Even though Patrick Mahomes admitted Kenneth Walker III helped convince Andy Reid to change the team’s offense, the Chiefs might need a miracle to overcome the absence of Rice from Kansas City’s wide receiver corps.

Rashee Rice has been ruled out for Week 6’s matchup with the Chargers due to hamstring and knee injuries sustained during Week 4’s win over the Las Vegas Raiders. Kansas City had hoped Rice would be available coming off the bye, but the team decided to sideline him as a precaution.

Chiefs WR depth chart

With Rashee Rice out of the picture, the Chiefs’ WR depth chart for their Week 6 matchup with the Bolts is quite depleted. Kansas City’s wideouts on the active roster include Xavier Worthy, Jalen Royals, Cyrus Allen, Nikko Remiggio, Andrew Armstrong, and Justin Watson.

With Rice sidelined by injury, the SMU product joins Jimmy Holliday, Tyquan Thornton, and Jeff Caldwell among the unavailable wide receivers, as the latter trio are all on injured reserve (IR).

What’s next for Chiefs?

After the AFC West duel in Week 6, the Chiefs’ schedule won’t get any easier. In fact, quite the contrary. Kansas City will travel to face the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday Night Football before taking on the Denver Broncos, with both games on the road. Given that Rice was at one point close to playing in Week 6, the Chiefs will expect their star wide receiver to return in Week 7.

Key takeaways

• 4-0 Kansas City Chiefs face the 0-5 Los Angeles Chargers in Week 6.
• Rashee Rice ruled out for Week 6 due to Week 4 knee/hamstring injuries.
• Kansas City expects Rice to return for their Week 7 game at Seattle.

Even though Bills head coach Joe Brady threatened to take James Cook’s prominent role away, Buffalo may have no choice but to pound the rock as Moore won’t play against Las Vegas. That, or the Bills will need Josh Allen to play hero ball, not that it would be anything new for him.

Dealing with a shoulder injury, Moore was a limited participant in Buffalo’s Friday practice and is listed as questionable for the Week 6 matchup against Las Vegas in the 2026 NFL season. Moore didn’t play in the Bills’ primetime win over the Los Angeles Rams last week.

Bills WR depth chart

Joshua Palmer is also questionable to play against the Raiders. That means Josh Allen’s confirmed receiving options for Week 6 will include Khalil Shakir, Keon Coleman, Greg Dortch, and Skyler Bell.

That’s not taking into account the loaded tight end room, which boasts the likes of Dalton Kincaid, Dawson Knox, and Jackson Hawes. If neither Moore nor Palmer can dress, expect Kincaid and company to have an even bigger role in Pete Carmichael’s offense.

Key takeaways

• Bills face Raiders in Week 6 with DJ Moore’s playing status still unconfirmed.
• DJ Moore listed questionable with a shoulder injury after practicing limited on Friday.
• Joshua Palmer questionable alongside DJ Moore, leaving Bills wide receiver options depleted.

Kamara is dealing with a back injury that limited his participation in practice throughout the week and landed him on the Saints’ injury report ahead of Week 6 of the 2026 NFL season. He did practice on Friday, though in a limited capacity, and was initially listed as questionable, per ESPN.

So far in the 2026 NFL season, Kamara has played in four of New Orleans’ first five games (missing Week 1), rushing for 86 yards and two touchdowns while catching 13 passes for 41 yards.

Olave’s status

As for Olave, the Ohio State product is dealing with a different kind of setback. Despite the injury concerns surrounding him, Olave was listed as questionable due to an illness that limited his participation in Friday’s practice and earned him the questionable tag for Sunday’s game against the Giants, but he is finally active for this game.

Through his first five outings of the season, Olave has played some of the best football of his NFL career and is a big reason why the Saints have at times looked better than their 1-4 record suggests. Olave has caught 39 passes for 537 yards and a touchdown so far in the 2026 season.

Saints RB and WR depth chart

With question marks floating over Kamara and Olave, and IR stints sidelining other key members of both the rushing and receiving corps, the Saints appear knee-deep in trouble. As it stands, the running back room includes Kendre Miller and CJ Donaldson, in addition to Kamara (questionable) and Travis Etienne (IR).

As for the WR room, Olave’s uncertain status leaves Devaughn Vele, Bryce Lance, Barion Brown, and Cedric Tillman as the only fully available weapons to help Tyler Shough in the Big Apple. Just as John Harbaugh endorsed the Giants’ tight end to help the offense in Week 6, Kellen Moore may have to make a similar request of his tight end group.

Key takeaways

• Alvin Kamara and Chris Olave are not yet confirmed active for Week 6.
• Alvin Kamara listed questionable for the New Orleans Saints due to a back injury.
• Chris Olave listed questionable against the New York Giants due to an illness.

The Ohio State product’s won’t be suiting up after leaving Week 5 with a foot injury that hasn’t fully healed. For the time being, reports should keep Cleveland fans confident that Judkins injury is not serious, but tough enough to sideline him this week.

Head coach Todd Monken described Judkins’ status as “day-to-day,” but the fact that he practiced on Friday wasn’t enough for him to suit up on Sunday against the Ravens at Huntington Bank Field.

What happened to Judkins?

Coming off last week’s 17-12 loss against the New York Jets, Judkins was seen wearing a walking boot on his right foot, which immediately set off alarm bells in Cleveland.

Judkins was sidelined during the team’s practices on Wednesday and Thursday before returning for the final session of the week ahead of Sunday’s game against Baltimore.

Judkins’ projections

According to ESPN’s fantasy football app, Judkins was expected to play against the Ravens and even projected to put up 13.5 points, which would’ve been his second-best performance of the 2026 NFL season in point-per-reception (PPR) scoring. However, now it’s time to look for alternatives.

Browns RB depth chart

With Dylan Sampson still on Injured Reserve (IR) with a knee injury, the Browns are down to just Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime as backfield options now that it’s been confirmed that Judkins can’t play against the Ravens.

Key takeaways

• Quinshon Judkins is ruled out for Cleveland against Baltimore due to a foot injury.
• Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime remain Cleveland’s available running backs.
• Tyler Huntley starting at quarterback for Baltimore with Lamar Jackson ruled out in Week 6.

Who would’ve thought that, just months after Marchand lost to both Larkin and Hellebuyck in the 2026 Olympics gold-medal game, he would be joining the front lines in support of the U.S. Olympians? Many believe it may have something to do with the Panthers being among the teams linked to both Larkin and Hellebuyck, as both want out of their current NHL organizations.

Whether Florida can actually pull off a trade for either or both of the two gold medalists remains uncertain, but it’s clear Marchand won’t burn any bridges and may even build some in the meantime. As a social media personality went after Hellebuyck, Marchand had the Jets‘ goaltender’s back with a candid statement.

“Such a bad take,” Marchand said in response to BarDown’s Jesse Pollock’s comments on Hellebuyck’s trade request drama. “How is that any different from a team signing a player to a long term deal and sending him anywhere he wants if they don’t want to get traded. Stick to PlayStation big fella. Funny how you never see guys want to leave the sh—- city teams when teams are good, it’s only when teams are poorly managed and too cheap to spend to the cap to try and win.“

What did Pollock say?

“Honestly, kind of sucks that is coming at the Jets’ expense, but at the same time, there is an organization that has to stick it to these players who just want out. You signed a contract with the Jets, you’re going to stay with the Jets. That’s it. It’s a (expletive) joke,” Pollock said, via TSN’s BarDown.

“Someone needs to send a message to these players that this is not how the league works. The NHL is turning into something that a lot of fans do not want it to turn into in this regard. There needs to be stricter rules. You want to request a trade? Okay, your no-trade clause is gone. We’re going to send you to the worst team in the league if we have to. It’s a joke.”

Hellebuyck suspension update

According to a report from Elliotte Friedman on Sportsnet, Hellebuyck has let the Jets know he wishes to end his absence and report to the team, and he might be back soon. Friedman says he believes the official return date is set for Oct. 23, when Hellebuyck’s suspension will be lifted.

What happens next remains unclear, though. Hellebuyck might return to his role as Winnipeg’s starting goalie, or he might even be traded before making his NHL season debut. It’s all pretty much up in the air. All that appears clear is that Hellebuyck is on his way back.

Key takeaways

• Florida Panthers forward Brad Marchand remains on injured reserve while actively supporting Connor Hellebuyck.
• Brad Marchand publicly defended Connor Hellebuyck, telling critic Jesse Pollock to “stick to PlayStation”.
• Elliotte Friedman reports Connor Hellebuyck’s Jets suspension will end on Oct. 23.

Although Larkin’s NHL future remains a question with countless possible answers, the Red Wings are still confident they can convince the former captain. According to interim general manager Shawn Horcoff, the worst part of the storm may have passed. Clear skies may not lie immediately ahead, but the outlook is looking far more promising than it did months ago.

“With Dylan, a few things. He’s had a tough month,” Horcoff stated, via Brad Galli on X. “Obviously there’s a lot going on with Dylan, but I think on top of it, the injury probably came at a really inopportune time for him.

“I think it’s going to take some time, and he’s working back through that, and it’s only going to get easier for him as things go on here and he starts to find his game and his legs a little bit more. It hasn’t been easy for him.”

Detroit is standing by Larkin

When news broke of Larkin’s trade request, much was speculated about how the locker room would react. It’s not often that captains turn their backs on their teams, and it was reasonable to think his teammates might not have taken it lightly.

However, just as head coach Todd McLellan recently revealed the players’ stance on Larkin’s return from his upper-body injury, Horcoff made it clear that everybody in the organization is rooting for Larkin. Better said, they’re all rooting for the Red Wings, and as things stand, Larkin is a Red Wing. With no clear exit door on the horizon, he might stay that way for a while.

“[Larkin’s] got the full support of management and his teammates and the coaching staff in there, and he’s come back and really came to play right off the bat. And I think the fans have recognized that,” Horcoff stated.

Key takeaways

• Alex DeBrincat signed a $91 million contract extension with the Detroit Red Wings.
• Dylan Larkin requested a trade from the Red Wings following the 2025-26 NHL season.
• Shawn Horcoff stated that Dylan Larkin has the full support of Red Wings management.

Missing key pieces to their secondary, the Broncos’ new version of their No Fly Zone defense will look very different in Week 6 in Mile High City. Surtain II and Hufanga aren’t playing against Seattle, yet they aren’t the only defensive backs dealing with setbacks.

As it stands, the cornerback depth chart includes: Riley Moss, Jahdae Barron, Ja’Quan McMillian, and Kris Abrams-Draine. Needless to say, the Broncos are in for a steep climb trying to stop one of the best wideouts in the NFL while missing their elite, lockdown cornerback.

No Surtain II vs JSN in Week 6

Coming into the season, this primetime game was circled in red by most NFL fans. It would be a can’t-miss showdown between two of the best athletes in the league: Pat Surtain II going up against Jaxon Smith-Njigba. However, that WR-CB matchup won’t take place.

So far in their careers, arguably the best cornerback and wide receiver in the NFL have met only once, in Week 1 of the 2024 campaign (Sept. 8, 2024). Smith-Njigba wasn’t the superstar he is today back then, as he was still settling into the transition from Ohio State to the big leagues.

The two were only one game away from meeting last season in Super Bowl LX, but the Broncos (without Bo Nix) fell in the AFC Championship Game. Coming into Week 6 of the 2026 NFL season, Smith-Njigba was at one point in doubt to play, but he’s finally been cleared and declared active.

Looking at the glass half full, fans must be grateful that at least they’ll see JSN in action, even if they want to dwell on the fact that “PS2” won’t.

Key takeaways

• Pat Surtain II and Talanoa Hufanga will miss the Denver Broncos’ Week 6 game.
• Riley Moss, Jahdae Barron, Ja’Quan McMillian, and Kris Abrams-Draine are healthy.
• Jaxon Smith-Njigba was cleared to play for Seattle after facing pre-game injury doubts.

Dorofeyev, who inked a seven-year, $77 million contract in The Big Apple after a tremendous scoring performance in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, has struggled to find his footing. Although the Rangers have enjoyed a red-hot start to the campaign, they are still wary of their forward’s wet gunpowder.

Dorofeyev can sense the eyes across Manhattan staring at him, but he is unfazed. Instead, he made a bold statement about how he views his performance through the first few games of the season.

“I’m not focused on that stuff at all,” Dorofeyev admitted, via The Athletic. “Just trying to be myself and trying to help the team win the games. Sometimes you just have to play another way. It’s not always (about) the goals.”

NY Rangers have moved Dorofeyev around

Whether Dorofeyev cares or simply doesn’t want to admit it, it’s clear Mike Sullivan has taken notice of the Russian winger’s early struggles. New York’s head coach has made changes to the lineup, moving Alexis Lafreniere from the top unit to the second line.

Rather than serving as a punishment for Lafreniere or a reward for Dorofeyev, the move was intended to allow the former first overall pick to inject some life and scoring into the bottom half of the top six. Lafreniere did just that, but Dorofeyev, meanwhile, hasn’t benefited much from his top-line ice time. If this concerning trend continues, one can only assume Sullivan will keep throwing stuff at the wall and see what sticks. Clearly, Lafreniere can make do wherever he plays.

No reason to panic—yet

It’s still very early in the season, so the Broadway Blueshirts have no reason to panic. However, the fact that Dorofeyev, New York’s highest-paid player not named Igor Shesterkin, has just three points (one goal and two assists) and a minus-4 rating through his first eight games in New York City is hardly encouraging.

Key takeaways

• Pavel Dorofeyev signed a seven-year, $77 million contract with the New York Rangers.
• Alexis Lafreniere was moved to the Rangers’ second line by head coach Mike Sullivan.
• Pavel Dorofeyev has only three points and a minus-4 rating through eight games.

The Cowboys can’t seem to move on from the Parsons drama, especially on the eve of their matchup against Green Bay, even if Parsons won’t play as he remains on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list. As big a game as this feels, Parsons isn’t rushing his return just to face Dallas in a revenge game. Last year, when the two teams met, the game ended in a tie, so both still have a score to settle.

Owner Jerry Jones denied that the Cowboys underestimated Parsons before the blockbuster trade, but that may still not be enough to put the matter to rest. For good measure, Schottenheimer made a blunt statement about how Dallas is handling the whole situation. For the Cowboys, it’s all in the past.

