NFL
CONFIRMED: New Orleans Saints Owner Gayle Benson makes smart move to appoint former Saints QB and franchise icon Drew Brees
CONFIRMED: New Orleans Saints Owner Gayle Benson makes smart move to appoint former Saints QB and franchise icon Drew Brees as new GM
In a move that has sent ripples of excitement through New Orleans, Saints owner Gayle Benson has officially appointed former Saints quarterback and franchise icon Drew Brees as the team’s new General Manager. This bold decision marks a strategic shift for the Saints organization after a series of disappointing decisions and management missteps under the previous GM, Mickey Loomis. Benson’s choice to bring Brees into the executive fold is not only a nod to his deep connection with the city and team but also a forward-thinking approach aimed at revitalizing a franchise with a storied legacy.
Mickey Loomis, who had held the GM position for two decades, experienced considerable highs, including the Saints’ 2009 Super Bowl victory. However, recent years have been marred by questionable trades, inconsistent draft choices, and lingering cap issues that have plagued the Saints’ ability to build a stable roster. From unsuccessful attempts to find a long-term solution at quarterback to salary cap mismanagement, Loomis’ leadership seemed to falter in recent years, leading Benson to make a tough but necessary change.
By appointing Brees, Benson aims to reinvigorate a team that has struggled with both on-field performance and off-field cohesion. Brees, who holds a revered place in Saints history as the quarterback who helped transform the team into a perennial playoff contender, brings an intimate understanding of the organization’s values and the fan base’s passion. His exceptional leadership qualities, competitive spirit, and strategic mindset could make him an ideal candidate for the GM role, despite having no previous executive experience.
Brees’ firsthand understanding of the players’ mindset and his connections within the NFL community will be advantageous as he looks to bring in talent that aligns with the Saints’ long-term vision. While stepping into a management role may be an adjustment, his time as an analyst for NBC Sports and his involvement with various business ventures have given him a broader perspective on sports management.
For Benson, bringing Brees on board is about more than just securing a big name; it’s about trusting someone who shares her commitment to the city of New Orleans and the team’s success. She is betting on Brees’ passion, intellect, and ability to bring a fresh approach to the Saints’ front office. As fans and analysts eagerly await to see how Brees handles the challenges of his new role, Benson’s decision signals hope for a franchise eager to return to its winning ways.
NFL
Miami QB Cam Ward Has Accepted NY Giant Trade Offer: Replace Daniel Jones
Miami QB Cam Ward Has Accepted NY Giant Trade Offer: Replace Daniel Jones
Miami Hurricanes quarterback Cam Ward is among the Heisman Trophy favorites and is also generating buzz about potentially being one of the top prospects in the 2025 NFL draft.
Ward has a chance to be the first quarterback selected in April’s draft.
The Miami quarterback could help solidify his draft stock with a strong November while leading the Canes to a College Football Playoff berth.
Ward threw for 3,146 yards, 29 touchdowns and 6 interceptions while completing 67.1% of his passes through the first nine games of the 2024 season
The playmaker also posted 187 rushing yards and 3 TDs on the ground. There is no shortage of NFL fits for Ward, but Athlon Sports’ Chris Licata floated one landing spot above the potential options.
Ward could be a perfect fit to replace the underwhelming Daniel Jones as the New York Giants QB1. The challenge is the Giants may need to trade up in order to land Ward.
Heading into Week 10, the Giants hold the No. 7 pick in the 2025 NFL draft based on the current standings.
“The Giants, perpetually stuck on the Daniel Jones carousel since giving him a four-year, $160 million deal in March 2023, have a potential out this offseason that would only cost the franchise $22.2 million in dead cap,” Licata wrote on Nov. 3. “Things aren’t getting better, so it’s time to try again.
“Ward presents a dream upgrade, but like the Raiders, New York may need to swing a significant trade to move up the draft board next spring — unless they lose out and put themselves in true contention for the No. 1 pick.”
Jones’ four-year, $160 million contract is slated to run through the 2026 season. The Giants do have an out in Jones’ deal during the 2025 offseason, but the club would take a $22.2 million dead cap hit by releasing the quarterback, per Spotrac.
NFL
Bengals’ Joe Burrow on missed Ravens penalties on 2-point attempt: ‘I’ve never really gotten those calls’
Bengals’ Joe Burrow on missed Ravens penalties on 2-point attempt: ‘I’ve never really gotten those calls’
CINCINNATI — The tension was palpable in the final moments of Sunday’s AFC North showdown between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Baltimore Ravens, a game that would prove to be both dramatic and controversial. With just seconds remaining, the Bengals found themselves in a crucial 2-point conversion attempt following a late touchdown that had cut Baltimore’s lead to 34-33.
As the play unfolded, Bengals’ quarterback Joe Burrow targeted Ja’Marr Chase in the end zone, but the play was disrupted by contact from Ravens’ defenders, which many in the Bengals’ camp believed should have been called as defensive pass interference or holding. However, no flags were thrown by the referees, and the Ravens held on to their one-point advantage.
After the game, Burrow, known for his calm demeanor and competitive spirit, was asked about the non-call that sealed the Bengals’ fate. His response was candid and revealing:
“I’ve never really gotten those calls,” Burrow said, referencing his history with controversial officiating calls, particularly in tight situations. “I’ve been in a lot of close games and, you know, those penalties—like the one on that 2-point conversion—just never seem to go my way.”
