Seahawks to kick off 2026 NFL regular season on Wednesday, Sept. 9 in Seattle The National Football League has officially announced the schedule for the 2026 NFL regular season, with the Seahawks set to open the campaign on Wednesday, September 9. The first game will take place at 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock in Seattle, featuring the Super Bowl LX champion Seahawks. The exact opponent for the Seahawks’ Week 1 matchup will be revealed when the full 2026 regular season schedule is released later this spring. In addition to the Seahawks’ home opener, the NFL will host its first-ever regular season game in Melbourne, Australia. The San Francisco 49ers will face the Los Angeles Rams on Thursday, September 10 at approximately 8:35 p.m. ET at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. Ticket sales for the Melbourne game will begin with hospitality packages available on Ticketmaster starting April 6 and general admission tickets going on sale to the public on April 7. All ticket and hospitality options will be accessible through Ticketmaster’s website, with further details available at ticketmaster.com.au/nfl. The 2026 NFL season will feature a record nine international games across four continents, seven countries, and eight stadiums. These games will be held in London, Madrid, Melbourne, Mexico City, Munich, Paris, and Rio de Janeiro. The London games will take place at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Wembley Stadium, while Madrid’s match will be at Bernabéu Stadium. The Melbourne game will be at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Mexico City’s game at Estadio Banorte, Munich’s at FC Bayern Munich Stadium, Paris’s at Stade de France Stadium, and Rio’s at Maracanã Stadium. Fans interested in tracking the NFL’s international schedule can visit dedicated pages for each location, including NFL.com/London, NFL.#nfl #los_angeles_rams #san_francisco_49ers #seahawks #melbourne_crickey_ground
San Francisco 49ers to Open 2026 Season Against Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne The San Francisco 49ers will kick off the 2026 NFL season with a historic matchup against the Los Angeles Rams in Melbourne, Australia, on Thursday, September 10. The game, scheduled for 5:35 p.m. Pacific Time at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, will mark the league’s first-ever regular-season game in the city. Due to the 17-hour time difference, the 49ers will take the field in Melbourne on Friday at 10:35 a.m. Australian Eastern Standard Time. The contest will be broadcast live on Thursday evening for audiences on the West Coast. This international game is part of the NFL’s 2026 season-opening schedule, which begins the night before with the Seattle Seahawks hosting the season’s first game on Wednesday, September 9 at 5:20 p.m. Pacific Time. The 49ers’ trip to Melbourne represents a significant milestone for the franchise and underscores the NFL’s ongoing efforts to expand its global footprint. Tickets for the Melbourne game will be available to the public starting Tuesday, April 7, through Ticketmaster. Fans interested in exclusive hospitality packages can begin securing their options on Monday, April 6. Additionally, travel and ticket packages are being offered through On Location. Those who submitted a Priority Access deposit via On Location will receive instructions for selecting their packages, while others can join the second round of selections by placing an Access Guaranteed deposit at the provided link. The game’s timing and location highlight the NFL’s growing presence in international markets, blending sports with cultural exchange. The 49ers’ decision to host the game in Australia aligns with the league’s strategy to attract global fans and create memorable experiences beyond traditional U.S. markets.#nfl #melbourne #los_angeles_rams #san_francisco_49ers #melbourne_cricket_ground
