NFL
10 Packers players who need to get healthy during bye week
10 Packers players who need to get healthy during bye week
The Green Bay Packers are on the bye this week. While the Packers need to improve in a few key areas coming out of the bye, the most important aspect of the off week is an ability to rest up and heal injuries.
Matt LaFleur’s team limped into the bye. No player is fully healthy two months into a season, but several key players were either injured and out or playing through old injuries during last week’s home loss to the Detroit Lions.
Getting hot will require getting their best from top players. Here are the important Packers who need to get healthy during the bye:
QB Jordan Love (knee/groin)
The bye should give Love a chance to put his Week 1 MCL sprain fully behind him while also giving his strained groin more time to get to 100 percent before the Packers return to practice and begin on-field prep for the Bears next week. Missed practice time has almost certainly affected Love’s game performance. Remember, he’s a second-year starter who has missed a lot of reps due to injuries this season. Getting a consistent run of full practices and two healthy legs could help him rediscover timing with receivers — possibly leading to better ball placement — and give him better mobility in and out of the pocket. Love has scrambled only five times this season. He’ll also be able to play under center more effectively, helping the play-action passing game.
CB Jaire Alexander (knee)
The Packers’ top cornerback missed his second game of the 2024 season with a knee injury ahead of the bye. The team listed him as questionable to play in Week 9, so it’s possible the knee injury isn’t a long-term issue and Alexander will return next week ready to go. The two-time All-Pro battled quad and groin injuries before the new knee issue. The Packers need Alexander healthy, available and playing at a dominant level down the stretch. He’s the team’s best corner by a mile.
C Josh Myers (wrist)
Not having Myers available due to a wrist injury hurt the Packers in the rain against the Lions. Will the injury be a factor coming out of the bye? Any injury to a hand or wrist is a big one for a player who has to handle the ball and use his hands to block 315-pounders every snap. The Packers could survive with Elgton Jenkins at center and Jordan Morgan and Sean Rhyan at guard, but last week’s loss proved how difficult it can be to make a switch at center.
RB Josh Jacobs (ankle)
Jacobs’ ankle got banged up in Jacksonville, and he played through the injury last week. But there’s clearly pain involved, and Jacobs briefly left the field after limping off last Sunday. Running backs take so much punishment over the course of the season, so the bye came at a good time for Jacobs. He’s been a consistent producer all season, and the Packers need him to carry a big load over the final eight games. He should be closer to 100 percent coming out of the bye.
DL Kenny Clark (toe)
While he hasn’t missed any games, Clark has rather quietly been listed on the injury report every week since Week 2 with a toe injury. It’s fair to wonder if the toe issue could be affecting his on-field performance. Injuries to the feet can be a big deal for a 314-pound defensive lineman who relies on explosion and strength off the ball. He also added a shoulder injury last week. Could the week off allow Clark to get over the injuries? Through nine games, Clark has zero sacks, two quarterback hits and two tackles for loss. He needs to be much more productive as a disruptor during the final eight games.
OL Elgton Jenkins (glute/knee)
Like Clark, Jenkins has played through lingering injury for most of the season. The veteran offensive lineman has dealt with knee and glute injuries for the better part of the last six weeks but hasn’t missed play time. While Jenkins has allowed only eight pressures in pass protection, he’s consistently graded poorly at PFF for run blocking.
TE Tucker Kraft (shoulder)
The Packers have kept Kraft in a red non-contact uniform during practices to protect his injured shoulder. He’s also played through a groin injury. The shoulder is probably the more important injury considering Kraft is an important inline and move blocker for the run game. A week off for the shoulder should help the Packers’ ascending young tight end be even better over the final two months.
S Evan Williams (hamstring)
The rookie fourth-rounder has become one of the Packers’ most important defenders, and the defense missed him badly in Jacksonville and last week against the Lions while he was out with a hamstring injury. A week off should be exactly what the doctor ordered, and it won’t be surprising if Williams is ready to return next week against the Bears. With Williams available, the Packers can move Javon Bullard to the slot and Keisean Nixon out side, which appears to be the defense’s preferred lineup. More than anything, the Packers need Williams’ valuable combination of reliability and playmaking ability back at safety.
RB MarShawn Lloyd (ankle)
The Packers believe Lloyd is close to coming off injured reserve and returning to the 53-man roster. In fact, Brian Gutekunst said Lloyd could take Preston Smith’s roster spot going into next week. While the Packers are in good shape at running back, Lloyd could add a little more explosiveness to the offense down the stretch. The rookie has rare quickness at 220 pounds. He could be hard to tackle as a backup option behind Josh Jacobs in December and January.
