RECORD BREAKER: Saints’ Taysom Hill pulls off versatile feat not accomplished since 1971 - soccerdelights.com
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RECORD BREAKER: Saints’ Taysom Hill pulls off versatile feat not accomplished since 1971

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RECORD BREAKER: Saints’ Taysom Hill pulls off versatile feat not accomplished since 1971

Though the idea of a “positionless” player is admittedly more of a basketball concept, New Orleans Saints’ Swiss Army Knife Taysom Hill brings this notion to the gridiron. Though he’s listed as a tight end on Pro Football Reference, Hill has done the majority of his damage this season on the ground, and famously, he spelled Drew Brees at quarterback with regularity during the final couple of seasons of his career.

This is all to say that when you play the New Orleans Saints, it’s possible that Taysom Hill can beat you in a multitude of ways, and on Sunday afternoon, the Cleveland Browns learned this the hard way.

On X (formerly Twitter), ESPN’s Katherine Terrell noted that per ESPN Research, Taysom Hill became the first player to have three rushing touchdowns, 50 receiving yards and 1 pass completion in a single game since former Kansas City Chiefs running back Ed Podolak did so in 1971.

Podolak, like Hill, was a quarterback for a portion of his collegiate career before eventually converting to another position. He retired in 1977 as Kansas City’s all-time leading rusher, and he led the Chiefs in both receiving yards and punt return yards on three different occasions.

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BREAKING NEWS: New Orleans Sanits Interim Head Coach Darren Rizzi terminates his contract with Sanits and sign contract with Dallas Cowboys worth $346.4 millions

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BREAKING NEWS: New Orleans Sanits Interim Head Coach Darren Rizzi terminates his contract with Sanits and sign contract with Dallas Cowboys worth $346.4 millions

In a bombshell move that has sent shockwaves throughout the NFL, Darren Rizzi, the head coach of the New Orleans Saints, has officially terminated his contract with the team and signed a staggering 10-year, $346.4 million deal with the Dallas Cowboys. This monumental shift in the league’s power dynamics marks a stunning turn of events for both the Saints and the Cowboys, setting the stage for a new era in Dallas and leaving fans, analysts, and experts alike speculating about the future of these two high-profile franchises.

The decision by Rizzi, who has been widely praised for his leadership and success in New Orleans, comes as a huge surprise to both the NFL community and the Saints’ fanbase. Just days after leading the Saints to another playoff appearance, Rizzi’s unexpected departure leaves a giant void in New Orleans. At the same time, it signals the beginning of a new chapter for the Dallas Cowboys, a team that has been struggling to find long-term stability at the head coach position for years.

The Unprecedented Deal

The deal that has been signed between Darren Rizzi and the Dallas Cowboys is an unprecedented one, both in terms of financial value and the length of the contract. Rizzi’s $346.4 million deal makes him the highest-paid head coach in NFL history by a significant margin, surpassing the previous record set by the Green Bay Packers’ Matt LaFleur, who signed a 5-year, $100 million deal last offseason.

Rizzi’s contract is unique not only because of its staggering size but also its length—10 years. This long-term commitment from Cowboys owner Jerry Jones signals that the franchise is fully invested in Rizzi’s vision for the future of the team and is willing to bet on his ability to turn the Cowboys into a perennial Super Bowl contender over the next decade.

Sources close to the negotiations have confirmed that the contract includes a variety of performance-based incentives, such as bonuses for playoff appearances, divisional championships, and Super Bowl victories. Rizzi is also believed to have secured significant control over personnel decisions, including the ability to influence the team’s draft strategy, free-agent signings, and trades—putting him in an elevated position of power within the Cowboys organization.

Rizzi’s Impact on the Saints

Darren Rizzi had been with the New Orleans Saints for several years, serving as the team’s special teams coordinator before being elevated to head coach. He quickly became known for his ability to build strong, disciplined teams that could compete at the highest level. Under his leadership, the Saints reached multiple playoff berths and even won the NFC South title twice, solidifying Rizzi as one of the top rising stars in NFL coaching circles.

Rizzi’s coaching style was widely admired for its focus on discipline, strategy, and adaptability. As head coach, he showed an ability to get the best out of his players on both sides of the ball. His relationship with veteran quarterback Derek Carr was instrumental in guiding the Saints through challenging seasons, particularly as the team navigated a post-Drew Brees era. Rizzi’s track record of success in New Orleans made him a hot commodity in the coaching market, but few expected him to leave after such a strong run with the Saints.

When the news broke that Rizzi had terminated his contract with New Orleans, fans and team officials were caught off guard. Saints general manager Mickey Loomis issued a statement expressing disappointment at Rizzi’s decision, acknowledging that his departure would be a significant loss to the team. Despite the abrupt nature of the move, Loomis wished Rizzi well in his new role, thanking him for his contributions to the organization.