Seahawks to Open Week 1 on Wednesday Amid International Schedule Shift The NFL has confirmed that the Seattle Seahawks will kick off the 2026 season on a Wednesday night, deviating from the traditional Thursday night opener. This adjustment is necessary to accommodate the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers, who will play their Week 1 game in Melbourne, Australia, on Thursday night in the United States. The Seahawks’ matchup, scheduled for NBC at 8:20 p.m. ET, will mark their first Wednesday night start since 2012. The Rams and 49ers’ game in Australia will take place on Friday morning at 10:35 a.m. local time, which translates to 8:35 p.m. ET. However, the league has not yet announced the broadcast partner for this international contest. The decision to shift the Seahawks’ opener stems from the need to align with the Rams and 49ers’ game, which will be televised in the U.S. on Thursday night. This marks the first time the NFL will host a regular-season game in Australia. The Rams were announced as the host team in February 2024, with the 49ers confirmed as their opponent last month. The match will be held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), a venue that has previously hosted major sporting events. The NFL’s decision to move the Seahawks’ opener also reflects broader scheduling adjustments. The league has historically played international games on Fridays following the season opener, such as the 2024 matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers in São Paulo, Brazil, and the 2025 game between the Los Angeles Chargers and Kansas City Chiefs in São Paulo. However, this year’s international game in Australia cannot follow the same pattern due to a provision in the Sports Broadcasting Act of 1961.#los_angeles_rams #san_francisco_49ers #seattle_seahawks #melbourne_cricket_ground #sports_broadcasting_act
Cowboys Signing CB Derion Kendrick The Dallas Cowboys have signed cornerback Derion Kendrick to a one-year contract, according to NFL Trade Rumors reporter Tom Pelissero. The move adds depth to the team’s secondary and positions Kendrick to compete for a roster spot during training camp. Kendrick, 25, was selected in the sixth round of the 2022 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Rams. He was entering the final year of a four-year rookie contract worth $3.8 million when the Rams waived him earlier this offseason. After re-signing with the Rams in June, Kendrick was released during the preseason. The Seattle Seahawks claimed him off the waiver wire but cut him shortly after. He was later reacquired by the Rams. In 2025, Kendrick played in 10 games for the Seahawks and five for the Rams, tallying 10 total tackles, one tackle for loss, two interceptions, and five pass deflections. His most recent stint with the Rams came after being reclaimed from the Seahawks. The Cowboys’ decision to sign Kendrick reflects their efforts to bolster their secondary, which has faced challenges in recent seasons. With multiple starters either injured or underperforming, adding depth through free agency is a strategic move to ensure competition and readiness for the 2026 season. © NFLTradeRumors.co is an independent news source and has no affiliation with the National Football League (NFL), NFL.com, or any team(s).#los_angeles_rams #seattle_seahawks #nfl_trade_rumors #dallas_cowboys #derion_kendrick
Derion Kendrick Signs with Dallas Cowboys After Rams Release Former Los Angeles Rams cornerback Derion Kendrick has signed a one-year contract with the Dallas Cowboys, according to his agent. The move comes after Kendrick was waived by the Rams during final cuts in 2025 and later joined the Seattle Seahawks before returning to L.A. for the 2025 season. Despite playing five games with the Rams, Kendrick was not on the active roster for the playoffs. Kendrick, a sixth-round draft pick by the Rams in 2022, showed promise early in his career. He started six games as a rookie and 12 in his second season. However, his inconsistent performance and frequent costly penalties led to his demotion on the depth chart. A torn ACL in 2024 sidelined him for the entire season, and he failed to make the 2025 team. After spending 10 games with the Seahawks, Kendrick was released and returned to the Rams, only to be cut again before the 2026 season. The Rams have moved on from Kendrick, bolstering their cornerback corps with the addition of Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson during the offseason. This marks a new era for the team’s secondary, which has undergone significant changes ahead of the 2026 season. Kendrick’s departure to Dallas signals the end of his time with the Rams, as the team continues to reshape its defense. Kendrick’s journey with the Rams highlights the challenges faced by players in the NFL, where injuries and performance inconsistencies can lead to quick exits. While his time with the team was brief, his signing with the Cowboys represents a fresh start for the former cornerback. As the Rams focus on building a stronger secondary, Kendrick’s new chapter with Dallas will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.#los_angeles_rams #seattle_seahawks #dallas_cowboys #trent_mcduffie #derion_kendrick