Schottenheimer on Parsons

“Micah [Parsons] is no longer here,” Brian Schottenheimer stated, via NFL insider Ari Meirov. “I’m looking forward to seeing him, but I like the picks that we got for Micah. I think we’ve done some really great things getting those picks.

“I hope that when it’s all said and done, that goes to show it made a big difference—because I do feel that way. You take a look at the guys that we were able to add to our roster.”

Parsons and Cowboys’ history

On Sunday night, the Cowboys won’t go head-to-head with Parsons, as he has yet to return to practice after tearing his ACL and meniscus last season. However, his departure from Dallas will be a topic revisited countless times and remembered long after the clock hits zero at Lambeau Field.

The two will remain intertwined for the rest of Parsons’ career, as a trade as spectacular and consequential as the one involving the Penn State alum is the kind that defines an entire generation of NFL fans.

Key takeaways

• Micah Parsons was traded from the Cowboys to the Packers before the 2025 season.
• Dallas and Green Bay played to a tie during their matchup last season.
• Micah Parsons will miss the game as he remains on the PUP list.

The Chiefs were—in many ways still are—a heavy play-action usage offense. That has changed a bit since Walker arrived in Missouri, but it remains a characteristic of the offense at Arrowhead Stadium. What’s changed, however, is where Mahomes is lined up.

Ever since Kansas City signed the reigning Super Bowl LX MVP in free agency, it has become fond of placing him directly under center. According to Mahomes, the idea was his, but it wasn’t until Walker showed his skills in practice that Reid and company were sold on the scheme change.

“I mean, it was easy once I saw Kenneth [Walker III] running the football,” Mahomes stated in a press conference, via KC Sports Network. “I was like, we’ve got to make sure that we give him the best chances to succeed, and obviously he’s ran the ball terrific under center.”

Chiefs dominate in what they struggled last season

As reported by Arrowhead Pride, the Chiefs were one of the worst offenses in the league when operating under center. Kansas City had the fewest yards per pass attempt in the NFL (3.0 yards) out of under-center formations, and its total yardage per game was also among the lowest in the league. Fast-forward to the 2026 NFL season, and the Chiefs are now the league’s leading rushing team out of such formations, averaging 6.3 yards per play.

Walker III deserves plenty of credit for that leap, and having such a weapon in the backfield, just standing there menacingly, opens up the playbook for Reid’s favorite calls: play-action passes and RPOs. Combined with Mahomes’ arm talent, this has made the Chiefs the second-best passing offense in the league out of under-center formations, averaging 9.5 yards per pass attempt.

Chiefs are 4-0

What a difference a year makes. And when it comes with the signing of a superstar like “K9,” that helps, too. The Chiefs are 4-0, their offense is back at the top of the NFL charts, and the rest of the league should take cover.

Key takeaways

• Kenneth Walker III signed with Kansas City after winning Super Bowl LX MVP with Seattle.
• The Chiefs are averaging 6.3 yards per play when rushing from under-center formations.
• Kansas City leads its division with an undefeated 4-0 start to the season.

“I think [the Rangers] have actually kicked tires on Anthony Stolarz,” Darren Dreger stated on The Ray and Dregs Podcast. “He’s not [on] an expiring contract, but if you’re Toronto, why would you do that? Unless there’s an overpay, they like that combo of [Sergei] Bobrovsky and Stolarz. Sam Montembeault is another one.”

For the time being, the Rangers are content sticking with Dylan Garand as their starter. For now, the rookie is doing a great job. However, sooner or later, adversity will knock on the young netminder’s door, and it remains to be seen how he handles it.

At the end of the day, New York is without Shesterkin as well as Joonas Korpisalo. With no backup plan, Sullivan and the Rangers can’t risk leaving their season hopes in the hands of a still-wet-behind-the-ears Garand. And that isn’t taking anything away from Garand’s great start to the year.

NY Rangers search for contract-year goalies

Although Sullivan has lauded the Rangers’ buy-in after Shesterkin’s injury, it’s clear that this honeymoon period won’t last forever. When New York faces headwinds, who knows what will happen? With Shesterkin out for the year, the Rangers will need a temporary answer in net—one that can help them during the 2026-27 NHL season but can be expendable come free agency. Thus, New York is clearly looking for goalies on expiring deals.

“Obviously Chris Drury is scouring the league, but it’s not with a sense of urgency or desperation,” Dreger stated. “Because they do want to see Garand an opportunity to see if he can run with this a little bit, see what they’ve got in this guy. So now you’re looking at expiring contracts. What about Jordan Binnington in St. Louis? It’s just too early for the Blues to bite on that.”

Garand is playing lights out

There are several directions the Blueshirts can go in their search to bolster the injury-riddled crease at Madison Square Garden. However, they will take their time before making a move. What’s not broken needs no fixing, and Garand, who remains undefeated as a starter in the 2026-27 NHL season, is clearly showing no cracks for Sullivan. At least not yet.

The longer he can keep it up, the longer New York will postpone an urgent move for a goalie (likely one on an expiring contract), and the more convinced fans will become that Garand is a long-term solution behind Shesterkin. That would also raise more question marks around the eyebrow-raising trade for Korpisalo. Rangers fans should know by now, though, that you can’t win them all.

Key takeaways

• Anthony Stolarz has emerged as a potential trade candidate for the New York Rangers.
• Darren Dreger noted Chris Drury is actively scouring the league for goaltending help.
• Rookie goalie Dylan Garand remains undefeated as a starter for the New York Rangers this season.

There are many ways the Rangers can neutralize, suffocate, and dominate their opponents, and teams across the league are finding that out for themselves on a nightly basis, one at a time.

To save some time, Sullivan put the NHL on notice with a bold statement about New York’s third forward line, which is young, talented, and fearless. After some early, key contributions, Sullivan praised the line with a strong message.

I think the last two or three games, their game is at another level. It’s almost like it’s been an ‘aha!’ moment for what they’re capable of,” Sullivan said about the Rangers’ third forward group, via the New York Post. “We have no problem putting them out against anyone, and we know that they can get the job done.”

The Rangers have a two-way third line

“They get a lot of D-zone starts against top lines,” Sullivan commented. “They defend hard for us, but there’s an offensive dimension to their line — all three of those guys. I think that’s an important element of having a third line that’s capable of playing both sides of the puck and not just a checking line.“

With Will Cuylle, Noah Laba, and Eeli Tolvanen, the Rangers have a best-of-both-worlds line in their bottom six at a bargain price. The line has an average age of 24.6 years and has barely felt the impact of Adam Sykora’s tough injury break. So far in the 2026-27 NHL season, the trio has combined for six goals and six assists, totaling 12 points.

NY Rangers’ success is fueled by third line

The trio may not be made up of household names like those on other top third lines in the NHL, such as the Florida Panthers’, but they’re making just as much of an impact as any. Moreover, they help the Rangers shut down opposing top lines, giving the top six more freedom to feast, with red-hot Alexis Lafreniere and other stars leading the way.

Cuylle, Laba, and Tolvanen may not get the recognition Sullivan believes they deserve, but he’s making sure the rest of the league knows who they are. He’s giving rivals a heads-up about what’s coming when the Rangers walk into their arenas or visit the World’s Most Famous Arena.

Key takeaways

• Head coach Mike Sullivan praised the New York Rangers’ third line for reaching another level.
• Will Cuylle, Noah Laba, and Eeli Tolvanen have combined for 12 points this season.
• The third line’s average age is 24.6 years after losing Adam Sykora to injury.

And in the City That Never Sleeps, the two organizations are wide awake, daydreaming of the day they will go all the way again. That’s a road that could very well lead them to hand Skubal the piggy-bank-shattering contract he’s after, which he’ll surely get before the 2027 MLB campaign.

According to a report, if it comes down to a three-horse race between the Dodgers, Yankees, and Mets—and it very well could—the latter may have the upper hand. The Orange and Blue are the most desperate of the bunch, which is saying a lot, and that could make David Stearns and Steve Cohen sign on the dotted line for a contract that can make the hairs on Skubal’s right arm stand up.

“The Skubal sweepstakes could come down to which of the Mets, Dodgers or Yankees would be most willing to take the risk. And of those three clubs, the Mets may have the clearest need for a No. 1 starter this winter,” Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report stated.

Skubal’s contract projections

“The average projected contract was eight years and $355 million, which is a $44.6 million average annual value (AAV),” Kiley McDaniel of ESPN reported on the situation as the MLB landscape gears up for a roller-coaster of an offseason, with Skubal’s future sitting in the front row.

The Mets already have the highest payroll in all of MLB and could be looking to add yet another ginormous contract to the mix. To say they will be in a World Series-or-bust year would be an understatement.

However, considering they just missed the playoffs and seem fine with making no drastic changes to their brass, we may actually be wrong to assume the organization is placing such expectations on itself. Maybe they’re only saying that publicly without holding themselves to the same standard behind closed doors.

NY Mets could make — another — splash

A lot can be said about the Mets’ deficiencies and shortcomings, but there is no doubt about their willingness to spend, especially when they’re competing against the Yankees and Dodgers in a bidding war. In the winter of 2026-27, fans across MLB may see another historic spending battle between these three teams for the best pitcher available: Tarik Skubal.

Key takeaways

• The New York Mets may have the clearest need for a starting pitcher among interested suitors.
• Tarik Skubal is projected to receive an eight-year, $355 million contract in free agency.
• The New York Mets maintain the highest payroll across all of Major League Baseball.

According to a report out of New York City, the roster move isn’t a punishment, though. Instead, the Rangers may actually be looking out for Beaudoin’s best interests, and Sullivan feels he can’t give the former first-round pick in 2024 the ice-time he needs to develop right now.

“The New York Rangers feel it’s important for Cole Beaudoin to get more minutes in Hartford,” Mollie Walker of the New York Post reported on her X account after the Rangers announced that Beaudoin was being sent down to their minor-league affiliate.

Dowling will replace Beaudoin

In Beaudoin’s place, Justin Dowling has been called back up to the NHL lineup. Dowling played just two games for the Rangers during the 2025-26 campaign, recording no points and a -1 plus/minus rating.

For the time being, Beaudoin’s NHL journey will be put on hold. The 20-year-old Ontarian played four games for New York without recording a single point. However, many point to the fact that the fourth line, where Beaudoin played, didn’t see much ice time, so he isn’t entirely to blame for his virtually invisible performances.

Sporadic action for Beaudoin

While the third line has been on a tear, prompting Sullivan to put the NHL on notice about the Rangers’ unsung heroes, the fourth line has barely seen the ice lately.

“The fourth line didn’t get much ice time last night. Beaudoin played 3:29. He got a taste of the NHL, but he needs to play more. He’ll get big minutes in Hartford,” Colin Stephenson of Newsday Sports stated.

Back to the AHL

Indeed, Beaudoin will head back to the AHL, where he was leading the Wolf Pack in points (five, a goal and four assists) through the first two games of the season and was tied for second among all skaters in the league. His return to the AHL isn’t a punishment for his lack of production in the NHL.

Instead, New York believes he might be going to waste by playing only a handful of minutes in Manhattan. This move may actually be better for both parties, especially in the long run, which is what the Rangers are investing in during Beaudoin’s rookie year.

Key takeaways

• The New York Rangers reassigned rookie forward Cole Beaudoin to the AHL’s Hartford Wolf Pack.
• Forward Justin Dowling was called up to the Rangers’ NHL lineup in Beaudoin’s place.
• Beaudoin recorded no points while averaging minimal ice time across four games for New York.

Still, after the win over the Pittsburgh Penguins, head coach Jeff Blahill reminded his star duo not to take any shortcuts and play the game the right way. If Bedard, Kane, and Chicago want to keep the wins coming, they can’t afford to cut any corners. In the NHL, teams must fight for every inch of the ice and second of possession.

The Blackhawks are no exception, and in fact this is only magnified for them as they lack the offensive firepower and depth other teams boast. Thus, an all-out forechecking effort is required, and the duo of Bedard and Kane, along with rookie linemate Roman Kantserov, aren’t exempt. In case it wasn’t clear by now, Blashill reminded them after the win at home over Pittsburgh.

“When [Kane, Bedard, and Kantserov] check for their offense, they’re going to be really good. They’ve got to make sure they don’t cheat for offense,” Blashill said after the 5-3 win against the Penguins at United Center, via Ben Pope of the Chicago Sun-Times.

New Chicago with Bedard back

During Bedard’s season debut, the Blackhawks finally showed signs of life in the 2026-27 NHL campaign. Bedard will be the first to take credit away from him and give it to the rest of the lineup, but that’s not completely true. There’s a reason Chicago hadn’t looked a bit like it did with Bedard back when it was missing its captain.

With his return to the ice, the Blackhawks can finally say the season is underway. Better late than never, and even if it took a long summer and seven games, the Hawks are finally complete with their star back, and shining in full force. The top line of Bedard, Kane, and Kantserov hadn’t played a single minute together, but they looked like they had been together for years. Blashill believes they have already found their identity.

“Roman [Kantserov] is very happy going to the net, so you still have a guy who will go to the net on the line. Because sometimes those kind of lines get too spread out and you don’t get any plays at the net. They did a pretty good job of doing that,” Blashill commented on the top forwards’ line.

Blashill preaches shoot-first mentality

Though the win at home over the Penguins is definitely a strong indicator of what this team can do with Bedard healthy, Blashill would still like the team to fix some areas of their game. That’s not limited to the top forward line but the whole group.

“We passed up a ton of shots. We had opportunities when we could really strike and attack and we didn’t shoot,” Blashill stated after the game.

What’s next for Blackhawks?

Hoping his Hawks will take the instructions to heart and clean up their issues, Chicago will host the Winnipeg Jets on Oct. 15. Having snapped their two-game losing streak and won their second game in seven outings, the Blackhawks have reason to be excited again. Finally, No. 98 is back, and it showed.

Key takeaways

• Chicago Blackhawks coach Jeff Blashill warned Connor Bedard and Patrick Kane not to cheat offense.
• Chicago beat the Pittsburgh Penguins 5-3 at United Center following a two-game losing streak.
• The Blackhawks will host the Winnipeg Jets on October 15 for their next home game.

