Baker Mayfield’s new three-year, $165 million extension with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers was a healthy reminder that being an NFL quarterback is still good work if you can get it.

There are 13 quarterbacks now making $50 million or more, and if you wonder why the Bucs felt any urgency to get a deal done rather than wait for next spring ahead of free agency, we’re here to help. There’ll likely be a massive wave of new contract extensions for quarterbacks in the next year, easily normalizing $60 million per year as a new plateau and pushing the $50 million gang to more than half the league. 

We’ll put them in three groups, generally descending, but most of them are capable of $50 million a year or much more. We also added a fourth group of quarterbacks set to become free agents who could strike it big next offseason if things fall into place, even if the actual group isn’t particularly tantalizing. 

The Precious 2024 Draft Picks

The top three picks in the 2024 NFL Draft, plus Nix at 12th overall, were all just about immediate NFL starters. They’ve all been to the playoffs and won at least one postseason game — Daniels has won two, and Maye won three and made the Super Bowl as an MVP runner-up last season. Williams and Maye are still only 24, Daniels is 25, Nix is 26, and they’ve already combined for 180 touchdown passes in their first two years in the league.

Jayden Daniels led the Commanders to the NFC Championship Game as a rookie in 2024. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images)

–>

NFL draft picks are eligible for extensions after their third season, which means they could be signing huge contracts in just four or five months. As first-round picks, their teams hold fifth-year options for 2028, so a new deal could start with the 2029 season, after a cost-controlled first five years in the league. These quarterbacks could push to get a new deal before the fifth-year options are in place.

Remember how Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs waited each other out for market-resetting extensions this summer? The same could happen next spring with these four quarterbacks, both in the value of the contract and the structure. Do they take a five-year contract like many top young quarterbacks, especially if only the first two or three years are guaranteed? Could one of them try to leverage a fully guaranteed contract like Deshaun Watson got (surprisingly) from the Cleveland Browns?

If their success continues this season, all four would be in line for $55 million a year or more. Maye has new offensive weapons to improve on what was very close to an MVP season last year. Williams can validate his 2025 breakout with more late-game comeback wins, Nix can show what he can do in a deep playoff run if he can stay healthy, and Daniels can get back to the excitement of his rookie season when Washington made an unexpected run to the NFC Championship Game. The best of the lot, potentially a league MVP, should break the bank on a new deal that could surpass $70 million a year in new money, especially if it goes five years.

Drake Maye emerged as an MVP candidate in Year 2, potentially putting him in line to receive one of the richest contracts in NFL history. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)

–>

Who knows what an NFL salary cap might look like in 2033 when such a deal is wrapping up. If you just presume a conservative 8% growth each year, that gets you to a $515 million cap per team in 2033. The current $60 million QB salary on a $301 million cap for 2026 would translate to $100 million seven years later, and that doesn’t even factor in the spike from new broadcast deals long before then.

The Veterans Who Deserve New Deals

This could be a much longer list, but we’ll start with two quarterbacks who each have two years remaining on their current deals. Jackson has two left on a five-year deal paying him $52 million a year, and Darnold has two left on a three-year deal paying him $34 million a year. Both would command much more than what they’re making on the open market.

Darnold was on the Mayfield track — he got a three-year, $100 million deal after Mayfield got the same. And with Mayfield getting his deal, that sets the easy minimum for a new Darnold deal if his 2026 is anything close to 2025, helping the Seahawks to a championship. Darnold doesn’t turn 30 until next June, and if you add a year of a rising market, he could easily be at $60 million on a new deal next spring.

Jackson, who turns 30 in January, is a two-time MVP with a chance to upgrade his postseason résumé this season, so if the Ravens make the conference championship game or anything further, he’ll be able to reset the market in a huge way. Baltimore made him the NFL’s highest-paid player in 2023 with a five-year, $260 million deal. If the Ravens give Jackson the same treatment next spring, his next deal might top $350 million.

