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Tag: States
Judge halts Trump administration cuts to public health research in some states
CNN
—
A federal judge on Monday paused cuts that the Trump administration had made to funding for public health research, issuing a temporary restraining order that applies only in the 22 Democratic-led states that brought a lawsuit challenging the reduction in funding.
US District Judge Angel Kelley ordered more briefing in the case, with a hearing scheduled for February 21.
The Democratic attorneys general of 22 states alleged in the lawsuit filed Monday that the newly announced cuts “will mean the abrupt loss of hundreds of millions of dollars that are already committed to employing tens of thousands of researchers and other workers, putting a halt to countless life-saving health research and cutting-edge technology initiatives.”
“Not only that, but the sudden cut of funding will have ripple effects into the private sector as it disrupts numerous partnerships with private institutions,” said the lawsuit, filed in Massachusetts’ federal court.
The complaint added to the pile of quick-moving court proceedings challenging President Donald Trump’s aggressive reshaping of the federal government.
Under the challenged plan, funding from the National Institutes of Health known as indirect cost rates would be capped at 15 percent, from an average of more than 27 percent. Some research institutions, including Harvard, have rates higher than 60%, according to the NIH, which said in a post on X last week that the policy would save more than $4 billion a year.
Those rates are aimed at covering the various overhead costs – like facility costs, regulatory compliance and administrative support – that research institutions must account for to support their research. If the administration’s plans to cut those rates are not halted, the “cutting edge work to cure and treat human disease will grind to a halt,” the lawsuit said.
“This is an attempt to eliminate funding that supports medical and public health innovation at every research institution in the country,” Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell said at a news conference Monday. “The administration’s recent directive would abruptly cap indirect costs at 15%, significantly less than what is required to conduct advanced medical research. The administration knows that.”
Campbell noted that the Trump administration had proposed similar cuts in 2017, “and the Republican-controlled Congress at the time passed a law demanding continued stable funding for medical research. That law is still in effect, whether the president believes it or not.”
The attorneys general bringing the case said they expected private research institutions to bring their own lawsuit challenging the administration’s plans, as the states’ lawsuit would cover public research institutions.
NIH’s parent agency, the US Department of Health and Human Services, has the authority to make these changes, its director of communications, Andrew Nixon, told CNN via email – and believes it could even impose them retrospectively “for current grants and require grantees to return the excess overhead they have previously received, but we have currently chosen not to do so to ease the implementation of the new rate; however, we will continue to assess this policy choice and whether it is in the best interest of the American taxpayer.”
“Our Administration wants to help America have the best research in the world, and we believe that by ensuring that more cents on every dollar go directly to science and not to administrative overheard, we can take another step in that direction,” Nixon said.
Asked for comment on the lawsuit, the White House defended the new policy.
“Contrary to the hysteria, redirecting billions of allocated NIH spending away from administrative bloat means there will be more money and resources available for legitimate scientific research, not less. The Trump administration is committed to slashing the cottage industry built off of the waste, fraud, and abuse within our mammoth government while prioritizing the needs of everyday Americans,” spokesman Kush Desai said.
A federal judge has put a stop to the Trump administration’s attempts to slash public health research funding in certain states. The ruling comes as a victory for advocates of public health and medical research, who have been fighting against the proposed cuts.The Trump administration had planned to reduce funding for public health research in states like California, New York, and Massachusetts, which are known for their robust medical research programs. However, the judge’s decision has halted these cuts, ensuring that critical research projects can continue to receive the necessary funding.
This ruling is a significant win for public health advocates and researchers, who rely on government funding to support their vital work. It also sends a strong message that the government cannot arbitrarily cut funding for critical research projects without proper justification.
As we continue to navigate the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and other public health crises, it is essential that we prioritize and support research efforts that can help us better understand and combat these threats. This ruling is a step in the right direction towards ensuring that public health research remains a top priority for our government.
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Michigan State’s Jeremy Fears Jr., Xavier Booker likely out vs Oregon
EAST LANSING – Michigan State basketball’s deep rotation could be down two players Saturday.
Both forward Xavier Booker and point guard Jeremy Fears Jr. are listed as questionable as the ninth-ranked Spartans host Oregon at Breslin Center. Coach Tom Izzo on his pregame radio show said Fears is unlikely to play, while Booker is possible for the noon tipoff (Fox).
“The strength in numbers,” Izzo said, “we’ll find out how strong they are.”
Izzo said freshman Jase Richardson will make his first career start for MSU, “so we keep the guard thing pretty evenly rotated.”
Fears, who has started all 22 games this season, is averaging 6.2 points, 6.2 assists and two rebounds a game. The 6-foot-2, 190-pound redshirt freshman missed all but 10 games last year after being shot in after Christmas in 2023.
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Booker has come off the bench the last 19 games after starting the first three. The 6-11, 240-pound sophomore averages 6.3 points, 2.9 rebounds and 0.8 blocks per game.
Richardson, a 6-3 combo guard, is second on MSU at 9.3 points per game while shooting 40% from 3-point range and 52.3% overall. He also adds 2.4 rebounds and 2.0 assists a game.
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Michigan State’s Jeremy Fears Jr. and Xavier Booker are likely to be out for their upcoming game against Oregon. This news comes as a blow to the Spartans, as both players have been key contributors to the team this season. Fears Jr., a redshirt freshman wide receiver, has shown promise with his speed and playmaking ability, while Booker, a senior defensive lineman, has been a force on the defensive line.It is unclear at this time what exactly is keeping Fears Jr. and Booker out of the game, but their absence will surely be felt on the field. Michigan State will need to rely on their depth and other players to step up in their absence in order to secure a win against a tough Oregon team.
Stay tuned for updates on the status of Fears Jr. and Booker as more information becomes available.
