio State, November 2nd @ Michigan

Texas Longhorns (SEC Runners-Up)

With Quinn Ewers returning and new additions like Alabama’s Isaiah Bond, Texas is poised for another standout season. Their schedule, featuring games against Georgia and Michigan, will be a true test, but the Longhorns are well-equipped to make a deep playoff run. They’re projected to face Miami in the first round of the playoffs.

Key Games: September 9th @ Michigan, October 19th vs. Georgia

Alabama Crimson Tide

Even with Nick Saban retiring, Alabama remains a powerhouse under new head coach Kalen DeBoer. With quarterback Jalen Milroe leading the charge, the Crimson Tide will continue to be a formidable force. Despite a challenging schedule, including key matchups against Georgia and several ranked teams, Alabama is expected to secure a playoff spot, likely facing Penn State in the opening round.

Key Games: September 28th vs. Texas, November 9th @ LSU

Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Often on the brink of the playoffs, Notre Dame has a strong chance to break through this year. With transfer quarterback Riley Leonard and a favorable schedule, the Fighting Irish are positioned for success. They’re projected to host Ole Miss in the first round of the playoffs.

Key Games: August 31st @ Texas A&M, November 9th vs. Florida State

Ole Miss Rebels

After a successful 11-2 season, Ole Miss is looking to make its mark as an SEC powerhouse. With quarterback Jaxson Dart and significant improvements across the board, the Rebels are set for a strong season. Ole Miss is expected to secure a playoff berth and face Notre Dame in the first round.

Key Games: October 12th @ LSU, November 9th vs. Georgia

Penn State Nittany Lions

The expanded playoff format is a significant opportunity for Penn State. With an elite defense and a favorable schedule, including a crucial game against Ohio State, the Nittany Lions are set to make their first playoff appearance. They’re projected to face Alabama in the playoffs.

Key Games: August 31st @ West Virginia, November 2nd vs. Ohio State

Miami Hurricanes

After a disappointing 7-6 season, Miami looks to rebound with star quarterback Cam Ward and key returning players. With improvements on both sides of the ball, the Hurricanes should secure a playoff berth and face Texas in the first round.

Key Games: September 27th vs. Virginia Tech, October 26th vs. Florida State

Boise State Broncos (G5 Autobid)

Boise State is a top contender from the Group of Five and should earn the automatic bid. With quarterback Maddux Madsen and standout running back Ashton Jeanty leading the charge, the Broncos are primed for a strong season, potentially facing Oregon in the playoffs.

Key Games: September 28th vs. Washington State, November 29th vs. Oregon State

So there you have it! These predictions outline a thrilling path for the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff. While rankings and outcomes may shift as the season progresses and upsets inevitably occur, these teams have the potential to make a strong case for playoff success. With significant conference realignment, exciting matchups, and a groundbreaking playoff format, this college football season is set to be one for the books. Buckle up and get ready—this season promises to deliver drama and excitement like never before!

FC Cincinnati Faces Major Changes as 2024 MLS Season Unfolds

By

Stephen Patrick

-

August 29, 2024

0

As the 2024 Major League Soccer season unfolds, FC Cincinnati finds itself in a period of transition and challenges. The latest development in their roller coaster season is that goalkeeper Alec Kann will be out for the rest of the year. Kann recently underwent successful surgery to address a torn muscle in his hip. In the meantime, Roman Celentano will step up as the club’s primary goalkeeper.

Photo Cred: MLS

Adding to the team’s roster adjustments, is singing center back Teenage Hadebe to a contract extending through 2025. It has an option to extend for the 2026 season. The move was a part of a trade with LA Galaxy. FC Cincinnati agreed to send a first-round pick in the 2025 Draft and a conditional $50,000 in General Allocation Money (GAM), to LA Galaxy. Hadebe’s addition aims to fortify the defense as the team seeks to solidify its backline.

FC Cincinnati has secured forward Nicholas ‘Niko’ Gioacchini on loan from Italian Serie A club Como 1907. Gioacchini is a 24-year-old Designated Player. He joins FC Cincinnati on loan through the end of the season. Gioacchini’s recent stint was with Como. He made nine appearances towards the end of the 2023/24 season. Last year he showed impressive skills with St. Louis CITY SC. He scored 10 goals in 32 appearances. Gioacchini’s arrival is expected to provide a boost to the team’s attacking options.

