Jimmy Horn Jr. Reveals ‘Main Thing’ He Took From Former Panthers All-Pro

The Carolina Panthers are striving to be a much more competitive team this season.

That means winning more games, but it also means being tougher, grittier and more physical.

That’s why fans will love to hear that rookie wide receiver Jimmy Horn Jr. has taken some pages out of Steve Smith Sr.’s book.

Asked about the biggest things he could learn from the Panthers legend, the sixth-round pick from the 2025 NFL Draft gushed about one particular attribute of the All-Pro.

“The main thing I took from [Steve’s] game was the physicality,” Horn said. “He played tough, and on the field, he wasn’t going for nothing. So that’s just something natural as a player that you got to have too. And I see that in me a lot too, though. I ain’t really going for nothing on the field.”

This will be Carolina’s second season under head coach Dave Canales.

The Panthers showed some signs of life last season, especially after quarterback Bryce Young returned from a brief stint on the bench.

Just when it looked like he was about to join the long list of busts, the No. 1 overall pick from the 2023 NFL Draft finally showed glimpses of being the decision-maker and accurate passer he was at Alabama.

Now, with another full offseason to take hold of the system, an offensive-minded head coach who’s known for fixing quarterbacks, and an improved set of pass-catchers, the Panthers could take a leap.

Of course, they still have a long way to go to return to the NFC playoff picture.

Also, Horn will have to prove he has what it takes to get on the field as a rookie.

But with this physical approach, the Panthers might be making progress.

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Patriots Sign Former Rams Defender

The New England Patriots have had a busy offseason in their efforts to build a viable team around exciting young quarterback, Drake Maye, as the front office put all that cap space to good use by signing a number of impact players on both sides of the ball to help shape the roster in Mike Vrabel’s image.

Despite all the additions, the Patriots weren’t done, as New England made headlines once again on Sunday by signing another former defender from the Los Angeles Rams.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport shared on Sunday that the Pats are signing defensive tackle David Olajiga via the International Player Pathway.

The #Patriots are signing former #Rams DT David Olajiga, source said, a native of England. He joins via the International Player Pathway.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) July 20, 2025

Olajiga is 27 years old and has yet to make his regular-season debut.

The London native spent last season on the Rams’ practice squad after signing with the team out of Central Missouri, where he recorded 98 tackles and nine sacks in 32 games, as well as four blocked kicks.

The four blocked kicks represent an interesting subplot, as that’s indicative of a guy who could be a sneaky special-teams addition to Vrabel’s staff.

He’ll have an uphill battle to make the team, but Olajiga is an intriguing zero-risk prospect that will be at least a nice depth piece to have in the heart of the defensive line should newcomers Milton Williams or Khyiris Tonga suffer any significant injuries.

It will be an entirely new roster in 2025 with a new coaching staff, all of which was much-needed after one of the most disastrous Patriots seasons in recent memory last year.

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DaRon Bland Sends 2 Word Message Ahead Of Training Camp

The Dallas Cowboys enter a pivotal 2025 season with first-year head coach Brian Schottenheimer at the helm, and one player could emerge as a focal point for the franchise’s defensive aspirations.

DaRon Bland, the All-Pro cornerback entering the final year of his rookie contract, carries the weight of expectations after a record-breaking 2023 campaign that established him as one of the league’s premier defensive backs.

The timing of his latest social media post suggests Bland understands exactly what’s at stake.

NFL reporter Brandon Loree captured the cornerback’s mindset heading into training camp with a simple but telling 2-word message.

“Career year,” Bland posted.

#Cowboys DaRon Bland on IG ahead of training camp:

“Career year ”

Hopefully the former All-Pro can return to form this season. Dallas’ defense could really use it.

(: @DaRon_Bland on IG) pic.twitter.com/PaHXqtyQ8S

— Brandon Loree (@Brandoniswrite) July 20, 2025

That confidence stems from both his proven track record and the opportunity that lies ahead.

Bland rewrote NFL history in 2023, leading the league with nine interceptions while returning five for touchdowns to set a new single-season record.

However, a stress fracture in his foot derailed his 2024 campaign, limiting him to just seven games without a single interception.

Now fully healthy, Bland faces a transformed secondary that places him at the center of Dallas’s defensive plans.

With Trevon Diggs still working back from knee surgery and Jourdan Lewis departed in free agency, the Cowboys need their proven playmaker to step into an expanded role.

