#the_athletic

Mike Vrabel and Dianna Russini Navigate Controversy Amid NFL Draft Proceedings The controversy surrounding Dianna Russini and Mike Vrabel has led to significant repercussions for both individuals, with Russini resigning from her position at The Athletic and Vrabel facing scrutiny despite no formal investigation by the NFL. Russini, a former NFL analyst, resigned after The Athletic launched an internal probe into her conduct following allegations that she failed to provide evidence of a “group of friends” trip. In her resignation letter, she defended her professionalism but expressed refusal to endure a public inquiry she deemed damaging to her reputation. Meanwhile, Vrabel, the New England Patriots’ head coach, faced reputational challenges despite the NFL not pursuing formal action against him for alleged violations of personal conduct policies. Vrabel addressed media on April 21, acknowledging that he had engaged in “difficult conversations” with his family and players. While he remained involved in the Patriots’ operations during the 2026 NFL Draft, his absence during the third day of the event sparked speculation about his level of involvement. General manager Eliot Wolf clarified that Vrabel had opted to take time away from the team, stating that the coach and staff had decided the period needed to be “time away” rather than maintaining constant contact. Wolf emphasized that Vrabel had only sent brief messages to check in on the team’s well-being, dispelling reports of ongoing coordination during the draft. Despite Vrabel’s absence, the Patriots made several impactful draft selections on Day 3, adding six players to their roster.#new_england_patriots #mike_vrabel #the_athletic #dianna_russini #nfl_draft

Dianna Russini Resigns from The Athletic Amid Media Controversy Dianna Russini, a prominent NFL reporter for The Athletic, has resigned from the outlet, citing the escalating media frenzy surrounding a recent Page Six story and her unwillingness to endure a public inquiry that she claims has already damaged her reputation. The resignation, announced on April 14, 2026, follows a series of events that have drawn significant attention to her career and the broader implications of media scrutiny in sports journalism. Russini submitted her resignation letter to The Athletic on Tuesday, as reported by Rob Maaddi of the Associated Press. In the letter, she emphasized her commitment to her work, stating, “I have covered the NFL with professionalism and dedication throughout my career, and I stand behind every story I have ever published.” She acknowledged The Athletic’s support during the initial stages of the controversy, noting that the outlet “expressed confidence in my work and pride in my journalism.” However, she criticized the subsequent media environment, describing it as a “self-feeding speculation” that “is simply unmoored from the facts.” The controversy began with the publication of a Page Six story that alleged Russini had engaged in unethical behavior related to her reporting. While the details of the story remain undisclosed, Russini’s resignation letter suggests that the incident sparked a media firestorm, with commentators across various platforms amplifying unverified claims. She argued that the investigation into the matter, which The Athletic was reportedly conducting, had become a public spectacle, with repeated leaks fueling further speculation. “This media frenzy is hurtling forward without regard for the review process The Athletic is trying to complete,” she wrote.#page_six #the_athletic #dianna_russini #associated_press #rob_maaddi

Jacob Misiorowski is poised for a breakout sophomore season with the Milwaukee Brewers, according to insights from MLB insider Eno Sarris. The 24-year-old right-hander has been named the team’s Opening Day starter after Brandon Woodruff’s readiness for the role was called into question. While Misiorowski’s raw talent—highlighted by his triple-digit fastball and devastating slider—suggests he could thrive as a top-tier pitcher, his rookie campaign revealed gaps in command and consistency. Sarris, writing for The Athletic, noted that Misiorowski is refining his arsenal with a new changeup grip designed to add more drop and tail. Though data on its effectiveness is limited, the innovation has already sparked optimism about his potential. Sarris went a step further, labeling Misiorowski’s 2026 Cy Young Award prediction as one of his “bold” forecasts, acknowledging the low probability of such a claim succeeding. Still, the prospect of him competing with elite pitchers like Paul Skenes and Yoshinobu Yamamoto in the NL is seen as a major milestone. Misiorowski’s development is critical for the Brewers, who are seeking to replace the production lost when Freddy Peralta was traded to the Mets. His stuff-over-command profile has historically made him vulnerable to fluctuations, particularly against left-handed hitters, who posted an OPS of .731 against him last season—well above the league average and over 100 points higher than right-handed batters (.609). However, his elite fastball, which combines velocity and movement, provides a buffer for his secondary pitches. The new double-circle changeup is viewed as a potential game-changer, especially against lefties. Sarris highlighted how Misiorowski’s slider, which dominates right-handed hitters, could mirror the effectiveness of this new offering.#paul_skenes #the_athletic #milwaukee_brewers #jacob_misiorowski #eno_sarris