“Word is team and Alex DeBrincat closing in on approximately 7 x $13M extension,” Elliotte Friedman reported on his X account. Putting pen to paper on a maximum-term contract in the NHL, DeBrincat became one of the first players to do so since the new CBA was introduced in mid-September. He stayed true to his word that he wanted to remain in Motor City and could very well spend the rest of his career in his home state of Michigan.

Not only that, but The Cat is now signed to the biggest contract in the organization, surpassing Larkin’s $69.6 million deal ($8.7 million AAV). However, because DeBrincat has one season left on his previous contract and Larkin is signed through 2030-31 in Detroit, here’s how the math adds up for the money the Wings are committed to paying.

How much is Larkin making?

Larkin is set to earn an $8 million salary this season and the following two, as well as $7.6 million in 2029-30 and $7 million in 2030-31. In total, the Red Wings are set to pay Larkin $38.6 million over the next five years.

Whether the former captain will actually be in Detroit to collect those checks is a whole other question, one that remains unanswered and is surrounded by far more speculation than certainty.

Highest earners in Detroit

Because DeBrincat is making a $6.75 million salary and Larkin $8 million this season, defenseman Moritz Seider is actually the highest-paid Red Wing in 2026-27, thanks to his $8.55 million salary under his seven-year, $59.85 million deal. Lucas Raymond ranks second, with an $8.075 million salary this season.

• Moritz Seider: $8.55 million salary
• Lucas Raymond: $8.075 million salary
• Dylan Larkin: $8 million salary

DeBrincat could be in for promotion, too

Still, it’s clear that after next season, DeBrincat will take home the biggest salary by a wide margin, as his $13 million will be leagues away from the rest of the team. Perhaps DeBrincat’s new contract is an indication that another big thing is in store for The Cat.

The captain role is still up for grabs, and if DeBrincat has another strong season like his 41-goal campaign in 2025-26, he could very well add a C to his jersey, just like he added a couple of zeros to his new seven-year contract.

Key takeaways

• The Detroit Red Wings re-signed Alex DeBrincat to a seven-year, $91 million contract extension.
• Dylan Larkin will earn $38.6 million from the Detroit Red Wings over the next five years.
• Moritz Seider is the highest-paid Detroit Red Wings player in 2026-27 at $8.55 million.

Cook fumbled twice during the 37-34 win over Los Angeles at SoFi Stadium. Even though the Rams recovered only one of the two fumbles—a costly one in overtime when the Bills were in field-goal range—head coach Joe Brady made it clear that the issue won’t go unnoticed.

If Cook doesn’t improve his ball security during the 2026 NFL season, there will be consequences. Even the team’s leading running back, who ranks third in the league in rushing yards, may not enjoy total job security. Brady didn’t sugarcoat his plans.

“It’s going to cost us football games. It almost cost us one. We can’t confuse because we won the game that that’s OK. It’s got to improve or the carries are going to decrease,” Joe Brady told reporters in Los Angeles a day after the game, according to ESPN.

Joe Brady acknowledges thing Cook is doing right

Obviously, one doesn’t become the third-leading rusher in the NFL through the first five weeks of the season and one of the league’s top running backs without earning his fair share of credit, and Cook is no exception. He’s made plays consistently and is almost unstoppable when at his best. That isn’t lost on Brady, no matter how upset Cook’s recent fumbling issues make him. Still, he urged the running back out of Georgia to get back on track.

“Look, he’s doing so many good things running the football. I don’t want to lose sight of how great he is running the ball right now. But putting the ball on the ground, it’s negating all the positive,” Brady concluded. “I have all the confidence in him. That’s why I put him right back out there. But obviously, at some point there has to be consequences to when we’re putting negative stuff out there.“

Cook’s stats

Through five games in the 2026 NFL season, Cook has rushed 95 times for 532 yards (third-most in the NFL), averaging 5.6 yards per carry and scoring five touchdowns. However, Cook has also fumbled four times in five weeks, including a multi-fumble outing in primetime against the Rams.

No player has fumbled more than Cook this season, and he’s the only RB among the top five in rushing yards to have more than one fumble. In fact, no other tailback in the top five has even lost a fumble.

Taken together, these numbers paint a clear picture of where Cook stands among the NFL’s elite running backs: he belongs in the room, but he’s still a few pegs below the top tier. If ball security remains a weakness, it could keep Cook from reaching his full potential and force Brady to share the workload with the rest of the RB room or even make a drastic change within it.

Bills’ RB depth chart

In addition to James Cook, the Bills’ running-back depth chart includes Ty Johnson and Ray Davis. Clearly, if Buffalo ever decides to move on from its former second-round pick in 2022, it would have to bring in a true HB1 to fill his shoes, as both current options are more sporadic contributors than reliable solutions in the backfield.

Key takeaways

• James Cook fumbled twice in the Buffalo Bills’ 37-34 overtime victory over the Rams.
• Bills head coach Joe Brady warned that James Cook’s touches could decrease due to fumbles.
• James Cook leads the NFL with four fumbles through five games in 2026.

Only a handful of players are guaranteed to keep their spots in the lineup next season, and decisions must be made about many of them, including catcher Austin Wells, who will become arbitration-eligible in the offseason.

There may not be much of a debate to be had about Wells’ future in The Bronx, though. At least that’s what reports coming out of Yankee Stadium suggest.

According to Joel Sherman of the New York Post, the Yankees are planning to keep Wells at the starting catcher position. Whether they invest in a backup catcher who could push Wells for the starting job at some point during the 2027 MLB season is another discussion.

Austin Wells’ stats in 2026

Coming off a strong 2025 MLB season, Wells didn’t have the 2026 campaign many in The Bronx had hoped for. As a result, the arbitration-eligible catcher presents the Bronx Bombers’ front office with a question about which direction to take heading into the offseason.

Through 122 appearances in 2026, Wells recorded 334 at-bats, putting up 39 runs, 62 hits, 32 RBIs (all career lows), and 14 home runs. Moreover, Wells’ .186 batting average and .624 OPS were also the worst marks of his professional career.

Contract projection

According to SNY, Wells is projected to earn a $2.6 million contract if he reaches arbitration. Whether he actually reaches that stage or the Yankees avoid it, only time will tell.

Key takeaways

• New York Yankees planning to keep Austin Wells as starting catcher for 2027 season.
• Austin Wells recorded career-low 39 runs, 62 hits, and 32 RBIs.
• New York Yankees catcher Austin Wells projected to earn $2.6 million contract in arbitration.

“Chicago’s Frank Nazar has been suspended for two games for an illegal check to the head against NY Islanders’ Bo Horvat,” the NHL‘s Department of Player Safety announced on its X account, @NHLPlayerSafety.

The league’s administration had previously informed Nazar that he was scheduled for a virtual meeting. Had it been an in-person hearing at the league’s office in New York City, Nazar would’ve faced a minimum suspension of six games.

Nazar’s hit to Horvat’s head

Nazar was caught in the eye of the storm during Chicago’s 4-1 defeat against the New York Islanders during the 2026-27 NHL season. The former first-round pick (13th overall) in the 2022 NHL Draft delivered a vicious, late shoulder check directly to Bo Horvat’s head.

Although the Isles’ captain still managed to score into an empty net and put the game away, the rest of the Islanders reacted and went after Nazar, as Horvat was slow to get back to his feet.

The incident didn’t stop there at UBS Arena after the final horn, as the NHL’s Department of Player Safety stepped in. Opinions differ on the length of the suspension, with some fans agreeing with it and others believing it wasn’t long enough.

Nazar’s suspension length

Nazar will miss the first two games of a seven-game homestand at the United Center. Nazar was suspended for Chicago’s 5-2 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes—the Blackhawks’ second straight defeat and fifth in six games this season—and will miss the Penguins game, too. He will return to the lineup when Chicago hosts the Winnipeg Jets on Oct. 15.

So far in the 2026-27 NHL season, Nazar has played in five games, scoring two goals (tied for the most on the Blackhawks) and adding an assist. His three points are the second-most on the team, underscoring the struggles in the Windy City to start the season as the Blackhawks have missed Connor Bedard.

Key takeaways

• Frank Nazar was suspended for two games for an illegal check to Bo Horvat’s head.
• The Department of Player Safety scheduled Nazar for a virtual meeting regarding the hit.
• Frank Nazar scored two goals and has three points across five games this season.

Coming off a head-scratching outing in Bayern’s 2-2 draw against Augsburg in Bundesliga action, Neuer’s demotion raised eyebrows. However, the decision apparently has nothing to do with the veteran’s recent, out-of-character form. Instead, Neuer has been sidelined as a precaution by Kompany and the coaching staff.

“[Neuer] can’t train [Monday]. He’s felt something in his foot,” Kompany said, via ESPN. “So that quickly answers the question of who will be in goal [Tuesday]. It makes no sense to take any unnecessary risks. I don’t want to call it an injury. But when you feel something and it doesn’t get better, at some point you realize we need to do something, and we’ll do that by taking no risk if he doesn’t feel 100 percent.”

Who replaces Neuer in goal for Bayern?

As Neuer deals with the setback in his foot—Kompany refused to call it an injury per se—the Bavarians will start Jonas Urbig in goal on the controversial artificial pitch in Stavanger, Norway. It will be Urbig’s third game of the season and his eighth career UEFA Champions League appearance. Urbig has been in bigger continental games before, though.

Last season he was called into action midway through the Round of 16 first-leg against Bayer Leverkusen and ended up starting the rest of the way as Bayern were eliminated in the quarterfinals by Inter Milan.

Although Viking fans will push to make life hell for Bayern, Urbig may be in for a night with little action in goal in Stavanger.

Why Musiala isn’t playing vs Viking

As for Musiala, the German international returned early from the past FIFA international break after suffering a muscle tear in his right thigh warming up for a game against the Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League.

It’s been that kind of start to the season for Musiala, who suffered two collapses during consecutive pre-season friendlies, and has missed more games than he’s played so far in 2026-27 for Bayern. Musiala cleared concerns and explained why he fainted, but the health issues have remained. Regardless, Kompany called Musiala’s latest setback “minor”, and him being sidelined could also be a product of what the team hopes will be a smooth sailing in Norway.

Who knows, though? The Bavarians will cross paths with vikings in foreign waters, one misstep, and they might come back to regret it.

Key takeaways

• Manuel Neuer felt something in his foot and has been taken off the starting XI as a precaution.
• Jamal Musiala isn’t playing as he is still rehabbing from a “minor muscle tear” in his right thigh.
• Jonas Urbig is Bayern’s starting goalkeeper against Viking in Matchweek 2 of the UEFA Champions League.

Although Jones revealed that the Cowboys don’t plan to fire defensive coordinator Christian Parker, it’s clear that Parker is walking on thin ice early in the season. While his job in Arlington is relatively safe—at least for now—his role on Sundays has changed, as Jones himself told the media. That’s all in addition to the hiring of Mike Pettine to join the defensive staff midway through the NFL season.

Heading into a pivotal matchup against the recently re-energized Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field, a lot is on the line. Even though Jones denied underestimating Micah Parsons when he was traded to the Packers, the issue is far from settled. Ahead of such a high-stakes duel, Dallas is changing things up on defense. Parker is moving on from his usual place on the sidelines and will call plays from the booth, instead.

“That’s the main emphasis. We will spend some specific attention to areas. We’re going to coach the defense not on the field, but from above. [Defensive coordinator Christian] Parker is going up above,” Jerry Jones admitted during an interview on 105.3 The Fan. “You should be looking for ways to adapt and make changes to improve. That’s the point of improving from the results we’ve had the last few weeks.”

Cowboys hire Pettine

When news broke of Pettine joining defensive coordinator Parker going forward in the 2026 NFL campaign, many saw it as a sign of Dallas getting cold feet on the hiring of the young defensive mind. However, Jones offered a different perspective.

“I like the move. There had to be something tangible that they came with on Monday. I feel like adding a veteran mind like Mike Pettine is a positive direction,” Jones stated, via 105.3 The Fan.

Cowboys’ defense stats

Dallas has the second-worst defense in the league, statistically speaking. Through the first five weeks of the 2026 NFL season, the Cowboys have allowed 1,977 total yards, an average of 395.4 per game. Only the Detroit Lions have posted worse numbers to start the year.

Moreover, the Cowboys have conceded 136 points, which ranks 26th in the league and translates to an average of 27.2 points allowed per game. As much of an impact as Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, George Pickens, and Javonte Williams are having, it’s plain to see why Dallas is 2-3 and Jones has made a pivotal change to the way the defense operates.

First test for Cowboys after defensive changes

Not only will Parker abandon his post on the sidelines, but he’ll also have a veteran presence in Pettine working alongside him. Whether it pays off remains to be seen, but the first test will come in Wisconsin, where Micah Parsons won’t be playing for the home team, though his departure from the visitors will be revisited time and again.

Key takeaways

• Defensive coordinator Christian Parker will call plays from the booth instead of the sideline.
• Dallas hired veteran coach Mike Pettine to join the defensive staff following Week 5.
• The Cowboys defense has allowed 1,977 total yards through five games this season.

The Blackhawks’ latest injury update on Bedard appeared to remove all mystery surrounding his return date, and it pointed toward Oct. 13, when the Blackhawks host the Penguins at the United Center, being Bedard’s first game of the 2026-27 NHL season.

“First game as Captain. It’s a special honor. Just looking forward to that,” Bedard admitted ahead of his first game of the 2026-27 NHL season, which will be at home in Windy City.

When was Bedard’s last game for Chicago?

In order to relive Bedard’s last NHL appearance for the Blackhawks, one must travel all the way back to April 16. In the 2025-26 season finale, the Blackhawks defeated Bedard’s good friend Macklin Celebrini and the San Jose Sharks by a final score of 5-2.

In an interesting meeting between two former first overall selections, Bedard finished the night with a pair of assists and was named the second star of the game in the comeback victory, rallying from a deficit to score five unanswered goals, while Celebrini went scoreless and finished with a plus/minus of -3.

Why was Bedard sidelined?