Jerry Jones’ Bold Move

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has never been one to shy away from bold decisions, and his latest move to poach Darren Rizzi from the Saints reflects his continued desire to secure a Super Bowl title. The Cowboys have long been one of the most high-profile and successful franchises in NFL history, but in recent years, they have struggled to break through the postseason and secure a championship.

In particular, the Cowboys have faced criticism for their inability to find a coach who could consistently lead the team deep into the playoffs. While previous head coaches like Jason Garrett, Bill Parcells, and Mike McCarthy have all had their moments, none were able to deliver the sustained success that Jones craves.

Jones has been on the hunt for a coach who can bring a winning mentality and a clear vision for success. His decision to offer Rizzi such an enormous contract demonstrates his belief in Rizzi’s ability to take the Cowboys to the next level. Jones is known for being deeply involved in the day-to-day operations of the Cowboys, but this deal signals a willingness to empower Rizzi and give him the autonomy he needs to succeed.

While many questioned whether such a massive contract was warranted for a coach with no previous head coaching experience at the NFL level, Jones is clearly betting that Rizzi’s combination of leadership, strategy, and familiarity with winning football will translate to success in Dallas. With an offense led by Dak Prescott, a defense featuring playmakers like Micah Parsons and Trevon Diggs, and a talented roster, the Cowboys have the potential to compete for championships in the coming years.

Rizzi’s Decision: Why Dallas?

When asked why he decided to leave the Saints for the Cowboys, Rizzi shared a statement that indicated both professional and personal reasons for the move.

“I’ve had an incredible journey with the New Orleans Saints, and I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to lead such a talented and resilient team,” Rizzi said in his official statement. “But when Jerry Jones and the Cowboys came to me with this opportunity, I felt that this was the next step in my growth as a coach. The Dallas Cowboys represent everything I want in a franchise—an unwavering commitment to excellence, a passionate fanbase, and the resources to compete for championships year after year. It’s an honor to be entrusted with such a responsibility, and I’m excited to build a legacy here.”

Rizzi’s decision to leave New Orleans also seems to have been influenced by the allure of coaching a historic franchise like the Cowboys. While he undoubtedly had a successful tenure in New Orleans, the opportunity to coach a team with such high expectations and resources likely proved too appealing to pass up. Additionally, the enormous financial commitment from Jones may have been a decisive factor in making this transition.

What Does This Mean for the Cowboys?

Darren Rizzi’s hiring signals a fresh start for the Dallas Cowboys. With the team having failed to win a Super Bowl since the 1995 season, the pressure on Rizzi will be immense, but the opportunity to succeed is equally massive.

One of the first challenges for Rizzi will be working with quarterback Dak Prescott, who has shown flashes of brilliance but has struggled with consistency in recent seasons. Rizzi’s experience in developing quarterbacks and building dynamic offenses could be crucial to Prescott’s growth and the Cowboys’ ability to compete at the highest level.

Rizzi will also need to build a strong relationship with Cowboys star defenders like Micah Parsons, who has quickly become one of the best pass rushers in the NFL. The defense has been a major strength for Dallas in recent years, and Rizzi will have to ensure that it remains dominant while also developing a more explosive and effective offense.

Ultimately, Rizzi’s ability to balance both sides of the ball and manage a star-studded roster will determine whether he can succeed in Dallas. With Jones’ financial backing and full support, Rizzi has a clear path to success, but the pressure will be unrelenting. Cowboys fans will expect immediate results, and the franchise’s lofty expectations will provide little room for failure.

The Fallout in New Orleans

For the Saints, Rizzi’s sudden departure leaves them with a huge vacancy at head coach. While Rizzi was not as synonymous with the team as former head coaches like Sean Payton or Jim Mora, he had still developed a reputation as a competent and disciplined leader. New Orleans will now need to find a replacement who can continue the success that Rizzi helped cultivate, especially given the team’s playoff aspirations.

The Saints’ front office will likely turn to veteran coaches or up-and-coming coordinators to fill the position, but whoever they hire will face significant challenges in maintaining the team’s competitive edge in a crowded NFC South division. While the Saints still have a talented roster and a stable front office, Rizzi’s departure is undoubtedly a blow to the team’s continuity.

Conclusion

Darren Rizzi’s unexpected move from the New Orleans Saints to the Dallas Cowboys is a monumental moment in NFL history. His massive $346.4 million contract and the promise of a decade-long partnership with the Cowboys signifies Jerry Jones’ unwavering belief that Rizzi is the coach who can finally deliver the long-awaited Super Bowl championship to Dallas.