New York Rangers vs. Winnipeg Jets Game Preview for March 22 The New York Rangers and Winnipeg Jets are set to face off on March 22, 2026, at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The matchup, scheduled to begin at 12 p.m. ET, will be broadcast on ESPN+ in the United States. The Rangers, with a record of 28-33-8, currently sit 16th in the Eastern Conference, earning 64 points in the regular season. The Jets, at 28-29-12, are positioned 12th in the Western Conference, holding 68 points. The game will feature a mix of returning players and key absences. Several key forwards and defensemen are listed as unavailable due to injuries. Noah Laba is out for the lower body, while Jonathan Quick is sidelined with an upper body injury and is expected to miss time. Urho Vaakanainen, Matthew Rempe, Colin Miller, Nino Niederreiter, and Vladislav Namestnikov are all out for lower body issues, with some potentially returning later in the season. The Rangers and Jets have both shown resilience in recent weeks, with the Jets maintaining a strong offensive presence and the Rangers relying on their veteran defense. The matchup will be closely watched as both teams aim to secure crucial points in their respective conferences. The article includes information on betting odds provided by BetMGM, though the exact details of the odds are not specified. Additionally, the piece notes that the watch guide was created using technology from Data Skrive, and that links for betting, ticketing, and streaming are provided by partners of The Athletic. The Athletic emphasizes its editorial independence, stating that partners have no control over the content or editing process. The article concludes with a section titled "Connections: Sports Edition," which poses a puzzle-like question about identifying patterns between sports terms.#new_york_rangers #madison_square_garden #the_athletic #espn_plus #winnipeg_jets

Jake Wilkins' NBA Hall of Fame Father: A Legacy of Excellence Jake Wilkins, the Georgia forward known for his nickname "Baby Highlight," is the son of Dominique Wilkins, a legendary NBA player and Hall of Famer. Dominique, affectionately called "The Human Highlight Film" for his electrifying dunking ability and scoring prowess, has long been a standout figure in basketball history. The connection between father and son has become a focal point for fans, especially as Jake has emerged as a rising talent in college basketball. Dominique Wilkins, who played for the Atlanta Hawks and other teams during his career, is widely regarded as one of the greatest dunkers in NBA history. His career spanned over two decades, and his impact on the game remains undeniable. Jake, now a key player for the Georgia Bulldogs, has drawn comparisons to his father’s iconic style, both on and off the court. The younger Wilkins’ nickname, "Baby Highlight," is a direct nod to his father’s moniker, underscoring the family’s deep ties to the sport. Jake’s mother, Robin Wilkins, married Dominique in 2006, and the couple has built a life together while navigating the pressures of fame. Dominique also has a stepson, Isaiah, who played college basketball for the University of Virginia before being adopted by the Wilkins family. This dynamic has created a unique environment for Jake, who has grown up in the shadow of his father’s legacy while striving to carve his own path. In a recent interview with The Athletic, Jake shared his thoughts on his father’s influence. He described the emotional weight of seeing Dominique in the stands during games, saying it gave him a surge of confidence. “When I see him in the stands,” Jake said, “I got all types of confidence.#georgia_bulldogs #the_athletic #jake_wilkins #dominique_wilkins #nba_hall_of_fame

Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks are reportedly in disagreement over whether the star forward should play in the team’s remaining 14 regular-season games. Antetokounmpo, who has already missed 32 contests this season due to injuries, wants to continue competing as the Bucks struggle toward the end of the schedule. However, the team is pushing for him to sit out the remainder of the season, according to The Athletic. The Bucks, currently at 28-40 heading into Wednesday’s games, are 6.5 games behind the Charlotte Hornets for the final play-in tournament spot. Antetokounmpo, 31, has been plagued by recurring injuries, including calf, groin, ankle, and knee issues. His latest setback occurred after a dunk against the Indiana Pacers, where he landed awkwardly and was diagnosed with a left knee hyperextension and bone bruise. He is expected to miss several more days before being reevaluated. Despite his injury history, Antetokounmpo has performed at an MVP level when healthy. In 36 games this season, he averages 27.6 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 5.4 assists. However, his repeated setbacks, combined with the Bucks’ fading playoff hopes, have created a difficult situation for the team. Sitting out games could benefit the Bucks by improving their chances of securing a better lottery pick in the draft. The Athletic contacted the Bucks for comment, with a team source stating that Antetokounmpo is still injured and not cleared to play. The alleged rift between the player and the team comes a month after the Bucks decided to retain Antetokounmpo at the trade deadline, despite months of speculation about a potential trade. The decision followed the Bucks’ first-round playoff exit last season and concerns about their long-term prospects.#milwaukee_bucks #nba #charlotte_hornets #giannis_antetokounmpo #the_athletic

The least valued players: Abdukodir Khusanov is also on the list Experts from The Athletic have compiled a ranking of football players whose contributions to their teams are often overlooked despite their critical role in maintaining team performance. The list highlights individuals who, while not always celebrated for goals or assists, are essential to their clubs' success. Among the 18 players featured is Abdukodir Khusanov, a Uzbekistani midfielder currently playing for Manchester City in the English Premier League. The ranking emphasizes the importance of players who work tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring their teams remain competitive. Federico Valverde of Real Madrid leads the list, praised for his versatility and relentless effort on the field. Khusanov, while placed at the bottom of the top 18, is noted as a significant achievement for Uzbek football, given the global recognition from a prominent publication. The list includes a mix of experienced veterans and emerging talents, such as Harry Kane and Bernardo Silva, alongside younger players like Domenico Berardi and Eric Garcia. This diversity underscores the idea that player value is not always reflected in media coverage or fan perception. Khusanov’s inclusion highlights the growing international profile of Uzbek football, even as he faces challenges in a highly competitive league. The publication’s analysis suggests that many players in the ranking are undervalued by fans and media, despite their tangible impact on team dynamics. Khusanov’s presence on the list is seen as a testament to his consistent performance and the potential for Uzbek players to gain recognition on the global stage. The list also raises questions about the criteria used to evaluate player value.#real_madrid #manchester_city #the_athletic #abdukodir_khusanov #english_premier_league

Abduqodir Khusanov Named Among World’s Most Underrated Footballers by The Athletic Manchester City defender Abduqodir Khusanov has been recognized as one of the world’s most underrated footballers in a recent list compiled by The Athletic. The Uzbek international joins a group of high-profile players who are believed to receive less acknowledgment than their contributions warrant. The list includes names such as Federico Valverde, Bernardo Silva, Joao Neves, Harry Kane, Michael Olise, and Victor Osimhen. The publication highlights that these players’ performances often go unnoticed despite their significant impact on their teams. Khusanov’s inclusion in the list comes after a notable turnaround in his career. While many fans still remember his challenging debut against Chelsea last season, during which he made a costly error and appeared uncertain, the 22-year-old has since demonstrated marked improvement. The Athletic notes that his current form showcases key strengths, including pace, strong game awareness, and aggressive ball-winning abilities. These attributes have helped him establish himself as a reliable defender for Manchester City. His progress has not gone unnoticed at the club level. Khusanov was recently honored as Manchester City’s Player of the Month for January, marking his first individual award at the Etihad Stadium. This recognition underscores his growing importance to the team and signals a shift from the early struggles that defined his initial months at the club. The achievement also reflects the confidence the coaching staff has in his development and potential. Despite his rising profile, Khusanov remains a player whose talents have yet to be fully recognized on a global scale.#manchester_city #the_athletic #federico_valverde #bernardo_silva #abduqodir_khusanov