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Leonard Hamilton, Florida State’s all-time winningest coach, to resign at end of season
Florida State coach Leonard Hamilton is resigning following this season’s conclusion and will not return to the program for the 2025-26 season, the school announced on Monday.
Hamilton has been with the program since 2002 and has compiled a 456-290 record in 23 seasons at FSU and is 634-500 overall in 38 seasons in his career as a college head coach including stops at FSU, Miami and Oklahoma State. Hamilton was also 19-63 in one season (2000-01) coaching the Washington Wizards, led by Michael Jordan, in the NBA.
“I am deeply thankful for the tremendous support of our fans, alumni, and everyone associated with Florida State throughout my time here,” Hamilton said in a statement. “I am proud of the quality of the young men that it was my privilege to lead, for their faith in this program and in their belief in the philosophy that we tried to instill in them over the years. I have been blessed beyond words for the opportunity and the experience we’ve had here.”
Seminoles won under Hamilton
The news of Hamilton not returning to the program comes amid a four-game losing streak and Florida State is currently 13-9 overall and 4-7 in ACC play this season.
However, Hamiton’s career at FSU will be remembered by his many succesful seasons includig several impressive NCAA Tournament runs.
Hamilton has guided Florida State to the second weekend of the NCAA Tournament three times in his tenure, including an appearance in the Elite Eight in 2017. The Seminoles reached the Sweet 16 in 2021 — the program’s last appearance in the Big Dance. Hamilton has led Florida State to 12 20-win seasons during his tenure.
Last of the ‘old guard’ of ACC coaches leaving
There has been an enormous amount of change throughout the ACC in the last few years. Conference realignment changed the landscape of college basketball with Cal, Stanford and SMU joining the league to expand membership to 18.
Some of the game’s most legendary coaches departed in the last few years. It started with former North Carolina coach Roy Williams stepping down in 2021. Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski retired the following season, and then Syracuse coach Jim Boeheim retired in 2023.
The change in the ACC coaching world continued just days before the start of the 2024-25 season when Virginia coach Tony Bennett suddenly announced his retirement. Miami Jim Larrañaga, the winningest coach in program history, stepped down mid-season the day after Christmas. With Hamilton not returning, Clemson coach Brad Brownell, who has been coach of the Tigers will be the longest-tenured coach in the conference next season.
After 19 seasons at the helm of the Florida State Seminoles basketball program, Leonard Hamilton, the winningest coach in school history, has announced that he will be stepping down at the end of the season.Hamilton, who has amassed a record 429 wins during his tenure, has led the Seminoles to unprecedented success, including multiple NCAA tournament appearances and a trip to the Elite Eight in 2018. Known for his defensive prowess and ability to develop players, Hamilton has been a pillar of consistency and excellence in Tallahassee.
In a statement released by the university, Hamilton expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the Seminoles and thanked the players, coaches, and fans who have supported him throughout his tenure. He also stated that he believes it is time for a new voice to lead the program and continue its upward trajectory.
As Florida State prepares to honor Hamilton in his final season, fans and players alike will undoubtedly look back on his legacy with fondness and appreciation for all that he has accomplished. The search for his successor will begin in earnest, but for now, the focus remains on finishing the season strong and sending Coach Hamilton out on a high note.
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Florida State’s Leonard Hamilton stepping down at end of season
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Jeff Borzello
Florida State head coach Leonard Hamilton announced Monday he’s stepping down at the end of the season, ending a 23-year career in Tallahassee.
Hamilton, 76, will end his Florida State tenure as the winningest coach in school history and in the top five in wins in the history of the ACC. During his time with the Seminoles, Hamilton guided the program to the 2020 ACC regular-season title and eight NCAA tournament appearances. He also advanced to the second weekend of the NCAA tournament on four occasions.
“I am deeply thankful for the tremendous support of our fans, alumni, and everyone associated with Florida State throughout my time here,” Hamilton said. “I am proud of the quality of the young men that it was my privilege to lead, for their faith in this program and in their belief in the philosophy that we tried to instill in them over the years. I have been blessed beyond words for the opportunity and the experience we’ve had here.
“My family and I truly love this place, this institution, and its people. I’m very fortunate to be able to have given this job my all with no regrets. Every head coach inherits a legacy and is obligated to leave the job better than they inherited it. I’m very proud of what we have been able to accomplish here over the last 23 seasons. We were a consistent contender, and we created success for our players during their time here. So many of them have gone on to be successful in life. I hope that it will be remembered as my legacy. I look forward to working with our administration during this transition and being as helpful as possible through this process.”
Hamilton, who is being sued by several former players over allegations he failed to deliver on name, image and likeness promises, announced his decision Monday following a team meeting. Hamilton was sued by six players on the 2023-24 team for what they viewed as unfulfilled NIL obligations.
Hamilton’s best stretch in charge of Florida State came from 2017-2021, guiding the Seminoles to three Sweet 16 appearances and an Elite Eight run in 2018. That five-year span featured three top-four NCAA tournament seeds and the ACC regular-season championship in 2020. Florida State won at least one game in four consecutive NCAA tournaments.
“Coach Hamilton’s personal character and integrity, and his leadership, set a tremendous standard for all of FSU Athletics,” athletic director Michael Alford said. “Few people have been as important in building the positive reputation of Seminole Athletics. FSU’s stature as one of the leading brands in college sports has been possible, in part, to his leadership of our men’s basketball program. He steadily developed a culture of excellence that reflects his personal values: commitment to academic success, competitive success, community service, leadership, and ongoing personal excellence. The success of the men who have been part of our basketball program is proof of that legacy.”
Florida State has struggled in recent years, as this will be its fourth consecutive season without an NCAA tournament appearance. The Seminoles haven’t finished above .500 in ACC play since 2021, going 10-10 on two occasions. They started off positively this season, winning seven of their first eight games, but have lost their last four games and currently sit at 13-9 overall, 4-7 in the ACC.