Lamar Jackson broke the record for the largest contract in NFL history at the time with his last extension. Could his next contract break the new record? (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)

–>

The 2023 Top Picks Who Might Be On The Cusp

Both of these quarterbacks will play on fifth-year options in 2027, which will pay out $25.9 million, and both are capable of joining either end of the contract spectrum in the upcoming season. If Stroud can get back to his rookie-year stardom — Pro Bowl, Offensive Rookie of the Year, leading Houston to a playoff win — he would quickly elevate to the $50 million status and higher. His touchdown totals have dropped in each of his last two seasons, so if that continues, Houston would logically wait another year before deciding to commit to middling success.

Young is more of a question mark. He’s gone from 11 to 15 to 23 touchdown passes in three seasons and led the Carolina Panthers to an unexpected division title last year. But they did so with an 8-9 record, so for him to justify a major extension, his progress has to continue enough that the Panthers are again a playoff team with him leading the way. Do that, and he’ll be in line for double what he’s due to make in 2027, but if he stumbles this season, anything is possible for Carolina’s future.

Bryce Young suddenly emerged as an extension candidate in 2025 after an underwhelming first two years to his career. (Photo by Logan Bowles/Getty Images)

–>

The 2027 Free Agents To Know

While the first eight quarterbacks are likely to receive a new, rich deal via extension, these seven could get a rich contract in free agency if the stars align. 

And there’s quite a wild assortment of quarterback talent here. Murray and Tagovailoa have already had $200 million deals and are playing on league-minimum contracts with a chance to reset themselves as NFL starters. Murray is in a much better position to do so, with Justin Jefferson to throw to and a playoff-caliber team for a potential Darnold-level resurrection. Tagovailoa got Atlanta’s starting job almost by default but still has a chance to show what he can do as well. Even with success, those two might be closer to the Darnold/Mayfield three-year, $100 million bounce-back deals, but with limited options for actual free agents, the market could be higher.

Jones just turned 28 and played well filling in for Brock Purdy last year, so if he gets another window to prove himself this season, he could be coveted ahead of older, on-the-way-out options like Brissett or Smith. We included Watson here as a Week 1 starter, but given how his time in Cleveland has gone, it’s hard to see him finding success or finding a team willing to invest heavily in his future.

Mac Jones impressed when he filled in for Brock Purdy last season. If he does the same in 2026, could he receive a Malik Willis-type contract? (Photo by Ian Maule/Getty Images)

–>

The best of this last group will be competing directly with a deep and talented rookie class in the 2027 draft, but teams picking in the back half of the first round might not like the best of what’s left in the draft at that point.

Because the supply can be sparse, you really can’t write any quarterback off after seeing Malik Willis get $67 million for three years this past spring with six career starts. So if McKee can get on the field for the Eagles — that likely would require an injury to Jalen Hurts and maybe Andy Dalton — and play well, he could be this year’s small-sample jackpot, with just two starts at age 26 in three years in Philadelphia.

Source

Seattle Seahawks fans, breathe.

While Sam Darnold will likely miss at least one game due to a hip injury he suffered in the team’s Wednesday night season opener against the New England Patriots, an MRI has determined that Seattle’s starting quarterback “dodged a bullet” and shouldn’t miss an extended period of time, NFL Media reported on Thursday afternoon.

Darnold hobbled off the field after being sacked on Seattle’s opening drive on Wednesday night and didn’t return. The Seahawks later announced that Darnold sustained a hip injury and wouldn’t return, with backup Drew Lock stepping in and helping Seattle pull off a come-from-behind 13-10 victory over New England.

After the game, Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald revealed the team was “able to rule out a fracture” regarding Darnold’s hip.

In what was a rematch of Super Bowl LX, which the Seahawks won 29-13, Lock finished with 187 passing yards, one passing touchdown, no interceptions and a 113.3 passer rating, while completing 72.7% of his passes (16 of 22).

If Darnold misses time, Lock would presumably become Seattle’s starting quarterback, with second-year signal caller and 2025 third-round pick Jalen Milroe serving as the backup quarterback. Lock has made 28 starts over his seven-plus-year NFL career (2019-present), most recently making five starts for the New York Giants in 2024.

According to the Ringer, Darnold suffered a muscle strain after initial X-rays confirmed no fracture. While he is expected to avoid Injured Reserve, his immediate return is uncertain, and he is likely to miss time.

