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After a huge week on the NFL trade front, teams will wind down offseason activities and get ready to break for summer. But they’ll still have a lot to think about in the weeks-long wait until training camp. On Thursday, I identified the biggest question that will hang over every NFC team. Here’s the AFC edition: AFC East Buffalo elevated Joe Brady from offensive coordinator to head coach after the firing of Doug McDermott, who led the franchise for nine years. The big question is if Brady and his staff can take advantage of the team’s Super Bowl window with star quarterback Josh Allen in a way that McDermott could not. Defensively, new DC Jim Leonhard is transitioning the unit to a 3-4 scheme. Signed to a three-year, $67.5 million free-agent deal this offseason, Willis essentially has two years to show Miami that he can be its quarterback of the future. The former third-round pick flashed promise as Jordan Love’s backup in Green Bay, but he started only three games over the past two years combined. It’s also unclear if the Dolphins have enough talent around Willis to be successful. On paper, they have arguably the NFL’s worst wide receiver room. New England officially acquired three-time All-Pro receiver A.J. Brown on June 1, giving Maye a legitimate WR1. But protecting the third-year Patriots quarterback remains the biggest priority after he was sacked 68 times in 2025 (regular season and playoffs). The Patriots used their top pick on offensive tackle Caleb Lomu and signed guard Alijah Vera-Tucker to a three-year, $42 million deal in free agency. New England will also have a new center, second-year pro Jared Wilson, after trading veteran Garrett Bradbury to the Chicago Bears. Smith may be an upgrade over Justin Fields, but he struggled mightily last season as the Las Vegas Raiders’ starter, throwing a league-high 17 interceptions. Returning to the Jets, where he started his NFL career as a second-round pick in 2013, Smith will have a promising cast of pass-catchers to throw to — star wide receiver Garrett Wilson and first-round picks Kenyon Sadiq and Omar Cooper Jr. among them. AFC North Former Ravens coach John Harbaugh took tight end Isaiah Likely and star fullback Patrick Ricard with him to the New York Giants, while Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum signed with the Raiders. Baltimore made a slew of notable additions — first-round pick Olaivavega Ioane and John Simpson stabilize the guard position; outside linebacker Trey Hendrickson bolsters the pass rush — but getting back into the AFC’s elite will be the real task for new coach Jesse Minter and star QB Lamar Jackson. On paper, Cincinnati is much improved defensively. The Bengals traded the No. 10 overall pick for star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, and also added DL Jonathan Allen and edge rusher Boye Mafe to bolster the defensive line. Free-agent acquisition Bryan Cook stabilizes the safety position. If the defense can perform to at least a league-average level, Cincinnati has more than enough firepower on the offensive side of the ball to be a major contender. Under new coach Todd Monken, 2025 draft pick Shedeur Sanders and former Pro Bowler Deshaun Watson are in a full-fledged competition to be the Browns’ QB1. Both players have been getting reps with Cleveland’s starting offense in offseason practices. It helps that new coach Mike McCarthy spent 13 years with Rodgers in Green Bay. But the QB’s success at age 42 will largely hinge on his supporting cast. On paper, the Steelers are stronger at wide receiver with the additions of veteran Michael Pittman Jr. and second-round rookie Germie Bernard. Pittsburgh also used its first-round pick on offensive tackle Max Iheanachor. AFC South Stroud had the fifth-year option in his rookie contract picked up, but he’s had back-to-back disappointing seasons since his stellar rookie campaign in 2023. The former No. 2 overall pick needs to make notable strides in the upcoming season to show Houston he’s worthy of a record-setting extension. If Stroud plays well, the Texans are positioned to be one of the AFC’s top contenders. Jones was enjoying a career year in 2025 before a fractured fibula slowed him down and a torn Achilles ended his season in Week 14. The Colts showed faith in Jones by giving him QB1 money this spring — a two-year, $88 million deal — but it’s unclear how long it will take the former first-round pick to regain a rhythm, if he can do that at all in 2026. A torn Achilles is one of the most challenging injuries to return from. The Jaguars had a surprisingly successful 2025 campaign in head coach Liam Coen’s first year, winning 13 games en route to the franchise’s first division title since 2022. But they let two key contributors leave in free agency — RB Travis Etienne Jr., LB Devin Lloyd — and didn’t have a first-round pick in the 2026 draft. Cornerback/wide receiver Travis Hunter’s health will be key — the former No. 2 overall pick missed 10 games as a rookie. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence played at an MVP level toward the end of last season, and that will need to continue for Jacksonville to build on last season’s success. Under new coach Robert Saleh, the Titans have been intentional about bolstering their offense around second-year QB Ward, who showed flashes as a rookie but led the NFL with 55 sacks in the regular season and tied for the league lead with 11 fumbles. Questions remain on the interior offensive line, but Tennessee has improved substantially at wide receiver. The team used the No. 4 overall pick on Ohio State’s Carnell Tate and signed slot WR Wan’Dale Robinson in free agency. New offensive coordinator Brian Daboll is a seasoned playcaller with plenty of experience working with talented quarterbacks, so the hope is that his presence will help Ward develop into a true franchise QB. [Where Titans QB Cam Ward Stands Entering Pivotal Year 2] AFC West Through two seasons, Nix has been a good quarterback and a very successful one, helping to guide the Broncos to back-to-back playoff appearances. But the former first-round pick has been inconsistent as a passer, particularly in his deep-ball accuracy. A big step forward from Nix would make the Broncos one of the NFL’s most feared teams, as they already have one of the league’s best defenses. Trading for former Miami Dolphins receiver Jaylen Waddle should help Nix’s development. In reigning Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III, the Chiefs now have the most dynamic running back they’ve had in the Mahomes era. Walker left the Seattle Seahawks for a three-year, $45.03 million free-agent deal from Kansas City. But questions remain at the pass-catching spots. Veteran tight end Travis Kelce, at 36, is another year removed from his prime, and Kansas City’s supposed No. 1 receiver, Rashee Rice, hasn’t proved to be dependable. Rice has played just 12 games over the past two seasons, and he’s currently serving a 30-day jail sentence for violating the terms of his probation on a previous charge. His incarceration may slow his recovery from an offseason cleanup surgery on his right knee. The expectation is that veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins will start the season for the Raiders while Mendoza sits and learns. That’s the preference of new head coach Klint Kubiak and general manager John Spytek. But struggles by Cousins and/or a quick acclimation by Mendoza would present a situation where the No. 1 overall pick sees the field earlier than expected. Herbert is one of the league’s most talented quarterbacks, but his lack of playoff success (0-3) has hurt his standing compared to other top QBs. The Chargers hope that changes with McDaniel, a creative offensive mind who orchestrated the NFL’s top offense in 2023 as Miami’s head coach.​Latest Sports News from FOX Sports

It’s almost time to put the speculation and debate to rest. We’ve started to see the 48 teams arriving at their training bases across Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. ahead of the greatest show in sports. The squads and the superstars are in their final preparations before things kick off at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Let’s answer some big questions before the curtain rises. Q: What’s Your Top World Cup Storyline To Watch? Matteo Bonetti: Can Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo pull off the ultimate swan song in North America? Even in this expanded tournament with 48 teams, so much of the talking points when Argentina and Portugal play will revolve around these two generational superstars who are now in the twilight of their careers. Seeing how their managers balance sentimentality with the ruthless physical demands of modern tournament football will be pure theater. Luis Miguel Echegaray: The expansion to 48 teams needs to have a Cinderella story in order to feel justified. So that’s what I want to see at this World Cup: For a Haiti, a Curaçao, a Cape Verde or even a Scotland to shock us with a deep run that’s so poetic, we can’t help but feel inspired. The fact that there are eight third-placed teams that can advance to the knockout round creates an even bigger incentive for some of these teams to just push through. Brian Sciaretta: I am looking forward to watching how the American public embraces the sport compared with the 1994 World Cup — the last time USA hosted. In 1994, many Americans were getting their first exposure to soccer. It really started the growth into what we see now, where the sport is readily available on television and games are well attended. Now, the next steps of progress depend on another groundswell of public enthusiasm from a second World Cup on American soil. Will this tournament inspire more kids to play? Go to games? Understand the sport with sophistication? Q: Which Under-The-Radar Team Should We Keep An Eye On? Bonetti: Türkiye. Under manager Vincenzo Montella, the team has quietly become a technically