“Leonard Hamilton is a beacon of class and integrity whose leadership serves as an indelible example that competitive excellence, academic achievement and community service are attainable at a leading public institution,” university president Dr. Richard McCullough said. “Coach Hamilton’s legacy extends far beyond Tallahassee and college basketball. He is one of the most respected and beloved ambassadors of FSU across the nation and in his profession.”
Prior to taking over at Florida State in 2002, Hamilton was the head coach of the Washington Wizards for one season after spending 10 seasons at Miami — going to three NCAA tournament appearances — and four seasons at Oklahoma State. He was also an assistant coach at Kentucky and Austin Peay.
Alford said Florida State will immediately begin a national search for Hamilton’s successor.
Hamilton is the third ACC coach to announce his resignation in the last four months, following Virginia’s Tony Bennett in October and Miami’s Jim Larranaga in late December.
Florida State’s Leonard Hamilton, the winningest coach in program history, has announced that he will be stepping down at the end of the season. Hamilton, who has been at the helm of the Seminoles for 20 years, has led the team to numerous NCAA tournament appearances and has consistently been a contender in the ACC.During his tenure, Hamilton has built Florida State into a national powerhouse, with the team consistently ranked in the top 25 and making deep runs in the NCAA tournament. Known for his defensive prowess and ability to develop players, Hamilton has been a beloved figure in Tallahassee and will leave behind a lasting legacy.
As he prepares to step down, Hamilton expressed his gratitude to the university, the fans, and the players who have made his time at Florida State so special. He leaves behind big shoes to fill, but there is no doubt that his impact on the program will be felt for years to come.
Florida State fans will undoubtedly miss Coach Hamilton, but they can take solace in the fact that he will always be a part of the Seminole family. As he prepares to say goodbye, let’s all take a moment to appreciate everything he has done for Florida State basketball and wish him the best in his future endeavors. Thank you, Coach Hamilton, for everything you have done for the Seminoles.
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Penn State’s Abdul Carter goes No. 1, Browns select QB Cam Ward at No. 2
- The Titans select edge defender Abdul Carter: The explosive junior pass rusher delivered another dominant season in 2024, earning a 92.3 pass-rush grade — his second straight year eclipsing the 90.0 mark.
- The Giants get their quarterback of the future: Shedeur Sanders has a strong foundation as a passer, with fundamentally sound throwing mechanics that give him the tools to develop at the next level.
Estimated reading time: 17 minutes
With the 2025 Reese’s Senior Bowl officially in the books, the pre-draft evaluation process shifts into high gear. After the week of practices, drills and game action in Mobile, scouts and analysts have gathered valuable insights into this year’s top prospects.
Now, it’s time to break down how these players stack up and project where they may fit in the 2025 NFL Draft class.
1. Tennessee Titans: ED Abdul Carter, Penn State
All eyes are on the Titans at the top of the 2025 NFL Draft, as the franchise faces several glaring roster needs and could take multiple paths to address them. Their decision will have a cascading effect on how the rest of the draft unfolds.
One player who has gained momentum in recent weeks is Abdul Carter, whose betting odds to be the No. 1 overall pick have shortened significantly.
The explosive junior pass rusher delivered another dominant season in 2024, earning a 92.3 pass-rush grade — his second straight year eclipsing the 90.0 mark. Over the past two seasons, he has ranked in the 99th percentile in several of PFF’s most stable pass-rushing metrics, including pass-rush grade against true pass sets and pass-rush win rate.
If selected by the Titans, Carter would provide an immediate boost to a pass rush that ranked bottom five in team pass-rush grade, pass-rush win rate, and pressure rate in 2024.
2. Cleveland Browns: QB Cam Ward, Miami (FL)
After reinjuring his Achilles, Deshaun Watson is expected to miss the entire 2025 season. And even if he had stayed on track in his recovery, his limited availability (he’s made just 22 starts since signing his deal in 2022) and lack of consistent production (he earned an 80.0-plus passing grade in only one game) make a strong case for the Browns to seek his replacement.
Ward, who led the FBS with a 91.7 passing grade in 2024, could provide the fresh start Cleveland desperately needs at quarterback.
3. New York Giants: QB Shedeur Sanders, Colorado
With two-way star Travis Hunter still on the board, the Giants would face a difficult decision: add one of the most talented skill players to enter the draft in decades or prioritize the game’s most valuable position.
Ultimately, investing in a quarterback would be the logical move for a front office under pressure in 2025, especially with limited proven options available through other avenues.
Sanders has a strong foundation as a passer, with fundamentally sound throwing mechanics that give him the tools to develop at the next level. However, his most impressive trait may be his ability to limit mistakes. Since moving to the FBS, he has produced a negatively graded throw on just 10.9% of his dropbacks, a 97th-percentile mark.
4. New England Patriots: WR/CB Travis Hunter, Colorado
Landing the greatest two-way threat in college football history would be a massive win for Mike Vrabel as he looks to rebuild a Patriots roster with plenty of holes to fill. While New England has significant cap space to address its needs in free agency, adding a uniquely versatile talent like Travis Hunter would provide an instant impact on both sides of the ball.
Hunter, who earned 89.0-plus PFF grades as both a receiver and coverage defender in 2024, would allow the Patriots to allocate resources elsewhere, particularly toward protecting their young quarterback, Drake Maye.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars: DI Mason Graham, Michigan
Despite having quality edge rushers in Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker, the Jaguars struggled to generate pressure in 2024, posting the seventh-lowest pressure rate (30.8%) in the NFL. The primary issue was the interior, where Jacksonville’s defensive tackles recorded a league-worst 8.9% pass-rush win rate.