Keaton Mitchell Doesn't Get Restricted Free Agent Tender From Ravens Keaton Mitchell is set to become an unrestricted free agent after the Baltimore Ravens opted not to tender him a restricted free agent offer, according to reports from The Athletic's Jeff Zrebiec. The decision means Mitchell will be eligible to sign with any team in the upcoming NFL draft. The Ravens had the option to tender Mitchell a restricted free agent contract, which would have required them to match any offer sheet from another team. A right of first refusal tender for Mitchell would have cost the team $3.52 million for a single season. However, the Ravens chose not to pursue this path, leaving Mitchell to explore opportunities elsewhere. This decision comes amid the team's financial constraints, as they already have significant cap commitments in their backfield. Running back Justice Hill, who will carry a $3.8 million salary cap figure in 2026, is a key part of the Ravens' offensive plan. Hill is viewed as a more reliable option compared to Mitchell, particularly as a pass-catcher. The Ravens have struggled to find consistent playing time for Mitchell, often requiring them to take Hill out of the game to accommodate him. Mitchell's career has been marked by flashes of brilliance but also by recurring injuries. As an undrafted rookie in 2023, he averaged 8.4 yards per carry, the highest among all NFL running backs that season. However, a late-season knee injury derailed his rookie campaign, limiting his playing time in 2024. Last season, Mitchell played in 13 games but was a healthy scratch for some contests early in the year. He finished with 341 rushing yards and one touchdown (5.8 yards per attempt) while catching nine passes for 63 yards.#baltimore_ravens #the_athletic #nfl_draft #keaton_mitchell #justice_hill

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

Giants' Jermaine Eluemunor Claims He's the Best Right Tackle in the NFL Ahead of Free Agency Jermaine Eluemunor, the New York Giants' right tackle, has publicly asserted that he is the best player at his position in the NFL, a bold claim as he prepares to enter free agency. The 31-year-old offensive lineman, who has spent the past two seasons as a key starter for the Giants, believes his performance this season solidifies his status as one of the league’s top right tackles. Eluemunor’s confidence stems from a standout 2025 season, during which he recorded a career-high 1,088 snaps while allowing just four sacks. His pass-blocking prowess earned him a 76.7 grade from Pro Football Focus, the highest mark of his career. While he has faced criticism for occasional inconsistencies in run blocking, his ability to protect the quarterback has been a major factor in the Giants’ offensive success. Despite his current standing, Eluemunor acknowledges the presence of elite competition at his position. Players like Lane Johnson, Penei Sewell, and Tristan Wirfs have long been regarded as the best right tackles in the league. However, Eluemunor insists his film and on-field performance validate his claim. “I made sure to let anyone who wanted to hear me know that I believe I’m the best right tackle in the league and my film proves it,” he told The Athletic’s Dan Duggan. The Giants’ offensive line has been a focal point of the team’s success in recent years, and Eluemunor’s role has been critical. Ranked 20th on Gregg Rosenthal’s list of top 101 free agents, he is the highest-rated right tackle available and the second-best tackle overall behind Packers’ Rasheed Walker. His performance has positioned him as a top target for teams looking to bolster their offensive line.#new_york_giants #pro_football_focus #the_athletic #jermaine_eluemunor #giants_offensive_line