brilliant, high-energy side. With elite ball-players like Arda Güler and Hakan Çalhanoğlu pulling the strings, it has the perfect midfield balance and creative spark to slice through a defense. Watch out for Kenan Yildiz as well. The Juventus winger is direct and electrifying when taking on his man. Türkiye is the final group-stage opponent for the USA, and that game on June 25 in Los Angeles could decide who wins Group D. Sciaretta: I suppose it can be cheating to consider a co-host to be “under the radar,” but given Canada’s lack of World Cup success, I think it qualifies. There is no question that the 2022 World Cup was disappointing for Canada, but the team has responded to manager Jesse Marsch well. The 2024 Copa América run to the semifinal was a huge positive. Canada isn’t deep, but it has some good players who play hard. When you’re playing on home soil, that could be a recipe for success. Echegaray: I have been talking about it for a while now, but I think Japan, even without winger Kaoru Mitoma, can go far. It is a deeply cohesive unit with tremendous tactical know-how, playing in a doable group. Colombia — which will feel the extreme support from its community in the U.S. — could also surprise people. The group-stage finale against Portugal in Miami on June 27 is going to be absolute cinema. Q: Who’s A World Cup Heavyweight Primed To Disappoint? Bonetti: I’ll say England. The talent is obviously there to make it a top-5 favorite. However, the crushing weight of expectation and the phrase “It’s Coming Home” being used as cheeky banter make it feel like history is about to repeat itself in the Americas. Unless England finds a way to block out the noise and adapt on the fly, a highly disciplined side is going to exploit those familiar mental lapses and send the team packing long before the final. Echegaray: The easy answer is England. After 60 years without a major trophy — I always say that despite the incredibly deep roster — the biggest obstacle to the Three Lions is themselves. But you know what? I realize I am taking a big swing here and undoubtedly in the minority, but I don’t think things are going to go as straightforward for France as we think. It’s true, Les Bleus possess an embarrassment of riches. But the group is so competitive — Erling Haaland’s Norway and a match of extreme historical importance against Senegal (see 2002) — that France might not top it. After that, who knows? Sometimes, shocks happen, just like the aforementioned tournament in 2002 where France didn’t get out of the group. And this could be one of them. I am not saying France will be going home after the group stage, and, in fact, all odds are for the French to once again go far. But stranger things have happened in this game of ours. You just never know. Sciaretta: Argentina is the heavyweight most likely to disappoint. It is always very difficult for defending champions, but a team that has not had a healthy turnover of players doesn’t help. New blood is always needed to keep things fresh. When you try to stick with a winning formula for too long, you run the risk of Spain in 2014 or Germany in 2018, which were two examples of defending champions who faltered. This 2026 Argentina team is very similar to the 2022 version, but is it still hungry? Is age now a factor? Those are fair questions and real risks. Q: Which World Cup Co-Host Has The Most Pressure? Sciaretta: If the U.S. team fails to perform well, it will be a massively missed opportunity. But Mexico has the most pressure. El Tri were suspended for the 1990 World Cup. Since then, they made it out of group play every tournament until 2022. Mexican fans demand and expect more. Hosting a tournament only elevates expectations. The only two times Mexico has made the quarterfinals of the World Cup is when it hosted in 1970 and 1986, and the team owns the record for the most World Cup appearances without ever reaching the semifinals. If Mexico fails to win at least a knockout game this summer, it will be catastrophic. Bonetti: Mexico playing in Mexico City — and especially at that mythical stadium which saw Pelé and Deigo Maradona lift World Cup trophies — brings an atmosphere that is equal parts magical and completely suffocating. The fútbol-obsessed Mexican fan base demands excellence, and the media scrutiny is absolutely relentless. If El Tri stumble out of the gate on home soil, the pressure to banish past tournament failures will become entirely overwhelming. This also isn’t the best Mexican side we’ve seen. Consensus from fans seem to suggest they believe this team is inconsistent and lacks the depth and talent of previous generations. Echegaray: There’s no doubt that it’s the USA for multiple reasons, but mainly because so much infrastructural and economical effort has been implemented towards this World Cup — from hiring of Mauricio Pochettino to home-field venues for the group stage — that it has to do well. Not to mention that the group is more than doable. The U.S. needs a strong tournament. Anything else would be a travesty. Q: Messi. Ronaldo. Modrić. Which Legend Will Have The Best ‘Last Dance?’ Bonetti: Luka Modrić. While the cameras will chase Messi and Ronaldo, Modrić remains the absolute master of dragging a team through the tournament. His spatial intelligence and engine simply defy aging. In a grueling format, his unique ability to slow down a game gives Croatia the best chance at one last magical run. He also just had a great season with AC Milan despite being in his 40s. Simply astonishing. Echegaray: I think it’s Cristiano Ronaldo. Portugal is looking strong and a group it can win. To be fair, I actually think Roberto Martínez’s side looks more fluid without him in the starting lineup. But if you’re asking me who will go further, I think it will be the Portuguese star. I do envision a matchup of gigantic proportions in the quarterfinal stage between Messi and Ronaldo, and the outcome would essentially answer this question! Sciaretta: I am also going with Modrić, who could hit an astonishing 200 appearances for Croatia at this tournament. I like manager Zlatko Dalić’s roster for this World Cup. There is a nice blend of youth and experience with a bulk of players in their prime ages. Modrić is the legend, but he will have enough quality around him to ease the pressure. Because of that, I think he can make the biggest impact. Q: The Golden Ball Goes To The Top Player. Who Are Some Early Candidates? Sciaretta: Erling Haaland (Norway), Kylian Mbappé (France), Luis Díaz (Colombia) It is hard to think of anyone with more motivation at this World Cup than Haaland, who has been one of the best forwards of his generation and will now finally get to compete for Norway in a major international tournament. The question is whether there is enough of a supporting cast around him to push Norway far enough so he can compete for the Golden Boot. But this Norwegian team has impressive, top-level talent — such as Martin Ødegaard, Alexander Sørloth and Antonio Nusa — to support Haaland. A full-strength Norwegian team can go far, and Haaland has all the ability to thrive this summer. Echegaray: Harry Kane (England), Mikel Oyarzabal (Spain), Michael Olise (France). I am also keeping my eye on Colombia’s Luis Díaz and Vinícius Júnior with this rejuvenated Brazil under Carlo Ancelotti. Expect Haaland and Argentina’s Julián Alvarez to go into the mix for all individual awards. Lamine Yamal is obvious, but it depends on his availability as the Spain superstar recovers from a hamstring injury. Bonetti: Harry Kane (England), Kylian Mbappé (France), Luis Díaz (Colombia). Kane and Díaz just finished sensational club seasons as the Bayern Munich teammates dominated the Bundesliga. While Mbappé’s time at Real Madrid has felt like a roller coaster despite putting up great statistics, his time with France has been a different ordeal. He was unstoppable in Qatar 2022 and has proven to be able to carry his nation on his back at a major tournament.​Latest Sports News from FOX Sports

ATLANTA — Matt Turner envisions the scene on a daily basis. On June 12, when the U.S. men’s national team steps onto the pitch for its opening World Cup match against Paraguay at Los Angeles Stadium, Turner will take it all in. The roar of 70,000-plus fans. The teams emerging from the tunnel in their new kits. The national anthems reverberating throughout the stadium as supporters belt out every word. “There’s a million different pictures that go on in my head. I think about it a lot,” Turner told me and a group of reporters sitting around a table at the National Training Center in Fayetteville, Georgia, during the squad’s pre-tournament camp. “I’ll probably cry when the national anthem goes. It’s just such a huge honor — overwhelming honor — to be granted that responsibility to be on this team to do our best in those roles and ultimately, change soccer here forever.” What Turner might not be imagining totally accurately, though, is where he’ll physically be standing. He’s hoping to be on the field as a member of Mauricio Pochettino’s starting lineup. More realistically, he could be on the bench. Turner, 31, was one of three goalkeepers announced as part of the USA’s 26-man World Cup roster. He was the Americans’ starter four years ago in Qatar and firmly held onto that role. Then he was unseated by Matt Freese, who made his national team debut last June. Freese gained valuable experience and clout with Pochettino through solid performances at the 2025 Gold Cup, which included saving three penalties in the quarterfinal shootout against Costa Rica. Freese has started 13 of the last 14 matches and established himself as the frontrunner to start for the U.S. at a home World Cup. While Freese didn’t play in the team’s recent 3-2 tune-up win over Senegal, there’s not much to glean because that lineup was not necessarily indicative of how things will look at the World Cup. Turner started and played 45 minutes, while 22-year-old Chris Brady of the Chicago Fire earned his first U.S. cap in the second half. It