Since then, Bedard has been named the 38th captain in franchise history, but he hasn’t made his official on-ice debut as captain because he has spent the past few months rehabbing from offseason left-shoulder surgery. Still, Bedard has defied the Blackhawks’ original timeline.

At the time of the procedure, the club in Chi-town announced a four-month timeline for Bedard’s return to action, but he’s now back much earlier than expected. As Bedard will play against Pittsburgh on Oct. 13, he will return to the ice 97 days after his mid-summer surgery on July 8.

Key takeaways

• Connor Bedard is active to play against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Oct. 13.
• His last NHL game was a 5-2 win over San Jose on April 16.
• Connor Bedard is returning 97 days after undergoing shoulder surgery on July 8.

As San Francisco took over possession and simply kneeled out the clock to secure a crucial NFC West win and become one of two teams to improve to 5-0 on the season, fans across social media erupted. However, Kupp shut down the buzz with a blunt comment.

“I knew it was close, but clearly it was short,” Kupp admitted after the 32-29 loss at home, per Seahawks.com. “There’s not enough there, I’ve got to find a way to get that fourth down.”

Coach Macdonald accepts referee’s call

Kupp wasn’t the only member of the Seahawks to speak out about the controversial decision, as head coach Mike Macdonald didn’t mince words and also agreed with the referee’s call.

As tough a pill as it is to swallow, the Seahawks are choosing to move on. It’s a long season, and they aren’t dwelling on the disheartening, last-minute defeat filled with controversy against their despised divisional foes, the Niners.

“[The match officials] said he was short, so we’ve got to live with it,” Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald stated, via the team’s official website.

Seattle and San Francisco will meet again

This won’t be their last meeting, as the Seahawks and Niners will play again on Nov. 29 at Levi’s Stadium. Judging by the way both franchises are playing, they may be in for a third duel in the postseason, as well.

Key takeaways

• The Seattle Seahawks lost 32-29 to the San Francisco 49ers after a short ruling.
• Cooper Kupp admitted he was clearly short of gaining the fourth-down line.
• The Seahawks and 49ers will play again on Nov. 29 at Levi’s Stadium.

As much as Garand is enjoying his sudden rise to stardom in the Big Apple and has strung together superb outings, he’s also well aware of the high stakes riding on his shoulders. Garand isn’t turning a deaf ear to Shesterkin‘s injury. He and the rest of the Blueshirts know something is amiss with their star goalie out of the picture for the remainder of the NHL campaign.

“It’s obviously tough when you lose your best player in [Shesterkin] a guy who plays so well for this team for so long and is such a big part of it,” Garand admitted, per NHL.com. “It’s tough. It’s a blow to the group for sure.“

Garand is ready for the challenge

As big an opportunity as it is for Garand early in his NHL journey, the 24-year-old also shed light on how Shesterkin’s injury affects morale in the locker room. For a young netminder with only a few career games under his belt, it’s definitely a tall order for the Rangers’ former fourth-round selection in the 2020 NHL Draft.

Regardless, it’s nothing he hasn’t seen before, even in his limited professional experience, albeit now magnified to an unforeseen level. Garand is ready to meet the challenge.

“But it happens sometimes. It’s pro sports, players get injured. I think the guys did a great job of stepping up and we’re going to need more of that for sure,” Garand concluded.

Key takeaways

• Dylan Garand took over as the New York Rangers’ starting goaltender following Igor Shesterkin’s injury.
• Dylan Garand called losing Shesterkin “a blow to the group” after becoming the starter.
• The 24-year-old netminder was originally selected in the fourth round of the 2020 NHL Draft.

Some weeks ago, Manning was dubbed the best thing since sliced bread. Now, the media and the public are calling him a “nepo baby.” That’s the way today’s sports landscape is, for better or worse. And just as Texas‘ No. 1 ranking in the NCAA is gone, so is Manning’s “future franchise quarterback” label, at least until his next great game.

Sarkisian is having none of the current discourse around college football, and he made that clear with a bold statement about Manning and how the narrative would be different if the name on the back of his jersey weren’t Manning.

“If you took the name off the back of his jersey and you said here’s Joe Smith playing quarterback at the University of Texas, we’d be praising the guy,” Sarkisian admitted, via Tyler Horka of Inside Texas.

Arch Manning vies to bounce back

The 2026 Red River Rivalry was a tale of a thousand stories. Momentum shifted constantly as both sides made great and horrible plays. In the end, Oklahoma won it with a field goal, but the coin could just as easily have landed on the side of the school south of the frontier river.

Coming off his first bump in the road of the 2026 college football season, Manning didn’t make much of the defeat in Dallas, Texas, though he did promise to bounce back.

“All losses hurt. But it’s about how you respond. You’re not going to win every game in life or in football. I don’t think anyone’s ever won every game. But you can respond well. And that’s what we’re going to do,” Manning said during a press conference on Monday, per Horka.

Manning’s stats in Red River Rivalry

Making his second—and likely last—career appearance in the Red River Rivalry, Manning couldn’t keep his perfect record at Cotton Bowl. Last season, Manning finished with 21 completions for 166 yards and a touchdown against the Sooners. He also put up 34 yards on the ground in Texas’ 23-6 victory over Oklahoma.

In 2026, Manning registered 19 completions for 260 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions, including the costly one with 19 seconds left in the fourth quarter.

Key takeaways

• Steve Sarkisian defended Arch Manning, stating criticism stems from his famous last name.
• Arch Manning promised Texas will respond well after losing to the Oklahoma Sooners.
• Arch Manning threw for 260 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions in the loss.

Back in Week 1, Nabers wasn’t simply a game-time decision but in a somewhat limited capacity, too. In Weeks 4 and 5, Nabers is a revenant, playing as many snaps as the next guy, and running more routes than anyone else. Not just in New York, but in the NFL entirely.

According to the NFL’s Next Gen Stats and Sumer Sports, Nabers has ran a total of 88 routes, the most among all wideouts in the league, over the past two weeks. If the G-Men had any concern about over-utilizing Nabers or the wear-and-tear on his right knee, the numbers clearly tell a different story.

Nabers’ Week 5 performance

Following the dramatic 27-27 tie against the Washington Commanders, John Harbaugh had some advice for Cam Skattebo, whose overtime fumble cost the team a shot at winning the game.

Still, it’s clear the head coach didn’t have much to tell Nabers, who played lights out, came down with clutch catches, and finished the rainy afternoon in Landover with 11 receptions for 121 yards and a TD. Nabers did have nine drops, but the wet conditions and the Commanders’ defense deserve some of the credit for that, as well.

Winston is finding Nabers

Much can be said about Jameis Winston’s performance since filling in for Jaxson Dart at the QB1 position, but it’s clear he’s making the most of his weapons, mostly Nabers and Isaiah Likely. Winston isn’t letting Nabers go out and do some cardio on the field.

If Nabers is running routes, Winston is looking his way more often than not. Nabers’ 27 targets in Weeks 4 and 5 lead the NFL, as do his 233 receiving yards. The former LSU wideout has caught 17 passes and two touchdowns, which are second among WRs over this period, too. Only CeeDee Lamb (19 catches) has more than Nabers in the last two games.

Knock on wood, Nabers is back, and he is sending all the right signals to John Harbaugh and the Giants’ coaching staff. Keep sending the targets his way, as he isn’t showing any signs of discomfort or fatigue.

Nabers in for intriguing matchup in Week 6

Up next, a matchup with the New Orleans Saints awaits. Nabers won’t get to play back in his home state of Louisiana, but he will face a defense that has allowed an average of 212 receiving yards per game during the 2026 NFL season, according to ESPN. Nabers saw what fellow LSU alum Justin Jefferson recently did to the Saints, and he will want to follow suit.

Key takeaways

• Malik Nabers ran 88 routes over Weeks 4 and 5, leading all NFL wide receivers.
• Malik Nabers led the NFL with 27 targets and 233 receiving yards across the past two games.
• The New York Giants will face the New Orleans Saints in Week 6.

“Connor Bedard is ‘trending’ toward playing [Tuesday, Oct. 13] vs Pittsburgh, Jeff Blashill says,” Ben Pope of the Chicago Sun-Times reported on his X account.

It was a long time coming for Bedard, who had more than once spoken his truth amid his rehab journey, and had been making progress in various fronts before his return was (apparently) finally signed off by doctors and the Blackhawks’ coaching staff.

What better game to be back than against Sidney Crosby and the Penguins, the exact same matchup Bedard made his NHL debut back in the fall of 2023.

Bedard was ready, but needed final confirmation

Asked about his thoughts after shedding the non-contact jersey for the first time in practice, Bedard made it clear the ball wasn’t on his side of the court. Just like Patrick Kane had put pressure on the Blackhawks to re-activate Bedard, the young star voiced a firm statement on his progress, as well.

If it were up to him, Bedard would’ve been back on the ice a long time ago. Even if it’s been to Chicago’s detrimental record-wise, it’s a good thing he wasn’t. In the end, the patience exercise has paid off, and the wait is finally over—and worth it— for the 38th captain in franchise history.

“I feel really good. I feel pretty normal for the most part. It’s obviously on [the doctors] who know to let me play,” Bedard stated, via NHL.com, about his recovery from shoulder surgery.

Bedard could join Kane upon return to lineup

“I will be as vague, and tell you guys, as little as possible. Keep saying day by day,” Bedard said it after Monday’s practice, before Blashill revealed that playing the next day was very much in play. It’s not as if Chicago did a great job covering its tracks, though, as many speculated that Bedard could be back. The fact that he attended regular practice for two straight days may have been telling enough.

“Bedard skating with Kantserov and Kane again. Certainly looks like the Blackhawks are preparing for him to play [Tuesday],” Scott Powers of The Athletic Chicago reported.

Thus, Bedard’s return game may not have been the only information leaked; which line he’s set to join may have been revealed, too. With the Hawks in need of a spark, it looks like Blashill is going down the nuclear route, playing Bedard on the same line as Patrick Kane and rookie Roman Kantserov.

Key takeaways

• Connor Bedard is trending to return from shoulder surgery on Tuesday against Pittsburgh.
• Bedard was cleared for contact after shedding his non-contact jersey in team practice.
• Bedard skated alongside Patrick Kane and Roman Kantserov during drills.

“I think there’s a maturity to this group,” Sullivan admitted, via Mollie Walker of the New York Post. “I think these guys–they haven’t lost any level of enthusiasm. I think they believe in the team game that we’re trying to build here.”

Sullivan might have hit the nail on the head, and that’s not limited to his lineup decisions but also extends to how he sees the locker room operating on a daily basis. These aren’t the same Rangers from last season. It’s still early in the season, but that much is already clear. However, being without Shesterkin for the long run will truly test New York. So far, so good, but the journey is just getting started.

Sullivan makes top-six change

Although he’s been the team’s leading goal scorer through the first few games of the NHL season, Alexis Lafreniere was demoted to the second line during the Rangers’ 6-2 win over the Vancouver Canucks at Madison Square Garden.

At first, the decision caught fans at World’s Most Famous Arena by surprise, but Sullivan explained his thought process. “It seemed to work on the very first shift. Obviously, it was a small sample size, but I thought both lines were pretty good. We’ll watch it. We’ll see how it goes moving forward,” Sullivan said.

Even though he wasn’t completely sold on sending Lafreniere down, it made sense as a way to inject some life into a unit that hadn’t had the start to the year many had hoped for.

Thus, Pavel Dorofeyev, who looks a touch off his scoring pace, replaced Lafreniere on the first line. The move paid off immediately. The second line of Tye Kartye, J.T. Miller, and Lafreniere combined for six points as Kartye scored his first two goals of the season, Miller recorded two assists, and Lafreniere had a goal and an apple of his own, proving he can produce regardless of where he is placed in the lineup.

Lafreniere serves as example

Seven games into the season, the trade rumors surrounding the former first overall selection are long gone. Not only that, but Lafreniere’s strong performance after being moved to the second line provides further evidence of Sullivan’s point: the locker room is locked in and committed to the team’s blueprint, with all players are pulling in the same direction.

Key takeaways

• Head coach Mike Sullivan praised the New York Rangers’ maturity despite Igor Shesterkin’s season-ending injury.
• Alexis Lafreniere was moved to the second line during New York’s 6-2 win over Vancouver.
• Tye Kartye, J.T. Miller, and Alexis Lafreniere combined for six points on the second line.

According to Pete Sweeney of The Kansas City Star, wide receiver Justin Watson is set to visit the Chiefs on Monday as the team explores its options around wide receiver help.

As things stand, Kansas City only has four fully healthy wideouts and face injuries on several fronts with the likes of Rashee Rice, Tyquan Thornton, Jeff Caldwell, and Jimmy Holiday all injured. Soon, Hill could be added to the mix, but as the “Cheetah” has his fair share of questions to answer before he is back, the Chiefs aren’t limiting themselves.

Without the players currently injured, either long-term or simply in doubt, the Chiefs currently have just four healthy wide receivers: Xavier Worthy, Justin Royals, Cyrus Allen, and Nikko Remigio. Clearly, they could use Hill’s speed, but bringing another familiar face like Watson back could also be worth a shot.

Watson’s past with Kansas City

Through three seasons with the Chiefs, Watson missed just one regular-season game, appearing in 50 games. He caught 64 passes for 1,064 yards and seven touchdowns.

Watson spent three years in Kansas City from 2022 to 2024. The former fifth-round selection (144th overall) by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2018 NFL Draft went from tormentor to contributor.

Watson could return

Watson was a member of the Bucs’ team that defeated the Chiefs in Super Bowl LV before joining Andy Reid’s side the following offseason. Watson went on to win consecutive rings with Kansas City in Super Bowls LVII and LVIII, meaning he won three championships in a row and made it to four straight Super Bowls.

After the Chiefs’ loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LIX, Watson left the City of Fountains. Perhaps he threw a coin into one, because it’s looking like he might be back in Missouri after all.

Bedard himself is tired of sitting around when he feels he can be on the ice with the rest of his teammates. The captain has made that crystal clear time and again in the first weeks of the NHL campaign, and it looks like he’s finally reaching the light at the end of the tunnel. His return to the lineup may be coming soon. For Bedard, though, it can’t come soon enough.