Dallas Cowboys Sign Cornerback Derion Kendrick The Dallas Cowboys have finalized a one-year contract with free agent cornerback Derion Kendrick, adding depth to their defensive roster during the offseason. The 25-year-old player, who previously spent time with the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks, is expected to contribute as a reliable defensive back for the team. Kendrick, a sixth-round draft pick in 2022, began his NFL career with the Rams. After a brief stint with the Seahawks in 2025, he was reclaimed by the Rams on waivers in late November. Over his career, he has appeared in 47 games, including 17 starts, and recorded 102 tackles along with three interceptions. His experience in both the Rams and Seahawks systems positions him as a versatile option for Dallas’ secondary. The Cowboys’ decision to sign Kendrick reflects their ongoing efforts to strengthen their defense. With key players already on the roster, the addition of Kendrick provides flexibility and competition at the cornerback position. His ability to adapt to different schemes and his track record of making plays in critical moments make him a valuable asset for the team. Kendrick’s journey through multiple teams highlights the challenges faced by young players in the NFL. After being waived by the Seahawks, he quickly found a new opportunity with the Rams, showcasing his resilience and determination. His return to the Rams in 2025 demonstrated his ability to bounce back from setbacks, a trait that could serve him well in his new role with the Cowboys. The signing also underscores the Cowboys’ strategy of targeting players with proven experience and upside. While Kendrick’s one-year deal may not guarantee long-term commitment, it allows both parties to evaluate his performance in a competitive environment.#nfl #los_angeles_rams #seattle_seahawks #dallas_cowboys #derion_kendrick
Roger McCreary, the new Detroit Lions cornerback, described his playing style as "instinctive & aggressive" during a recent interview. The 26-year-old, who was traded to the Los Angeles Rams in 2025 after three and a half seasons with the Tennessee Titans, joined the Lions on a one-year contract following free agency. McCreary emphasized his desire to be part of a winning culture, citing the Lions' playoff aspirations as a key factor in his decision. McCreary's journey to the Lions began with a standout rookie season in 2022, when he started all 17 games for the Titans, playing both outside and nickel cornerback roles. His performance evolved over the next few seasons, with a shift to primarily slot coverage in 2023 and a reserve role in 2024 and 2025. Despite his contributions, the Titans' overall record of 17 wins over three and a half seasons led to his trade to the Rams, where he played a limited role during their 2025 NFC Championship run. McCreary's first playoff experience came during that Rams season, an opportunity he called "great for me." He highlighted the intensity of playoff games, noting the increased speed and pressure compared to the regular season. "Having that experience can help you in a lot of ways knowing how the game develops and how people attack you when it comes down to the wire," he said. This exposure, he added, has prepared him for the challenges of competing in high-stakes games. The Lions' decision to sign McCreary aligns with their need for depth at the nickel cornerback position, which became vacant after Amik Robertson left in free agency. McCreary expressed confidence in his ability to contribute, stating, "Any position they need me at, I’m ready to play.#nfl #los_angeles_rams #detroit_lions #tennessee_titans #roger_mccreary
Dolphins re-sign Green III The Miami Dolphins have re-signed cornerback A.J. Green III to a new contract. Green III, who has spent the past five seasons with the team, will continue to contribute to the defense. Over his career with the Dolphins, Green III has played in 39 games, with two starts, and has recorded 26 tackles (20 solo), two interceptions, seven passes defensed, and two fumble recoveries. Additionally, he has made 15 special teams tackles. Green III’s journey to the NFL began as an undrafted college free agent with the Cleveland Browns in 2020. Prior to his professional career, he played college football at Oklahoma State from 2016 to 2019. During his collegiate tenure, he appeared in 48 games, starting 39 of them, and recorded 147 tackles (119 solo), six interceptions (one returned for a touchdown), 27 passes defensed, and two forced fumbles. His NFL career has included stints with the Cleveland Browns (2020-2023), the Los Angeles Rams (2025), and the