was important to Pochettino for Brady to play so that his inaugural appearance with the national team wasn’t potentially at a World Cup. Turner understands the optics. But as a super competitive incumbent, he’s not going down without a fight. “I’m just going to train like I have a chance,” said Turner, who joined the New England Revolution on loan from French club Olympique Lyonnais ahead of the 2026 MLS season. “That’s how I’ve gotten to where I am in this current day and age, so I don’t know why I’d ever change that. For me, I’m always going to work as hard as I can, and when the coach makes his final decision, he makes his final decision, and I’ll be at peace knowing that I put everything I had behind it.” Turner arrived at camp in good form. He’s third in MLS with a save percentage of 78.2%, while Freese, who plays for New York City FC, is sixth at 73.9%. Asked if he feels like that could give him some kind of advantage, Turner was realistic. “I mean, you obviously wish you had the body of work with the national team in the last year to also rely on,” Turner said frankly. “But yeah, I think form at the club level is really, really important. And in the end, after evaluating training and recent performances, I think the coaches are going to put together the best connection of guys and the ones that can make the biggest difference in the game.” It’s still somewhat unclear how tight Freese’s grip is on the job. During the March window, for example, Turner started a 5-2 loss to Belgium, and Freese got the nod in a 2-0 defeat to Portugal. Turner and Brady split minutes against Senegal, and Freese is expected to start Saturday’s World Cup sendoff match against Germany. Does Freese feel unsettled when teammates’ names get called over his? “Immediately when that happens, you’re thinking, ‘OK, well, how can I help the team?’” Freese, 27, told me and other reporters at a roundtable. “And then, you know, proving yourself in training and setting yourself up for a good match the next time you get in there.” That’s exactly the kind of advice Brad Guzan would give any backup goalkeeper. That’s because he can empathize. Guzan — who played all 38 Premier League games for Aston Villa in the 2013-14 season and didn’t sniff the field at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil — spent much of his national team career backing up Tim Howard, including at two World Cups. “There’s very few cases where you can rest on your laurels and be like, ‘I deserve this because I did this and this in the past,’” Guzan told us. “That’s the exception. And as an American soccer player in Europe, you are not afforded that luxury. [Getting benched] has happened to everyone. “As a No. 2 or No. 3, you need to find a way to help contribute to the group, whether that’s in the training session the day after a game or preparation for the game itself,’” Guzan continued. “You need to figure out, ‘How can you be best utilized if you’re not actually going to be on the field?’ That can be your energy, your information, your support and guidance — it could be all of it.” Freese has shown he can do that. Last Sunday before kickoff, he dapped up all 11 starters before finding his seat on the bench. He gave Turner a huge embrace. Then at halftime, when Brady was preparing to take the field for the first time, a small problem emerged: Nobody could find his jersey. Brady stood on the sideline searching for it, while Freese sprinted around trying to track it down. It was a bit of a rookie moment. If Turner sits on the bench all summer, he’ll be bummed, no doubt. But he’s a professional and will take it in stride. Plus, he and Freese have a good relationship even if the dynamic may seem awkward from the outside. “I think there’s a healthy mutual respect between us,” Turner said. “We both want to play, we both have played and we both will respect whatever the final decision is from the coaches. And then from there, our roles will change to be supportive of each other. “What he’s done the last couple of years has been great, and it’s been great competition. So yeah, we’ll see how it goes.”​Latest Sports News from FOX Sports

The wait is finally over. After months of transfer portal movement, recruiting battles and NBA Draft decisions, last week’s withdrawal deadline brought some clarity. Fans learned which standout players would be returning to campus, who would be moving on to the pros and what rosters will actually look like entering the 2026-27 season. There are still a few dominoes left to fall, but the picture is much more clear than it was last month. With that in mind, here’s a look at my updated men’s college basketball Top 25 for the 2026-27 season. Previous Ranking: NR Big Blue Nation was starting to worry that Kentucky wouldn’t have a top-25 roster. The late addition of Iowa State transfer Milan Momcilovic changes that. He was the top-ranked transfer available in May, and Kentucky landed him. The retention of Malachi Moreno, who averaged 8 points and 6 rebounds per game last season, is also huge. He’s due for a breakout year. A projected starting five of Zoom Diallo, Alex Wilkins, Momcilovic, Ousmane N’Diaye, and Moreno looks very solid and should have Kentucky firmly in the top-25 conversation. Previous Ranking: 24 Losing the program’s all-time leading scorer, Bruce Thornton, to graduation certainly hurts, but the talent is there for Jake Diebler’s team to make some noise in the Big Ten next season. Diebler is set to welcome a strong transfer class, highlighted by former Cal guard Justin Pippen, who will join returnee John Mobley Jr. in the starting backcourt. He’ll also welcome five-star freshman Anthony Thompson, the highest-rated recruit to arrive in Columbus since Jared Sullinger in 2010. Previous Ranking: 23 After taking a second look at rosters, it’s become clear that the Cornhuskers are worthy of a spot in the Top 25. Utah Valley transfer Trevan Leonhardt is a passing wizard and a strong offensive fit in a backcourt that also features Braden Frager and Pryce Sandfort. Belmont transfer Sam Orme adds valuable shooting at the four spot. This team will score, but the question remains: can they defend? Previous Ranking: 22 Robert Wright III’s decision to return for his junior season dramatically changes the Cougars’ 2026-27 outlook, giving them one of the best floor generals in the sport. He will be joined by five-star freshman standout Bruce Branch III, who is widely regarded as one of the top 2026 prospects in the nation. The Cougars will also welcome in Collin Chandler, who is set to return home after two years playing for Mark Pope and Kentucky. Previous Ranking: 21 Miami head coach Jai Lucas should have one of the best rosters in the ACC heading into next season, but how quickly it all comes together remains to be seen. Shelton Henderson is a rising star, with the look of a future pro. He’ll be joined by a loaded transfer class, highlighted by a pair of standout additions in Villanova transfer Acaden Lewis and former Georgia big man Somto Cyril. Previous Ranking: 20 Vanderbilt’s offseason revolved around the decision of star point guard Tyler Tanner. The good news for Mark Byington’s team is that Tanner withdrew from the NBA Draft and will return next season as a likely preseason first-team All-American. The not so good news is that starting forward AK Okereke, who was seeking an additional year of eligibility, will not return next year. Still, Byington had an exceptional year in the transfer portal, bringing in an impressive five-man class that includes T.O. Barrett (Missouri), Berke Buyuktuncel (Nebraska), Bangot Dak (Colorado), Ace Glass (Washington State) and Sebastian Williams-Adams (Auburn). Previous Ranking: 19 Indiana head coach Darian DeVries completely retooled his roster this offseason, assembling a six-man transfer class that ranks sixth in the nation, per 247Sports. The group is headlined by a dominant frontcourt duo in Aiden Sherrell (Indiana) and Samet Yigitoglu (SMU). They’ll be joined by former Notre Dame standout Markus Burton, who could be one of the top newcomers in the Big Ten next season if he can stay healthy. Previous Ranking: 18 Houston coach Kelvin Sampson faces the challenge of replacing four starters from last year’s team. The Cougars will need Chase McCarty and Mercy Miller to step into bigger roles next season, and will look to returning forward Joseph Tugler to take a jump into an alpha role. Sampson is set to bring in a trio of impact transfers: Dedan Thomas Jr. (LSU), Delrecco Gillespie (Kent State) and Corey Hadnot II (Purdue Fort Wayne), along with a top-25 recruiting class highlighted by five-star big man Arafan Diane. Previous Ranking: 17Tennessee head coach Rick Barnes is known for being one of the top defensive coaches in the nation, but the 71-year-old Barnes is set to bring in the No. 3-ranked portal class in the nation this year, and it’s loaded with plenty of offensive firepower. Barnes’ haul includes three players – Juke Harris (Wake Forest), Terrence Hill Jr. (VCU) and Jalen Haralson (Notre Dame) – ranked among the top 25 transfers in this country. Previous Ranking: 16 Alabama forward Amari Allen withdrew from the NBA Draft and will provide the Crimson Tide with a steadying force on the perimeter. Beyond that, there is plenty of uncertainty surrounding Alabama’s roster. Big man Aiden Sherrell transferred to Indiana, while standout guard Aden Holloway, who was arrested on felony drug charges on March 16, has announced plans to return to the university and hopes to rejoin the team. Jaxon Richardson and Qayden Samuels are both highly touted recruits who will arrive next season, but their impact remains to be seen. Previous Ranking: 15 Continuity has been a central theme for the Cavaliers this offseason. Virginia returns four of its top six scorers from last year, including Thijs De Ridder, a 6-foot-9 forward from Belgium who led the team in scoring as a freshman. His combination of versatility and experience gives the Cavaliers a reliable offensive foundation, while returning