“Connor Bedard is no longer in a black non-contact jersey. He’s joining the team for practice,” as reported by Charlie Roumeliotis of WGN Radio 720 on X. Bedard hadn’t been cleared for contact since his offseason surgery to repair his left shoulder.

“Chicago head coach Jeff Blashill said Connor Bedard has a doctor’s appointment this coming week. Once that happens, they’ll get a better sense for a possible return date,” as reported by Roumeliotis.

What it means for Bedard’s injury update

The Blackhawks have yet to make any official changes to Bedard’s original injury timeline. At the time of his summer surgery, the team announced a four-month window for the star’s return. That timeline, which puts his return somewhere in between October and November, remains unchanged even after Bedard’s latest sighting at practice without a non-contact jersey.

According to reports, Bedard is back on the ice with no restrictions on how much contact he can take, but he isn’t fully in the clear yet. “Sounds like Connor Bedard has been cleared for some practice contact, but not a full go just yet,” Scott Powers of The Athletic Chicago wrote on X.

Chicago is keeping Bedard safe a little longer

It makes sense, and it wouldn’t be wise for the Hawks to toss their franchise player right into the lion’s den unprotected, especially as the team has lost five of its first seven games of the NHL season.

Frustration is building in the Windy City, practices will get more intense, and Bedard may not be quite ready to return to the ice with hits and checks flying around. Still, he’s inching closer. His team needs him back, but at full capacity, and Bedard needs to be back for his own good, too.

Key takeaways

• Connor Bedard practiced without a non-contact jersey as his return to Blackhawks lineup nears.
• Chicago maintains four-month recovery timeline for Connor Bedard following his offseason shoulder surgery.
• Reports state Bedard is cleared for practice contact, but not full contact.

When Todd McLellan and several members of the Red Wings organization talked about Larkin’s trade rumors, they all mentioned the word “distractions.” Still, not many may have expected something along the lines of what transpired in Montreal.

In unprecedented fashion, thousands of passionate, die-hard Habs fans actively called for a player on the opposing team, urging the front office to make a trade for him. Larkin didn’t expect that either, but rather than being taken aback, he was honored by the experience and perhaps had his eyes opened.

“I never would have imagined that in this building and in my career. They’re passionate fans. It’s one of the best atmospheres in hockey,” Larkin said, via Helene St. James of Detroit Free Press. “They’re knowledgeable and they love their team. That’s how I read into it.“

McLellan speaks on the chants

For a head coach with as much experience in the NHL as McLellan has, he can certainly say the “We want Larkin” chants were a first in his career. However, he didn’t appreciate it nearly as much as Larkin did.

“Our internal group, the guys that wear the uniforms, coaches, and trainers, have done a real good job of shielding each other. I’d be lying if I said that everything going on wasn’t a distraction,” McLellan admitted after the game, via Sportsnet. “But we have a responsibility to focus on what we can control and that’s what we do.”

Why Canadiens do (and don’t) make sense for Larkin

In terms of needing an experienced top-six center and having the capital to pull off a trade with the Red Wings, there may be no team in the NHL that makes more sense than the Canadiens.

However, it’s unclear if Larkin would ever waive his NMC to move north of the U.S.-Canada border. That might’ve changed after his perspective-shifting visit to Montreal. Perhaps that was the final confirmation Larkin needed, and maybe his previously narrow trade requirements are now much more relaxed.

Key takeaways

• Detroit Red Wings lost 1-0 to Montreal in a shootout following trade speculation surrounding Dylan Larkin.
• Dylan Larkin called Montreal’s fans passionate and praised the Bell Centre atmosphere after hearing trade chants.
• Todd McLellan acknowledged trade rumors have been an internal distraction for the Red Wings organization.

“Our message is, we keep fighting. It’s a next-man-up mindset,” Sullivan stated, via NHL.com shortly after news broke of Shesterkin’s season-ending, right-knee injury. The Rangers‘ netminder was injured in the team’s 3-1 loss against the Washington Capitals which not only snapped a four-game winning streak but has now put New York’s 2026-27 NHL season at stake.

“Really bad news: Igor Shesterkin is out for the year,” Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman reported on his X account. And that’s not even the end of the dramatic situation New York is now facing in net.

Sullivan’s heart breaks for Shesterkin

“Couldn’t be more disappointed for ‘Shesty,‘” Rangers coach Mike Sullivan added. “I know how much playing means to him, being part of the Rangers. He’s obviously one of the cornerstones of this organization. I am disappointed for him because he is such a fierce competitor.“

Incredibly enough, Shesterkin’s 2026-27 season came to an abrupt end just four starts into the year. He finishes with a 3-1-0 record, a 1.79 goals-against average (GAA), and .927 save percentage (SV%). Shesterkin scored a goal, recorded an assist, yet didn’t keep a shutout before his season-ending injury.

Korpisalo is injured, too

The Rangers’ trade for Joonas Korpisalo in the offseason backfired as the former Boston Bruins goaltender sustained a lower-body injury before he even made his NHL season debut. Although Korpisalo’s setback provided an early chance for Dylan Garand to prove himself, this isn’t how anybody in The Big Apple would’ve drawn up the situation.

As things stand, Garand is the only healthy option in the team’s goaltending department. According to reports, Korpisalo will remain out for approximately four weeks. Thus, New York’s fate is now hinging on the glove and blocker of a 24-year-old goalie with fewer than 10 NHL games under his belt.

“Expectation is Spencer Martin will be recalled by the Rangers to serve as backup to Dylan Garand tonight vs. Canucks, per source. He was hurt, but has been cleared,” Mollie Walker of the New York Post reported.

NY Rangers face goalie drama

The rumor mill around the Rangers has now gone wild, with many hinting at the possibility of bringing Jonathan Quick (currently employed by the Blueshirts as director of goaltending development) back from retirement. Either way, it’s clear Sullivan and company will make a move for a goalie soon.

Simple back-of-the-envelope math would point in the direction of Connor Hellebuyck, who remains suspended without pay by the Winnipeg Jets, but it’s virtually impossible for New York to acquire a goalie with an $8.5 million cap hit when Shesterkin’s $11.5 million cap hit isn’t going anywhere in the long run.

The Rangers’ playoff hopes are now facing the ultimate test less than a month into the season, and it seems it will all hinge on the skaters’ depth to hold down the fort in front of what will probably be an alternative goaltending tandem for the remainder of the season. How the tables have turned in the NHL—the Rangers have certainly come to find that out.

Key takeaways

• Igor Shesterkin is out for the 2026-27 season after sustaining a lower-body injury.
• Joonas Korpisalo is expected to remain sidelined for roughly four weeks with an injury.
• Dylan Garand is currently the New York Rangers’ only healthy option at goaltender.

“WR Terry McLaurin will be active today. Likely not a full go but suited up and ready to play against the Giants,” Mike Garafolo of ESPN reported on his X account.

The Giants have both starting cornerbacks, Greg Newsome and Deonte Banks, fully healthy and active, so if McLaurin couldn’t play, it could’ve been disastrous for Daniels upon his return to NFL action. Considering there are question marks around Daniels’ left elbow, McLaurin not being at 100 per cent, either, is far from ideal for the, still undefeated at home, 1-3 Commanders.

McLaurin’s game log

McLaurin missed Week 4 of the 2026 NFL campaign when the Commanders fell to the Indianapolis Colts in London, but he will be back in action in Week 5. All week long, it was reported his role would be a true game-time decision for Washington upon return to Landover, Maryland, and it was. According to reports, McLaurin will be in for a limited role even though he’s been cleared to play.

“Even if [McLaurin] does play today, expect his snaps to be limited. Dan Quinn said the wet field and rainy conditions won’t be a factor in the decision,” as reported by Mike Garafolo on his X account.

Commanders’ WR depth chart

Whether McLaurin suited up or not for the Commanders, it’s clear the home team would face a steep climb at home in rainy conditions. The same conditions in which New York has won two games in a row after losing Jaxson Dart to injury in Week 2.

Stefon Diggs has been ruled out for Week 5 with a hamstring injury, further complicating things. With ‘Scary Terry’ activated, the WR depth chart for Dan Quinn’s offense includes: McLaurin, Treylon Burks, Dyami Brown, and Luke McCaffrey. If McLaurin couldn’t play, Washington would have had a limited, three-man wide receivers’ room to face the Giants.

Key takeaways

• Terry McLaurin is active, but could play in a limited capacity in Week 5 against New York.
• Jayden Daniels left elbow concerns exist alongside weather challenges in Washington’s return home.
• Stefon Diggs is ruled out for Week 5 with a hamstring injury.

“Bengals WR Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, both listed as questionable for today, both will play against the Dolphins,” Adam Schefter of ESPN reported on his X account.

Chase, who left Week 4 against the Jacksonville Jaguars with a concussion, had yet to be cleared to play in Week 5 when the Bengals travel to the Sunshine State for a date with the 0-4 Dolphins. Finally, it looks like he’s been given the green light.

The former LSU standout practiced with no limitations on Friday, but he was still listed as questionable to play Sunday. According to ESPN, Chase was required to be cleared by an independent neurologist, as is procedure under NFL head injury/concussion protocol. By all accounts, it looks like the independent neurologist has signed off on Chase, and he is active. He won’t be alone, as he will be joined by his partner in crime, Higgins.

Tee Higgins injury update

Coming into the game, it’s 50/50 whether Cincinnati will dress both Chase and Higgins, one of the two, or neither, against the Dolphins. Higgins, dealing with groin and neck injuries, has been reportedly cleared, too. Although he was nowhere to be seen during the open-to-media portion of the Bengals’ Friday practice, he was still dubbed a full participant by the team’s official injury report.

Higgins had missed practice on Wednesday and Thursday, further growing speculation ahead of Week 5 of the NFL. Although ESPN’s fantasy football app stated Higgins was in more danger of missing Week 5 than Chase, both have been cleared to go. Cincinnati will have its two-headed monster available, and that should strike fear right into Miami’s eyes.

WR depth chart

With or without Chase and Higgins, the Bengals were favored to prevail over the Dolphins. However, it’s clear they might be in for a far more fun evening with the star WR duo active in Miami Gardens.

Had Chase and/or Higgins been inactive, their depth at wide receiver may not have been enough to defeat an 0-4 side that has recently shown signs of life, and will be counting on its old good friends, the sun and humidity in Vice City, to take down Joe Burrow and company. With Chase and Higgins active, the Bengals’ help at wideout includes: Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, Colbie Young (also questionable), Dohnte Meyers, and Michael Tinsley.

Even with the two star wide receivers suiting up, they may not be fully healthy, and that would only spell trouble for the Bengals. Key players RB Chase Brown and Mike Gesicki may be asked to play a big role for Cincinnati in the Sunshine State.

Key takeaways

• Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins will both play in Week 5 against Miami.
• Ja’Marr Chase has cleared protocol after leaving Week 4 with a concussion.
• The Bengals are 2-2 entering their game against the Dolphins (0-4).

“Ashton Jeanty is a go,” Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network confirmed the Raiders’ running back has been cleared to play the Patriots in Week 5 of the 2026 NFL campaign. According to the NFL’s Injury Report statuses, Jeanty was dealing with a hamstring injury. Other reports point towards ankle and foot injuries. Either way, the health concerns were threatening to sideline him, but he pushed through.

With the Raiders coming off their first loss of the year, and the Patriots having defeated the Buffalo Bills last week, whether Jeanty played or not could have determined the trajectory of the game in Foxborough.

Gearing up for Week 5 in Mass., Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak had an encouraging statement about Jeanty’s status, though the team’s updates told a different story. According to Kubiak, Jeanty will “do his best to go”, and he did just that. New England will have to figure out a way to contain the dual-threat tail back.

Jeanty’s week of practice

Although he turned things around, Jeanty had been on a downward spiral. Following the injuries sustained in the grueling Week 4 defeat against the Kansas City Chiefs, Jeanty was a full participant in Wednesday’s practice.

However, he was downgraded to a limited role the next day before being completely sidelined in Las Vegas’ last practice on Friday. The fact Jeanty wasn’t listed as out in the final injury report before gameday was an encouraging note and one that the running back built on.

Clearly, anything can happen, especially when the resilience of a competitor like Jeanty is at stake. In a crucial battle to keep the good times rolling in Vegas, Jeanty won’t miss the action. However, the bigger picture can’t be lost sight of, either.

Raiders make RB move just in case

“With Ashton Jeanty questionable because of foot and ankle injuries, the Raiders elevated RB Roman Hemby,” Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported on his X account.

Calling up another running back to the active roster might be a clear indication of how concerned Las Vegas was about Jeanty’s health. Still, even if Jeanty didn’t play, Hemby would not have had much of a role. Instead, rookie out of Arkansas Mike Washington Jr. was always expected to be the No. 1 backfield option should the Boise State icon have been ruled out.

Key takeaways

• Ashton Jeanty is active for the Las Vegas Raiders’ Week 5 game against New England.
• Klint Kubiak noted Jeanty would try his best to play despite missing Friday’s practice.
• Las Vegas elevated Roman Hemby to the active roster ahead of Sunday’s matchup.

“It’s good for [Larkin] to get it over with, it’s good for us to get it over with,” McLellan stated during a press conference. “I said this the other day, like, enough of this alrady. Let’s just go play hockey. Moral victories only take you so far. So to finally get a chance at getting the carrot was important for us.“

McLellan, who had also revealed the Red Wings’ players’ stance on Larkin’s return, was glad the day finally came at Little Caesars Arena. Fans got to get some frustration out of their system, while Larkin, who was given a clean slate by McLellan and the Wings, scored and played a big role in his team’s first win of the 2026-27 NHL campaign.

Larkin accepts fans’ reaction

It feels like ages ago, but it really wasn’t that long ago when Larkin urged Red Wings fans to reconsider before booing him. After his brief stint on Injured Reserve (IR), Larkin finally made his season debut in Motor City, and the jeering was as expected. Even Larkin knew it was coming—especially Larkin. Far from hiding, he’s made his stance clear, turning the other cheek and acknowledging the fans’ reasons to be upset.

“I mean, I was ready for [the booing] on the home opener and you know it’s a part of it. I’m trying to be a man and face it, and I understand why that’s happening,” Larkin admitted during his press conference after his season debut. “But, again, like I said at the start of the season, I was going to try and show up with my play. It was nice to be out there with the guys and get a win.”