DL Devonte Wyatt (ankle)
Before his ankle injury, Wyatt produced nine pressures and three sacks in four games. Since returning from his ankle injury, Wyatt has only three hurries across 30 pass-rushing snaps. He was limited at practice before facing the Lions, so it’s possible Wyatt will return next week and be closer to full participation. The Packers need him and Clark to be interior game-wreckers to end the 2024 season.
Four Saints veterans named the best players to wear their jersey numbers
The New Orleans Saints have a lot of questions surrounding their roster as they enter the 2025 season, but there are a handful of veterans who have proven to still be among the best in the NFL.
Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports recently released a list of the top players in the league at every jersey number from 0-99. There were four Saints players included: Alvin Kamara for No. 41, Demario Davis for No. 56, Juwan Johnson for No. 83 and Carl Granderson for No. 96.
Kamara doesn’t have very much competition for being representative of the No. 41 jersey. Other players there include Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end Ko Kieft and Dallas Cowboys rookie defender Donovan Ezeiruaku. Even if there were other stars, it would be hard to finish ahead of Kamara, who could once again be one of the NFL’s best running backs this season.
The other players at No. 56 that stand out other than Davis are Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Alex Highsmith and Indianapolis Colts guard Quenton Nelson, both of whom are very good at football. Davis has finished with at least 100 tackles each year since coming to New Orleans and has earned the NFL’s respect as one of the best linebackers in the sport.
Johnson is still waiting for his true breakout campaign at tight end for the Saints, but he has shown flashes. Still, he is the right choice for No. 83, which is mostly several unproven tight ends and wide receivers.
There are a couple of other defensive linemen who share No. 96 with Granderson, but the only one with a real argument would maybe be New York Jets star Leonard Taylor III. Granderson will need to bring his sack numbers back up in 2025, but he still probably the right choice.
INCOMING: Kellen Moore Embarks On New Era For New Orleans Saints With Hopes Of Resurrecting Glory Day
Kellen Moore embarks on new era for New Orleans Saints with hopes of resurrecting glory days
The New Orleans Saints find themselves standing at the crossroads of hope and opportunity as they gear up for the 2024 season, following a disappointing campaign that concluded with a 5-12 record. The franchise has embraced the winds of change with the hiring of head coach Kellen Moore, signaling a commitment to rejuvenation. This offseason has been bustling with transformative moves that may well pave the way for a more promising future.
The current roster reflects a thoughtful blend of experienced veterans and eager newcomers, providing a strong foundation for growth. Talented additions like Tyler Shough and Kelvin Banks Jr. inject youthful dynamism into the squad, creating an environment ripe for progress. Despite the setbacks of the previous season, the NFC South remains relatively accessible, with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as the only team boasting a winning record at 10-7. This landscape opens a window of opportunity for the Saints to reestablish their competitive edge in the division.
With an emphasis on health and stability, the Saints stand a genuine chance to approach .500 this season. The progress of key players, particularly quarterbacks like Shough and Spencer Rattler, will be vital as they aim to bridge the competitive gap with Tampa Bay.
A Need for Defensive Reinforcements
To enhance their prospects further, strengthening the defense—particularly the secondary—should be a priority. The cornerback position has emerged as a critical area for improvement, leading to speculation surrounding the potential signing of veteran cornerback Stephon Gilmore. His addition could inject both talent and leadership into a young and developing defense.
Gilmore, a two-time All-Pro and the 2019 AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year, has shown signs of decline recently but remains a force to be reckoned with. In his last season with the Minnesota Vikings, he recorded nine pass breakups, 49 tackles, and one interception, showcasing his enduring capability. His extensive experience in high-stakes situations, underscored by a Super Bowl victory and five Pro Bowl selections, positions him as a significant asset for any franchise.
The Right Fit for a New Scheme
Under the guidance of new defensive coordinator Brandon Staley, the Saints will implement a hybrid defensive scheme mirroring the system in which Gilmore thrived during his time with the New England Patriots. This familiarity could facilitate a seamless transition for Gilmore, allowing him to maximize his contribution to the field.
Gilmore has also expressed a keen interest in mentoring younger players, which makes him an attractive candidate for a cornerback room eager for guidance. His presence would not only enhance the Saints’ defensive unit but also nurture the development of emerging talents like Alontae Taylor, ideally positioned for a slot role.
Bringing a player of Gilmore’s pedigree on board would markedly elevate the Saints’ defensive prowess, addressing one of the most vulnerable positions on the roster. As the team looks ahead to the upcoming season, the potential acquisition of a seasoned cornerback like Gilmore could serve as the crucial missing piece in their quest for supremacy within the NFC South. United by veteran experience and youthful zeal, the Saints are laying the groundwork for a season filled with potential and aspirations for greatness.