guard Chance Mallory will be asked to take on a larger role as the team’s lead initiator and playmaker. Previous Ranking: 14 Cyclones head coach T.J. Otzelberger agreed to a contract extension that will keep him in Ames through 2036, but Iowa State will enter 2026-27 with a different roster. The departures of Tamin Lipsey, Joshua Jefferson and Milan Momcilovic leave significant holes to fill, though the return of guards Killyan Toure and Jamarion Batemon, coupled with a five-player transfer haul, should help. Previous Ranking: 12 Guard Rodney Rice is returning from injury, while Alijah Arenas enters his sophomore season with the benefit of a full offseason in the weight room. Jacob Cofie is back to anchor the frontcourt, and the additions of KJ Lewis from Georgetown, Eric Reibe from UConn, and three top-30 freshmen give the Trojans one of the nation’s most fascinating rosters. How quickly coach Eric Musselman can mold that talent into a contender will be one of the sport’s biggest storylines. Previous Ranking: 10 The exit of Meleek Thomas to the NBA hurt, but the return of Billy Richmond III was significant. This team should still be a lot of fun. Arkansas has Elite Eight potential thanks to its mix of veteran talent and the nation’s top recruiting class, which includes four top-25 prospects, led by guard Jordan Smith Jr. Previous Ranking: 11 Texas’ ceiling depends on returning center Matas Vokietaitis becoming a star, but the pieces around him are in place. The Longhorns were aggressive in the transfer portal, landing David Punch from TCU and Isaiah Johnson from Colorado. Punch should pair with Vokietaitis to give Texas a strong frontcourt, while Johnson provides a steady hand at point guard. Previous Ranking: 10 Gonzaga will get a huge boost from Braden Huff, one of the most talented players in the country, returning from an injury that kept him out of the 2026 NCAA Tournament. Around Huff, coach Mark Few and the Bulldogs added Massamba Diop from Arizona State and Isiah Harwell from Houston. Both endured disappointing freshman seasons and will look to bounce back in Spokane. Previous Ranking: 9 After making the Final Four for the first time since 2001, Arizona lost four key pieces, including freshman standout Koa Peat, who opted to remain in the NBA Draft. Head coach Tommy Lloyd will rely on returning starters Motiejus Krivas and Ivan Kharchenkov, who give the Wildcats a high floor, especially on defense. The backcourt of North Carolina transfer Derek Dixon and five-star freshman Caleb Holt will give the offense a new look. Previous Ranking: 11 The Red Storm come bursting their way into the top 10. I already loved their roster last month, but the surprising addition of Baylor transfer Tounde Yessoufou is exactly what they needed. He’s a big-bodied guard who can impact the game on both ends of the floor, averaging 18 points and 6 rebounds per game last season. Previous Ranking: 7 Michigan State’s star point guard Jeremy Fears Jr. will return after withdrawing from the NBA Draft. Fears, an extension of coach Tom Izzo on the court, could be a candidate for the Bob Cousy Award. He is the Spartans’ floor general, but for them to go the distance, forwards Coen Carr and Cam Ward, along with shooting guard Kur Teng, will need to step up. Anton Bonke, a transfer from Charlotte, could help offset the departures of Carson Cooper and Jaxon Kohler. Previous Ranking: 7 Head coach Dan Hurley convinced freshman standout Braylon Mullins to return to UConn after a magical run to the 2026 national title game. Point guard Silas Demary Jr. and forward Jayden Ross are also back. Transfers Nikolas Khamenia and Najai Hines should help fill the void left by the departures of Tarris Reed Jr. and Alex Karaban. Previous Ranking: 5 The Cardinals went out and spent a lot of money to put together a team that I think is title worthy. Let’s start with the best defensive center in the country: Flory Bidunga. He’s flanked by Iowa transfer Alvaro Folgueiras, fresh off his clutch NCAA Tournament performances. In the backcourt, Oregon transfer Jackson Shelstad runs the point and Arkansas wing transfer Karter Knox rounds out a roster that has a little bit of everything. Previous Ranking: 4 Duke’s roster blends star power and depth. The headliner is Wisconsin transfer John Blackwell, who withdrew from the NBA Draft and will help replace the loss of Isaiah Evans. Head coach Jon Scheyer also brought in a new class of five-star freshmen, as well as heralded international prospect Joaquim Boumtje-Boumtje from Spain. The foundation is Duke’s returning group: Caleb Foster, Cayden Boozer, Dame Sarr and Patrick Ngongba II. Previous Ranking: 3 One year after relying on an elite frontcourt, the core of this Michigan team will reside in its returning backcourt of Elliot Cadeau and Trey McKenney. Head coach Dusty May had to replace a trio of forwards projected to be first-round NBA Draft picks, and he did so with JP Estrella from Tennessee and Moustapha Thiam from Cincinnati. It’s unfair to expect the Wolverines to match last year’s defensive dominance, but don’t underestimate May’s ability to build another elite unit. Previous Ranking: 2 Illinois head coach Brad Underwood should feel good about this group after Andrej Stojakovic withdrew from the NBA Draft and returned to the Illini. Alongside David Mirkovic and Tomislav Ivisic, Stojakovic gives Illinois one of the nation’s top frontcourts. The addition of Stefan Vaaks from Providence should help offset the loss of Keaton Wagler. Previous Ranking: 1 The Gators vaulted to No. 1 after their entire frontcourt elected to return. Thomas Haugh, Alex Condon and Rueben Chinyelu, all key contributors on Florida’s 2025 national championship team, are back after last season ended in a Round of 32 loss to Iowa. Guards Boogie Fland and Urban Klavzar will also return to Gainesville.​Latest Sports News from FOX Sports

There’s just one week to go until the biggest show on earth gets underway, with the 2026 World Cup kicking off on June 11. If you haven’t already caught a serious case of World Cup fever, what better way to get in the mood than by checking out the very best kits that will be on show in North America this summer. The result of the tournament being expanded to a bumper 48-team event and some sides bizarrely opting to have three separate strips means there will be more than 100 different shirts on view in North America, which is undoubtedly some sort of record. Here are the 20 best kits of the 2026 World Cup – ranked: 20. Senegal (Home) Granted, there is a lot going on here, but we’d prefer that to something boring from one of Africa’s dominant forces at the World Cup. Senegal’s home shirt is inspired by the hand-painted buses of its capital city, Dakar, featuring an eye-catching abstract print all over it. It’s just a shame PUMA decided to dial down the colors. 19. Algeria (Away) The adidas Originals ‘Trefoil’ has returned to their away jerseys, giving them an unmistakably retro vibe. Algeria’s offering oozes understated class, featuring shadow stripes, a darker shade of green on the sleeves and a red trim that really pops. The off-centered numbering is a very nice touch, too. 18. Cote d’Ivoire (Home) Cote d’Ivoire always catch the eye in their vibrant orange home strips, but PUMA have taken things up a notch ahead of the World Cup. Les Elephants’ home shirt carries a striking animal print design on that classic orange base, with flashes of green on the side panels. It celebrates the country’s unified passion for the beautiful game. 17. Germany (Away) Adidas has delivered something a bit different for Germany’s away kit — the country the sportswear giant calls home. It features an unusual navy blue base with ‘aqua-blue’ embellishments, with the color palette blending hues from different eras of the national team from the 1950s to the 80s. The all-over chevron pattern really pops. 16. South Korea (Home) Nike’s South Korea kits always seem to go hard, and 2026 is no different as Son Heung-min and Co. look to cause a stir once again in North America. The design cleverly draws inspiration both from the country’s mountainous landscape and tiger print on a ‘lobal red’ base, playing on the idea of an ambush by the big cats, which are one of their most prominent national symbols. 15. England (Home) Is this the shirt in which England will end their agonizing 60-year wait for a major trophy on the men’s side of the game? They’ll certainly hope so. Nike have evoked some serious retro vibes for the Three Lions’ new home shirt, which is seemingly inspired by the iconic Umbro number from 2000. The modern take features a subtle all-over Three Lions motif, with striking red numbering, trim and detail on the collar and cuffs. 14. Canada (Home) One of the host nations, Canada will look the part on home soil in their striking new Nike home kit. The American sportswear manufacturer has come up with a creative way of incorporating the country’s most prominent cultural and natural symbol, the maple leaf. An oversized motif takes center stage, with the leaf delineated by darker shades of red across the body. 13. Jordan (Third) Yep, you read that correctly — some countries will actually have third kits at the World Cup. If that isn’t too much of a ‘game’s gone’ moment for you, then hopefully you will appreciate Jordan’s third kit from Kelme. A clean, black base, this shirt is all about the subtle floral motif that covers most of the body. Let’s just hope we get to see a glimpse of it on the pitch. 12. DR Congo (Home) Umbro are not messing about with DR Congo’s home shirt as the African nation prepares to contest a World Cup for the first time since 1974, when it was known as Zaire. Mainly blue with neat trim on the sleeves and collar, it’s all about the striking print across the torso, which apparently draws from the power and agility of the leopard. 