More to come for Larkin

Larkin has passed his first test on home ice in the 2026-27 NHL season. If he thinks it was the only one, though, he’s in for a surprise. Larkin will face the wrath of the fanbase, as well as a bit of warmth if things go well, every game at Little Caesars Arena. His next battle will be on Oct. 10, when the Seattle Kraken come into town.

Key takeaways

• Todd McLellan welcomed Dylan Larkin’s season debut to get their campaign back on track.
• Dylan Larkin scored in the Detroit Red Wings’ first win of the 2026-27 season.
• Detroit faces the Seattle Kraken at Little Caesars Arena on Oct. 10.

After the opening-night 3-0 loss against the Boston Bruins, Rangers captain J.T. Miller avoided overreacting, and it immediately proved to be the right decision. Since then, the Broadway Blueshirts have won four games in a row, including statement wins at Madison Square Garden, where fans had been treated to disappointing outings last season.

Moreover, the Rangers have also defeated the New York Islanders for the first time since the 2024-25 NHL season, snapping a four-game losing streak against their crosstown rivals. Coming off the 5-2 win at Madison Square Garden, in which Sullivan used the team’s vacant spot to hand an NHL debut, the head coach made a strong statement about the current state of affairs for the Blueshirts.

“I’m proud of the guys,” Sullivan commented, via the New York Post. “You look at the stretch of games, we just went through a tough stretch. Five games in eight nights against some pretty good teams. These guys, they’re competing hard.”

What Sullivan sees on his team

What a difference a year makes. And, of course, the plethora of roster moves that have shaken the team to its core and completely reshaped the lineup in Manhattan. So far, the Blueshirts have met and even exceeded expectations. No one looks at the NHL standings at this point in the season, but anyone who does will find New York alone at the top after five games.

What changed? Basically everything, but Sullivan thinks he knows some of the good habits that are helping the Blueshirts perform consistently on a nightly basis. That’s all fans had been asking for for a very long time.

“They’re just coming out with great energy,” head coach Mike Sullivan said. “I think they’re buying in. They’re having fun. They’re competing hard, and they’re having success. It’s fun to watch them. I think their first periods, they’ve brought great energy, the right intentions.

“I think our third periods have been terrific, just as far as our checking game. We’re not sitting back trying to defend leads. We’re playing hard, playing on our toes, but we’re doing it responsibly. I think that’s a great sign for us the way we’re competing in the third periods as well.“

Winds of change for the Rangers

It took New York until March to string together four wins last season. This time around, the Rangers have won four in a row in just five appearances. Clearly, something is working in Manhattan, and Sullivan hopes it stays that way for a very long time. In the meantime, the rest of the league should take cover.

Key takeaways

• Mike Sullivan praised the New York Rangers’ resilience after winning four straight games.
• The Rangers defeated the New York Islanders for the first time since 2024-25.
• New York sits alone at the top of the NHL standings after five games.

Surely, fans in The Bronx don’t want to wait around to see the count go up to 10 ringless MLB seasons under Boone. Based on the buzz coming out of Yankee Stadium, the Pinstripers will run that risk.

“The Yankees should move on from Aaron Boone. Just don’t expect them to do it,” Ian O’Connor of The Athletic wrote on his X account. “Hal Steinbrenner’s Yankees should be trying something different to get over the hump, much like the Knicks did. Much like George Steinbrenner’s Yankees did. Just don’t expect them to be bold enough to do it.”

Boone has one year left on his contract

After the loss at home to wrap up another MLB Postseason way before the fanbase wished, but right on cue for pessimistic—or realistic—fans and analysts, Boone made his pitch to stay. He might be helped by the fact that ace Cam Schlittler took the playoff exit off Boone’s shoulders, but it may not be enough.

Still, the Yankees may get to avoid making a decision right away and could kick the can down the road. After the club exercised his option for the 2025 MLB season, Boone signed a two-year extension through 2027 with the Bronx Bombers. Under that deal, Hal Steinbrenner, Brian Cashman, and company may simply choose to ride out the rest of the contract before coming face-to-face with a decision.

Such a strategy will come at a cost, but it’s clear the current brass in The Bronx has grown fond of leaving today’s problems for tomorrow. Considering Cashman weighed in on Boone’s job status with a reassuring statement, it looks imminent he will be back in the dugout next spring.

Boone’s coaching record

Going off the numbers exclusively, it’s hard to describe Boone’s tenure as manager in New York as a failure. However, he’s missing the big one, the only thing Yankees fans truly care about and that immortalizes players and managers in The Bronx.

Through nine seasons with the Yankees, Boone has guided his squads to a 790-565 record in the regular season, making for a .583 winning percentage. With him at the helm, the Yankees are virtually guaranteed to be a playoff team, but that’s about it.

Boone’s Yankees are 27-30 in the postseason. Boone is the only manager in franchise history with a losing postseason record (with more than one series appearance). In more ways than one, the proof is in the pudding, but the Bronx Bombers could still look the other way. And perhaps, they will do just that. What’s clear is that the Yankees have a long list of players becoming free agents in 2027, and Boone may fall into a similar category.

Key takeaways

• The New York Yankees were eliminated after a 4-3 loss in Game 3 of the ALDS.
• Ian O’Connor argued the Yankees should move on from Aaron Boone but likely won’t.
• Aaron Boone holds a 790-565 regular season record across nine seasons in New York.

Indeed, the Yankees’ qualifying-offer dilemma with Chisholm Jr. will only get more expensive this offseason, but there may not be a decision to make after all. Especially after the tough note on which the season ended for Jazz and the fanbase, as Chisholm Jr. lectured Yankees fans after being booed in Game 3 of the ALDS. In addition to Chisholm, there are several other players whose contracts are expiring and who will demand a firm decision from the front office.

These are all the position players currently in the Yankees organization with contracts expiring at the end of 2026: Jazz Chisholm Jr., Trent Grisham, Paul Goldschmidt, and Amed Rosario. All of them signed one-year deals coming into the season, though in different situations, and could all be allowed to walk by the Yankees.

Chisholm Jr. and Grisham didn’t meet expectations after signing to avoid arbitration and on a $22 million qualifying-offer deal, respectively. As for Goldschmidt, he’s 39 years old. Even after the early playoff exit, he made it clear he loves competing, but it remains to be seen if New York will have him back next spring.

Bullpen free agents

Other big free-agency storylines for the Bronx Bombers revolve around their bullpen. Going into the offseason, the Yankees have all of their starting pitchers locked in at least through 2028. The same can’t be said about their relief options, though.

According to Spotrac, the following pitchers are set to hit free agency: closer David Bednar and relievers John Schreiber, Tim Hill, Ryan Yarbrough, Paul Blackburn, and Michael Fulmer.

Aaron Boone’s future

Make no mistake, Boone isn’t a free agent. For two reasons: the main one is that he’s a manager, and managers don’t go through free agency. Secondly, he’s under contract in The Bronx. The Yankees’ manager is signed through the 2027 MLB campaign. However, he may not be able to play out the full length of his two-year extension signed back in 2025 (club option for the 2027 season).

With the Pinstripers falling short of the end goal—which is always to hoist the World Series trophy—the pressure has only mounted for Boone, and fans are asking for heads to roll. Fans may not light their torches and walk toward Yankee Stadium, but they are making themselves heard, and many want out of the Aaron Boone experience.

The Yankees aren’t obliged to, but it’s all trending toward them having to make a decision on Boone soon. And even if Cam Schlittler took the playoff elimination off Boone’s shoulders, the die may already be cast.

Key takeaways

• Jazz Chisholm Jr., Trent Grisham, Paul Goldschmidt, and Amed Rosario all have expiring contract deals in 2026.
• David Bednar, John Schreiber, Tim Hill, Ryan Yarbrough, Paul Blackburn, and Michael Fulmer are set for free agency.
• Aaron Boone remains under contract with the New York Yankees through the 2027 MLB campaign.

Needless to say, the organization will hear to what the players have to say about the fan-scrutinized manager before making a decision. If the majority of the clubhouse shares views with Schlittler, then Boone might just survive the wave of criticism actively threatening his job in New York.

“I think Boone’s been amazing. I know every guy in this locker room stands behind him. I don’t see a reason why that needs to change,” Schlittler admitted after the playoff elimination, via SNY. “He’s someone that is going to put his players first, and I think that’s very important. He’s been great to this team and to the guys in here, and we trust him.

“There’s not a single day where I haven’t trusted him or a decision he’s made. I have a great relationship with him. I’ll back him up. I hope that I’m playing here for a long time and he’s still the manager. So he might take the blame for the way we perform, but at the end of the day, it comes down to us, and the expectation needs to be a little bit better.”

Boone’s controversial decision in Game 3

Obviously, every decision ever made by Boone will be judged based on the final score. Game 3 of the ALDS was no different. Coming into the game, Boone raised eyebrows by having Trent Grisham be the leadoff batter, instead of Ben Rice who had been the team’s best batter throughout the 2026 MLB Postseason.

As fate would have it, the final at-bat of the season fell on Grisham’s lap, and there was no fairy tale ending. Grisham struckout on a swing-and-miss, and that was it. These are not easy times on the Yankees, with Jazz Chisholm Jr. lecturing fans after being booed.

Boone’s future is on the line

With the elimination sealed and the title hopes crushed, Yankees fans headed for the exits still wondering what could’ve been had it been Ben Rice at the plate in that situation. They will never know, but they can blame Boone’s decision-making for it.

Going into the offseason, it will linger, and it might be what ultimately determines Boone’s fate in the City That Never Sleeps, where fans will stay awake at night going over everything that went wrong in the sweep against the Rays. And that might be all she wrote for Boone.

Key takeaways

• Cam Schlittler voiced total support for Aaron Boone following the Yankees’ playoff elimination.
• Aaron Boone named Trent Grisham, who struck out for the final out, the leadoff batter over Ben Rice.
• The Tampa Bay Rays swept the New York Yankees to advance from the ALDS.

Based on the contract year he’s had in The Bronx, Chisholm Jr. could’ve seen it coming. Regardless, he was taken aback a bit, though not hurt by the boos. After the 4-3 loss in Game 3 and the elimination from the 2026 MLB Postseason, Jazz had a reminder for the fans: in the playoffs, teams are supposed to stay together.

“It doesn’t hurt. It’s just confusing because it’s the playoffs and we’re trying to win games. So you’re booing a guy that’s playing trying to help the team win,” Chisholm Jr. stated postgame, via SNY.

Even though Aaron Boone had let Jazz and others off the hook, the wounds from Chisholm Jr. doubling down on his costly error in Game 2 were still fresh after the Game 3 elimination, and once again, Jazz’s statement has raised eyebrows in The Bronx.

Fitting, troubled, ending for the NY Yankees

With the season on the line, the Yankees entered the ninth inning of Game 3 of the ALDS with the bottom of their batting order on deck. To many, all hope was lost as soon as Giancarlo Stanton struckout in the eighth.

The veteran making his postseason debut was the last hope for a miracle, but not even the player with the second best all-time at-bat per home run average in MLB postseason history could save the Bronx Bombers.

In the end, Chisholm Jr. and Trent Grisham (leadoff batter for the Yankees in Game 3) were the final at-bats, and they couldn’t salvage their reputation at Yankee Stadium.

Potential last game for Chisholm Jr. in NYC

There is no other way around it. Chisholm Jr. was playing for his future in The Bronx in the playoffs. His contract is expiring, the qualifying offer dilemma has only become more expensive for the Yankees, and it might essentially be all she wrote for him in New York.

At the end of the day, Yankees fans will remember Chisholm Jr. was responsible for a costly out with the season on the line. The fact he stole a base and put himself in scoring position will stay in no one’s memory of the heartbreaking Game 3 eliminating loss.

As he left Yankee Stadium for the final time in the 2026 season—possibly the last time in his MLB career—Jazz Chisholm Jr. wore Yankees apparel from head to toe. It was quite the image and sent a message loud and clear, but it may all be in vain.

Key takeaways

• Yankees fans jeered Jazz Chisholm Jr. during an out in Game 3 of the ALDS.
• New York was eliminated from the 2026 MLB Postseason following a 4-3 loss.
• Chisholm Jr. was playing on an expiring contract as his future in New York remains uncertain.

As a result, the stage was set for them to make a roster move, sending Robertson down to the AHL and bringing a minor-league player to the NHL lineup. It was all to fill the void left by Joseph Veleno’s IR stint early in the 2026-27 season. With more or less drama, Sullivan and company have cleared their first hurdle of the campaign.

“Cole Beaudoin has been recalled from the Hartford Wolf Pack. Matthew Robertson has been assigned to the Hartford Wolf Pack,” the New York Rangers announced on their public relations account on X, @NYR_PR.

“It’ll be Cole Beaudoin coming up to play 4C tonight and make his NHL debut for the Rangers,” Mollie Walker of the New York Post reported on X.

More about Beaudoin

Selected with the 24th overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft by the Utah Mammoth, the 20-year-old centerman from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, has yet to make his pro debut in the league. He will now get his first taste of NHL action in a game as vitriol-filled and electric as a battle of New York between the Rangers and Islanders.

As Veleno has been placed on IR with a lower-body injury, Beaudoin will take over as the fourth-line center for Sullivan’s squad. It remains to be seen who will be coming out of the lineup.

When did Beaudoin join the Rangers?

Beaudoin arrived in Manhattan as part of the return package in the Vincent Trocheck trade to Utah. Beaudoin was traded along with Sean Durzi and a 2027 third-round pick.

While speculation surrounded Sullivan before New York announced its centerman call-up to play the Isles, Beaudoin was the obvious candidate. Through his first two games of the AHL season with the Hartford Wolf Pack, Beaudoin was the team’s leading scorer with a goal and four assists (five points).

Thanks to that red-hot start, Beaudoin was also tied for second in points among all skaters in the AHL. Now, his true journey begins, and there is no better place to start than Madison Square Garden in a matchup with the Islanders.

Key takeaways

• The New York Rangers assigned defensemen Matthew Robertson to the AHL.
• Center Cole Beaudoin was recalled from Hartford to make his NHL debut.
• Beaudoin came to New York as part of the Vincent Trocheck trade.