While Rizzi’s departure leaves a gaping hole in New Orleans, the future of the Cowboys has never looked more promising—or more uncertain. As the NFL world watches closely, all eyes will be on Rizzi as he begins his new journey in Dallas, determined to fulfill the enormous potential that Jerry Jones believes he holds. The next chapter of the Cowboys’ storied franchise is officially in motion, and it’s one that will define the careers of both Rizzi and the team for years to come.

 

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The NFL Has a New King: Jalen Hurts Achieves the Impossible, Matches Tom Brady’s Iconic Feat and Crowns the League Top QB

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The NFL Has a New King: Jalen Hurts Achieves the Impossible, Matches Tom Brady’s Iconic Feat and Crowns the League Top QB

Jalen Hurts is back to the top. After falling short to Kansas City Chiefs superstar Patrick Mahomes in the Super Bowl two years ago, Hurts has slowly made his way back. Now, two trips around the sun later, the Philadelphia Eagles are once again 60 minutes away from hoisting the Lombardi Trophy.

Robert Griffin III gave his verdict on Jalen Hurts and his feelings on Jayden Daniels in the game that got the Eagles there. Saquon Barkley could be playing a role in hurting Hurts’ reputation, one expert’s assessment claimed just days prior, adding fuel to the conversation in the zeitgeist. Of course, many argue that out of the two remaining quarterbacks, Mahomes is closer to Tom Brady than Hurts.

However, while that might be the case overall, Hurts has pulled himself into the Tom Brady tier in one specific statistic, according to former Chiefs backup Chase Daniel.

Chase Daniel calls for respect for Jalen Hurts

Speaking on a January 27 edition of “The Facility,” Chase Daniel explained the accomplishment that put Brady and Hurts on the same tier before issuing a call for ‘respect.’

“Another thing is there’s only been eight quarterbacks to reach two Super Bowls in the first five years of their career. Look at that list. Troy Aikman, Tom Brady, John Elway, Patrick Mahomes, Roethlisberger. Kurt Warner and Jalen hurts.

“Put up a little respect on that guy’s name. There’s only been eight to reach two Super Bowls within the first five years of his career,” he said.

Of course, still chasing his first Super Bowl win, Hurts still has a long way to go to match the legacy left by Tom Brady. Mahomes also has a marathon ahead of him to match Brady as well.

Jalen Hurts’ Super Bowl rival faces last chance at a Super Bowl in his 20s

The quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs is still young in the minds of most fans. However, the superstar is 29 years old, and set to turn 30 on September 17 before the next Super Bowl takes place. While he might have more games left in his 20s, this will be his last postseason appearance in his 20s.

As such, there is an added element of pressure to accomplish everything possible before the two becomes a three, starting with a win over Jalen Hurts. This could be an advantage for Hurts, who is still just 26.

Of course, turning 30 is far from the end for Patrick Mahomes.

Even conservative estimates give him another decade in the league. However, in about five years, the first whispers of his retirement might begin to trickle across feeds as questions build about his longevity. Right now, Mahomes is still in his prime, but it won’t last forever.

 

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Breaking: Aaron Glenn Set to Pursue Lions’ Defender and Shake Up Jets’ Roster

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Breaking: Aaron Glenn Set to Pursue Lions’ Defender and Shake Up Jets’ Roster

New head coach of the New York Jets, Aaron Glenn, reportedly has plans to beef up his new defense in the offseason.

Last week, Glenn left the Detroit Lions defensive coordinator position he had held since 2021 to oversee a rebuilding Jets team that is expected to part ways with star quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Glenn was a key coach in the Lions’ rebuild.

Detroit made the NFC Championship Game in 2023 and made it to the divisional round before the shorthanded team was defeated 45-31 by the Washington Commanders at Ford Field.

The New York Jets want a Detroit Lions linebacker

Per Tony Pauline of Sportskeeda, Glenn wants to bring a veteran member of the Lions’ defense to New York. Derrick Barnes is set to enter free agency, and the linebacker is expected to receive a bid from the Jets. The new regime could move on from All-Pro linebacker C.J. Mosley.

“As Aaron Glenn has been officially introduced as head coach of the New York Jets, many here in Frisco are predicting he will bring several of his former defensive players from the Detroit Lions to join him in New York once free agency begins; or at the very least he will pound the table to get them in a Jets uniform,” Pauline wrote from the East-West Shrine Bowl

“One player I’m told Glenn will target in free agency is linebacker Derrick Barnes, the Lions’ fourth-round pick out of Purdue in 2021 who will be on the free-agent market after completing his rookie contract. Barnes started 13 games in 2023, but he played in just three last season after tearing an ACL and PCL when he was cut block. Veteran linebacker C.J. Mosley will be 33 years old next season and carries a large cap number.”

Derrick Barnes would be a strong replacement for C.J. Mosley

Barnes was a fourth-round draft pick by the Lions in 2021. The former Purdue standout has appeared in 51 games and started 26. He’s recorded 205 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, four sacks, one forced fumble and four passes defensed.