11. Spain (Home) There’s nothing overcomplicated about Spain’s very clean adidas home kit, but that rich navy blue notably returns to the sleeve panels for the first time since the early 2000s to give it a retro feel. The European champions will be out for global domination in North America, and this is a kit worthy of their cause, with the look completed by yellow pinstripes that draw from the national flag and crest. 10. Qatar (Home) One you might not expect to sneak into our top 10, but the color combination and subtle zigzag pattern on Qatar’s home shirt have grabbed our attention. The maroon colorway is complimented by simple white trim and numbering, with the central, vertical motif inspired by the nation’s flag. 9. Argentina (Home) Adidas have rarely gotten an Argentina shirt wrong in their long association with the great footballing nation, and they’ve continued the roll of hits in 2026 with both the home and away shirts for the World Cup holders. They haven’t messed with a winning formula, with the new home edition once again carrying three vertical stripes in that famous celestial blue, with the ‘Three Stripes’ and trim in black. Simple in its beauty. 8. Argentina (Away) Argentina will be looking to defend their crown in North America, and their away kit is a thing of beauty. The country’s rich artistic heritage takes center stage for their mainly black away shirt, in a design featuring a distinct swirling blue graphic pattern across the body that takes cues from traditional motifs. Intricate floral details, climbing plants and flashes of white complete a classy look. 7. Croatia (Away) Usually all the noise is around Croatia’s red and white home kit, but Nike have created a potential modern classic with their away shirt for the perennial dark horses. The shirt features the classic checkerboard print on the sides in two-tone blue, with a void in between where the crest, Nike ‘Swoosh’ and numbers will sit. Expect to see this one being worn off the pitch for years to come. 6. Sweden (Away) Sweden might have kept things basic with their home jersey, but their away strip is anything but. A ridiculously cool design on a classy dark blue base takes visual cues from the Scandinavian nation’s music and culture of the 1960s and 70s (think ABBA). The wavy print is utterly mesmeric and will be one of the most eye-catching on display in North America. 5. France (Home) We’re sure Nike’s fresh look for the France national team will have divided opinion, but credit to them for trying something different — and if things go Les Bleus way this summer, it could become a cult classic. The shirt certainly ticks the retro box with its big collar and defining geometric gradient print in a big departure from what the American sportswear behemoth has produced for the French over the past 16 years. 4. Germany (Home) This one has us downing steins and donning lederhosen! German big hitters adidas love a throwback when producing a shirt for their home nation, and the new home strip for Die Nationalmannschaft is a thing of beauty. It clearly draws on their designs from the late 80s and early 90s, as the colors of the German flag stretch over each shoulder and meet in the middle. The designers will hope a side that has underwhelmed at recent tournaments can do it justice in North America. 3. Curaçao (Away) The smallest nation to have qualified for the World Cup, 150,000-strong Curaçao will be packing a big punch in their adidas away strip. Featuring the retro ‘Trefoil’, the pale yellow base is perfectly complimented by striking dark blue trium and the iconic ‘Three Stripes’ in red, green and orange to really catch the eye. 2. Japan (Home) We are pretty certain there has never been a bad design in the history of adidas’ collaboration with the Japan national team, and that certainly ain’t going to change this summer. Evoking the manufacturer’s ‘Teamgeist’ templates of the mid-noughties, the home shirt is retro-tinged but very much ready for the modern day. The focal point is an abstract graphic inspired by the iconic haze on the horizon where the sea meets the sky in the Asian nation. 1. Mexico (Home) Could this be the shirt to break Mexico’s curse of the ‘Quinto Partido’?! The host nation has only ever gone beyond the last-16 stage on home soil (in 1970 and 1986), and they will hope they can repeat that feat wearing their sublime new adidas home strip. Featuring striking traditional motifs in dark green against a lighter base, adidas say it represents the country’s energy and pride, celebrating a nation that lives and breathes the beautiful game.​Latest Sports News from FOX Sports

As Shohei Ohtani fired six scoreless innings Wednesday to drop his ERA on the year to 0.74, the third-lowest mark through the first 10 starts of a season in MLB history, he continued to feature a new element to his game. And it’s one that might be necessary as the two-way star tries to capture his first ever Cy Young Award in a year that features a slew of formidable contenders for MLB’s top pitching honor. While Ohtani’s strikeout rate is down from his career norms, his 51.7% groundball rate is the highest of his career — up more than 10% from last year and 6% from his previous career high —  and the fourth-highest among all starters who’ve thrown at least 60 innings this year. On Wednesday in Arizona, he began his start by inducing three straight groundouts in a spotless first inning and ended it with a double-play grounder from Corbin Carroll to escape a sixth-inning threat. Ohtani struck out six and got eight groundouts on the night while needing just 89 pitches through six innings. His ability to keep the ball on the ground has played an important role in his success, helping him limit slug — he has allowed a home run in just one of his 10 appearances this year — and consistently go deep into games, which he’ll need to do if he wants any chance of winning a Cy Young. The Dodgers continue riding with a six-man rotation, even with Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow down, in part to manage Ohtani’s innings and workload. Unlike other Cy Young contenders, Ohtani can’t afford even the occasional clunker. He’s pitching like he knows it, going at least six innings in all but one of his 10 starts, allowing two runs or fewer in each of his 10 starts and holding opponents to an MLB-low .142 batting average. Since the earned run became an official stat, Jacob deGrom (0.56 ERA, 2021) and Juan Marichal (0.59 ERA, 1966) are the only pitchers with a lower ERA through their first 10 starts of a season than Ohtani. “I think a lot of starting pitchers, you feel your way into a game and you give up a couple early and you bear down,” said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. “But I’ve noticed with Shohei, every run is a premium. He’s literally trying to throw a shutout every time he goes out there, where I don’t know if every starter has that mindset.” Since the mound was lowered in 1969, only 28 pitchers who qualified for the ERA title have finished a season with an ERA under 2.00. That number drops to 25 pitchers if you eliminate the shortened 2020 season. The lowest ERA in that time belongs to Dwight Gooden, who had a 1.53 ERA in 1985. Ohtani’s ERA, after holding his opponent scoreless in half of his 10 starts this year, is half of Gooden’s mark (0.74). But, as of Thursday, Ohtani is just shy of qualifying for the ERA title. He’s tied for 74th in innings pitched and currently on pace to throw 159 innings. Over the last 20 years, the fewest number of innings pitched by a Cy Young starter over the course of a full season is 167 by Corbin Burnes. Ohtani will have his work cut out for him to reach that number. And in a year in which the Phillies’ Christopher Sánchez just racked up 50.2 consecutive scoreless innings and the Brewers’ Jacob Misiorowski is running a strikeout rate near 40%, Ohtani must maintain a sizable ERA lead and routinely rack up starts of six and seven innings if he hopes to win MLB’s top pitching honor. Keeping the ball on the ground, the way he has to this point, will help. Ohtani’s arsenal hasn’t changed dramatically to allow him to post the highest groundball rate and lowest home-run rate of his career. While he has incorporated more of his curveball and splitter this year, he still leans primarily on his four-seamer and sweeper — two of the best pitches in baseball — throwing them a combined 75.3% of the time. Rather, Dodgers assistant pitching coach Connor McGuiness believes that Ohtani’s elevated ground-ball rate is mostly the result of the pitcher’s enhanced ability to read the game, understand opponents’ tendencies and mess with a hitter’s timing by varying his delivery and velocity. Sometimes, that can help him avoid barrels and get harmless contact to end an at-bat quickly. Other times — like when he slowed his mechanics down to end an 11-pitch at-bat against Francisco Lindor in April — it can help him get a strikeout when he needs one. “He’s one of the best self-coaches we have,” McGuiness told me last week. “I think he’s kind of just found a consistent delivery and throw right now. He’s tapped into a crazy amount of power, and he’s just avoiding the fat part of the plate.” Over his last four starts, Ohtani has surrendered just nine hits and one run — and that’s while fighting his command through a large portion of that stretch. Wednesday’s start, in which he allowed just one free pass, represented a step in the right direction. He allowed three baserunners as a pitcher and reached base five times as a hitter, getting his batting average up above .300 for the first time since Opening Day. After a slow start to the year offensively, he now has the lowest ERA in MLB as a pitcher and the third-highest OPS in the National League as a hitter. “He’s the best player that’s ever walked this earth,” said catcher Will Smith. This year, he might also be the best pitcher, too. “When Shohei says he’s going to go do something, we all believe it,” McGuiness told me. “Like, he’s probably going to go do it. It is unbelievable. No words can really describe what he’s accomplishing right now, and honestly I think we’re just scratching the surface on the best version of him, which is even scarier to think about.”​Latest Sports News from FOX Sports