Seattle’s next two games are road tilts against the Arizona Cardinals (Sept. 20) and Washington Commanders (Sept. 27). With Darnold unable to go next week, the expectation is Drew Lock will remain the quarterback moving forward.

The 29-year-old Darnold is in his second season with the Seahawks. Last year (2025), Darnold earned his second consecutive Pro Bowl nod, throwing for 4,048 yards, 25 touchdowns and 14 interceptions, while posting a 99.1 passer rating and completing 67.7% of his passes in a 14-3 season for Seattle. 

Source

This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. 

The NFL is heading to Australia for a historic showdown between the 49ers and Rams, and Dabble is giving new users a chance to play $5 and get $50 in bonuses when you use promo code FOXSPORTS.

It’s a game filled with superstars on both sides of the ball. The reigning MVP and DPOY suit up to play for the same team, key pieces return from injury and, to add to the chaos, these teams hate each other as NFC West rivals.

With two NFC West rivals, a historic international setting and stars all over the field, Rams vs. 49ers could be one of the best games of the NFL season. 

Whether you’re watching for Myles Garrett and Trent McDuffie debut or waiting to see what Purdy, McCaffrey and Evans can do for San Francisco, Dabble gives new users a way to add more excitement to the showdown. Use promo code FOXSPORTS, play $5 and get $50 in bonuses for Rams vs. 49ers.

How to Sign Up and Claim the Dabble Fantasy Promo Code

1. Click this “Claim Now” button on this page to visit Dabble with promo code ‘FOX’ applied.
2. Download the Dabble app (iOS or Android) and complete registration (name, email, date of birth, address, last 4 of SSN if required) and account verification.
3. Once your account is verified, and you play $5, you instantly get $50.
4. Any winnings from bonus-fund entries become withdrawable once play-through or contest requirements are satisfied.

How to Watch 49ers vs. Rams

• When: Thursday, September 10, 2026 at 8:35 p.m. ET
• Where: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne, Australia
• TV/Streaming: Netflix

Players to Watch

For Los Angeles, the clearest skill position name to watch is Puka Nacua because his availability changed the shape of this matchup. He was not listed on the Rams injury report released Tuesday after dealing with a core issue, and that points to him being expected to handle his usual role against San Francisco.

That matters in a game where both teams enter 0-0 and there is no 2026 production yet to lean on. With the Rams still waiting for regular season statistical leaders to emerge, Nacua stands out as a proven focal point whose health is one of the most relevant developments going into this opener. If he is moving freely, Los Angeles gets a major piece of its passing game back at full strength.

On the San Francisco side, Christian McCaffrey is central because the 49ers expect him to step right back into his regular role. He was not listed on Tuesday’s injury report after his status had been watched through camp, and the latest update points to him being back at 100 percent for this opener.

In a Week 1 game with no 2026 team production on the board yet, that kind of clarity matters. San Francisco does not have official statistical leaders established for the regular season, so McCaffrey’s role becomes one of the strongest grounded indicators of where the offense can flow early. His involvement would give the 49ers their most dependable all purpose threat and a steady way to test the Rams from the opening series.

]–>

Source

This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. 

Thursday Night Football is heading overseas for a historic NFC West showdown, and BetMGM is giving new users another reason to tune in. Use promo code FOXSPORTS to unlock up to $1,500 in bonus bets and more as the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers meet in Melbourne for the first NFL regular-season game in Australia.

The Super Bowl favorites come into the matchup with Matthew Stafford back leading the charge for this offense with weapons like Puka Nacua and Kyren Williams, while Trent McDuffie and Myles Garrett get ready to make their anticipated Rams debut.

San Francisco brings plenty of firepower of its own, with Brock Purdy and Christian McCaffrey leading the offense and new addition Mike Evans adding another dangerous target. Fred Warner anchors the 49ers defense as the division rivals look to start the international matchup with a win.

BetMGM’s Legendary Thursday’s gives fans another reason to follow a game featuring some of the NFL’s biggest stars in the NFL’s first game in Australia. Use promo code FOXSPORTS to unlock up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets and more on BetMGM and get ready for this divisional showdown.