Photo Cred: MLS

In a surprising twist, Major League Soccer announced the immediate termination of forward Aaron Boupendza’s contract with FC Cincinnati. Boupendza’s season has been plagued with difficulties. In May during an alleged altercation at a bar he broke his jaw. The decision to terminate his contract brings an abrupt end to what has been a tumultuous period for the 28-year-old forward.

As FC Cincinnati navigates the changes, the focus now shifts to integrating the new players to the system. The team will need to address both their defensive and attacking needs while managing injuries, and team chemistry through the remainder of the season. The coming months will be crucial for FC Cincinnati as they aim to stabilize their roster and make a strong finish to the 2024 campaign.

2024 NFL Kickoff Guide

By

Stephen Patrick

-

August 28, 2024

0

The NFL returns for the 2024 season as Kickoff Weekend signals the start of a 272-game journey, one that promises hope for each of the league’s 32 teams as they set their sights on Super Bowl LIX, which will be played on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.

For the 2024 NFL Kickoff Guide, click here. The sections include:

Kickoff 2024
What to Look For
Strengthening the Pipeline
International NFL
Player Health & Safety
NFL & Social Responsibility

NFL, NFLPA and StatusPRO Announce the Next NFL PRO ERA Featuring C.J. Stroud and Micah Parsons as Cover Athletes

By

Stephen Patrick

-

August 28, 2024

0

c-j-stroud-micah-parsons — Photo Cred: SI

NFL PRO ERA to now feature live service model and defensive gameplay offering gamers a fresh first-hand experience on both sides of an NFL field

New York and Miami – August 28, 2024 – The National Football League, the National Football League Players Association and StatusPRO, Inc., an immersive entertainment company that leverages extended reality technology to deliver first-person sports experiences, announced today its NFL PRO ERA will move to a live service model and feature a deeper NFL gaming experience with upgrades and additions that allow you to control and compete on both sides of the ball with every NFL team. Fans can continue to lead their teams as a quarterback, and new for this year can now play linebacker where they can rush the quarterback, record sacks, make tackles and nab interceptions. The 2023 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year with the Houston Texans, quarterback C.J. Stroud will be the featured cover athlete of NFL PRO ERA, along with two-time First-Team All-Pro and Dallas Cowboys star, linebacker Micah Parsons.

“It’s an honor to be one of the featured athletes of an incredible game that mirrors playing quarterback in real life,” said Stroud. “I love what the team is doing at StatusPRO, and once we started conversing, I knew I wanted to be involved with NFL PRO ERA and the vision they have to be the best VR game.”

“I am a huge gamer, especially VR games and football, so being a cover athlete and playing a key role in NFL PRO ERA is an awesome experience,” said Parsons. “Once I talked with the StatusPRO team and they wanted to add defense to the new version of the game, I knew I wanted to work with them and was thrilled when they wanted me as a feature athlete.”

NFL PRO ERA is an immersive, first-person simulation that brings fans closer to the gridiron by giving them a professional football player’s perspective through VR technology. NFL PRO ERA is one of the most successful sports franchises in VR history. StatusPRO has improved the original gameplay of NFL PRO ERA with smarter AI teammates and opponents, a whole new way to play with defense and the opportunity for users to personalize and immerse themselves through new customizations such as custom gear, stadiums and hairstyles.

There will also be improved play styles of teams and players that are closely aligned with current-day formations. NFL PRO ERA will be a faster, more user-friendly game. By removing the sideline experience and adding a new user interface and wristband controls, users can experience smoother gameplay and more intuitive controls. Additional features of the game include real-time feedback from your teammates as they react and respond to you and your quarterback leadership on and off the field along with more intensity and audio based on different game scenarios.

“We want to provide our loyal fans and gamers with something new and revolutionary in our next version of NFL PRO ERA. By adding defense to the game, we aim to bring something unique to the VR gaming world,” said Victor Lugo, StatusPRO’s new chief product officer. “It was important for users to feel like real leaders of their team on both sides of the ball. Being one of the first VR games to have a realistic defensive experience, we made sure that fans have the true feeling of being the defensive anchor when they are on the field.”