Emerse Faé deserves a lot of credit as he pulled off quite an upset in his hometown. The Ivory Coast manager, born in the French city of Nantes, led the team he once represented as a player to one of the biggest shocks in the run-up to the 2026 World Cup by beating tournament favorite France. But Thursday’s result now raises concerns about France’s scoring efficiency and its killer instinct to put a winnable game away. It also now puts the spotlight on an Ivory Coast team that could now be one of the potential dark horses of the tournament. The defining story of this game was how Ivory Coast turned the tide of the game and rose in the second half, largely through the contributions of French-born players Guéla Doué (whose brother Désiré Doué plays for France) and Nicolas Pépé. Then it was Guéla who assisted Amad Diallo on the winner. Here are my takeaways: 1. France Wastefulness A Concern France controlled the game in Nantes in the early going but could not put the game away. It wasn’t until Rayan Cherki’s 45th minute goal when Les Bleus found the back of the net. French manager Didier Deschamps made the obvious decision to not start the players who recently won the Champions League with Paris Saint-Germain, notably Ousmane Dembélé. That still left impressive quality such as Bradley Barcola, Warren Zaire-Emery, Désiré Doué, and Lucas Hernández on the bench. Despite that, France was able to start a first-rate attack including Kylian Mbappé, Marcus Thuram, and Michael Olise. The Ivory Coast did well enough to keep the game scoreless at 0-0 for as long as it did and in fact had a chance to strike first when Simon Adingra took advantage of a mistake from Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni to go one on one with keeper Mike Maignan, only to see the AC Milan man come up with the save. Despite the edge in the first half, France was wasteful throughout. Mbappé saw a good chance saved by Yahia Fofana in the opening minutes. Thuram and Olise would also fail to take advantage of goal-scoring chances in the first half. Mbappé was particularly guilty. The Real Madrid star trails Olivier Giroud by just one goal to become France’s all-time goalscorer, but has faced criticism of his finishing inefficiency and missed chances close to goal. This game, played in front of home fans, will only increase these concerns. Ultimately, their failure to put the game away in the first half sunk them. Where France was wasteful, Ivory Coast was clinical as the team equalized in the 53rd minute when Guéla Doué was sent in alone on Maignan with a perfect pass from Villarreal’s Pépé. Then, in the 84th minute, it was Doué setting up Diallo with a pass from the right wing which the Manchester United attacker was able to finish from the middle of the box. At the World Cup, chances will be harder to come by and unless France is able to make the most of its chances, they could find it a difficult road despite their immense talent. 2. Ivory Coast’s Discipline Pays Off In the early goings, it seemed as if this game was going to a coast for France. Deschamps’s team was in control of the pace and had the bulk of first chances. But the Ivory Coast grew into the game and now Fae has the opportunity to lead the Ivory Coast to a meaningful win that should give it momentum heading into the World Cup. Playing on the road against a World Cup favorite and trailing at the half, Ivory Coast responded by playing brilliantly. In the end, the goals it scored were through impressive individual quality with passing that cut through the French midfield and backline. In the early goings, the Ivory Coast could have become frustrated or overwhelmed, but instead they maintained their resolve, and let their individual quality play out. Right back Doué was the best player on the field in this game. The Strasbourg winger pushed forward in the attack effectively and was able to notch a goal and an assist. Defensively, he was also very impressive in his ability to help contain France’s attack down his side of the field. He also earned a bit of household bragging rights with the victory over his brother’s team. 3. Cherki’s Case To Start On a team as talented as Les Bleus, the internal competition for minutes at the World Cup is fierce. Rayan Cherki is generally not considered a starter for a first-choice French team, but the Manchester City attacker made a great case on Thursday as he was the best player on the field in the first half. A long-time veteran of France’s youth teams and a member of the 2024 Olympic team that won the silver medal, the Lyon native has been making inroads with the full French team over the past year. Cherki did not make his debut for France until June 5, 2025, when he also scored his first goal. Shortly before halftime, he scored his second career international goal to give the hosts a 1-0 edge. It wasn’t just the goal, Cherki was on the ball throughout his entire 78 minutes and was consistently getting into dangerous places and finding his teammates in the attack. He ultimately was one of the few bright spots on a bad day for France. 4. Ivory Coast As A Dark Horse? That has been some talk about the Ivory Coast being a potential sleeper team who could make a run this summer. The team has a manageable group with Ecuador, Curaçao, and Germany rounding out Group E. But now, the expectations will only be heightened. A win over Curaçao should be expected and a result over Germany would take a similar level of resolve as defeating France. The game against Ecuador could be an even match. What should be encouraging for the Ivory Coast is that this result over France was not how a typical upset goes where a set piece, a penalty, or a red card evens the game. The Ivory Coast scored twice from the run of play with first-rate passing and effective finishing. What this game showed was that Ivory Coast as the talent to play with the best and the players are confident in their ability.​Latest Sports News from FOX Sports

A year before making coach Mauricio Pochettino’s USA roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Matt Freese had never even played an international game. Now, he heads into the Greatest Show in Sports as the Stars and Stripes’ projected No. 1 goalkeeper. Freese has taken an unusual path to get to this point. The son of a renowned neurosurgeon and a health care executive who prioritized books over sports, the now-27-year-old turned down Manchester United as a teenager to attend Harvard, from which he earned an economics degree in 2022. That alone makes Philadelphia native Freese perhaps the most interesting man on Pochettino’s 26-player World Cup roster. I sat down with the New York City FC backstop to dive deeper into who he is. Your family was into academics, your late father, Dr. Andrew Freese, especially. Why were you so into sports when that’s not what you got at home? It’s pretty random, isn’t it? I think because it provides an avenue to compete very tangibly. Usually it’s binary: There’s one winner and one loser. I love winning, and I really hate losing. So I think the competition aspect of it really is what drove me to love athletics. You played lots of different sports as a kid. Were you good at any others? My best sport was probably lacrosse, but I just didn’t love it the way I love soccer. I read that you always wanted to be a keeper. When I lived in South Carolina, my neighbor was the goalkeeper for our area’s high school team who won the state championship for them in penalty kicks. I idolized him as an 8-year-old kid. That kind of sparked my interest. But it wasn’t until I was probably 11 that I got to play goalkeeper in a real game. You’d taken shots from your older brother before that, though, right? We’d been playing in the backyard all along. I had this one ridiculous save my first time playing goalkeeper, so from there the coach let me play occasionally. It wasn’t until probably 16, 17 when I became a goalkeeper exclusively. That’s pretty late for a future World Cup keeper. What’s funny is, I never had any burnout because I had a consistent yearning for more soccer. My interest and love for the game didn’t even fully peak until I was like, 19 or 20. Keepers are crazy, right? You seem like a pretty normal guy. [Laughs.] It’s just because you don’t know me that well. I’m not normal at all. There’s a long history of American keepers playing other sports. Tony Meola was drafted by the Yankees. Brad Friedel played football. Tim Howard played basketball. Did it help you? So much. It enabled me to learn a pretty broad variety of skill sets. Goalkeeper is such an athletically multifaceted position. You need hand-eye coordination, speed, strength, decision-making, to be able to jump. You need everything. You moved around a lot as a kid. Was it hard to become a fan of particular teams? I was 10 when we settled in Philly. I moved like seven times before then, but we stayed in Philly after that, so I fell in love with all those teams: Eagles, Sixers, Flyers. That was the same time that the Philadelphia Union started. My mom was able to get tickets for us to go to the first game. That was probably part of the reason that I fell in love with that team. And then you got cut from their academy. What was that like? This was before the academy actually, when I was 11 or 12. They had this thing called the Union Juniors program. I got cut from that when I was probably 12 or 13.  