NFL
BREAKING: New Orleans Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler has announced an unprecedented act of generosity: he will donate his entire $20 million NFL signing
New Orleans Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler has announced an unprecedented act of generosity: he will donate his entire $20 million NFL signing
New Orleans, LA – July 1, 2025 – In a move that has sent shockwaves of admiration and inspiration throughout the sports world and beyond, New Orleans Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler has announced an unprecedented act of generosity: he will donate his entire $20 million NFL signing bonus to combat homelessness across the United States. This monumental decision, hailed as one of the most significant philanthropic gestures ever made by a professional athlete, transcends the game of football and sets a new benchmark for social responsibility.
Rattler, whose journey from highly touted high school prospect to NFL draftee has been closely watched, made the stunning announcement during a press conference that was initially expected to focus on the standard formalities of his new professional career. Instead, the young quarterback used the platform to declare his profound commitment to addressing one of society’s most pressing issues.
“From a very young age, I’ve been incredibly fortunate,” Rattler stated, his voice steady with conviction. “I’ve had a roof over my head, food on my table, and the unwavering support of my family and community. As I embark on this new chapter in my life, I felt a deep responsibility to use this incredible blessing to help those who are not as fortunate.”
The $20 million signing bonus, a substantial sum for any rookie, represents the initial financial security most professional athletes dream of. For Rattler to forgo it entirely for a charitable cause is a testament to his character and a profound understanding of his platform. His decision immediately drew comparisons to other notable acts of athletic philanthropy, but the sheer scale of this donation, particularly from a rookie, places it in a league of its own.
The funds will be allocated to a newly established foundation, “Rattler’s Road Home,” which will partner with established non-profit organizations across the country dedicated to providing shelter, resources, and pathways to stability for individuals experiencing homelessness. The foundation aims to support initiatives ranging from emergency housing and food assistance to job training programs, mental health services, and long-term transitional housing solutions.
“This isn’t just about handing out money; it’s about investing in solutions,” Rattler explained. “We want to work with organizations that have proven track records, that understand the complexities of homelessness, and that are committed to creating sustainable change. My goal is to help build a future where everyone has a place to call home.”
Rattler’s collegiate career at South Carolina was marked by resilience and a determination to prove his capabilities. After transferring from Oklahoma, he embraced the challenge of leading the Gamecocks, showcasing flashes of brilliance and a competitive fire that endeared him to fans. His leadership and performance, particularly in key moments, solidified his draft stock and ultimately led to his significant NFL contract. Now, his off-field actions are poised to leave an even more indelible mark.
The reaction from the NFL, his new team, and the wider public has been overwhelmingly positive. League officials praised Rattler’s selflessness, with many hoping his actions will inspire other athletes to consider similar large-scale philanthropic endeavors. Teammates, coaches, and former mentors have lauded his maturity and compassion, emphasizing that this act is entirely consistent with the person they know.
Spencer has always been a person of immense character,” commented [Name of NFL Head Coach/GM], Rattler’s new Saints coach/general manager. “This decision speaks volumes about who he is as a human being. We are incredibly proud to have him as part of our organization, not just for his talent on the field, but for the example he sets off it.”
Experts in philanthropy and social welfare have also weighed in, highlighting the potential impact of such a substantial donation. “A $20 million commitment can be truly transformative in the fight against homelessness,” said Dr. Eleanor Vance, a leading researcher on social policy. “It provides the kind of sustained funding necessary to scale up successful programs, innovate new solutions, and make a tangible difference in thousands of lives. Spencer Rattler’s generosity could inspire a new wave of giving.”
Rattler’s decision also brings much-needed attention to the issue of homelessness, which affects millions of people across the United States. By leveraging his newfound wealth and public platform, he is shining a spotlight on a crisis that often remains in the shadows, encouraging broader dialogue and action.
As Spencer Rattler prepares to embark on his professional football career, his legacy is already being shaped by an act of profound compassion. He has demonstrated that true success extends beyond personal gain, finding its deepest meaning in the ability to uplift and empower others. His $20 million pledge is not just a donation; it is a beacon of hope, a call to action, and a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have when they choose to lead with generosity and heart. The sports world has a new hero, and his impact will be felt far beyond the gridiron.
NFL NEWS: Aaron Rodgers confirms whether his next team will be Saints
After rumors linking him to New Orleans, Aaron Rodgers has finally spoken out about the Saints. His clear comments about the possibility of joining Kellen Moore shed light on his next move, leaving fans eager to see how the Steelers fit into the picture.