Bland has already shown versatility during OTAs, taking snaps in the slot to replace Lewis while maintaining his outside responsibilities.

Brian Schottenheimer has made it clear the team will simply deploy their “best five” defensive backs, giving Bland the flexibility to impact games from multiple positions.

The cornerback room faces depth concerns with rookie Shavon Revel Jr. and Kaiir Elam still recovering from injuries, making Bland’s health and leadership essential to Dallas’s defensive success.

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Justin Fields Predicted To ‘Unlock’ 1 Jets WR

The New York Jets are banking on Justin Fields to transform their offensive fortunes in 2025.

After bouncing between Chicago and Pittsburgh, Fields arrives at Florham Park as the undisputed starter under new head coach Aaron Glenn and offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand.

The retooled offense has been crafted specifically around his dual-threat capabilities.

The pairing with star receiver Garrett Wilson has generated particular excitement, especially given Wilson’s track record of producing despite inconsistent quarterback play throughout his career.

Analyst Michael Nania recently highlighted the potential of this connection, sharing compelling statistics that showcase how Fields could unlock Wilson’s deep-ball prowess.

“Garrett Wilson has only caught 19/65 deep targets in his career (29%), despite 0 drops. In 2023, J. Fields ranked 6th-best with a 53.8% adj. comp% on deep passes. That year, D.J. Moore caught 16/32 deep targets for 482 yds & 5 TD,” Nania shared. “Finally an arm that can unlock GW’s deep game.”

Garrett Wilson has only caught 19/65 deep targets in his career (29%), despite 0 drops.

In 2023, J. Fields ranked 6th-best with a 53.8% adj. comp% on deep passes. That year, D.J. Moore caught 16/32 deep targets for 482 yds & 5 TD.

Finally an arm that can unlock GW's deep game pic.twitter.com/BdrNTE4dsF

— Michael Nania (@Michael_Nania) July 19, 2025

Fields finished last season among the league’s most accurate deep-ball throwers, and early signs suggest his chemistry with Wilson is already developing.

The Ohio State connection looked impressive during minicamp, with Fields delivering precise downfield strikes that landed perfectly in Wilson’s hands despite tight coverage.

Wilson enters his fourth season coming off a four-year, $130 million extension.

He has posted three consecutive 1,000-yard campaigns while working with eight different quarterbacks, showcasing remarkable consistency despite the revolving door under center.

Offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand brings experience from Detroit, planning to implement layered route concepts and aggressive play-action schemes that should maximize Wilson’s elite route-running abilities.

If Fields continues showing the accuracy that made him one of the better deep-ball quarterbacks last season, this partnership could emerge as one of the AFC’s most formidable offensive weapons.

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Seahawks Release Veteran TE

The Seattle Seahawks are shifting toward a younger approach at tight end as they reshape their offensive identity.

Second-year player AJ Barner appears ready for expanded responsibilities while rookie Elijah Arroyo, selected in the second round from Miami, has generated early attention after an impressive college career.

The group also includes veteran Eric Saubert alongside undrafted rookies Marshall Lang and Nick Kallerup.

This youth movement became clearer with a significant roster decision that freed up considerable salary cap space.

The Seattle Seahawks made the move official on Sunday, parting ways with tight end Noah Fant after three seasons.

“Seahawks release TE Noah Fant,” the NFL announced.

Seahawks release TE Noah Fant. pic.twitter.com/WvtTrwgqTt

— NFL (@NFL) July 20, 2025

Fant was set to enter the final year of a two-year, $21 million extension he signed in March 2024, carrying an $8.49 million salary for 2025 that was non-guaranteed.

The release creates $8.91 million in available cap space for the organization.

Originally acquired as a central piece in the 2022 blockbuster trade that sent Russell Wilson to Denver, Fant struggled to match the early production from his Broncos tenure.

During his time in Seattle, he recorded 130 receptions for 1,400 yards and five touchdowns across 48 games.

His 2024 campaign featured 48 catches for 500 yards and one touchdown.

The departure opens opportunities for Seattle’s younger tight ends to step up as new quarterback Sam Darnold adapts to the system.

While Fant provided reliable hands and solid blocking, the Seahawks appear committed to offensive evolution.

Fant enters free agency as an experienced option for teams seeking tight end depth and production.