Graham would provide an immediate impact. Since the start of 2023, he has posted elite marks in the stable metrics for interior defenders, ranking in the 96th percentile or better in pass-rush grade against true pass sets and run-stop percentage.
6. Las Vegas Raiders: WR Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona
Whether it’s Russell Wilson, as some reports suggest, or another quarterback under center, the Raiders would be wise to set up their next signal-caller for success by adding a true X receiver with difference-making size.
McMillan pairs impressive acceleration for his stature with strong play at the catch point, making him one of the nation’s most dangerous deep threats. Since the start of 2023, he has secured 25 receptions of 20 or more yards—the most in the Power Five.
7. New York Jets: CB Will Johnson, Michigan
With Aaron Glenn now leading the Jets, Gang Green’s defensive identity isn’t going anywhere. In Detroit, Glenn deployed the highest rate of Cover 1 in 2024, emphasizing cornerbacks who excel in man coverage.
Johnson’s combination of size and understanding of leverage made him highly effective in those situations. He earned a 90.8 PFF grade in man coverage in 2022 and 2023 before battling injuries in 2024.
With D.J. Reed set to hit free agency, finding a cornerback to pair with Sauce Gardner will be a top priority for New York.
8. Carolina Panthers: S Malaki Starks, Georgia
Although this defense desperately needs pass rushers, the 2025 draft class is loaded with talent at the position, making it likely that a quality option could fall to them on Day 2. However, high-end safety prospects are far less common in this year’s class — with the exception of Starks, who stands well above the rest as the premier talent at the position.
Carolina ranked 31st in EPA allowed per dropback in 2024, struggling particularly against the deep ball. The Panthers allowed a 48% completion rate on passes targeted 20 or more yards downfield, the second-highest mark in the NFL.
Starks’ fluid hips and top-end speed would be a pivotal addition to Carolina’s secondary, providing the range and coverage ability needed to help shore up their deep-passing vulnerabilities.
9. New Orleans Saints: TE Tyler Warren, Penn State
With Taysom Hill suffering a serious knee injury at age 34 and Juwan Johnson set to enter free agency, the Saints could use a physical, game-changing receiving threat like Tyler Warren at tight end.
The Penn State standout delivered in a big way in his senior season, hauling in 34 receptions of 15 or more yards and averaging 2.71 yards per route run. His dominance in the passing game earned him a 93.3 PFF receiving grade, the highest among Power Five tight ends in 2024.
Warren would be a natural fit in a Saints offense that utilized 12-personnel at a top-eight rate last season.
10. Chicago Bears: T Will Campbell, LSU
Ben Johnson’s first priority as Chicago’s head coach must be fixing the offensive line, particularly in pass protection for Caleb Williams. The Bears allowed the highest sack rate in the NFL (9.9%) in 2024, making it critical to provide their young quarterback with better protection.
While the tackle spots are more secure, finding the best five-man combination up front will be essential to the team’s future success.
11. San Francisco 49ers: T Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas
The 49ers are preparing to invest heavily in Brock Purdy, with a massive extension on the horizon. That deal will likely limit their spending in free agency, making protecting their franchise quarterback an even greater priority.
With Aaron Banks’ contract expiring and Trent Williams entering his age-37 season while coming off an injury, selecting the Texas tackle would address both an immediate need on the interior and provide a long-term solution at tackle.
12. Dallas Cowboys: RB Ashton Jeanty, Boise State
Sometimes, the simplest answer is the right one. It’s rare for a prospect of this caliber and fit to fall outside the top 10, making this an easy decision.
Ashton Jeanty is ranked No. 5 on PFF’s big board for a reason. His 96.6 rushing grade in 2024 is the highest ever recorded by an FBS running back with at least 100 carries in PFF’s college football grading history.
13. Miami Dolphins: T Josh Simmons, Ohio State
Given the massive investment in Tua Tagovailoa—and his injury history—premium pass protection will always be a priority for Miami.
Although he is coming off a knee injury that ended his season, Simmons is expected to fully recover by training camp. His pass-blocking ability is undeniable. Before going down in Week 7, he posted an 88.4 pass-blocking grade and allowed zero pressures on 148 pass-blocking snaps.
14. Indianapolis Colts: ED James Pearce Jr., Tennessee
Although the Colts’ defensive front dealt with injury misfortune in 2024, even at full strength, the unit lacked the explosive pass-rushing presence needed to change a game.
Enter Pearce, a twitchy edge rusher with fast hands and an impressive speed-to-power transition for his size. His 89.9 pass-rush grade reflects his disruptive ability, which could immediately boost a Colts defense that ranked 28th in pressure rate last season.
15. Atlanta Falcons: WR Luther Burden III, Missouri
With Michael Penix Jr. set to take over as the starter in 2025, surrounding him with more offensive firepower would be a smart way to set him up for early success.
Luther Burden is a natural playmaker out of the slot, excelling with the ball in his hands. Over the past two seasons, he has ranked in the 87th percentile in yards after catch per reception, showcasing his dynamic ability in the open field. Pairing Burden with Darnell Mooney and Drake London, who is coming off his best season as a pro, would give Penix one of the most talented receiving corps in the NFL.
16. Arizona Cardinals: OLB Jalon Walker, Georgia
While Walker played both on the edge and off-ball at Georgia, he has quickly emerged as a promising edge defender, where he’s shown the most upside. He also thrives in big moments, recording all four of his sacks in 2024 against College Football Playoff teams (Clemson, Texas and Tennessee).
With Jonathan Gannon looking to revamp a pass rush that ranked 29th in pass-rush win rate, Walker would be a natural fit on the edge for this Cardinals defense.