How to Sign Up and Claim the BetMGM Sportsbook Bonus Code

1. Click here or on any of the other “Claim Bonus” buttons on this page. This will take you directly to the BetMGM app or website and automatically apply the promo code.
2. Select Sign Up and create a new account by entering personal details (name, email, date of birth, address, and last 4 digits of SSN).
3. When prompted, enter the promo code FOXSPORTS to ensure the offer is applied.
4. Make your first deposit of at least $10 using an accepted payment method (PayPal, Venmo, debit card, online banking, etc.).
5. Place your first real-money wager on any eligible sport:
6. If claiming the $1,500 First Bet Offer → refund is triggered only if the first bet loses.
7. If claiming the $10/$150 Alt Offer → the bet must win to receive the $150 bonus bets.
8. Bonus bets are credited to your account within 24 hours once the qualifying bet settles.

y

*Odds are subject to change*

LA Rams	-3.5 (−115)	O 48.5 (−102)	-205
SF 49ers	+3.53 (−105)	U 48.5 (−118)	+170

How to Watch 49ers vs. Rams

• When: Thursday, September 10, 2026 at 8:35 p.m. ET
• Where: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne, Australia
• TV/Streaming: Netflix

Players to Watch

For Los Angeles, the clearest skill position name to watch is Puka Nacua because his availability changed the shape of this matchup. He was not listed on the Rams injury report released Tuesday after dealing with a core issue, and that points to him being expected to handle his usual role against San Francisco.

That matters in a game where both teams enter 0-0 and there is no 2026 production yet to lean on. With the Rams still waiting for regular season statistical leaders to emerge, Nacua stands out as a proven focal point whose health is one of the most relevant developments going into this opener. If he is moving freely, Los Angeles gets a major piece of its passing game back at full strength.

On the San Francisco side, Christian McCaffrey is central because the 49ers expect him to step right back into his regular role. He was not listed on Tuesday’s injury report after his status had been watched through camp, and the latest update points to him being back at 100 percent for this opener.

In a Week 1 game with no 2026 team production on the board yet, that kind of clarity matters. San Francisco does not have official statistical leaders established for the regular season, so McCaffrey’s role becomes one of the strongest grounded indicators of where the offense can flow early. His involvement would give the 49ers their most dependable all purpose threat and a steady way to test the Rams from the opening series.

]–>

Source

The NFL is officially back, with the Seattle Seahawks taking down the New England Patriots on Wednesday night. However, that also means we’ve got injury news to deal with ahead of the rest of Week 1. 

Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold and Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown both received updates on the injuries that forced them to depart Wednesday’s game early on Thursday. Meanwhile, Atlanta Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was injured during drills ahead of the team’s practice, putting his status for the team’s Week 1 game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in doubt. 

Here’s what you should know about what happened around the league on Thursday.  

Atlanta Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was set to make his first start with the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday, but his availability for their matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers is now in question. 

Tagovailoa suffered discomfort during individual throwing drills on Thursday and briefly went to the ground. While he dealt with a lower back injury early in training camp, this latest discomfort is tied to an oblique issue, NFL Network reported. Tagovailoa is reportedly day-to-day. 

If Tagovailoa is sidelined, Cooper Rush will be next in line to start Sunday’s game for the Falcons. He told reporters he took first-team reps on Thursday after Tagovailoa went down. Michael Penix Jr. still hasn’t been cleared to participate in full-contact drills. 

Rush has spent the majority of his career with the Dallas Cowboys and even started several games last season for the Baltimore Ravens. Across 42 career appearances, Rush has completed 61.1% of his passes for 3,766 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions.

Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold took an early sack against the New England Patriots and left the game with a hip injury, but he appears to have dodged a bullet. MRI results came back positive, ruling out any major structural damage, according to ESPN. However, his timetable is still to be determined, The Ringer reported.

After Darnold went down, Drew Lock stepped in and rallied Seattle from a 10-point deficit to secure the win. If Darnold misses time, Lock will take the reins starting in Week 2, when the Seahawks head to Arizona to face the Cardinals.