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Details Emerge About Micah Parsons’ Status For Training Camp

The Dallas Cowboys have arrived in Oxnard, California for training camp with all eyes on star defender Micah Parsons.

The three-time All-Pro is entering what many expect to be his final season under his current contract, with discussions of a massive extension dominating headlines.

Despite speculation about a potential holdout, Parsons appears ready to suit up while negotiations continue behind the scenes.

Recent reports suggest the talented pass rusher has no intention of missing practice time, even without a new deal in place.

“Cowboys 3x All-Pro Micah Parsons will report to Oxnard, California for training camp despite not having a long-term contract extension with the organization, sources tell me,” NFL reporter Jordan Schultz reported.

#Cowboys 3x All-Pro Micah Parsons will report to Oxnard, California for training camp despite not having a long-term contract extension with the organization, sources tell me. pic.twitter.com/Rojv9tRT57

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) July 20, 2025

The decision to report comes as no surprise given owner Jerry Jones’ public commitment to securing Parsons long term.

With fellow edge rushers Myles Garrett and T.J. Watt already cashing in on lucrative extensions, the market has been established for elite pass rushers.

Parsons, set to earn nearly $24 million this season through his fifth-year option, understands his value in today’s market.

Since joining Dallas in 2021, Parsons has compiled 52.5 sacks across 63 games, including 12 sacks in just 13 games last season.

His dominant production has positioned him as one of the league’s premier defensive weapons.

While Jones has indicated Parsons will receive a substantial payday, the timeline remains uncertain.

The Cowboys’ owner famously waited until the final moments to secure extensions for CeeDee Lamb and Dak Prescott.

That same methodical approach could define Parsons’ contract negotiations, though his presence at camp suggests both sides remain optimistic about reaching an agreement.

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Stefon Diggs Makes Big Change On Social Media

New England Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs has found himself at the center of offseason chatter, though not for his on-field preparation.

While rehabbing from a torn ACL and gearing up for training camp, Diggs made a surprising move that caught fans and media attention.

The veteran receiver completely wiped his Instagram account clean, removing every single post from the platform.

The timing has raised eyebrows across social media, with many questioning what prompted the sudden digital detox.

“Stefon Diggs cleared his Instagram sometime yesterday,” Pats-Planet reported. “Fresh start on social media?”

Stefon Diggs cleared his Instagram sometime yesterday…

Fresh start on social media? pic.twitter.com/EVzWu3Ehl5

— Pats-Planet.com (@patsplanetmedia) July 20, 2025

The move comes as Diggs prepares for his first full season in New England after signing a four-year, $69 million contract in March.

His Instagram profile still shows 2.2 million followers and his profile picture, but the content has vanished entirely.

This type of social media cleanse often signals major personal or professional changes.

The speculation intensified when considering his rumored relationship with rapper Cardi B, which became public in June through yacht photos and courtside appearances.

Moreover, Cardi B also deleted her Diggs-related content earlier this month, and now Diggs has followed suit.

Neither has confirmed any relationship status changes, but the synchronized deletions suggest something significant occurred.

With Cardi B’s album “Am I the Drama?” releasing in September, some wonder if this represents a genuine split or strategic marketing.

The rapper has been known for creative promotional tactics, making the situation even more intriguing.

As training camp approaches, the focus will shift back to football, but his social media silence has already made its mark on his offseason narrative.

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Bengals Are Signing Former Falcons QB

The Cincinnati Bengals enter training camp with a clear objective after their disappointing 9-8 season that ended just outside playoff contention.

Head coach Zac Taylor is banking on continuity and strategic additions to push his team back into the AFC’s upper echelon.

The return of a healthy Joe Burrow provides the foundation for offensive success, but recent movement in the quarterback room has added an intriguing local connection.

The Bengals are bringing in a familiar face to bolster their depth behind Burrow. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported the team’s latest quarterback addition:

“Former Falcons starting QB Desmond Ridder is signing with the Bengals, per source. Some experienced competition behind Joe Burrow.”

Former #Falcons starting QB Desmond Ridder is signing with the #Bengals, per source. Some experienced competition behind Joe Burrow. pic.twitter.com/1cbWPCTV2W

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) July 20, 2025

The 25-year-old Ridder brings substantial NFL experience with 19 career starts, over 4,000 passing yards, and 16 touchdowns to Cincinnati’s quarterback room.