Users who have either of the first two versions of the game will see an update giving them access to customizations, and full access to all free play modes and mini-games. The 2025 edition will be available for current players at $19.99 and new players at $39.99. It will include the new defense single-player mode, updated rosters, team t-shirts, cosmetics and more. An updated multiplayer experience that will

feature offensive vs. defensive head-to-head matchups will be released this winter. Additional content packs will be available throughout the season, starting at $4.99.

NFL PRO ERA will be available on Meta Quest during the 2024 NFL season.

###

Media Contacts: Liana Bailey, liana.bailey@nfl.com, StatusPRO, StatusPRO@dkcnews.com

ABOUT STATUSPRO:

StatusPRO, Inc. is a sports technology company that combines data with augmented, mixed, and virtual reality to provide a suite of training and gaming products that revolutionize the way coaches, players, and fans experience their favorite sport. Headquartered in Miami, FL, StatusPRO is minority-owned and led, where almost half of its employees in the United States are former athletes. StatusPRO’s ties to the NFL and the NFLPA began in its club locker rooms when co-founders and former elite football players Troy Jones and Andrew (Hawk) Hawkins had a vision to develop Pre Game Prep, a tool that would bring the brand’s proprietary technology to NFL teams with the goal of improving the athlete training experience, which is now being utilized by NFL teams. The company’s investors include notables such as Naomi Osaka, LeBron James, Maverick Carter, Paul Wachter, Drake, Lamar Jackson, along with investment groups Google Ventures, Greycroft, TitletownTech, Verizon Ventures, Haslam Sports Group, 49ers Enterprises KB Partners, and SC Holdings. StatusPRO was part of the 2024 Disney Accelerator, a business development program designed to accelerate the growth of innovative companies from around the world. For more information and media assets, please visit StatusPRO Media Kit or email StatusPRO@dkcnews.com.

ABOUT THE NFLPA:

The National Football League Players Association (NFLPA) is the union for professional football players in the National Football League. Established in 1956, the NFLPA has a long history of assuring proper recognition and representation of players’ interests. The NFLPA has shown that it will do whatever is necessary to assure that the rights of players are protected—including ceasing to be a union, if necessary, as it did in 1989. In 1993, the NFLPA again was officially recognized as the union representing the players and negotiated a landmark Collective

Bargaining Agreement with the NFL. The current CBA will govern the sport through the 2030 season. For more information, please visit www.nflpa.com.

ABOUT NFL PLAYERS INC.:

NFL Players Inc., the licensing and marketing arm of the NFLPA, connects businesses to the power of NFL players. NFL Players Inc. creates customized business solutions for partners, through licensing, marketing strategy and player activations.

ABOUT ONETEAM PARTNERS:

OneTeam Partners, the group licensing partner of the NFLPA leading their gaming business, represents the commercial interests of over 10,000 players spanning various sports, encompassing members from the NFLPA, MLBPA, MLSPA, U.S. Women’s National Team PA, WNBPA, NWSLPA, U.S. Rugby PA, and the League Championship Series PA, alongside thousands of college athletes. Launched in 2019 as a joint venture between the NFLPA and MLBPA, OneTeam maximizes the collective value of athletes’ rights through group licensing, marketing, media, and other ventures.

For more from NFL Communications, visit NFLCommunications.com and follow @NFL345.

NFL Challenge Awardees Strengthen League’s Field Safety Efforts

By

Stephen Patrick

-

August 28, 2024

0

Top Finishers in Crowdsourced HealthTECH Challenge I Generate Advances to Field Surface Composition, Surface Modifiers

NEW YORK — August 28, 2024 — The NFL today announced the top finishers in the HealthTECH Challenge I, a crowdsourced challenge to accelerate innovations that will help make playing surfaces more consistent and safer for players. The two awardees are:

GrassMaster, which developed PlayMaster, a hybrid playing surface using synthetic carpeting that is covered with sand and brushed and seeded with natural grass. The surface is distinguished by its quick installation and repair capabilities, along with its durability and its safety-centric design.