17. Cincinnati Bengals: DI Kenneth Grant, Michigan
With B.J. Hill’s contract expiring, the Bengals face a significant void on the interior defensive line. Even with Hill, Cincinnati struggled mightily up front in 2024, ranking 31st in pass-rush win rate from the interior and featuring just one defensive tackle — Hill himself — who earned a run-defense grade above 54.0.
Adding Grant to the interior would be a much-needed solution, immediately upgrading both the pass rush and run defense for a unit needing reinforcements.
18. Seattle Seahawks: ED Shemar Stewart, Texas A&M
Senior Bowl week may be just the first phase of the pre-draft process, but no player elevated their stock more than the Texas A&M edge rusher. Stewart dominated throughout Senior Bowl practices, firmly thrusting his name into the first-round conversation.
Mike Macdonald’s defense generated pressure at a top-three rate in 2024, but much of that success may have been driven by scheme and circumstance. The unit ranked inside the top six in both unblocked and clean-up pressures, suggesting some potential variance in sustainable pass-rush production.
Adding an explosive edge rusher like Stewart would make a true difference off the edge, helping to stabilize and elevate the pass rush beyond scheme-driven opportunities.
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: ED Mike Green, Marshall
Even among a deep group of Power Five prospects, Mike Green has risen up the ranks. After a standout season at Marshall, where he finished as the highest-graded edge defender in the nation, Green validated his talent at the Senior Bowl, flashing against NFL-caliber competition.
With the Buccaneers holding just one proven edge rusher — Yaya Diaby — under contract and limited cap space, Green could step in and make an immediate impact on Tampa Bay’s defense.
20. Denver Broncos: WR Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State
The Broncos’ top priority this offseason must be surrounding Bo Nix with more weapons as he enters Year 2.
Emeka Egbuka would give Sean Payton’s offense a dynamic slot threat who uses his elite body control, speed and football IQ to create separation consistently. While an injury in 2023 limited his production, he proved his playmaking ability in 2022 and 2024, earning an 82.0-plus receiving grade while surpassing 1,000 yards and 10 touchdowns in both seasons.
21. Pittsburgh Steelers: WR Matthew Golden, Texas
With reports suggesting that Pittsburgh will likely bring back Justin Fields as its starting quarterback in 2025, adding young talent to the receiver room would be a logical next step.
Golden showed steady improvement throughout his college career, culminating in a breakout 2024 season. He delivered his best performances under pressure, excelling in Texas’ three postseason games, where he posted an 84.2 receiving grade and averaged 3.58 yards per route run.
22. Los Angeles Chargers: TE Colston Loveland, Michigan
Like their division rivals in Denver, the Chargers need more playmakers—beyond Ladd McConkey—to step up and provide Justin Herbert with reliable targets.
Colston Loveland took his game to another level in 2024, earning a career-best 90.6 receiving grade, highlighting his natural pass-catching ability and refined route-running. Having already won a national championship together at Michigan, a Loveland-Jim Harbaugh reunion in Los Angeles would be a low-risk, high-upside move for the Chargers offense.
23. Green Bay Packers: Nic Scourton, Texas A&M
Although the Packers finished top-five in sacks during the regular season, they led the NFL in unblocked sacks, raising concerns about the sustainability of their pass rush. Among Green Bay’s four edge rushers with 150 or more pass-rush snaps in 2024, only Rashan Gary posted a double-digit pass-rush win rate.
That wouldn’t be an issue for Nic Scourton, who has exceeded a 19.1% win rate in each of the past two seasons. The former Aggie and Boilermaker brings versatility, capable of rushing with his hand up or down from either side, giving the Packers defense a much-needed disruptive presence off the edge.
24. Minnesota Vikings: CB Jahdae Barron, Texas
With multiple expiring contracts in the secondary, the Vikings must prioritize addressing the position early in the draft.
Barron brings a highly sought-after skill set for Brian Flores’ scheme, excelling in spot zone coverage with strong instincts and anticipation across multiple alignments. His Power Five-leading 90.2 coverage grade further highlights his ability to impact the game, making him a good fit for Minnesota’s defense.
25. Houston Texans: DI Walter Nolen, Mississippi
While Houston would love to add a receiving threat, with the top options off the board, this pick can be used to revitalize a struggling defensive interior. In 2024, Texans defensive tackles combined for a 38.6 run-defense grade, ranking 28th in the NFL.
Enter Walter Nolen, whose 90.4 run-defense grade ranked second among FBS interior defenders, trailing only projected top-10 pick Mason Graham. His presence would provide an immediate boost to a Texans front in need of reinforcement.
26. Los Angeles Rams: T Armand Membou, Missouri
With Alaric Jackson set to test free agency and Rob Havenstein entering his age-33 season in the final year of his contract, the Rams will undoubtedly prioritize offensive tackle in this draft.
Membou, who earned a 90.4 overall grade in 2024, graded in the 87th percentile or better as both a run and pass blocker. His athleticism and versatility would provide the Rams with a flexible, high-upside option on the outside.
27. Baltimore Ravens: T Josh Conerly Jr., Oregon
Filling the void at left tackle left by Ronnie Stanley’s impending free agency will be a top priority for the Ravens’ offense.
Josh Conerly Jr. would be a natural fit on the left side after posting an 83.0 pass-blocking grade in 2024. He also allowed just a 0.6% knockdown rate across 1,000-plus pass-blocking snaps.
28. Detroit Lions: CB Benjamin Morrison, Norte Dame
With Detroit promoting Kelvin Sheppard to replace Aaron Glenn as defensive coordinator, the Lions are expected to continue deploying one of the heaviest Cover 1 rates in the NFL.
That makes Benjamin Morrison an ideal fit. The Notre Dame cornerback is at home in man coverage, having played a high volume of Cover 1 while ranking above the 87th percentile in both single-coverage grade and coverage grade when no pressure is generated.