With the win over the Patriots behind them and the Cardinals up next, all attention now shifts to Darnold. While his exact recovery timeline remains unknown, the Seahawks must prepare to navigate the coming weeks with their starting quarterback’s status in question.

After leaving early in the second half against the Seahawks, Patriots wide receiver A.J. Brown appears to have avoided a major injury. According to NFL Network, Brown suffered a high ankle sprain and avoided a fracture in his right ankle.

Brown’s ankle was rolled up on when he ran a slant route in the third quarter of Wednesday’s game against the Seahawks, and he struggled to walk after the play. He left the game, did not return, and was later seen leaving the stadium in a walking boot on his right foot.

The timeline for Brown’s return is unknown, as high ankle sprains can require a lengthy recovery. Signs point toward a multi-week absence, with typical recovery ranging from two to six weeks, and the Patriots are expected to take a cautious approach.

Between being limited last night and leaving early with the injury, Brown put up a light stat line. He was targeted four times by quarterback Drake Maye, finishing with three receptions for 26 yards prior to his exit.

After a training camp scare, Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty is officially cleared for Sunday’s season opener against the Miami Dolphins. Head coach Klint Kubiak told reporters that Jeanty is a full participant and ready to play.

If Jeanty is ready to play, his first test will come against a revamped Dolphins defense led by new head coach Jeff Hafley. He ran for 975 yards on 3.7 yards as a rookie in 2025, scoring 10 total touchdowns. Fourth-round rookie Mike Washington is Jeanty’s backup if the second-year running back has any flare-ups. 

Source

This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. 

The second game of the NFL season is kicking off in Australia, and Kalshi is giving new users another reason to follow Thursday’s international showdown. Use promo code FOXSPORTS to unlock $25 in bonuses ahead of the Los Angeles Rams vs. San Francisco 49ers matchup.

The NFC West rivals arrive in Melbourne with plenty of superstars: Matthew Stafford, Puka Nacua, Myles Garrett and Kyren Williams, in company provide the firepower for the Rams.

San Francisco counters with Brock Purdy and Christian McCaffrey, while new addition Mike Evans adds another weapon to the 49ers’ offense. Fred Warner leads the defense as San Francisco looks to take down the Super Bowl favorites.

Kalshi gives fans another way to track the biggest questions surrounding the matchup and the rest of the NFL season. Use promo code FOXSPORTS to unlock $25 in bonuses and get ready for Thursday’s historic showdown in Australia.

For more information and full terms and conditions, visit our Kalshi promo code page.

How to Claim the Kalshi Welcome Bonus

1. Click this ‘Claim Now’ link to visit Kalshi and start the signup process.
2. Create a new Kalshi account using your email address and basic registration details.
3. Enter Kalshi promo code FOXSPORTS during signup, so the welcome offer is attached to your account.
4. Complete identity verification, which Kalshi requires before users can deposit and trade.
5. Deposit funds and trade at least $25 in prediction markets to receive up to $25 in trading credit.

*Probabilities are subject to change* 

Los Angeles Rams vs. San Francisco 49ers

Teams	Chance	Yes	No
Los Angeles Rams	64%	65¢	36¢
San Francisco 49ers	36%	36¢	65¢

LA Rams Win by Over 3.5 Points	52%	52¢	49¢
Over 49.5 Points Scored	43%	44¢	57¢
LA Rams Over 31.5 Points	26%	26¢	75¢
SF 49ers Over 24.5 Points	37%	37¢	64¢

More markets available on Kalshi.

How to Watch 49ers vs. Rams

• When: Thursday, September 10, 2026 at 8:35 p.m. ET
• Where: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne, Australia
• TV/Streaming: Netflix

Players to Watch

For Los Angeles, the clearest skill position name to watch is Puka Nacua because his availability changed the shape of this matchup. He was not listed on the Rams injury report released Tuesday after dealing with a core issue, and that points to him being expected to handle his usual role against San Francisco.

That matters in a game where both teams enter 0-0 and there is no 2026 production yet to lean on. With the Rams still waiting for regular season statistical leaders to emerge, Nacua stands out as a proven focal point whose health is one of the most relevant developments going into this opener. If he is moving freely, Los Angeles gets a major piece of its passing game back at full strength.