Miami Dolphins (2025). Green III made his postseason debut with Cleveland in 2020, though the team did not advance beyond the first round. Since joining the Dolphins, he has continued to develop as a defensive player, contributing both in coverage and on special teams. The Dolphins’ decision to re-sign Green III reflects their confidence in his ability to provide depth and reliability on the defensive backfield. With the team looking to strengthen its secondary, Green III’s experience and versatility make him a valuable asset. His re-signing also underscores the Dolphins’ commitment to building a competitive roster for the upcoming season. As part of their free agency efforts, the Dolphins have also made several other signings, including guard/tackle Jamaree Salyer, safety Zayne Anderson, and edge rusher Robert Beal Jr., among others.#los_angeles_rams #miami_dolphins #cleveland_browns #a_j_green_iii #jamaree_salyer
Atlanta Falcons Add High-Upside Free Agent Edge Rusher FLOWERY BRANCH – The Atlanta Falcons have signed edge rusher Samson Ebukam in free agency, according to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The terms of the deal are not yet disclosed, though his previous contract averaged $8 million annually. The Falcons’ new agreement is expected to be in the range of $5-6 million. Ebukam, who will turn 31 before the 2025 season begins, has been a consistent starter in the NFL for the past eight seasons. His career took a significant turn in 2023 when he joined the Indianapolis Colts, where he recorded 9.5 sacks in 16 games. However, he suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon during training camp and missed the entire 2024 season. In 2025, Ebukam returned but played in just 14 games (one start), tallying 2.0 sacks. The 31-year-old edge rusher was originally selected in the fourth round (No. 125 overall) by the Los Angeles Rams in 2017. He started as a reserve behind Robert Quinn but took over the role by his second season. Over four years with the Rams, he appeared in 64 games (35 starts), accumulating 150 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, 14.0 sacks, six forced fumbles, one interception, four fumble recoveries, and one touchdown return. After his time with the Rams, Ebukam signed a $12 million contract with the San Francisco 49ers in 2021. There, he started 26 games over two seasons, posting 9.5 sacks. His performance with the 49ers marked a strong chapter in his career. For the Falcons, Ebukam’s addition provides immediate depth and rotational potential. He joins a pass rush that set a franchise record for sacks in 2025 but will face the challenge of replacing several key contributors.#indianapolis_colts #los_angeles_rams #atlanta_falcons #adam_schefter #samson_ebukam
Dolphins to sign WR Tutu Atwell, CB Marco Wilson The Miami Dolphins have finalized deals with wide receiver Tutu Atwell and cornerback Marco Wilson, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The signings were announced on Thursday afternoon as part of the team’s efforts to bolster its roster ahead of the 2026 season. Atwell, 26, was selected in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft by the Los Angeles Rams. Over his first five seasons with the team, he played in 10 games in 2025, recording six receptions for 192 yards and one touchdown. Throughout his career, Atwell has appeared in 64 games, including 27 starts, and has totaled 105 catches for 1,535 yards with five touchdowns. Wilson, 27, joined the Cincinnati Bengals in 2025 but appeared in only four games during the season. A fourth-round pick in 2021, Wilson has accumulated 20 passes defensed and three interceptions across 64 career games. His experience as a defensive back could provide depth to the Dolphins’ secondary. The moves are part of a broader offseason overhaul for the Dolphins, who aim to strengthen their receiving corps and defensive backfield. Atwell’s ability to stretch the field and Wilson’s playmaking skills on the backend are seen as valuable additions. Schefter’s report highlights the Dolphins’ active pursuit of free agents to address key areas of need. The signings underscore the team’s commitment to improving its roster ahead of the upcoming season, with both players expected to contribute immediately. The Dolphins’ front office has emphasized the importance of adding versatile talent that can adapt to different schemes, and both Atwell and Wilson fit that profile. Their arrivals signal a strategic shift toward building a more balanced and competitive team for the 2026 campaign.#los_angeles_rams #miami_dolphins #adam_schefter #tutu_atwell #marco_wilson