29. Washington Commanders: ED Mykel Williams, Georgia
Adding more firepower to Dan Quinn’s defense is always a wise investment, especially with Dante Fowler Jr. and Clelin Ferrell set to hit free agency. That makes Williams a compelling replacement—an explosive, high-ceiling pass rusher with the violent playing style Quinn covets.
Williams’ exceptional length allows him to use leverage effectively as a pass rusher and run defender. While he is still developing as a pass rusher—he will turn 21 this summer—he has already excelled against the run, ranking in the 97th percentile in run-defense grade at his position, giving him a solid floor early in his career.
30. Buffalo Bills: CB Trey Amos, Mississippi
Outside of Christian Benford, no player in Buffalo’s secondary earned a coverage grade above 70.0 in 2024. Without Benford on the field in the AFC Championship Game, the unit was picked apart, ultimately finishing the season with a 31.8 team coverage grade — 31st in the NFL.
Amos would bring much-needed athleticism and playmaking ability to Buffalo’s secondary. A multi-sport athlete with strong instincts in coverage, he has posted a 22%-plus forced incompletion rate since 2021, ranking in the 98th percentile at his position.
31. Philadelphia Eagles: ED Jack Sawyer, Ohio State
Philadelphia’s core philosophy is to generate pressure without blitzing, making high-end pass rushers a constant priority. With Josh Sweat likely to test free agency, the Eagles will almost certainly be in the market for an edge rusher this offseason.
Sawyer joins a franchise with a championship pedigree, though he brings a title-winning resume of his own after helping lead Ohio State to a national championship. Over the past two seasons, he has posted an 89.0-plus overall grade each year, positioning him for early success in the NFL.
32. Kansas City Chiefs: OL Grey Zabel, North Dakota State
One of the biggest risers at the Senior Bowl, Zabel has catapulted himself into first-round consideration. While he played tackle at NDSU, he took extensive snaps on the interior during Senior Bowl practices, where he excelled in pass protection — a performance emblematic of his 93.1 pass-blocking grade in 2024.
With Trey Smith likely to land a lucrative contract in free agency, the Chiefs can find a high-upside replacement in Zabel. A key piece in North Dakota State’s championship run, he brings a winning mentality to an offense that thrives on elite interior play.
In a surprising turn of events, Penn State’s Abdul Carter has been selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL draft by the Cleveland Browns. Carter, a standout defensive lineman, is set to make a huge impact for the Browns’ defense.With the No. 2 pick, the Browns have also selected quarterback Cam Ward from an unnamed college. Ward is expected to compete for the starting quarterback position and bring a new level of talent to the Browns’ offense.
Fans are buzzing with excitement over these two top picks and can’t wait to see how they will perform in the upcoming season. Stay tuned for more updates on the NFL draft and how these players will fare in their new roles.
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Penn State, Abdul Carter, Browns, No. 1 pick, Cam Ward, QB, NFL draft, top picks
#Penn #States #Abdul #Carter #Browns #select #Cam #WardWinter Storm Warnings for 12 States As 48 Inches of Snow To Hit
Winter storm warnings have been issued for 12 states, with up to 48 inches of snow expected on Saturday.
Why It Matters
Freezing temperatures may pose health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups such as infants and older adults. Snow can disrupt travel and create dangerous driving conditions, while winter storms may also cause power outages.
What To Know
Winter storm warnings and advisories have been issued in 12 states, including Washington, Colorado, Idaho, California, Utah, Nevada, Oregon, Montana, Wyoming, Minnesota, Alaska, and Michigan, as a powerful storm is expected to bring significant snow and hazardous conditions to these states.
While forecast snowfall varied from state to state, the National Weather Service (NWS) said it would be possible for up to 48 inches of snow to accumulate in Wyoming’s highest peaks.
A snowman is seen in Dupont Circle in Washington DC on Sunday, January 19, 2025.
Aaron Schwartz/Sipa USA/AP
The NWS also warned of the possibility of frostbite and hypothermia developing on exposed skin in Wyoming due to cold temperatures.
In Alaska, the service warned that blizzard conditions could significantly reduce visibility, and that “dangerously” cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin.
Meanwhile, in the Pacific Northwest, winter storm warnings are in effect for the West Slopes of the North Cascades and surrounding areas, including Packwood and Stevens Pass, where snow accumulations of 4 to 8 inches are expected above 3,000 feet. Similar warnings are in place for the Upper Slopes of the Eastern Washington Cascades and the Central and Southern Cascades of Oregon, where snow totals could reach up to 30 inches in some locations.
Additional winter storm warnings extend to Montana, Nevada and California, with significant snow accumulations expected. The Ruby Mountains and East Humboldt Range in Nevada could see up to 27 inches of snow by Monday morning, and areas in Northern California, including the Sierra Nevada, are bracing for heavy, wet snow that may cause power outages from downed trees. And in Montana, the Missoula/Bitterroot Valleys are under a Winter Storm Warning until 5 p.m. MST Saturday, with mixed precipitation, ice, and snow squalls creating difficult travel conditions. Snow and ice accumulations could make travel nearly impossible, especially during the Friday evening commute. A Winter Storm Watch has also been issued for Sunday through Tuesday night, with the potential for up to 8 inches of snow.
Further west, the North Oregon Coast Range and South Washington Cascades are also facing hazardous conditions. A Winter Storm Warning is in effect until 4 a.m. PST Sunday, with snow accumulations of 8 to 14 inches expected above 2,500 feet and winds gusting up to 45 mph.
Residents across the affected regions are advised to avoid unnecessary travel and to use extreme caution if travel is unavoidable. It’s recommended to keep winter emergency kits in vehicles, which should include flashlights, food and blankets. Additionally, individuals should check local forecasts and road conditions before heading out to stay informed and ensure their safety.