Throughout his statement, Ronaldo shined a light on Jesus’ entire stint as Portugal manager and how the relationship progressively spiraled out of control until this recent point of no return. Cristiano pulled no punches in the lengthy statement, so it remains to be seen how Jorge Jesus reacts.

Not too long ago, after Ronaldo didn’t play against Norway at home, Portugal’s head coach called the entire situation with Ronaldo “a misunderstanding.” Clearly, it’s much bigger than a simple confusion between the two parties.

Caught up in the middle of this “he said, she said” drama is the Portuguese national team. Still, Ronaldo made it clear he doesn’t plan to retire from the national team—not like this. Whether Cristiano will be back with Jesus still in charge, or if the two can no longer work together, remains to be seen.

Ronaldo apologizes to fans and teammates

Throughout his extensive public statement, Cristiano had enough time and characters to touch on virtually every topic he thought needed addressing. On that note, Ronaldo sent sincere apologies to his teammates, fans, and fellow countrymen.

“At the end of the game, I just wanted everything to end with the victory and to be alone. I did not go over to greet the fans. That was entirely my responsibility and should not have happened,” Ronaldo acknowledged. “I apologize to the Portuguese people who supported us so intensely there, I apologize to the fans, and I apologize to those who, despite not being Portuguese, may have traveled there to see me and whom I may have disappointed.

“I also owe an apology to my national-team teammates for leaving the training camp,” Cristiano added. “Despite the absolute breach of trust in the manager’s word, as anyone who witnessed these conversations can attest, I should not have done it. The responsibility is exclusively mine.“

Broken relationship

As if the roughly 2,000-word, 10,600-character statement wasn’t a strong indicator in itself, Ronaldo and Jorge Jesus have burned their bridge down to ashes. There aren’t many words in the dictionary that Cristiano didn’t use in his statement.

However, there are two names he never mentioned—not once—even though his entire message is aimed at one of them. Jorge Jesus was named a grand total of zero (0) times in Ronaldo’s statement, which highlights the broken relationship that may never recover.

Cristiano Ronaldo’s full statement

“As I promised, I decided to explain, in the first person and directly, the circumstances surrounding the latest chapter involving the national team,” Ronaldo’s statement reads, via B24.

After the 2026 World Cup, I prepared a letter to the Portuguese people, which I still have, with the words I want to address to them when I definitively leave our team.

At the end of the competition, on the flight back from the United States, the President of the Federation asked and insisted that I reconsider my decision to leave because the FPF wanted me to continue.

He then asked me for my opinion on the name of the current national team manager, whom he was considering alongside other names he did not reveal to me.

I told the President of the Federation that, in my opinion, he would be the right choice.

That is why, on the day the current national team manager was presented, I was genuinely happy with the choice. It was the right option, as the results are proving.

A few days later, I received an initial contact from the new national team manager saying that he would like to meet with me in person. I agreed, and we scheduled the meeting for the end of my holiday.

We met at Cidade do Futebol, where my club was holding its pre-season training camp.

That day, the manager told me that he was counting on me and that my presence was fundamental to his project. He presented me with a plan for my participation right there. He said I would play the first game and the last one and that, for physical-management reasons, he would always make three or four changes per game.

At that point, he suggested that I might not travel with the national team to Norway and Denmark. He proposed that I play the first game and remain in Portugal, before joining the team again ahead of the match at the Dragão.

I immediately rejected this proposal. It seemed obvious to me that I could not accept it. Just because I would not play the away games did not mean I should stop captaining our team. Having the privilege of staying in Portugal would not set a good example.

The manager ultimately agreed with my reasoning.

This conversation was witnessed by Simão Coutinho, Al Nassr’s sporting director, the person to whom the current manager reported throughout the previous season and one of those responsible for his signing by the club in 2025.

On the eve of the training camp, the manager came to my home in Lisbon to have another conversation with me, at his request. The conversation was calm, and all the principles agreed upon in August were maintained.

I played the game at Alvalade, and although I was substituted, I made no issue of it. I put the captain’s armband on Bruno Fernandes myself, never imagining that I might be taking my final steps as a player and captain of the national team. What mattered to me that day was our victory. Winning is always good, in Portugal and for my country, even more so.

At lunchtime on the day of the game in Norway, one of the manager’s assistants came to the table where the group was having lunch and told me that the manager wanted to speak to me. To my absolute surprise, the manager asked me if I was fit to play 30 minutes. I was completely focused on my physical recovery, integrated with my teammates as always, and thinking that I would not play that day. I had no problem with that.

This request was outside my physical-recovery and training plan — because I was only supposed to play on the 4th at the Dragão — but obviously I said yes. He told me to be ready because I would play 30 minutes.

Everyone knows what happened next. I warmed up from halftime, watched the minutes go by, and was not called upon.

The manager had broken his word to me.

At the end of the game, I just wanted everything to end with the victory and to be alone. I did not go over to greet the fans. That was entirely my responsibility and should not have happened. I apologize to the Portuguese people who supported us so intensely there, I apologize to the fans, and I apologize to those who, despite not being Portuguese, may have traveled there to see me and whom I may have disappointed.

Forty-eight hours later, the manager, Simão Coutinho and I had a conversation, since he had been present during our conversations in August.

It was a profound, very direct moment, without any kind of filter.

We agreed that there was only one way to put an end to this “case”: the manager should repeat what he had just told me privately, in Simão Coutinho’s presence, but in the press room.

What we agreed was simple: the manager would begin the press conference with this issue, seeking to put an end to the matter by telling the truth. He would say that I had never asked to play any minutes, that it was the manager and nobody else who had proposed the plan for this training camp, and that it had been a mistake to make me warm up without bringing me on — and that if it happened again, he would not do it.

We ended that meeting with the manager asking me for a hug, promising me that he would say at the press conference what he had just told me and that the matter would be put behind us. I would not play in Denmark and would play the Dragão match. All of this was in the presence of Simão Coutinho, throughout.

At the manager’s request, a subsequent meeting took place between him, Simão Coutinho and Tiago Craveiro via videoconference, during which what we had discussed was summarized.

A short document was produced, which I personally approved and which, with my knowledge, was given to the manager, as he had requested.

The press conference was what everyone knows: his stance had nothing to do with our meeting. I heard expressions and a level of aggression that I believe I did not deserve, an attitude of ‘I want, I can and I will’ that he had never shown me, not even remotely, in private the day before.

The notes I approved were as follows:

“I think it is important, especially because it is the truth, to clarify a few things before talking about Denmark:

1- I personally proposed a plan to Cristiano, without anyone else, for him for this season with the national team. It was a long and very good conversation.
2 – I know how much he lives for and loves the national team and the weight he carries in the world, even more so, the positive weight and influence he has had on the national team for 24 consecutive years.
3 – The plan I proposed to Cristiano was accepted.
4 – He never questioned my decisions. He was exemplary, loyal and professional.
5 – The plan I drew up for him did not include the Norway game. However, I felt that he had physically recovered from the first game and told him that I might have to use him. Cristiano agreed.
6 – I made a mistake by making someone of Pelé or Maradona’s stature warm up and then not putting him into the game. If I had to do it again today, I would not.
7 – To put an end to the matter: I want Cristiano in the national team. In fact, I don’t just want him a little, I want him very much. Fortunately, he also believes in me. He believed in me at Al Nassr and he believes in me here too.
8 – Regarding his not greeting the fans. We have already talked about that. Someone who has played more than 230 games for the national team does not need lessons from me about loving Portugal. It was a moment of frustration that erases nothing. He is the player who gives the most autographs, takes the most selfies and shows the most affection to the fans. Let’s not invent problems where they don’t exist. When we are unhappy, we react. That’s all it was.”

None of these notes, therefore, said that the manager had even apologized to me.

It was the second time he had broken his word to me.

I decided to leave the training camp without waiting for another broken promise. For me, the truth is still the most important thing in any relationship between people. No matter how much it hurts, tell me the truth.

In fact, during a conversation I had with the President of the FPF and the manager on the morning of that press conference, they can surely confirm that I reiterated that if they did not want me there, they should tell me. They simply had to be honest with me. I would have accepted that, and I promised that we would prepare something beautiful, as I dream it would happen, and nobody would be angry.

I remember it as if it were today. They both answered in unison that no. That my place was in the national team.

Never, at any point, have I interfered with any technical or tactical decision made by any coach or manager in almost 25 years of my career. I accept, whether I think what I am asked to do is better or worse. I respect the decision, and when my word is not respected, I feel that my place is not there.

I also owe an apology to my national-team teammates for leaving the training camp. Despite the absolute breach of trust in the manager’s word, as anyone who witnessed these conversations can attest, I should not have done it. The responsibility is exclusively mine.

I apologize to the Portuguese people once again, but a broken promise has, for me, a defining impact. I felt that, from that point on, my presence would only harm the group, and I did what I have always said I would do if I no longer felt useful: I packed my bags and left.

The consequence of my actions should be assessed and punished by the Portuguese Football Federation. I understand that the punishment should not have any mitigating factors. I am not just any player; I am the team captain, and that constitutes an aggravating factor. I have already apologized, but I know that actions must have consequences. Anyone involved in football at my level knows that, regardless of each person’s status, the rules are the same for everyone.

On this subject, I have heard a lot of talk about farewell games, that I need to have a dignified farewell and that the Federation wants to give me that opportunity.

I learned in life, often being hungry and having nothing to eat, that nobody gives anything to anyone.

I can promise all my fans, and naturally especially all Portuguese people, that we will have one or more farewell games; there will be time for that.

But when I think about the national team, what I really think about is competing. That is what I thought about on the day I was given the news of my father’s death. I was at a national-team training camp and decided to stay until the following day’s game was over. I did for my country what I would never have done for any club.

Therefore, if I am physically fit, playing for my club, hopefully scoring goals, then after serving whatever suspension is imposed on me, I will be available, as I have always been until today, to compete and win for our national team.

This is, believe me, the absolute truth,” Ronaldo ended his statement.

One name that many Rangers fans wondered about was Jaroslav Chmelar, the 23-year-old forward from Czechia. With the Blueshirts suddenly in need of a center call-up, many thought Chmelar could be the odd man out, as he’s waiver-exempt and thus could’ve been sent down to the AHL without risking another NHL franchise claiming him. Asked about his decision to keep Chmelar and instead risk waiver-eligible Robertson, Sullivan gave a firm answer.

“The question is: Do we just put guys in the lineup and send guys down just because they’re waivers exempt? Or do we put the guys in the lineup that we think are going to give us the best chance to win? We chose to make a decision based on the latter,” Sullivan admitted, via Mollie Walker of the New York Post on X. “We think the guys that are in the lineup are deserving to be in the lineup through their performance and their play. [Chmelar] is one of those guys.”

Chmelar’s start to the season

Although he’s yet to record his first point of the season, it looks like Sullivan has liked Chmelar’s performance so far through the first three games of the 2026-27 NHL campaign. He might be in for an even bigger role after Joe Veleno’s injury.

The Rangers have now placed Veleno on Injured Reserve (IR), and until a centerman is called up from the AHL affiliate Hartford Wolf Pack, Chmelar might even fill in for the injured Veleno at 4C. Clearly, Sullivan trusts the 23-year-old pending RFA, so one shouldn’t put it past the head coach to move Chmelar to the middle of the ice.

“Jaro [Chmelar] has certainly made a compelling argument to keep him in the lineup just based on his play,” Sullivan said, per Mollie Walker.

Rangers face salary-cap crunch

As reasonable as Sullivan’s explanation for the Rangers’ decision is, and as great as it might play out, there’s also logic in asking why the Blueshirts even reached the point where they had to auction a young player as the first wave of adversity hit them. Fans in Manhattan believe they know the reason for that.

Less than five games into the season, New York was already hemmed in by the salary cap, and it didn’t take long before the spotlight shifted to the cap-heavy contracts signed or brought in over the summer. Namely, Joonas Korpisalo.

Joonas Korpisalo’s contract

The Rangers raised eyebrows when they traded for the former Boston Bruins netminder, who is carrying a $3 million cap hit in 2026-27. To make matters worse, Dylan Garand has returned to New York as Korpisalo will miss time with an injury.

Essentially, the Broadway Blueshirts had to place Robertson on waivers because of the salary-cap crunch Korpisalo’s deal has put them in, and the veteran goalie hasn’t even played a game at Madison Square Garden this season. Since his arrival, Korpisalo has caused several roster moves before he even put on his pads, blocker, glove, and mask.

A lot can change, and Korpisalo may end up playing a big role in the season. So far, however, he can be added to the long list of costly decisions made by Chris Drury and company. Why did the Blueshirts trade for a $3 million second-string netminder when Garand was right there? Who knows? But Robertson ended up on waivers because of it. Fortunately for the Blueshirts, he cleared. They may not be as lucky in the future, though.

Key takeaways

• Matthew Robertson cleared waivers after Joe Veleno suffered an injury.
• Czech forward Jaroslav Chmelar remained on the NHL roster despite being waiver-exempt.
• Joonas Korpisalo carries a $3 million cap hit while currently sidelined with an injury.

Red Wings fans booed Larkin when he was introduced in the 2026-27 NHL season home opener, one can only imagine the hostility inside Little Caesars Arena in his first shift back on home ice. McLellan is leaving Larkin’s status up in the air, but there’s a very real possibility he is on Detroit’s lineup against Ottawa.

“[Larkin has] got one more hurdle to cross. He’s still on IR, so the doctor will look at him here, and if he’s cleared, he’s playing. And if he isn’t, then he won’t,” Todd McLellan said after the Red Wings’ morning skate on Tuesday, via Helene St. James of Detroit Free Press.

Red Wings need Larkin

With Larkin’s trade likely stalling as the Florida Panthers may avoid a worst-case scenario with Aleksander Barkov, the Red Wings know better than to simply keep Larkin away from the ice out of pettiness. If he can play, they will dress him.

Larkin may have burned his bridges in Detroit, but he’s still a valuable weapon for the team. The Red Wings are winless through their first two games and have yet to hold a lead, so it’s not as if things could go much worse. Or at least that’s what Detroit wants to believe.