Miami Dolphins Add Veteran Wide Receiver Tutu Atwell in 2026 Free Agency The Miami Dolphins have finalized a one-year contract with wide receiver Tutu Atwell during the 2026 NFL free agency period, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The deal marks the Dolphins’ latest addition as they continue to bolster their roster with experienced talent. Atwell, a 27-year-old native of Miami, will join the team after spending the past five seasons with the Los Angeles Rams. Atwell, who played college football at Louisville, was selected in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft and has since become a key contributor for the Rams. Over his five-year tenure with the team, he has appeared in 64 games, starting 27 of them. His career totals include 105 receptions for 1,535 yards and five touchdowns. The 2024 season marked a career milestone for Atwell, as he set personal bests with 42 receptions and 562 receiving yards. Despite his strong performance in 2024, Atwell’s 2025 season was limited to just 10 games due to injury. During that time, he recorded six receptions for 192 yards and a touchdown. After the Rams released him, Atwell signed a one-year, $10 million contract with the team, but the deal was short-lived. The Dolphins’ new agreement with Atwell will serve as his next opportunity to contribute at the professional level. The Dolphins’ contract with Atwell is structured as a one-year deal, with no additional compensation reported. This approach aligns with the team’s strategy of acquiring veteran players on short-term contracts to add depth and experience without long-term financial commitments. Atwell’s arrival is expected to provide the Dolphins with a reliable target in the passing game, particularly as they aim to strengthen their offensive capabilities for the upcoming season.#los_angeles_rams #miami_dolphins #adam_schefter #louisville #tutu_atwell
Miami Dolphins Sign Wide Receiver Tutu Atwell to One-Year Contract The Miami Dolphins have agreed to a one-year deal with free agent wide receiver Tutu Atwell, according to a source shared with ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Thursday. The move marks a return to his hometown, as Atwell was born and raised in Miami. Atwell, a second-round draft pick in 2021, spent the first five seasons of his NFL career with the Los Angeles Rams. Last season, he signed a one-year, $10 million contract with the Rams but saw limited playing time. He recorded just six catches for 192 yards and a touchdown in 2025. His playing time was affected by a hamstring injury and the Rams’ shift toward using more 13 personnel (three tight ends on the field) under head coach Sean McVay, which reduced opportunities for wide receivers. Despite the challenges, Atwell had a standout moment during the 2025 season. In Week 4 against the Indianapolis Colts, he made an 88-yard catch-and-run down the sideline for a touchdown, giving the Rams a crucial lead with less than two minutes remaining in the game. Over his six seasons with the Rams, he totaled 105 receptions for 1,535 yards and five touchdowns in 64 regular-season games. The Dolphins’ decision to sign Atwell comes as they look to bolster their receiving corps. His experience and track record of producing in key moments could provide value, even as he faces adjustments to a new system and potential role changes. ESPN’s Sarah Barshop contributed to this report.#los_angeles_rams #miami_dolphins #adam_schefter #tutu_atwell #sean_mcvey
NYT Connections: Sports Edition Puzzle Answers for March 11, #534 The New York Times Connections: Sports Edition puzzle for March 11, 2026, features four distinct categories, each with four related terms. The puzzle is published by The Athletic, a subscription-based sports journalism platform, and is available through its app or online. The following breakdown outlines the themes and answers for each color group. The yellow group is centered around the NFC West division, which includes the Arizona Cardinals, Los Angeles Rams, San Francisco 49ers, and Seattle Seahawks. These teams are the Super Bowl champions associated with the division. The green group relates to baseball statistics, specifically the term "WHIP." The four answers are "hits," "inning," "pitched," and "walks," all of which are components of the WHIP (Walks plus Hits per Innings Pitched) metric used to evaluate pitchers. The blue group focuses on Hockey Hall of Famers. The four names included are Bobby Orr, Jarome Iginla, and Mark "The Hammer" Messier, though the original text lists "Bossy" (likely referring