On the San Francisco side, Christian McCaffrey is central because the 49ers expect him to step right back into his regular role. He was not listed on Tuesday’s injury report after his status had been watched through camp, and the latest update points to him being back at 100 percent for this opener.

In a Week 1 game with no 2026 team production on the board yet, that kind of clarity matters. San Francisco does not have official statistical leaders established for the regular season, so McCaffrey’s role becomes one of the strongest grounded indicators of where the offense can flow early. His involvement would give the 49ers their most dependable all purpose threat and a steady way to test the Rams from the opening series.

]–>

Source

Ohio State wide receiver Jeremiah Smith didn’t mince words when he spoke about true freshman running back Legend Bey.

“Before Legend Bey leaves Ohio State, he will be a Heisman finalist, or he’ll end up winning it,'” Smith told reporters last month. “The things he’s been doing in practice have been pretty special.”

That’s high praise coming from someone many believe to be the best player in the sport, regardless of position. And sure enough, last weekend, fans saw with their own eyes exactly why Smith gave that praise. 

Bey is one of a handful of young Buckeyes — and one Longhorn — I’m keeping my eye on this Saturday when No. 1 Ohio State plays No. 4 Texas.

These players can not only climb the depth chart, but will be counted on as the wear and tear of the season inevitably piles up and the oft-used adage “next man up” becomes a reality.

5. Devin Sanchez, CB, Sophomore

Ohio State DB Devin Sanchez recorded 15 tackles as a true freshman. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images)

–>

Sanchez might be the most talented player on the entire Ohio State defense, and with Matt Patricia calling the shots, that translates into a first-round NFL talent at corner for the Buckeyes. 

The 6-foot-2, 199-pound cornerback made just one start as a true freshman, but he played in 13 games last season. He really began to shine in the Buckeyes’ win over Illinois, totaling five tackles and deflecting a pass.

Look for Sanchez on the field in third down situations against Texas. He’s likely going to be lined up against wide receivers Ryan Wingo or Cam Coleman, which is truly a best-on-best matchup.

4. Brock Boyd, WR, Freshman

Ohio State wide receiver Brock Boyd recorded a 22-yard catch in his first game as a Buckeye. (Photo by Jason Mowry/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

–>

Boyd is perhaps the most underrated player on the Buckeyes’ offense. He left Southlake Carroll in Southlake, Texas, as the school’s all-time leading receiver. But he really emerged as a national prospect after lining up against 2027 No. 1 cornerback and Texas Longhorn John Meredith III as a sophomore and putting JM3 on a poster. Meredith has been looking forward to lining up against Boyd in college ever since.

3. John Meredith III, CB, Freshman

Texas cornerback John Meredith III was a five-star recruit in the 2026 class. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)

–>

Meredith reclassified after the Texas University Interscholastic League declared him ineligible for his senior season, determining that he transferred high schools for athletic purposes. He joined the Longhorns late this summer and saw limited playing time against Texas State. He’s unlikely to have a major impact on Saturday’s game, but he’s worth watching if he checks in. Meredith is a consensus five-star with a gift for closing down wide receivers in coverage and using his 6-foot-2 frame to extend his coverage range.

2. Chris Henry Jr., WR, Freshman

Ohio State wide receiver Chris Henry Jr. had a 15-yard touchdown catch in his first game as a Buckeye. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Getty Images)

–>

The son of late NFL wide receiver Chris Henry is the heir apparent to Ohio State’s No. 1 wide receiver position. That means he’s expected to be as productive and feared as former Ohio State receivers Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Marvin Harrison Jr. and Smith. At 6-foot-5, he has great speed, an uncanny ability to quickly unfold that frame against tight coverage and exceptional body control.

Against Ball State last week, he dropped his first two targets. But his third target was a touchdown pass.

He’s in good company. Smith dropped his first-ever target, too.

1. Legend Bey, RB, Freshman

Ohio State running back Legend Bey rushed for 37 yards and added two catches for 27 yards and a touchdown in Week 1. (Photo by Jason Mowry/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

–>

Bey is the next box-office Buckeye. He showed us why when he took a 25-yard swing pass to the end zone in OSU’s Week 1 win. In the process, he juked four Ball State defenders with one move, cut back across the field and broke a tackle for his first touchdown.