The Controversial 2-Point Conversion Attempt
The Bengals’ final chance to tie the game came after an explosive touchdown pass to Tee Higgins that made it a 34-33 game with under a minute left. Head coach Zac Taylor made the decision to go for the 2-point conversion, attempting to take the lead right there instead of kicking an extra point.
Burrow, confident as ever, dropped back and fired a quick pass toward Ja’Marr Chase, but as the ball sailed toward him, Ravens’ cornerback Marlon Humphrey made physical contact with Chase—pushing him slightly off course and affecting his ability to make the catch.
The ball sailed incomplete, and despite loud protests from the Bengals sideline and their fans in the stands, no penalty flag was thrown. The Ravens escaped with a narrow 34-33 victory.
The Fallout
The missed penalty call quickly became the main talking point following the game. Several Bengals players, including Chase and wide receiver Tyler Boyd, expressed frustration over the non-call, insisting that the contact was clearly against the rules. But it was Burrow’s words that carried the most weight in the post-game analysis.
“It was a bad call, but it’s something I’ve come to expect in this league,” Burrow continued. “We’ve had calls like that go against us in the past, and it’s frustrating because we know how crucial those moments are. But we’ll take it on the chin. I trust my teammates, and we’ll get them next time.”
The Larger Context
Burrow’s comments reflect a wider sense of frustration that has followed him throughout his young career. While the Bengals have experienced a dramatic turnaround since Burrow’s arrival in 2020, the team has often been on the receiving end of controversial calls. The missed penalty on Sunday adds to a list of instances where fans, analysts, and players alike have questioned officiating decisions during key moments of close games.
It’s worth noting that Burrow’s frustration isn’t with the referees in particular, but rather the sense that certain calls seem to go against the Bengals more often than not. In previous seasons, similar moments of high drama, particularly in playoff games, have drawn attention to the Bengals’ often-unfavorable officiating.
One notable instance was the 2021 AFC Championship Game against the Kansas City Chiefs, where there was outcry over some perceived missed calls in the second half. Despite those challenges, Burrow and the Bengals have consistently shown resilience, using adversity as fuel for motivation.
The Playoff Implications
While the missed 2-point conversion attempt was a tough pill to swallow, the Bengals are still well-positioned in the AFC playoff race. The game against the Ravens, though heartbreaking, was just one of many critical divisional matchups that could have far-reaching consequences as the season progresses.
With Burrow at the helm, the Bengals have continued to remain a formidable playoff contender, and despite Sunday’s loss, they are not backing down. Burrow’s leadership and determination are qualities that have made him a fan favorite in Cincinnati, and his ability to stay focused on the bigger picture remains one of his strongest attributes.
The AFC North remains a tight race, and with Cincinnati still in the hunt, Burrow’s “next time” mentality is likely to drive them as they move on to their next challenge.
What’s Next for the Bengals?
Cincinnati will quickly turn their attention to their next opponent, and with Burrow’s leadership, they will look to bounce back from this disappointing loss. The team still has plenty of games ahead and is well aware that every contest is a chance to make a statement and continue their playoff push.
As for the officiating, Burrow’s comments serve as a reminder that even in the midst of adversity, he remains focused on the bigger goal: winning. While the 2-point conversion controversy may sting for now, the Bengals’ playoff hopes are far from dashed.
The Cincinnati Bengals‘ road to the postseason is still alive, and Burrow, despite the missed calls and close losses, will continue to lead the charge.
NFL
“He was a good coach, but sacking him was the best option; we deserve better.” Saints incredible RB Alvin Kamara [AK 41] gave his humble opinion over Dennis Allen’s sack
“He was a good coach, but sacking him was the best option; we deserve better.” Saints incredible RB Alvin Kamara [AK 41] gave his humble opinion over Dennis Allen’s sack
“He was a good coach, but sacking him was the best option; we deserve better.” Saints’ incredible RB Alvin Kamara (AK41) gave his humble opinion over Dennis Allen’s dismissal. He went on by saying, “At the end of the day, we play this game to win championships, and as a team, we all hold ourselves to the highest standard. Dennis is a good guy, a knowledgeable coach, but sometimes the message just doesn’t get through, and you need a change to ignite something new. It’s not personal—it’s about what’s best for the team and for the future of the franchise.”
Kamara acknowledged that Allen had his strengths, especially as defensive coordinator, but felt the team had plateaued under his leadership. “We’ve had some good moments, no doubt,” he continued. “But in the NFL, consistency and the ability to elevate your team year in and year out is what separates the good from the great. We weren’t getting the results we needed.”
The Saints, who had a solid defense but struggled offensively, especially in key moments, were in need of a reset. Kamara, as one of the team’s most vocal leaders, felt the shift in leadership could be the spark they needed. “We’ve got talent. We’ve got guys who can make plays. But we need someone who can bring out the best in us, who can push the right buttons and get us to play to our full potential.”
Though the decision to fire Allen wasn’t easy, Kamara believes it was the right one for the long-term success of the team. “It’s always tough to see a coach go, but this is business, and we have to move forward,” Kamara concluded. “We deserve a chance to win, and that’s what we’re focused on now.”
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