to Mike Bossy), Iginla, Orr, and "St. Louis" (possibly referring to Jean Béliveau, though the name is abbreviated). The purple group centers on a belt, with the four answers being "black," "Brandon" (possibly a reference to Brandon Sutter or another player), "sun" (as in a sun belt or a belt made of sun material), and "title" (referring to a championship belt). The theme is intentionally vague, requiring solvers to connect the words to the concept of a belt. The puzzle highlights the diversity of sports terminology, blending team affiliations, statistical metrics, and equipment or titles. Solvers are encouraged to consider both direct and metaphorical connections to uncover the groupings.#new_york_times #los_angeles_rams #san_francisco_49ers #arizona_cardinals #the_athletic
San Francisco 49ers Could Have Saved Millions by Reuniting with a Different Kicker The San Francisco 49ers made their first major offseason move by re-signing kicker Eddy Pineiro to a four-year contract extension. The decision aimed to stabilize a position that had been plagued by inconsistency during the Jake Moody era. However, the team may have missed an opportunity to save significant financial resources by instead reuniting with a different kicker, such as Matt Gay, who proved to be a reliable and cost-effective option. Gay, who joined the 49ers last season when Pineiro suffered a hamstring injury, performed admirably in the limited games he played. He converted all four of his field-goal attempts and all three extra points, showcasing his reliability. Despite his strong showing, Gay’s contract with the 49ers was contingent on his previous struggles with the Washington Commanders, where he missed two field goals in a critical game overseas. The 49ers were able to sign him due to his poor performance with Washington, where he made just 13 of his 19 field-goal attempts. While Gay’s 2023 season with the Commanders was subpar, his career history includes a Pro Bowl appearance with the Los Angeles Rams and solid contributions with the Indianapolis Colts. These experiences highlight his status as a proven veteran kicker. In contrast, Pineiro’s career has been marked by a higher field-goal accuracy but a lower success rate on extra points. His struggles with kickoffs have been a recurring issue, which could have been mitigated by bringing back Gay on a shorter-term deal. The 49ers’ decision to commit to Pineiro for four years came after his strong performance in 2023, when he only missed one field-goal attempt and consistently delivered clutch kicks.#los_angeles_rams #san_francisco_49ers #washington_commanders #eddy_pineiro #matt_gay
NFL Trade Tracker: Every Major Offseason Deal Graded The NFL offseason has already been marked by significant player movement, with several high-profile trades finalized before free agency begins. Teams across the league have made strategic moves to reshape their rosters, and the CBS Sports staff has evaluated each deal to determine its impact. With the new league year set to start on March 11, trades can officially become final, but the groundwork has already been laid. The Buffalo Bills, Baltimore Ravens, and Los Angeles Rams have been among the most active teams, making bold decisions to bolster their squads. The Ravens secured Maxx Crosby, one of the league’s premier pass rushers, by trading two first-round picks to the Las Vegas Raiders. Crosby, who has recorded 69.5 sacks in 110 career games, is a versatile and durable defensive end. His trade to Baltimore was seen as a sign of the Ravens’ commitment to contending for a Super Bowl, despite the challenges of transitioning to a first-year head coach. Meanwhile, the New England Patriots sent veteran center Garrett Bradbury to the Chicago Bears in exchange for a 2027 fifth-round pick. Bradbury, a 2019 first-round pick for the Minnesota Vikings, brings experience to a Bears offensive line that lost Drew Dalman to retirement. The Patriots, in turn, aim to upgrade their left guard position by moving Jared Wilson back to center. The Bears also acquired wide receiver DJ Moore from the Buffalo Bills, trading a second-round pick for the veteran target and a fifth-round pick. Moore, who is guaranteed $15.5 million of his 2028 salary, will join Josh Allen in Buffalo. The Bills, meanwhile, are shifting toward younger weapons in their offense.#buffalo_bills #las_vegas_raiders #baltimore_ravens #los_angeles_rams #new_england_patriots