I was still playing four other sports. I was pudgy back then too, which probably didn’t help. But I worked my ass off and got invited back and made the academy when it launched full-time. You also went over to England and trained with Liverpool and Manchester United. Tell me about that experience. I came from such a non-soccer background that I don’t think I knew how big of a deal that was in the moment. Maybe that was good, because I played very freely when I was over there. Honestly, I balled out. Manchester United wanted to sign you, but you turned it down. Why? I was an 18-year-old kid. You follow what your parents want for you, at least in that moment. A year and a half later, I became a man, and I said that now soccer comes first. You went to Harvard instead. Pretty good second option. It was a lifelong dream of my parents for me to go to college. I promised them I would do my first year and see what happens. After that first year, I said I’m not putting this on hold anymore and went pro. The goal was to make the 2020 Olympic team, right? My dream was always to represent my country, whether it’s the Olympics or now, at the World Cup. At that moment, I had my eyes set on the 2020 Olympics and for me to be considered, I had to leave college. Playing for the 2-13 team that we were at Harvard wasn’t going to cut it. So I really just had to make that leap. You did graduate from Harvard, though. How did you do it? I wanted to graduate, and I had that opportunity. The only reason I wouldn’t have done it is if it was going to detract from soccer, but it definitely didn’t. It was the opposite. It helped me so much on the field. My rookie year in MLS was a total mess. I was injured like four or five times. My body, my mind, my emotions were not ready for the pressure that an 11-month season puts on you. I wasn’t taking classes then. But my second year I started again, and it allowed me to have an outlet to release some of the pressure. Still, juggling school and a pro soccer career must’ve been difficult. When you’re 20 years old, you need something to keep you focused when you’re off the field. It created a regimen, a routine, a reason for me on a Thursday night to be at home, sitting at a desk at 9 p.m. doing homework, yeah, and then going to sleep early. So it was, it was a massive part of my development. That’s fascinating. There’s a ton of research that suggests that intellectual and academic brain stimulation also translates into adaptability and quick, quick cognitive processes on the field. That’s one of my biggest strengths, my adaptability to new systems and the speed at which I learn things on the field. While we’re on the topic of school, you did your thesis on penalty kicks? It wasn’t a thesis, there was a project about it. I’m not answering anything about that. That story has been told, we can move on. I’ve got too many shootouts left! Your paternal grandparents were from Germany, a soccer power. But your dad wasn’t into soccer at all? Not at all. I actually never met them. They passed away when he was young. How did you become introduced to the sport? My brother loved soccer, and we watched it all the time together. Now, I realize he was my first goalkeeper trainer. I owe so much of this to him. But it was just a random love for the game that I found. It was a challenging time in my young life, moving around a lot. My parents were getting divorced. Soccer was something that just allowed me to feel at home. With NYCFC, you wear number 49 for your maternal grandfather, Jack, who was an Air Force pilot and AFL quarterback. My mom says I remind her of him: Big, broad shoulders, 6-foot-5. He was number 49 during his football career, and so that’s why I love 49. I’d wear it at the World Cup, but the highest number allowed is 26. Where did your nickname, “Matty Ice,” originate? I’m from the same area as Matt Ryan. One of my gym teachers knew him in high school or something and started calling me Matty Ice. It didn’t fully stick then. The one that stuck was Booger, the nickname my brother gave me when I was 6 years old, and that one really stuck. NYCFC’s nickname is the Pigeons. Do you like that one? I think pigeons are cool. It’s crazy to think you had never played for the national team until June 2025. How do you process that? My favorite quote is from Daryl Morey, the former 76ers president: “Opportunity is not a lengthy visitor.” People see a meteoric rise during the past 12 months. I see 15 years of hard work before that, so that I can capitalize when that moment comes. What would it mean to you to be standing there on the field on June 12 for the USA’s first World Cup game? It would be such an honor, part of a dream come true. I dreamt specifically of winning World Cup games representing my country. I’m super competitive. I want to win eight games this summer. There’s a lot of work left for that full dream to come true. You’ve said you love pressure. There’s no more pressure than the World Cup and being a host nation, right? I was born with this desire to be in the most pressure games, the most pressure moments, the highest-stakes games, to be a difference maker. That’s just been part of who I am as an athlete my whole life, is that I’m there for the big moments. What can this team accomplish this summer? We want to set a new standard for American soccer, to do for this sport in this country what the ’94 group did when the World Cup was here last. That started the love for the game in America. We want to continue to raise the bar and inspire 5- to 10-year-olds who are watching this game so that in 15 years from now, they’re setting another new standard.​Latest Sports News from FOX Sports

It’s not often that you get two blockbuster NFL trades in June, but that’s what Monday brought us — and it still seems likely that there are some more moves to come. A.J. Brown was widely viewed as the top trade candidate available following free agency, with the Philadelphia Eagles trading him to the New England Patriots on Monday. However, that deal was usurped by the Los Angeles Rams’ acquisition of two-time Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett, who didn’t seem to be available prior to Monday’s deal. So, with those two stars finding new homes this week, who are the top names still available? We’re offering up five names, and none of them are nearly the caliber of Garrett or Brown. The NFL trade market was hurt by Wednesday’s news that the Arizona Cardinals edge rusher Josh Sweat won’t get moved, too. Still, these five players could provide some value to their new potential homes, even if they’re traded for just a mid-to-late-round draft pick years from now. But now is the time to be aggressive, to address a concern before it’s glaring in September and get a new player in the building in time to learn his team and scheme ahead of training camp. Here are the five best remaining trade candidates, and picking the top potential landing spot for each: Kayvon Thibodeaux is only 25 and playing this year on his fifth-year option, making $14.8 million. But the New York Giants are loaded at edge rusher, with Brian Burns and second-year star Abdul Carter already getting the majority of the snaps last season. Throw in rookie Arvell Reese into the mix as well, as he’ll likely have some pass-rush usage, even if he’s primarily a linebacker. Thibodeaux has missed 12 games over the last two seasons, totaling only eight sacks (including 2.5 last year), but a team needing help at edge would be hoping to get the player who had 11.5 sacks in 2023. His salary is a lot for a rotational edge rusher, so unless they really want expensive protection against injury, a trade makes a lot of sense for the Giants. POTENTIAL LANDING SPOT: New England Patriots, where former Giants defensive coordinator Shane Bowen is now a defensive analyst. Can the San Francisco 49ers find a taker for Brandon Aiyuk? The 28-year-old hasn’t played since injuring his knee in October 2024, and the 49ers were able to get his 2026 guarantees voided, but he still has injury concerns and a massive contract. San Francisco has the same dead money against their cap if it cuts him or trades him — $33 million, split over this year and next. He wants to go to the Washington Commanders, reuniting with his former Arizona State teammate Jayden Daniels. But even giving up a future seventh-rounder for Aiyuk means committing to paying him $26 million this year, and he wouldn’t command that as a free agent, so the Commanders might be content to wait the 49ers out until they just cut him. That might be the likely outcome, San Francisco waiting until just before training camp starts and then cutting him loose. POTENTIAL LANDING SPOT: Washington Commanders, where former 49ers front office exec Adam Peters is now the general manager. Anthony Richardson shows how quickly a prospect can lose his window, even as a No. 4 overall pick. He just turned 24, but with the Indianapolis Colts giving Daniel Jones two years and $88 million, he’s not a central part of their plans. Richardson recovered from an eye injury last year, and there’s uncertainty about when Jones will be fully recovered from a torn Achilles tendon, but Indianapolis is more likely to trust second-year pro Riley Leonard. The Colts just signed Easton Stick as a fourth quarterback, which could be them setting depth ahead of a trade. A team acquiring Richardson would have to pay him a $4 million roster bonus in July, but if you don’t have a long-term answer at the position and don’t see yourself landing a high draft pick in 2027, he’d be an inexpensive option to look at and even re-sign inexpensively when he becomes a free agent in March. Richardson actually has an 8-7 record as a starter, but a 50% career completion rate is alarming, with more career interceptions (13) than touchdown passes (11). He’s rushed for 634 yards in 17 career games, but that’s only a plus if you can improve his passing skills enough to keep him on the field. He’s in a similar boat to Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis, pushed out by the team that drafted him and in the final year of his rookie contract, available for pennies on the dollar compared to his original draft value. POTENTIAL LANDING SPOT: Detroit Lions, who could use a developmental backup with Teddy Bridgewater as QB2. Alvin Kamara just turned 30, and with the New Orleans Saints signing Travis Etienne in free agency, he won’t be the Saints’ featured back for the first time in his career. He only played 11 games last year, but averaged a career-low 3.6 yards per carry — he averaged at least 4.5 yards