FieldTurf USA, which developed Liquid Surface Modifiers designed to improve existing turf surfaces in a simple and convenient way. The Modifiers are meant to accelerate the process of field settling and can be adjusted to enable better traction and alter the firmness of a surface to make it safer for players.

GrassMaster will receive $59,000 for its proposal and FieldTurf USA will receive $41,000.

“While these proposals represent only one part of the NFL’s comprehensive strategy to create the safest, most consistent playing surfaces, attracting new and innovative ideas from experts in and outside of the industry will make the game safer, and we are excited to see how these two innovative approaches evolve,” said Jeff Miller, NFL Executive Vice President overseeing Player Health & Safety.

HealthTECH Challenge I was held in partnership with Football Research, Inc. (FRI) and Duke Biomedical Engineering (Duke BME). The crowdsourced entries were assessed by an oversight committee comprising leading experts in injury prevention, materials engineering and playing surfaces. In addition to providing funding, members of the oversight committee with expertise relevant to the two awardees will provide guidance and input to the teams developing both technologies.

“The top submissions have the potential to support the league’s broader approach to providing the safest and most playable fields possible,” said Nick Pappas, field director for the NFL and a member of the challenge oversight committee. “I look forward to working with the rest of the oversight committee to to support the awardees as they hone their technologies and prepare them for potential usage on NFL fields.”

HealthTECH Challenge I is part of the HealthTECH Challenges (previously known as the HeadHealthTECH Challenges), a series of innovation challenges intended to deepen understanding of and advance solutions in the areas of head protection, lower extremity protection, materials science and kinematic measurement, among others.

Media Contact: Stef Goodsell, Stef.Goodsell@nfl.com

NORTH CENTRAL NO. 1 IN AFCA PRESEASON POLL, PRESENTED BY HUDL

College

By

Stephen Patrick

-

August 28, 2024

0

Preseason-D3-Poll-Hudl-Web — Photo Cred: afca

AFCA CONTACT: Vince Thompson, Director of Media Relations, 254-754-9900

NORTH CENTRAL NO. 1 IN AFCA PRESEASON POLL, PRESENTED BY HUDL

WACO, TEX.– Last season’s national runner-up is the preseason favorite to win it all in Division III. North Central (Ill.) received 26 first-place votes and is the No. 1 team in the AFCA Division III Coaches Poll, presented by Hudl. The Cardinals went 14-1 in 2023, falling in the national championship game to the No. 2 team in the preseason poll, Cortland (N.Y.). The Red Dragons, who received 24 first-place votes, took home their first national title in 2023 and will begin defense of their championship on September 7 against Hilbert (N.Y.).

Wisconsin-Whitewater is the No. 3 team. The Warhawks lost in the quarterfinals of last year’s playoffs to Wartburg (Iowa), who is ranked No. 4. UW-Whitewater also has one of three top 25 matchups in the first week of action. The Warhawks will host No. 20 John Carroll (Ohio) on September 7. The other top 25 matchups have No. 7 Alma (Mich.) playing host to No. 17 Wisconsin-River Falls and No. 8 Johns Hopkins (Md.) traveling to No. 19 Ithaca (N.Y.).