Rams GM Les Snead: Would be nice to add an All-Pro to the secondary The Los Angeles Rams fell short of their Super Bowl aspirations in January after failing to defeat the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC Championship Game. Despite Matthew Stafford’s strong performance, throwing for 374 yards and three touchdowns, the Rams’ defense struggled to contain the Seahawks’ offense. Seattle’s quarterback Sam Darnold and wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba combined for 153 yards and a touchdown, with Darnold connecting with Smith-Njigba 10 times. The Rams’ inability to stop the Seahawks’ passing game ultimately led to their loss, prompting Rams general manager Les Snead to emphasize the need for defensive upgrades. Snead highlighted the importance of strengthening the secondary during a press conference, acknowledging the team’s shortcomings. “Is there an All-Pro that you could add?” he said, referencing the potential value of acquiring a top-tier player. While no All-Pro defenders are available through free agency, Snead noted that a trade could be a viable option. The Rams’ possession of two first-round draft picks in the 2024 NFL Draft may facilitate such a deal, though Snead has historically prioritized immediate impact over draft assets. He reiterated his focus on acquiring players who can “give us an edge and make an impact,” rather than relying on future selections. Analysts have pointed to Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Trent McDuffie as a potential target for the Rams. McDuffie, an All-Pro selection, is seeking a new contract and previously trained under Rams defensive backs coach Jimmy Lake during his college career. His experience and proven ability to disrupt opposing offenses make him an attractive option for Los Angeles.#los_angeles_rams #seattle_seahawks #les_snead #sam_darnold #jaxon_smith_njigba
Patrick Mahomes Reacts to Trent McDuffie's Trade to Rams Patrick Mahomes expressed his feelings on social media after learning that cornerback Trent McDuffie had been traded to the Los Angeles Rams. The Kansas City Chiefs quarterback shared a brief reaction to the move, which marks the end of McDuffie’s tenure with the team. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Chiefs sent McDuffie to the Rams in exchange for the No. 29 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft, along with a fifth-rounder, a sixth-rounder, and a 2027 third-rounder. McDuffie, who has been with the Chiefs since being selected in the first round of the 2022 NFL draft, will now join a Rams defense that aims to improve its performance. McDuffie’s time with the Chiefs included two Super Bowl titles and two All-Pro selections. He was named to the First Team All-Pro in 2023, a season in which the Chiefs won their second consecutive Lombardi Trophy. During the 2025 playoffs, McDuffie recorded seven passes defended, solidifying his legacy with the team despite the trade. The move comes as McDuffie enters the final season of his contract, allowing the Chiefs to part ways before he might have left to sign elsewhere in free agency. The trade also provides Kansas City with a significant return, including an additional first-round pick in the 2026 draft. For the Rams, the acquisition of McDuffie aligns with their win-now strategy following their 2025 NFC Championship Game appearance. Quarterback Matthew Stafford, 38 years old, is likely nearing the end of his career, making the addition of a potential All-Pro cornerback a strategic move to bolster their defense. The Rams’ defense ranked 10th in the league in points allowed and 17th in yards allowed during the 2025 season.#los_angeles_rams #kansas_city_chiefs #adam_schefter #patrick_mahomes #trent_mcduffie
Chiefs Stockpile Draft Picks, Jump Right Above Broncos in First Round The Kansas City Chiefs have bolstered their draft prospects by acquiring additional selections ahead of the 2026 NFL draft. According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, the Chiefs have finalized a trade with the Los Angeles Rams, sending cornerback Trent McDuffie in exchange for first-, fifth-, and sixth-round picks in 2026, along with a third-round selection in 2027. This deal adds to the Chiefs’ existing draft assets, which already included picks in the first four rounds and two fifth-round selections. The Chiefs’ strategic move comes after a 6-11 record in the 2025 season. As a result, they are set to select ninth overall in the 2026 draft. However, the trade with the Rams has elevated their position, securing the 29th overall pick. This placement places them one spot ahead of the Denver Broncos, their AFC West division rival, in the first round. The 2026 NFL draft order reflects the league’s competitive landscape, with