At 25, the six-foot, 240-pound linebacker would be an intriguing option for New York to replace an aging Mosley. That is if the Jets can pry the Covington, Kentucky native away from Detroit and their new defensive coordinator.

 

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New Orleans Saints Eyeing Eagles Offensive Whiz After Clinching Super Bowl Berth

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New Orleans Saints Eyeing Eagles Offensive Whiz After Clinching Super Bowl Berth

Most of the open head coaching positions already have been filled since the regular season ended.

While this is the case, the New Orleans Saints are still looking for their next head coach. It’s unclear at this point who will end up landing the job, but it does sound like New Orleans has its eyes on a member of the Philadelphia Eagles at least for an interview.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported on Sunday that the Saints are planning to interview Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore for their open head coach position in person and could do so as soon as Monday.

“The Eagles are on to Super Bowl LIX, and the Saints’ head coaching search now will accelerate: They plan to conduct an in-person interview with OC Kellen Moore and likely will fly to Philly as soon as Monday to meet with him, sources tell The Insiders,” Rapoport said. “A big few days loom.”

Moore has been tied to a few jobs already throughout the playoffs. He was linked to the Dallas Cowboys and Jacksonville Jaguars but both jobs now are full. The Saints would seem to be the last hope for a head coaching job ahead of the 2025 season unless something surprising happens.

The Eagles offensive coordinator certainly is qualified, but he would be selfishly sad to see him go after all he did to transform Philadelphia’s offense this season. The Eagles are one win away from hoisting the Vince Lombardi Trophy. Moore’s coaching the offense this year certainly helped get them here.

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Maxx Crosby Post Revives Detroit Lions Trade Hopes

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Maxx Crosby Post Revives Detroit Lions Trade Hopes

Maxx Crosby is one of the Los Vegas Raiders’ top players, but he’s long been on the wish-list of Detroit Lions enthusiast.
It’s no secret that Detroit Lions fans really dig Michigan native Maxx Crosby. The Las Vegas Raiders defensive end was born and raised in Lapeer and played football at Eastern Michigan before heading to the NFL.

While it’s often been on the wish list of Lions fans to have Crosby back in the Mitten, that hasn’t transpired yet. Now, a mysterious social post from Crosby has some Lions followers talking and thinking he might actually be considering a trade, and they really hope it’s to Detroit.

Maxx Crosby Shares Mysterious Social Media Post
The Las Vegas Raiders had a rough season this year, as they have for the past few years, which has to be troubling for Crosby. But, Pete Carroll is coming in as the team’s new head coach, so things could turn around for the franchise.

On Friday, January 24, Crosby took to X to share, “Undisputed. They Will Wish They Treated You Better When Times Were Tough. The Fake Always Expose Themselves. Limitless,” leading some Lions fans to think that he’s indicating some kind of trade action.

Of course, Lions fans took to X to beg him to come to the Motor City. One noted, “Come home bro,” while another simply said, “Lion.”

If Crosby is considering a trade, it’s worth noting that he’s been connected with the Green Bay Packers in offseason trade talk.

Tyler Brooke of The 33rd Team has put together a deal in which the Raiders would send Crosby to the Green Bay Packers in exchange for some draft picks. Those draft picks would be significant, with a second-round pick and a third-round pick in exchange for Crosby.

“It would take significant resources to convince the Raiders to give up their franchise player in his prime,” Brooke stated in the January 21 feature. “However, if Crosby wants to play for a contender before the end of his career, then the Packers would be the perfect landing spot.”

Maxx Crosby Talks Up Lions, Pistons and Wings
As for the Lions, appearing on “Good Morning Football” on January 17, Crosby talked the Lions up and said he has mixed emotions about their success.

“My mom was born, raised in Detroit, my aunts and uncles. I grew up in Michigan right down the street. It’s incredible to see for the city because it’s been some long years,” Crosby said. “The Lions haven’t won in a long time and now you see the Pistons winning, the Red Wings are winning, and I have to watch from a distance. Even the Tigers, the Tigers are back winning. I’m like, ‘Damn, now I’m in Vegas.’ My whole childhood, I was in a tough place.”

While it’s obvious Crosby is fond of the Lions, and the feeling is mutual, in reality, there’s been no serious indication of him being traded away from the Raiders. With a new coach in the fold, that move seems even less likely.

Crosby signed a four-year, $94 Million contract with the Raiders in 2022, and he has an annual average salary of $23,500,000. The Las Vegas Raiders drafted him in the fourth round of the 2019 NFL Draft. For his 2024 campaign, Crosby had 45 tackles, 7.5 sacks, five passes defended in 12 games and made it to his fourth straight Pro Bowl.

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