2024 AFCA Division III Coaches’ Poll, presented by Hudl – August 26, 2024

Rank	School (1st votes)	2023 Rec.	Pts.	2023 Rank*	Season Opener	Head Coach
1	North Central (Ill.) (26)	14-1	1225	2	Sept. 14 at No. 15 Aurora (Ill.)	Brad Spencer
2	Cortland (N.Y.) (24)	14-1	1195	1	Sept. 7 at Hilbert (N.Y.)	Curt Fitzpatrick
3	Wisconsin-Whitewater	11-2	1102	5	Sept. 7 vs. No. 20 John Carroll (Ohio)	Jace Rindahl
4	Wartburg (Iowa)	13-1	1057	3	Sept. 7 at Monmouth (Ill.)	Chris Winter
5	Mount Union (Ohio)	11-1	1042	9	Sept. 7 at Ferrum (Va.)	Geoff Dartt
6	Wisconsin-La Crosse	11-2	1008	4	Sept. 5 at Rensselaer (N.Y.)	Matt Janus
7	Alma (Mich.)	12-1	934	7	Sept. 7 vs. No. 17 Wisconsin-River Falls	Jason Couch
8	Johns Hopkins (Md.)	12-1	836	8	Sept. 7 at No. 19 Ithaca (N.Y.)	Dan Wodicka
9	Wheaton (Ill.)	10-2	779	13	Sept. 7 at Wisconsin-Oshkosh	Jesse Scott
10	Randolph-Macon (Va.)	13-1	738	6	Sept. 6 at Dickinson (Pa.)	Pedro Arruza
11	Grove City (Pa.)	11-1	697	10	Sept. 7 vs. Geneva (Pa.)	Andrew DiDonato
12	Susquehanna (Pa.)	10-1	604	14	Sept. 6 vs. Bridgewater (Va.)	Tom Perkovich
13	Trinity (Tex.)	10-2	600	11	Sept. 7 vs. Texas Lutheran	Jerheme Urban
14	St. John’s (Minn.)	8-2	577	22	Sept. 7 vs. Carthage (Wis.)	Gary Fasching
15	Aurora (Ill.)	11-1	529	12	Sept. 6 at Dubuque (Iowa)	Don Beebe
16	Hardin-Simmons (Tex.)	9-2	517	17	Sept. 7 at Howard Payne (Tex.)	Jesse Burleson
17	Wisconsin-River Falls	7-3	427	NR	Sept. 7 at No. 7 Alma (Mich.)	Matt Walker
18	Endicott (Mass.)	9-2	356	15	Sept. 7 at St. Lawrence (N.Y.)	Paul McGonagle
19	Ithaca (N.Y.)	9-3	294	18	Sept. 7 vs. No. 8 Johns Hopkins (Md.)	Michael Toerper
20	John Carroll (Ohio)	8-2	287	25	Sept. 7 at No. 3 Wisconsin-Whitewater	Jeff Behrman
21	Muhlenberg (Pa.)	10-1	248	19	Sept. 7 at Moravian (Pa.)	Nate Milne
22	Linfield (Ore.)	8-1	228	24	Sept. 7 vs. Denison (Ohio)	Joseph Smith
23	Carnegie Mellon (Pa.)	10-1	190	NR	Sept. 7 at Thiel (Pa.)	Ryan Larsen
24	Berry (Ga.)	9-1	177	23	Sept. 7 at Huntingdon (Ala.)	Tony Kunczewski
25	Whitworth (Wash.)	10-1	155	16	Sept. 7 at Gustavus Adolphus (Minn.)	Rod Sandberg

*– Ranking in final AFCA Division III Poll of 2023

Others Receiving Votes: Mary Hardin-Baylor (Tex.), 111; Bethel (Minn.), 56; Wisconsin-Platteville, 52; Wisconsin-Oshkosh, 39; DePauw (Ind.), 37; Union (N.Y.), 35; Delaware Valley (Pa.), 23; Wabash (Ind.), 22; Coe (Iowa), 20; Washington & Jefferson (Pa.), 14; Illinois College, 10; Mount St. Joseph (Ohio), 7; Christopher Newport (Va.), 5; Washington (Mo.), 5; Belhaven (Miss.), 3; Rensselaer (N.Y.), 3; Huntingdon (Ala.), 2; Springfield (Mass.), 2; Central (Iowa), 1; Wisconsin-Stout, 1.

-(AFCA)-

.st0{fill:#FFFFFF;} .st1{fill:#E52E2E;} Sports Radio America

Hot topics

Finance

Marketing

Politics

Strategy

Hot topics

Finance

Marketing

Politics

Strategy

Retirements Before Playing a Game for New Teams:

Retirements After a Previous Season or Recent Contract Re-signing:

League Reinforces its Commitment to Drive Economic Opportunity in Underserved Communities

About Alexis Kashar and LOVE SIGN ®

First-Round Byes (Seeds 1-4)

At-Large Bids (Seeds 5-11)

Company

Headlines

Newsletter

Sports Radio America