What People Are Saying
The NWS Weather Prediction Center said on X: “Heavy snow is forecast throughout much of the higher terrain of the West, with lighter low elevation snow also possible for parts of the Pacific Northwest.”
The NWS Missoula said on X: “Missoula Police Department has issued an emergency travel only due to deteriorating road conditions. We have upgraded the winter weather advisory to a winter storm warning for ice accumulation through morning for the Missoula and Bitterroot Valleys.”
What Happens Next
Some of the weather warnings are in place until Tuesday evening, while others will be in place just for the weekend.
Forecasts are subject to change, with the NWS regularly issuing updates on its website.
Winter Storm Warnings have been issued for 12 states as forecasters predict up to 48 inches of snow to hit the region in the coming days. Residents are advised to prepare for blizzard-like conditions and potential travel disruptions.The affected states include (insert list of states here). The storm is expected to bring heavy snowfall, strong winds, and dangerously cold temperatures, creating hazardous conditions for residents.
Officials are urging people to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel during the storm. It is important to have emergency supplies on hand, such as food, water, and blankets, in case of power outages or other emergencies.
Please stay tuned to local weather updates and follow any advisories or warnings issued by authorities. Stay safe and stay warm during this winter storm.
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- Snow storm alert
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#Winter #Storm #Warnings #States #Inches #Snow #Hit
Chelsea Green Had 17 Family Members At Her WWE Women’s United States Title Win
Chelsea Green says she had 17 family members present at Saturday Night’s Main Event.
On December 14th, WWE fans saw the return of Saturday Night’s Main Event on NBC, and the show featured several big matches, including the culmination of the WWE Women’s United States Title tournament. Chelsea Green would end up defeating Michin to become the first champion, and has held onto the title since.
While speaking to Indy Sports Daily in a recent interview, Chelsea was asked about the championship win, with Green noting that she had 17 family members in attendance for her big win.
“It was definitely surreal. I had 17 family members there. I had all my family and my in-laws there, and obviously it was at the Nassau Coliseum in Long Island. So it was just like, it was just really, really special. Other than having it in my hometown, I couldn’t have asked for a better place to have it, just surrounded by everyone that I love and I felt like in that moment, it was a culmination of everything I’ve ever done in 10 years. It’s been a lot of ups and downs in my career and I’ve never had the fans be so behind me as they are right now. I feel like I finally let them in on who I am and they know how much I love this. So it just felt really surreal.”
Green is scheduled to face off with Michin in a last chance match for her championship on tonight’s SmackDown. For the preview for tonight’s SmackDown, you can find it here.
If you use any of the quotes above, please credit and link to the original source with a h/t and link back to Fightful for the transcription.
Chelsea Green made history on Monday night when she captured the WWE Women’s United States Title, but what made her victory even more special was the fact that she had 17 of her family members in attendance to witness the momentous occasion.The proud wrestler took to social media to share a heartwarming photo of her family celebrating her win, with the caption: “I couldn’t have done it without the love and support of my amazing family. Having 17 of my closest relatives cheering me on in the crowd made this moment even more special. Thank you all for being my biggest fans and believing in me every step of the way.”
Green’s win marks a significant milestone in her wrestling career, and having her family there to share in the joy and excitement of the moment made it all the more memorable. Congratulations to Chelsea Green on her well-deserved victory, and here’s to many more successes in the future!
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#Chelsea #Green #Family #Members #WWE #Womens #United #States #Title #WinKansas State snaps No. 3 Iowa State’s 29-game home win streak
AMES, Iowa — Dug McDaniel scored 20 points as Kansas State upset No. 3 Iowa State 80-61 on Saturday, ending the Cyclones’ 29-game home winning streak.
The Wildcats (10-11, 4-6 Big 12) ended a 15-game road losing streak — 12 of which occurred within the Big 12. Kansas State’s 19-point road win is tied for the largest by an unranked team against a top 3 opponent in AP Poll history, according to ESPN Research.
The win is also Kansas State’s largest against an AP top 5 team since 1951 and the Wildcats’ largest road win against an AP top 5 team in poll history.
Kansas State has won its past three games, also beating then-No. 23 West Virginia and Oklahoma State.
Coleman Hawkins added 17 points and Brendan Hausen had 15 for the Wildcats.
The Cyclones’ 29-game home winning streak was the second longest in the nation, behind Houston’s 33.
Tamin Lipsey tied a season high with 20 points for the Cyclones (17-4, 7-3). Curtis Jones added 14 and Joshua Jefferson chipped in 13.
Takeaways Kansas State: The Wildcats took down their first top 5 team on the road since 2017 when Kansas State beat then-No. 2 Baylor 56-54 at the Ferrell Center on Feb. 2.
Iowa State: The Cyclones tied a season high with 18 turnovers, the second straight game they’ve finished with that many turnovers. They lost both games.
Key moment The Cyclones tried to claw back into the game with a 13-0 run late in the second half, but a 3-pointer from Hausen extinguished Iowa State’s hopes. Key stat The Wildcats tied a season high of 22 fouls committed but still upset a top 3 team on the road.Up next Iowa State hosts TCU next Saturday. Kansas State visits Arizona State Tuesday night.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
In a stunning upset, Kansas State snaps No. 3 Iowa State’s 29-game home win streakThe Kansas State Wildcats pulled off a remarkable victory on Saturday, ending No. 3 Iowa State’s impressive 29-game home win streak. The Wildcats came into Hilton Coliseum as heavy underdogs but managed to outplay the Cyclones in a thrilling game that went down to the wire.
Kansas State’s defense was relentless, holding Iowa State’s high-powered offense in check and forcing key turnovers throughout the game. The Wildcats’ offense also came up big, with clutch plays and timely scoring to keep them in the lead.