teams like the Las Vegas Raiders, New York Jets, and Arizona Cardinals all holding 3-14 records. The Chiefs, with a 6-11 mark, are positioned at 29th overall, while the Broncos, despite a 14-3 record, will hold nine selections in the draft. The draft will take place in Pittsburgh from April 23 to 25. The Broncos, who received two compensatory picks, will have a total of nine selections in the 2026 draft. This includes their own picks and the additional selections granted through the league’s compensatory system. The draft order underscores the Broncos’ strong season, though their placement in the first round is slightly behind the Chiefs. The Chiefs’ acquisition of the 29th pick highlights their efforts to strengthen their roster ahead of the 2026 season.#los_angeles_rams #kansas_city_chiefs #denver_broncos #2026_nfl_draft #trent_mcduffie
Chiefs stockpile draft picks, jump right above Broncos in first round The Kansas City Chiefs have bolstered their draft prospects by acquiring additional selections ahead of the 2026 NFL draft. The team finalized a trade with the Los Angeles Rams, sending cornerback Trent McDuffie in exchange for first-, fifth-, and sixth-round picks in 2026, along with a third-round selection in 2027, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. This deal adds to the Chiefs’ existing draft assets, which already included picks in the first four rounds and two fifth-round selections. The Chiefs’ strategic move positions them to select 29th overall in the 2026 draft, a spot that places them one position ahead of the Denver Broncos, their AFC West division rival. This advancement is significant as the Broncos, who finished with a 14-3 record in 2025, will hold nine selections in the draft after receiving two compensatory picks. The Chiefs, who went 6-11 last season, are set to pick ninth in this year’s draft but now have a stronger position in 2026. The draft order for 2026 reflects the performance of teams across the league. The Las Vegas Raiders, New York Jets, Arizona Cardinals, and Tennessee Titans all finished with 3-14 records, while the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks secured 14-3 marks. The Chiefs, with a 6-11 record, will have a 12-5 strength of schedule, placing them ahead of the Broncos, who have a 14-3 record but a weaker schedule. The draft will take place in Pittsburgh from April 23 to 25. The Chiefs’ acquisition of the 29th pick underscores their efforts to strengthen their roster ahead of the 2026 season. By securing higher draft positions, the team aims to address key areas of need while maintaining competitive depth in the league.#tom_pelissero #los_angeles_rams #nfl_network #kansas_city_chiefs #trent_mcduffie
Chiefs Trade All-Pro Cornerback Trent McDuffie to Rams for Draft Picks The Kansas City Chiefs have traded All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams in exchange for a package of draft picks, including the No. 29 selection in the 2026 NFL draft, according to sources. The deal was confirmed by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, who reported the trade was finalized after discussions between the teams. McDuffie, entering the final season of his rookie contract, is expected to sign a long-term extension with the Rams, further solidifying their defensive plans. McDuffie’s trade comes after the Chiefs exercised the fifth-year option in his contract earlier this year, making his 2026 salary of $13.6 million fully guaranteed. In addition to the No. 29 pick, the Chiefs will receive 2026 fifth- and sixth-round selections and a 2027 third-round pick. The trade marks a strategic move for both teams, with the Rams addressing a critical need at cornerback while the Chiefs aim to reinvest in their draft capital. Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes was among the team’s players to publicly react to the trade, posting a simple “damn” on social media after the news broke. Rams general manager Les Snead, when asked about offseason priorities, emphasized the importance of evaluating potential additions to the secondary, stating the team is “figuring out if there’s an All-Pro you could add.” McDuffie’s decision to join the Rams was anticipated, as he had previously hinted at his preference for playing closer to his family. During a back-to-school event in Kansas City in August, McDuffie joked about his potential future team, saying, “If I could play for another team, I’d probably want to play close to my family, so that would probably be the L.A. Rams.#los_angeles_rams #kansas_city_chiefs #adam_schefter #patrick_mahomes #trent_mcduffie