That’s the good — a player who believes he can go for six every time he touches the ball. The bad is the same — a player who believes he can go for six every time he touches the ball.

He demonstrated that when he didn’t listen to the up man on a kick return, brought the ball out, was tackled and left the Buckeyes with horrible field position. In one game, he appears to be a feast-or-famine player. But I believe that’s just his immaturity on display. When he grows up and stops making mental mistakes, he has the ability to be the most exciting player in the Big Ten.

Source

The New England Patriots will be without their prized offseason acquisition for the next month. 

Wide receiver A.J. Brown is out for at least four weeks due to a high ankle sprain he suffered in the Patriots’ season-opening loss to the Seattle Seahawks on Wednesday, NFL Network reported Thursday. 

Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel suggested that Brown’s status for their Week 2 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers was in question when he met with reporters earlier in the day. 

“I don’t know if he’ll be available going forward here for the next week, but we’ll see,” Vrabel said. “Once we get the report, we’ll figure out what the treatment plan is.”

Brown left Wednesday night’s game early in the third quarter following an incomplete pass from Drake Maye. He was falling to the turf as he tried to make the catch, and Seahawks cornerback Nehemiah Pritchett’s knee made contact with Brown’s ankle, pushing it against the ground.

Brown was initially announced as questionable to return before the Patriots ruled him out at the start of the fourth quarter. He had three catches for 26 yards before the injury, but he also drew a defensive pass interference penalty that set New England up at the 1-yard line for its only touchdown of the game. 

The injury is a blow for an offense that was counting on Brown to fill the void created after the team decided not to bring back Stefon Diggs following a productive 2025 season as the offense’s No. 1 receiver. New England surrendered a first-round pick and a fifth-round pick in a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles to acquire Brown in June. 

Brown, 29, was durable during his four seasons in Philadelphia, playing in all 17 regular-season games in 2022 and 2023, dropping to 13 during the Eagles’ 2024 Super Bowl title season, and then 15 in 2025.

The Associated Press contributed to this report. 

 

 

Source

This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. 

Polymarket is giving new users another reason to be hyped about Week 1 in the NFL and the first game played in Australia. New users can use promo code FOX to grab a $50 bonus before the game.

The Rams and 49ers are about to kick off the first-ever NFL game in Australia. There isn’t a better matchup between two division rivals, two teams with major offseason moves and a bunch of superstars coached by two of the best in the game.

Between the unique setting, divisional rivalry and star-studded rosters, Rams vs. 49ers has plenty of storylines to track on Polymarket. Be sure to use promo code FOX to grab a $50 bonus and follow the action as the NFL makes history in Australia.

For more information and full terms and conditions, visit our Polymarket promo code page.

How to Claim the Polymarket Promo with Code FOX

1. Click here to download the Polymarket app on iOS or Android.
2. Create a new Polymarket account using your email address.
3. Enter promo code FOX in the promo code or invite code field during registration.
4. Complete identity verification as prompted inside the app.
5. Deposit a minimum of $10 to your Polymarket account.
6. Your $50 trading bonus will be credited to your account automatically after the qualifying deposit.

*Probabilities are subject to change* 

Los Angeles Rams vs. San Francisco 49ers

Teams	Chance	Yes	No
Los Angeles Rams	65%	65¢	36¢
San Francisco 49ers	36%	36¢	65¢

LA Rams Win by Over 3.5 Points	52%	52¢	49¢
Over 48.5 Points Scored	47%	47¢	54¢
LA Rams Over 27.5 Points	45%	45¢	57¢
SF 49ers Over 23.5 Points	43%	43¢	56¢

More markets available on Polymarket.

How to Watch 49ers vs. Rams

• When: Thursday, September 10, 2026 at 8:35 p.m. ET
• Where: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne, Australia
• TV/Streaming: Netflix

Players to Watch

For Los Angeles, the clearest skill position name to watch is Puka Nacua because his availability changed the shape of this matchup. He was not listed on the Rams injury report released Tuesday after dealing with a core issue, and that points to him being expected to handle his usual role against San Francisco.