in each of his first four seasons, but has averaged below that in each of his last five. He’s always been a strong pass-catching back, so his value to a new team might be as a complementary back for third downs and in the passing game. New Orleans takes on $18 million in dead money (split over two years) if they cut him and $15 million if they trade him. They’ve moved on from key veterans from those final Drew Brees playoff teams in the last year, and Kamara makes sense as the next one to go. Kamara has maintained that he wants to finish his career with the Saints, so the threat of him retiring rather than reporting to a new team might lessen what the Saints can get. POTENTIAL LANDING SPOT: Buffalo Bills, where former longtime Saints offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael is now the offensive coordinator. The Miami Dolphins have garage-sold or cut so many of their best players out of town this offseason, releasing quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, wide receiver Tyreek Hill and edge rusher Bradley Chubb and trading wide receiver Jaylen Waddle. So, linebacker Jordyn Brooks is essentially the meme of the Fresh Prince alone and looking wistfully around an empty room. He’s in the final year of his contract, making a reasonable $8 million. It’s possible Miami wants to keep him as one key piece, but it should be active enough in 2027 free agency that it won’t be able to get a compensatory pick for losing him. Brooks was a first-team All-Pro after leading the league with 183 total tackles last year, adding 3.5 sacks and 13 tackles for loss, so he’s a smart target for a linebacker-needy team. If it doesn’t happen before the season, it feels inevitable he lands with a contender at the trade deadline. POTENTIAL LANDING SPOT: Dallas Cowboys, who need all the defensive upgrades they can get after last season.​Latest Sports News from FOX Sports

Summer break is fast approaching for NFL teams. Over the next two weeks, they’ll be wrapping up their offseason programs. During the long wait for football’s return, what will be the top question lingering over every club? I pick one key query for each NFC team (stay tuned for the AFC edition Friday): NFC East On paper, the Dallas Cowboys are much improved on defense. Five of their seven draft picks were used on that side of the ball — most notably first-round picks Caleb Downs, who’s been touted as a generational defensive back prospect, and edge rusher Malachi Lawrence. Dallas also traded for standout edge Rashan Gary (7.5 sacks last season). Safety Jalen Thompson and cornerback Cobie Durant headline their free-agent acquisitions. But it will be up to the 34-year-old Parker, a first-time defensive playcaller, to put all the talent together into a competent unit. The Cowboys’ hopes of returning to the playoffs, and a potential postseason run, could hinge on the former defensive backs coach. Dart is learning a new system, with former Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy taking over as Giants OC under new head coach John Harbaugh. There’s also a question of whether New York has enough firepower around the 2025 first-round pick. The biggest concern is star receiver Malik Nabers, who, after tearing his ACL last season, had a cleanup procedure earlier this offseason. Nabers’ availability for the start of the season remains unclear, and fellow receiver Darius Slayton has also been sidelined with a core muscle injury. The signing of Odell Beckham Jr. is nostalgic for New York fans, but at 33 years old, there’s no guarantee that he even makes the roster. [Odell Beckham’s Giants Reunion A Futile Trip Down Memory Lane] For months, the Philadelphia Eagles had been preparing their roster for the eventual departure of three-time All-Pro receiver Brown, who was officially traded to the New England Patriots on June 1. Philadelphia drafted USC’s Makai Lemon with the 20th overall pick, signed veteran receivers Hollywood Brown and Elijah Moore in free agency and traded for wideout Dontayvion Wicks. But can they fill the void left by Brown, who posted four straight 1,000-yard seasons with the Eagles? More will be asked of DeVonta Smith as quarterback Jalen Hurts’ top target. After missing 10 games due to injury last year, the Washington Commanders QB said he has a “bitter taste” in his mouth. The 2024 Offensive Rookie of the Year will look to get back on track with a new offensive coordinator in David Blough, who was Washington’s assistant quarterbacks coach the previous two seasons. NFC Central If you thought this past year couldn’t have been any better for Williams, who led the Chicago Bears to an NFC North title and a playoff victory over the Packers last season, he was announced as the cover athlete for “Madden NFL 27” in early June — the first-ever Bear to claim that honor. Williams & Co. face big expectations to build on what was Chicago’s first playoff appearance since 2020 and first division crown since 2018. A fourth-place schedule in 2026 could help the Detroit Lions return to double-digit wins in the 2026 season. But the play of the offensive line, which was an issue last year, will go a long way to Detroit reestablishing itself as a dominant team. The revamped unit has All-Pro offensive tackle Penei Sewell flipping from the right to left side. No. 2 running back David Montgomery is out of the picture, having been traded to the Houston Texans. The pass-rush help for Aidan Hutchinson and the health of the secondary is paramount for the Lions, too. Starting defensive backs Terrion Arnold, DJ Reed and Brian Branch missed a combined 20 games in 2025. Recovering from a torn ACL suffered in mid-December, Parsons told reporters in early June that he’s about four months away from playing, which would put his return around October. But even if that timeline holds, there’s a question of how long it’ll take the superstar edge rusher to truly get his feet back under him. Green Bay will need Parsons at full strength down the stretch for what is expected to be a playoff push. The Vikings signed veteran quarterback and former No. 1 overall pick Kyler Murray to compete with J.J. McCarthy to be QB1. Murray may have the slight advantage — the stakes are high in Minnesota after GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s firing in January — but the two quarterbacks have been splitting first-team reps in offseason practices. NFC South Michael Penix Jr., who’s making his way back from a third torn ACL, and former Miami Dolphins starter Tua Tagovailoa, who signed with Atlanta in March, are in a full-fledged competition to be the Falcons’ QB1. Penix has not yet been cleared for 11-on-11 work, so Tagovailoa has had the early advantage in reps with the starting offense. Carolina picked up the fifth-year option in Young’s rookie deal, keeping him under contract through 2027. But the former No. 1 overall pick will need to build on an encouraging 2025 campaign to justify a long-term deal. He posted career-best passing numbers last season — a 63.6% completion rate for 3,011 yards and 23 TDs with 11 INTs — leading the Panthers to their first playoff appearance since 2017. Shough finished second in Offensive Rookie of the Year voting last season, despite starting just nine games. And he has ideal circumstances to build off his promising 2025 campaign. The former Louisville standout is entering Year 2 with coach Kellen Moore, and the Saints prioritized bolstering the surrounding offense. New Orleans signed running back Travis Etienne Jr. in free agency and used the No. 8 overall pick on wide receiver Jordyn Tyson. Mayfield had his worst season with Tampa Bay in 2025, and the Bucs failed to make the playoffs for the first time since 2020. The former No. 1 overall pick will have his fourth offensive coordinator in four seasons with the Bucs in Zac Robinson, and franchise legend Mike Evans — one of Mayfield’s favorite receiving targets — departed in free agency. NFC West Despite the uncertainty at quarterback — Jacoby Brissett, Gardner Minshew and Carson Beck are the options — new Arizona Cardinals coach Mike LaFleur has plenty of talent on offense. But there are questions about whether the team has enough on the offensive line to give Love, the running back picked at No. 3 overall, a chance at success. For two seasons, receiver Harrison has failed to live up to the hype as the No. 4 overall pick of the 2024 draft. LaFleur was a wide receivers coach and passing game coordinator with the Niners before working as an OC the past five seasons, so perhaps he’ll bring an approach that can unlock Harrison’s talent. After the blockbuster trade for superstar defensive end Myles Garrett, the Los Angeles Rams have surged as the favorite to win Super Bowl LXI. They had already acquired former All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie in what’s been an aggressive offseason. According to FOX Sports Research, it will mark the first time that a reigning MVP (Matthew Stafford) and DPOY (Garrett) will play on the same team in the following season (excluding Lawrence Taylor and Alan Page, who won both awards in 1986 and ‘71, respectively). Anything less than a Super Bowl trip would be a disappointment for Los Angeles. [Ranking The Top 10 Moves After Myles Garrett, A.J. Brown Trades] Injuries have been a recurring issue for the San Francisco 49ers for years, and health could shape their fortunes once again in 2026. Stars George Kittle (Achilles), Nick Bosa (ACL) and Fred Warner (ankle) all enter the new year coming off season-ending injuries. Darnold beat the bust label years ago. But how he responds to a larger workload in 2026, coming off a Super Bowl victory, remains to be seen. The two-time Pro Bowler no longer has the luxury of having Kenneth Walker III in the backfield, and Zach Charbonnet is expected to miss the start of the season with a torn ACL. And with a first-time offensive coordinator in Brian Fleury replacing Klint Kubiak, Darnold may need to take greater ownership of the Seahawks’ offense.​Latest Sports News from FOX Sports