Daniel Bellinger News: Following Daboll to Tennessee Daniel Bellinger has signed with the Tennessee Titans, according to a report by Dianna Russini of The Athletic. The move marks Bellinger’s transition to the Titans, where he will reunite with Brian Daboll, who is set to serve as the team’s offensive coordinator. Daboll previously coached the New York Giants from 2022 until his dismissal in 2025. Bellinger’s tenure with the Giants overlapped with Daboll’s time as head coach, during which the 2022 fourth-round draft pick made 62 regular-season appearances. Over four seasons with the Giants, Bellinger recorded 88 receptions for 934 yards and four touchdowns. In Tennessee, Bellinger is expected to play a primary role as a blocker, supporting the team’s offensive line. His responsibilities will likely focus on protecting the quarterback and creating running lanes, given the presence of 2025 fourth-round pick Gunnar Helm, who is recovering from a toe injury. Helm’s availability remains uncertain, which could influence Bellinger’s role in the Titans’ scheme. Additionally, the status of free agent Chig Okonkwo, another potential blocker, is still unclear, adding an element of unpredictability to the team’s depth at the position. The move to the Titans represents a significant shift for Bellinger, who has spent the majority of his NFL career as a complementary player. While his role in Tennessee may not involve frequent target involvement, his ability to contribute in the run game and as a pass protector could provide value to a team looking to solidify its offensive line. The reunion with Daboll, who previously coached Bellinger during his time with the Giants, may also offer a sense of continuity and familiarity, potentially enhancing his performance in a new system.#tennessee_titans #daniel_bellinger #brian_daboll #the_athletic #dianna_russini

No Market Yet for Mac Jones as Quarterback Carousel Looms The quarterback market remains uncertain for Mac Jones as the 2026 NFL season approaches. According to reports from The Athletic, no significant interest has emerged for the 49ers’ backup quarterback, who has yet to secure a trade or free-agent opportunity. The situation reflects a broader trend in the league, where teams prioritizing cost-effective solutions are focusing on free-agent options rather than pursuing high-profile trades. The 49ers’ decision to sign Jones to a two-year contract last year has given them full control over his rights for the 2026 season. While the team has publicly stated they do not intend to trade him, analysts suggest this stance is likely strategic. With the 49ers’ starting quarterback, Brock Purdy, under contract for the foreseeable future, the team may be willing to part with Jones if the right financial terms are met. However, the lack of immediate market activity indicates that teams are still evaluating their options before making major moves. Jones’ current salary of $3.25 million in 2026 adds complexity to potential trades. If a team views him as a starter or a viable competition for the starting role, they may seek a raise, which could complicate negotiations. This financial consideration further delays the emergence of a clear market for his services. Meanwhile, teams in need of quarterback depth are likely to explore the open market first. With several free-agent options available and additional players potentially becoming available as roster cuts unfold, franchises are expected to prioritize cost-efficient signings over high-risk trades. However, if the initial wave of free-agent signings fails to address quarterback needs, some teams may revisit the possibility of acquiring Jones.#nfl #the_athletic #mac_jones #brock_purdy #49ers

Detroit SportsNet Launches as New Broadcast Home for Tigers and Red Wings Ilitch Sports + Entertainment has launched Detroit SportsNet (DSN), a year-round platform for broadcasting Detroit Tigers and Detroit Red Wings games. The service offers flexible viewing options, including cable/satellite television packages and in-market streaming, starting with Tigers games this season and Red Wings games beginning in the 2026-27 season. Fans can access in-market streaming subscriptions through Tigers.com/detroitsportsnet or DetroitRedWings.com/detroitsportsnet. The subscription model includes monthly and annual plans, with the annual option offering over 20% savings compared to monthly payments. A special introductory trial allows fans to watch Tigers baseball for free until April 1, including Opening Day in San Diego, for those signing up by March 22. Subscribers who opt for the annual plan can combine this offer with the existing discount to watch Tigers games for the entire 2026 season and a significant portion of Red Wings games in the 2026-27 season before renewal on April 1, 2027. The MLB App serves as the streaming home for Tigers baseball, providing access to highlights, statistics, and news across web, mobile, and connected TV platforms. Details about streaming Red Wings games for the 2026-2027 season will be announced this summer. Cable and satellite providers are currently in discussions to carry Detroit SportsNet, with a list of available providers and channel assignments to be shared once agreements are finalized. The Tigers’ broadcast team, led by play-by-play announcers Jason Benetti and Dan Dickerson, includes analysts Andy Dirks and Dan Petry. The team is regarded as one of baseball’s top broadcasts.#detroit_tigers #detroit_red_wings #the_athletic #fan_duel_sports_network #ilitch_sports_plus_entertainment