That matters in a game where both teams enter 0-0 and there is no 2026 production yet to lean on. With the Rams still waiting for regular season statistical leaders to emerge, Nacua stands out as a proven focal point whose health is one of the most relevant developments going into this opener. If he is moving freely, Los Angeles gets a major piece of its passing game back at full strength.

On the San Francisco side, Christian McCaffrey is central because the 49ers expect him to step right back into his regular role. He was not listed on Tuesday’s injury report after his status had been watched through camp, and the latest update points to him being back at 100 percent for this opener.

In a Week 1 game with no 2026 team production on the board yet, that kind of clarity matters. San Francisco does not have official statistical leaders established for the regular season, so McCaffrey’s role becomes one of the strongest grounded indicators of where the offense can flow early. His involvement would give the 49ers their most dependable all purpose threat and a steady way to test the Rams from the opening series.

]–>

Source

If you invite a die-hard Michigan fan to a live show and give him the chance to build his all-time Wolverines football team, you better be ready for some debate.

Dave Portnoy, one of Michigan’s most passionate — and outspoken — fans, was given that opportunity Thursday during a special live edition of “The Joel Klatt Show” in Ann Arbor ahead of Saturday’s showdown between Michigan and Oklahoma (noon ET, FOX).

Klatt asked Portnoy to select an all-time Michigan team consisting of a quarterback, running back, two wide receivers and one defensive player. Portnoy selected a recent national champion at quarterback, a legendary running back, two of the program’s most dynamic receivers and perhaps the greatest player in school history on defense.

Here’s who made Portnoy’s all-time Michigan team:

QB: J.J. McCarthy, 2021-2023

Career stats: 482-of-713 passing (67.6%) for 6,226 passing yards, 49 passing TDs, and 11 INTs; 161 carries for 632 rushing yards and 10 rushing TDs.

Portnoy’s thoughts: “To me, it’s a no-brainer. It’s not even close. If you’re saying you need a QB for the NFL, it’s [Tom] Brady, clearly. But [McCarthy’s] record was 27-1 as a starter. You gotta remember, before he came here, we couldn’t beat Ohio State. He turned the whole program around. Michigan was down, and when McCarthy came in, everything turned.

“I wanted Jim Harbaugh gone. … Every year we were getting drummed [by Ohio State]. There were some down years. But, McCarthy’s record, him winning the national championship. … I don’t know how anybody could say anybody but him.”

RB: Tim Biakabutuka, 1993-1995

Career stats: 434 carries, 2,624 rushing yards, 24 rushing touchdowns, 12 receptions, 121 receiving yards.

Portnoy’s Thoughts: “I’m going with Biakabutuka. He had 313 yards against Ohio State, which was the No. 2 team in the country at the time and undefeated. He made them look bad. I loved Biakabutuka. I had a crush on Biakabutuka.”

WRs: Desmond Howard ( 1988-91), Anthony Carter (1979-82)

Career stats: Howard: 134 receptions for 2,146 receiving yards (16.0 YPR) and 32 receiving TDs; 23 rushes for 249 rushing yards and 2 rushing TDs; 45 kickoff returns for 1,211 yards and 2 TDs; 26 punt returns for 337 yards and 1 TD

Carter: 161 receptions for 3,076 receiving yards (19.1 YPR) and 37 receiving TDs; 36 rushes for 213 rushing yards and 1 rushing TD; 79 punt returns for 907 yards and 2 TDs; 63 kickoff returns for 1,606 yards (40 total touchdowns).

Portnoy’s thoughts: “I want Desmond [Howard] and Anthony Carter. I’m down with that.”

Defense: Charles Woodson, 1995-1997

Career stats: 21 receptions, 370 receiving yards, 3 receiving TDs, 167 rushing yards, 2 rushing TDs, 16 interceptions.

Portnoy’s thoughts: “You could argue Aidan Hutchinson. There’s that clip of him just taking the Ohio State lineman and just throwing him into the fourth row. But, yeah, it’s gotta be Woodson.”

Week 2 College Football Picks: Ohio St-Texas, Oklahoma-Michigan & more!

–>

Source