While Jake Browning currently holds the backup role, Ridder joins Logan Woodside and rookie Payton Thorne in competing for the third quarterback position.

This move extends beyond simple depth building. Ridder’s mobility and his history with Taylor, who once recruited him during his University of Cincinnati days, create a natural fit.

The former Bearcats star went unbeaten at Nippert Stadium during his college career, making this homecoming particularly meaningful.

Cincinnati faces a challenging schedule start with lingering concerns about offensive line protection.

Adding Ridder provides insurance with a quarterback who understands Taylor’s system and can adapt quickly if called upon.

For Ridder, this opportunity offers a chance to rebuild his career in the city where he first gained national attention.

For Cincinnati, it’s a calculated gamble that could pay dividends if their championship window requires additional quarterback security.

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C.J. Gardner-Johnson Gets Honest About Why Eagles Traded Him

The Philadelphia Eagles had to make a tough decision this offseason.

As great as it would’ve been to keep the entire band together, they had to make choices, and that often means parting ways with some players.

That’s why they chose to move on from C.J. Gardner-Johnson.

Even so, the Super Bowl champion didn’t buy the narrative of his trade being motivated by financial reasons.

Talking on ‘The Pivot,’ Gardner-Johnson claimed that they just couldn’t handle his competitive nature (via JPAFootball):

“Scared of a competitor. Simple as that. You can’t program a dawg. You want me to be a leader and outspoken, but then you want me to sit back. There’s nowhere been a locker room where I had a single issue with a teammate,” Gardner-Johnson said.

𝗧𝗥𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗜𝗡𝗚: Former #Eagles S CJ Gardner Johnson says they traded him because they are scared of a competitor, he told @thepivot

“Scared of a competitor. Simple as that. You can’t program a dawg. You want me to be a leader and outspoken, but then you want me to sit back.… pic.twitter.com/CvejbfjS4I

— JPAFootball (@jasrifootball) July 19, 2025

Of course, it’s not like he’s the only high-character player on the team, so perhaps that wasn’t the defining factor behind that decision, even if it may have had something to do with it.

Gardner-Johnson will now have to use that as motivation to fuel his competitive fire even more.

He’ll be tasked to hold down the fort in a physical defense.

DeMeco Ryans has instilled his physicality and toughness on that unit since he took the reins of the Houston Texans, and having a Super Bowl champion and a proven veteran there will certainly help carry the load.

The Eagles, on the other hand, will have to be as competitive as Gardner-Johnson, if not more, if they want to protect their crown.

They have the most stacked roster in the entire league, even without him, but it takes much more than just talent to thrive in this league.

They won’t have to face the Texans in the regular season, but who knows? Perhaps Gardner-Johnson will have an opportunity to get back at his former team in the final game of the season.

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Jaycee Horn Shows Off Elite Athleticism In Workout Video

The Carolina Panthers have an absolute stud in Jaycee Horn.

He’s a force to be reckoned with in the secondary, and he was one of the few bright spots on the team last season – and ever since he entered the league.

Training camp isn’t underway yet, but it’s evident that the young defensive back is already in mid-season form.

In a now-viral clip he shared on X, you can see his mesmerizing athleticism and top-notch speed.

Ski right back I’m on my way.. year 5️⃣ @_JoelJoseph_ pic.twitter.com/etBPUamlWN

— Jaycee Horn (@jayceehorn_10) July 20, 2025

Of course, everybody looks great in drills, but the sample size is big enough for people to realize how much of a special player he is.

In a recent survey conducted by ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler, an unnamed group of executives, scouts, and coaches all agreed that Horn was a top 10 player in his position.

He came in at seventh place behind the likes of Patrick Surtain II, Derek Stingley Jr., Denzel Ward, Trent McDuffie, Sauce Gardner, and Christian Gonzalez.

Unsurprisingly, he was the only Panthers player to crack the top 10 at any position.

Robert Hunt got an honorable mention among interior offensive linemen, and the same happened to Derrick Brown on the defensive tackle list.

Horn has shown the potential to be a shutdown corner and one of the most disruptive defensive players in the secondary.

On top of being a menace in the open field for the passing game, he’s an elite run stopper as well, which isn’t common for most cornerbacks.

Hopefully, he will be able to stay healthy this season, just like he did last year, as durability is the only question mark over his head.

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