Larkin could join the power play

As much stuff as there will be on Larkin’s plate, McLellan isn’t taking anything off of it. In his first game back, Larkin could pick up right where he left off, playing big minutes for a Red Wings side that desperately needs a spark. According to reports, Larkin got some looks on the team’s power play during his latest practice session.

In the midst of the trade request drama and with Larkin injured, McLellan and his staff had left Larkin off the power play during practice, though they did use him on the penalty kill. As Larkin gears up for his return to NHL action, it looks like the team is holding no grudge against him, or at least isn’t showing it with his special teams assignments. Larkin’s absence has cost the Red Wings, and it was made evident as McLellan bashed the special teams’ groups.

Red Wings struggle on special teams

The best players have to play, even those who are actively pushing to leave the organization. And that’s why Larkin could be back in full capacity, playing minutes both on the man advantage and penalty kill. For as long as Larkin is under contract in Detroit, it might stay that way.

Even the angriest fans in Motor City will agree the special teams need help. So far, the Red Wings have some of the worst PP and PK percentages in the NHL, operating at 14.3% and 50%, respectively.

Key takeaways

• Head coach Todd McLellan said Dylan Larkin could play after missing two games.
• Detroit fans booed their captain during player introductions at the home opener.
• The Red Wings are winless through their first two games of the season.

Instead, the Yankees’ dugout-boss urged the team to turn the page. That’s not to say the mistakes made by Chisholm Jr. and company in Game 2 will be brushed aside and left unaddressed, but it signals New York won’t beat around a dead horse. What’s done is done. The Yankees must move on and turn around a 0-2 series deficit. If they fail, then history will judge them.

“Yeah, some good defenders that didn’t make a couple of plays. We’ve got to get over it, though,” Boone said after Game 2 of the ALDS at Tropicana Field. “As simple as that. We can’t dwell on what just happened to us, we’ve got to come ready playing for our lives Wednesday night and I expect this team to do that. We’ve stared a lot of uncertainty in the face all year and these guys have responded time and time again. We need to do that again right now.“

One of those nights for NY Yankees

The Yankees are largely to be blamed for putting themselves in the less-than-favorable position they are in. However, they have had some tough luck so far against the Rays. Game 2 best exemplified it.

With the bases loaded in the fifth inning, Cody Bellinger made solid contact with a ball that felt destined for a trip over the wall. It came up just short and the inning was over.

What could’ve been a 5-1 lead for the Bronx Bombers midway through Game 2 turned into that exact lead for the home team in the bottom of the inning. Again, the Yankees must let bygones be bygones, else their chances of surviving elimination in the 2026 MLB Postseason will be slim and none.

Yankees abandoned what worked before

The Yankees are looking different from their AL Wild Card version. If they deserved praise for weathering Aaron Judge’s absence last round — and actually playing smarter baseball as a result — the Pinstripers deserve equal criticism for steering away of it in the ALDS.

Obviously, the Rays’ lineup offers a tougher challenge, but it may be no excuse for the Yankees abandoning what previously worked. New York had shown a side it rarely did. The Yanks didn’t rely on the typical home-run-or-bust strategy they had in previous postseasons, but are falling back on that sword again.

As great as Ben Rice’s play has been this postseason, the fact his solo homers are the only runs New York has been able to put on the board against Tampa Bay is very telling. Standing between a rock and a hard place, the Yankees have no choice but to pull off an improbable 180-degree turn, or the season will be over.

Key takeaways

• Aaron Boone urged the Yankees to move on after Game 2 mistakes.
• New York blew a potential 5-1 lead after Cody Bellinger’s flyout ended the fifth inning.
• Solo home runs by Ben Rice account for all of New York’s ALDS scoring.

“John Harbaugh said the Giants are primarily going to look for WR help from within,” as reported by Jordan Raanan of ESPN. “They have Charlie Jones as the returner with Braxton Berrios likely missing some time. They have Jalin Hyatt and Dalen Cambre on the practice squad.”

As initially expected, the Giants will try out their options already in East Rutherford before looking into free agency and the trade market. Because Berrios virtually has no role on offense and is purely a special teams player, the G-Men don’t have any need to go after a big name to bolster the position. They hope to make do with what they already have.

Sad ending to OBJ’s time in New York

After the offseason-long saga around Beckham Jr. and his return to the Big Apple, not many saw such an abrupt ending coming. Even if Beckham Jr. barely played any snaps in the 2026 NFL season, the fans in New York thought the organization would keep him around. However, the NFL is a cold business, and what doesn’t help a team win can be cast aside. Even a fan favorite of Odell’s caliber.

The way things ended between the two sides complicated a potential return after Berrios’ injury. Perhaps Beckham Jr. will someday have a third chapter in NYC, but it probably won’t be too soon. Based on Odell’s reaction to being cut, however, the bridge may have been burned completely.

Beckham Jr.’s statement

“I’m super smart! But I didn’t see this one my brother! They got me! They won on top of the money you talking about I made them. I came in humbly, took vet minimum then earned my spot and didn’t say nothing about no money which I know make for everybody. I will tell you this, I’m a grown man and this (expletive) didn’t hurt me, but it did when they cut me like that because part of me is like I should’ve known better,” Odell Beckham Jr. replied to a post on Instagram.

“Now let me tell you the real deal truth what hurt my heart to the core is coming home and seeing my son and how happy he was with no idea of what happened and talking about my job and jersey number 13. [That] broke me down. Funny thing about that is he said he likes 3 better and I find that very interesting… but again there was no real pain until you get home and your son gives you that hug like ‘I don’t care what happened daddy you’re the best and I love you… nothing better than that.

But yeah I don’t know why they even gave me the run along, I could’ve really been playing this year somewhere and making a impact and I mean that from a person who is humbled by God and life, so all I’m doing is getting ready for whatever God has for me and spreading love in the meantime.“

Key takeaways

• Head coach John Harbaugh stated the Giants will primarily seek wide receiver help from within.
• New York has Jalin Hyatt and Dalen Cambre on their practice squad.
• Odell Beckham Jr. expressed heartbreak over explaining his release to his young son.

In the bottom of the first inning, the Rays got off to a great start and had runners on first and second base as Junior Caminero stepped up to the plate. He hit a ground ball that shortstop George Lombard Jr. handed to Chisholm Jr. for an out at second. Instead of settling for the one-out play, Jazz went for the double play, making an ill-advised throw to first that missed Luis Garcia by a mile. That error allowed Yandy Diaz to open the scoring and Caminero to reach second.

With his back turned and in an awkward position, the odds of Chisholm making that throw were very low, and in such a high-stakes scenario, Aaron Boone would’ve instructed the pending free agent to hold on to the ball 10 out of 10 times. Following the 5-2 loss that pushed the Yankees to the brink of elimination and was filled with errors on defense for New York, Chisholm Jr. dropped a bold statement about his error, one that fans didn’t take lightly.

“Honestly, I’d probably still throw it,” Chisholm Jr. said, via Chris Kirschner of The Athletic, on the play. “The play was trying to be made. I just feel like I could have probably tried to make an even better throw. Where I’d throw it, I’d try and throw it a little more closer to the base. My back was turned.”

Yankees fans bash Jazz

The error in the first inning of Game 2 of the ALDS might as well recap Chisholm’s year in a nutshell. It’s been that type of season for the soon-to-be free agent in MLB, and he’s been hearing it from fans all year long.

If his errors, subpar batting numbers, and eyebrow-raising comments are combined with the fact that qualifying offers in MLB will only get more expensive, it might put the writing on the wall for Jazz’s time in The Bronx. Clearly, most fans on social media have made up their minds.

“Chisholm is hopeless. He’s a legend in his own mind,” one fan wrote on X. “Saying ‘even better’ is implying the throw was good to begin with. That (expletive) ball landed back in Yankee stadium,” another one replied to Chisholm’s statement. “If you as a player are hitting the deck as you are going to throw, don’t throw it. Your odds of making an accurate throw are slim to none. Jazz’s pride is what will always outweigh his immense talent,” a Yankees fan stated.

Rough outing for NY Yankees

For the second straight game at Tropicana Field, the Yankees didn’t quite look like themselves. They have seemingly turned away from what was working after doing all the right things against the Boston Red Sox in the AL Wild Card. Obviously, the Rays are a much better team, but it’s often through self-inflicted injuries that the Pinstripers hurt themselves.

As much controversy as his comment on the error may bring, Chisholm described the game perfectly during his locker room media availability. “We beat ourselves today in a lot of ways,” he said.

New York has its back against the wall, only one loss away from the 2026 season being over. Once that happens, Pandora’s box will open in The Bronx, with Chisholm Jr. likely to be one of the first to feel the immediate effects, and a long winter of questions will begin.

Key takeaways

• Jazz Chisholm Jr. made a first-inning throwing error during Game 2 of the ALDS.
• The Tampa Bay Rays defeated the New York Yankees 5-2, placing New York on the brink of elimination.
• “Honestly, I’d probably still throw it,” Chisholm Jr. said regarding his errant throw.

It’s clear the Blackhawks need Bedard back in the lineup as soon as possible. The terrible 0-3-0 start to the NHL regular season paints a clear picture, and Kane wasn’t above admitting they could really use Bedard back. Of course, he understands Chicago’s careful approach, but he did put pressure on the Blackhawks regardless.

“Obviously we know how big [Bedard] is to our team and how much he means to our team. He looks good to me. We’d love to have him back as soon as possible,” Kane said, via Charlie Roumeliotis on X. “You want him to take care of himself though and make sure he’s good for the rest of his career, but, yeah, we definitely miss him.”

Bedard may not play on Kane’s line

Making his first appearance in a team practice since undergoing left-shoulder surgery over the summer, Bedard’s participation in team drills may hint at who he may play alongside once he’s cleared to return to NHL action.

On that note, it may be discouraging for fans to learn that Bedard wasn’t on Kane’s line during rushes. Sporting a non-contact jersey, Bedard instead alternated with Teuvo Teravainen to fill in on the second line alongside Anton Frondell and Tyler Bertuzzi.

Bedard has history with Bertuzzi, Frondell

In more ways than one, it makes sense. Before the Hawks really made an effort to help out Bedard with a better supporting cast, he and Bertuzzi kept what little hopes there were in Chicago alive. Bedard and Bertuzzi have a lot of chemistry together, and it makes sense why the young captain could be used next to the veteran alternate (not named Kane).

As for Frondell, the rookie center did play a couple of games with Bedard last season, and it appears Jeff Blashill wants to see what more he can get out of that partnership, which may very well be the blueprint for the future in Windy City.

Bedard will have to wait a bit more

Still, many would’ve liked to see Bedard next to Kane. The time will come when the Hawks will use that combination, but for now, they would rather balance their lineup. Or at least test out their options.

Bedard still hasn’t been cleared for contact. Until that river is crossed, his return to the lineup will remain on hold, and all the talk about where he should play and who should be around him won’t mean much. It’s all conjecture.

Key takeaways

• Patrick Kane praised Connor Bedard’s recovery, saying he looks good and is missed.
• Chicago Blackhawks are off to a 0–3–0 start to the regular season.
• Bedard alternated on the second line during practice rather than skating with Kane.

Although the Yankees players don’t have their names on the backs of their jerseys, every fan in MLB knows who No. 13 on the Pinstripers is, and they also know how much pressure is on him throughout the 2026 campaign. Chisholm Jr. is set to become a free agent once the season comes to an end, regardless of how deep into October he and New York can go.

Once the best month of the year in baseball is over, Chisholm Jr.’s future will be up in the air, and the Bronx Bombers will have to make a decision. Based on reports around the Big Apple, the qualifying-offer route remains an option for the Yankees, but it’s set to become an even more expensive one.

According to a report from Joel Sherman on the New York Post, the qualifying offer number will rise from the $22.03 million set last winter to $23.1 million next offseason. For the time being, the MLB and Players’ Association (MLBPA) have yet to reach a final agreement, but it looks imminent the price will go up.

How it affects the NY Yankees

Although it’s reportedly only a little over a million-dollar increase, the rising qualifying-offer price might affect New York’s decision-making when it comes to Chisholm Jr.’s contract situation.

The Yankees and Chisholm avoided arbitration last year by agreeing on a one-year, $10.2 million deal, and the two parties may be headed for even more drama in 2026 and 2027, too.

Pros and cons of qualifying offer

There is a risk-reward aspect to extending a qualifying offer that the Pinstripers will have to weigh carefully before deciding what to do. If the Yankees extend a qualifying offer to Chisholm, then they would—in the worst-case scenario, assuming he signs with a different MLB club—receive a compensatory draft selection. If Chisholm Jr., on the other hand, accepts the offer and signs again in the Bronx, then the Yankees will keep their second baseman, but at a high price.

Chisholm Jr. contract talks

Put strictly in numbers, a $23 million qualifying offer would be more than a 100 percent raise over Jazz’s $10.2 million salary in 2026. Considering the struggles he’s had throughout the regular season, in which he posted career-worst averages and OPS over a full season, it would be too big a reward for what was anything but a smooth-sailing contract year for the two-time All-Star in New York.

The alternative is either letting Chisholm Jr. go and test the free-agent market or negotiating a new deal with him, while being left vulnerable to him signing elsewhere and truly coming away empty-handed.

As things stand, a one-year, $23.1 million contract for Chisholm Jr. would be absurd business for the Yankees. However, with the postseason ongoing, nothing can be ruled out until the Bronx Bombers see the complete story unfold.

Chisholm Jr. could re-sign for less money

There’s also a scenario in which Chisholm Jr. wants to return to The Bronx in 2027 and won’t demand what looks like a ridiculous qualifying-offer, one-year contract, but will instead settle for a lower deal in favor of long-term job security.

Whichever is the case, it will only be clearer when the 2026 MLB Postseason comes to an end, or at least when the Yankees’ journey finishes. Until then, Chisholm and company will remain focused on the postseason, but the buzz around his future won’t go anywhere.

Key takeaways

• New York Yankees are facing a decision on Jazz Chisholm Jr. before free agency.
• MLB qualifying offer price is set to increase to $23.1 million next offseason.
• He previously signed a $10.2 million one-year deal to avoid arbitration last year.