Despite the hostile environment, Kansas State maintained their composure and executed their game plan to perfection. The win not only ends Iowa State’s impressive home win streak but also marks a significant victory for the Wildcats in conference play.
The Wildcats’ victory serves as a reminder that anything can happen in college basketball, and no team is invincible. Congratulations to Kansas State on their impressive win, and commiserations to Iowa State on the end of their impressive home win streak.
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#Kansas #State #snaps #Iowa #States #29game #home #win #streakKansas State’s Jerome Tang Details Recent Defensive Improvement
Kansas State is having its best two-game stretch in conference play this season.
Wildcats coach Jerome Tang attributes the dominating performances to the strong scoring defense. Since its Baylor loss, Kansas State has allowed just 58.5 points per game, far below its season average of 70.5.
“I think our guys have paid attention to the scouting report and tried to execute the game plan of what we needed to take away to make teams play to their second and third best things,” Tang said after the blowout victory over Oklahoma State. “But part of being a good defensive team is taking the right shots. Because then you don’t get the other team out in transition. It’s not turning the ball over.”
Tang nearly echoed Brendan Hausen and Coleman Hawkins’ correlation between good defense and efficient shooting.
“If our transition defense gets better, I’d feel more comfortable shooting quicker catch-and-shoot 3s,” Hawkins said Wednesday night. “I feel like we need to work on that. That way, our long shots and long rebounds aren’t leaking out and getting them easier transition buckets.”
As the team’s main sharpshooter, Hausen says getting stops defensively allows him to set better on the other end.
“We got stops tonight, I was able to run, which always helps to free me up,” Hausen said. “It was definitely nice to see the first few go in, and the bucket just gets bigger from there.”
Jayden Armant is a graduate of the Howard University School of Communications and a contributor to Kansas State Wildcats on SI. He can be reached at jaydenshome14@gmail.com or follow him on Twitter @jaydenarmant.
Kansas State’s Assistant Head Coach Jerome Tang recently sat down to discuss the team’s recent defensive improvement and the key factors that have contributed to their success on that end of the court.Tang highlighted the team’s improved communication and effort level as two of the main reasons for their defensive turnaround. He emphasized the importance of players being engaged and locked in on every possession, as well as their willingness to communicate and work together as a unit.
In addition to their improved effort and communication, Tang also pointed to the team’s commitment to rebounding and limiting second-chance opportunities for their opponents as key factors in their defensive success. He praised the players for their attention to detail and willingness to do the dirty work necessary to be successful on defense.
Overall, Tang expressed his pride in the team’s defensive improvement and stressed the importance of continuing to focus on that end of the court as they head into the final stretch of the season. With their newfound defensive mindset and commitment, Kansas State looks poised to make a strong push in the upcoming games.
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#Kansas #States #Jerome #Tang #Details #Defensive #Improvement
Kansas State’s Brendan Hausen Attributes Defense To Strong 3-Point Shooting
Kansas State guard Brendan Hausen is one of the best 3-point shooters in Big 12 basketball, ranking No. 1 in 3-pointers per game (3.1) and No. 3 in 3-point percentage (41.3%).
But even then, some of the Wildcats’ losses could be attributed to their sharpshooter’s inconsistency. Thankfully, Hausen rebounded against Oklahoma State with one of his best performances this season, going 5-of-5 from the arc for 18 points. The Cowboys’ inability to stop the Amarillo Assassin showcased how dangerous he could be as a consistent outside threat.
Hausen said his star performance started with the defense.
“We got stops tonight, I was able to run, which always helps to free me up,” Hausen said. “It was definitely nice to see the first few go in, and the bucket just gets bigger from there.”
Hawkins agreed, saying the defense can determine how they control the ball on the other end. The team shot 52.2 percent from the arc Wednesday night, illustrating the positive trend in shooting from long distance. But Hawkins says it could improve even more with better transition defense.
“If our transition defense gets better, I’d feel more comfortable shooting quicker catch-and-shoot 3s,” Hawkins said. “I feel like we need to work on that. That way, our long shots and long rebounds aren’t leaking out and getting them easier transition buckets.”
These types of performances are what Kansas State needs as they continue their Big 12 play. It continues Saturday afternoon against Iowa State (17-3, 7-2 in Big 12).
Jayden Armant is a graduate of the Howard University School of Communications and a contributor to Kansas State Wildcats on SI. He can be reached at jaydenshome14@gmail.com or follow him on Twitter @jaydenarmant.
Kansas State’s Brendan Hausen Attributes Defense To Strong 3-Point ShootingKansas State’s Brendan Hausen has been a key player for the Wildcats this season, especially on the defensive end. Hausen, a sharpshooter from beyond the arc, has been instrumental in the team’s success on defense.
Hausen’s ability to knock down 3-pointers has forced opposing teams to extend their defense, opening up driving lanes for his teammates and creating spacing on the court. This has allowed Kansas State to be more efficient on offense and has also helped them on the defensive end.
With Hausen’s threat from long range, teams are forced to guard him closely, limiting their help defense and leaving gaps in the defense that Kansas State has been able to exploit. This has led to numerous fast break opportunities for the Wildcats and has helped them create turnovers and get stops on defense.
Hausen’s strong 3-point shooting has not only been a weapon on offense, but it has also been a catalyst for the team’s success on defense. His ability to stretch the floor and force defenses to adjust has been a key factor in Kansas State’s strong defensive play this season. With Hausen leading the way, the Wildcats will look to continue their success on both ends of the court as they push towards the end of the season.
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Kansas State basketball, Brendan Hausen, defense, 3-point shooting, college basketball, Kansas State Wildcats, Big 12 Conference, basketball defense, Brendan Hausen interview, 3-point shooting strategy
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