Rodgers has publicly confirmed that he will not play for the Saints. After rumors linking him to that team following Derek Carr’s retirement, there is now no doubt that New Orleans is not an option for the veteran quarterback. So, one step closer to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
During an event with Mike Stud in Austin, a woman asked Rodgers this about his future: “So, we are from about an hour south of New Orleans and, as you know, we don’t have a quarterback and you are a free agent now. Would you ever consider playing for the Saints and making us great again.”
The Super Bowl champion quarterback’s response was direct: “No. That’s the answer. I played there a couple of times, but, no. The answer is no. I’m too old. I don’t want to live in Louisiana. Sorry.”
What team is Aaron Rodgers going to?
One thing is certain. Aaron Rodgers is not going to the New Orleans Saints, as the veteran quarterback publicly spoke about that option for the first time. Now, everything seems to indicate that his next team will be the Pittsburgh Steelers.
However, given Rodgers’ delay in making a decision, one option that still can’t be ruled out is retirement. Aaron looked very relaxed during the event and, although he dropped hints about a possible move to Pittsburgh, the reality is that nothing is set in stone.
Who is the QB for the Saints right now?
What’s interesting is that, amid all the uncertainty surrounding the situation, there is at least one official answer: the Saints have no chance of signing Aaron Rodgers. As of now, their starting quarterback is between Tyler Shough and Spencer Rattler.
“The Saint of the Bayou: Drew Brees’ Enduring Legacy in New Orleans”
In the city of New Orleans, where jazz flows like the Mississippi River and Mardi Gras reigns supreme, one name stands tall among the sports pantheon: Drew Brees. The legendary quarterback’s impact on the city and the New Orleans Saints transcends the gridiron, weaving itself into the very fabric of the community.
A Saint Among Saints
Drew Brees’ journey to New Orleans was nothing short of serendipitous. After a storied collegiate career at Purdue University, Brees was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in 2001. Though he showed flashes of brilliance, it wasn’t until he donned the black and gold of the Saints in 2006 that his career truly flourished. With the guidance of coach Sean Payton and a talented roster, Brees transformed the Saints into a perennial powerhouse.
Super Bowl XLIV Champion
The crowning jewel of Brees’ career is undoubtedly the Saints’ Super Bowl XLIV victory over the Indianapolis Colts in 2010. With 25 seconds remaining, Brees led a masterful drive, culminating in Lance Calloway’s game-sealing touchdown reception. The city erupted in jubilation, and Brees, overcome with emotion, celebrated with his teammates and the delirious Saints faithful.
The Numbers Speak
Brees’ statistical résumé is staggering: NFL record-holder for career passing yards (77,848), completions (7,142), and attempts (10,568). He boasts 571 touchdown passes and a passer rating of 97.8. These numbers only scratch the surface of his greatness, as Brees’ intelligence, work ethic, and leadership elevated those around him.
Brees’ Impact on and off the Field
Beyond the stats, Brees’ impact on the city and its people cannot be overstated. Through the Brees Dream Foundation, he has supported numerous charitable initiatives, including the construction of the Brees Academy, a charter school in New Orleans. His tireless work ethic and commitment to community service have inspired countless fans and teammates alike.
A Lasting Legacy
As Brees’ playing career drew to a close, the city of New Orleans prepared to bid farewell to its beloved quarterback. Though his retirement marked the end of an era, Brees’ legacy will endure. The Saints’ iconic stadium, previously known as the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, was renamed the Caesars Superdome in 2021, but many fans still affectionately refer to it as “The Dome” or “The Brees Dome.”
The Future of the Saints
With Brees’ departure, the Saints have entered a new era, one marked by transition and rebirth. Though the quarterback position will undoubtedly be filled by a new face, the foundation laid by Brees will remain. His leadership, work ethic, and commitment to excellence will continue to inspire the Saints’ organization and its fans.
A Saint Forever
As the years pass, Drew Brees’ legend will only continue to grow. His name will be etched alongside other New Orleans sports icons, like Jackie Robinson and Deuce McAllister. Though he may no longer take the field, Brees’ impact on the city, the Saints, and the NFL will be felt for generations to come.
In the city of New Orleans, where jazz and joy flow freely, Drew Brees’ legacy will forever be woven into the fabric of the community. He may have hung up his cleats, but the Saint of the Bayou will always be revered as a hero, a champion, and a true leader.
Drew Brees’ Career Highlights:
– *Super Bowl XLIV Champion
– NFL Record-Holder for Career Passing Yards
– *7 Pro Bowl appearances
– *4 NFL passing yards leader
– *2 NFL passer rating leader
– *Brees Dream Foundation
The legacy of Drew Brees will continue to inspire and influence the city of New Orleans and the Saints organization for years to come. His impact on the NFL and the community is immeasurable, cementing his place as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
