49ers Are Reportedly Close To Contract Extension With Key Defender

The San Francisco 49ers made several bold moves this offseason, parting ways with key veterans in free agency.

Their strategy centered on creating cap flexibility to secure quarterback Brock Purdy and tight end George Kittle with long-term deals.

With those foundational pieces locked in, attention has shifted to the defensive side.

NBC Sports analyst Jennifer Lee Chan reports the organization is focused on ensuring their defensive centerpiece remains in place without straining financial resources.

“Fred Warner and the 49ers are very close to finalizing a multi-year contract extension, sources tell Jennifer Lee Chan,” NBC Sports shared.

Fred Warner and the 49ers are very close to finalizing a multi-year contract extension, sources tell @jenniferleechanhttps://t.co/hqjqpg54YF

— 49ers on NBCS (@NBCS49ers) May 18, 2025

What binds Purdy, Kittle, and Warner extends beyond their on-field excellence to their leadership presence within the organization.

Despite ongoing contract negotiations, all three players have maintained full commitment at team facilities throughout the offseason.

Warner’s reliability tells its own story. Through seven professional seasons, the BYU product has accumulated four Pro Bowl selections alongside four First Team All-Pro honors while missing just one game.

Starting since his rookie campaign, Warner has amassed an impressive 897 tackles, including 569 solo stops and 36 tackles behind the line of scrimmage.

The linebacker continues to serve as the heartbeat of the San Francisco defense.

His consistent excellence stands out even more as the team faces defensive turnover.

Since joining as a third-round selection in 2018, Warner has led the squad in total tackles every season, establishing an unprecedented seven year run of statistical dominance.

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Russell Wilson Linked Up With Yankees Star On Sunday

The New York Giants have completely revamped their quarterback roster, moving on from Daniel Jones and Drew Lock.

They’ve brought in Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston, and rookie Jaxson Dart, with Wilson positioned to start when the season begins. This transition promises significant improvement for the offense.

Wilson appears ready to embrace the spotlight of New York, already making his presence felt throughout the city.

Wilson connected with Yankees superstar Aaron Judge on Sunday at Yankee Stadium.

“Aaron Judge and Russell Wilson link up at Yankee Stadium,” Yahoo Sports shared.

Aaron Judge and Russell Wilson link up at Yankee Stadium pic.twitter.com/rE1VYIDDrQ

— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) May 18, 2025

The friendly meeting happened just before the Subway Series game, broadcast on ESPN at 7 PM ET.

Judge did more than just appear, bringing gifts for Wilson, his wife Ciara, and their family, highlighting the growing connection between New York’s football and baseball stars.

A notable pregame moment captured attention across social media.

Aaron Judge steps up for Russell Wilson's little MVPs pic.twitter.com/UBmegOiCZN

— New York Post Sports (@nypostsports) May 18, 2025

Wilson arrived in New York not just as a player but as someone embracing the city’s culture completely.

From spending time with the Yankees to joining the Giants, he’s immersing himself in the city’s sporting legacy with genuine enthusiasm.

For Wilson, this opportunity carries real meaning beyond typical media excitement. He recognizes the challenges ahead but seems to welcome them, understanding what it means to represent New York in professional sports.

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Odds Show Which Team Is Favored To Win AFC West

The Kansas City Chiefs have dominated the AFC West for nearly a decade, claiming nine consecutive division titles dating back to 2016.

Now, with the 2025 NFL schedule release, fans and analysts alike wonder if their reign will continue for a landmark tenth year.

FanDuel Sportsbook’s recently released odds share telling insights into the division race.

The Chiefs stand as favorites at -110 odds, followed by the Los Angeles Chargers at +300, Denver Broncos at +330, and Las Vegas Raiders as distant underdogs at +1100.

Oddsmakers expect the Chiefs to extend their AFC West title streak to 10 in a row

H/T @FDSportsbook https://t.co/sai2fQoFiT pic.twitter.com/LZ4SLW4Wbb

— The 33rd Team (@The33rdTeamFB) May 18, 2025

While Kansas City remains the division front runner, the betting odds reveal a significant shift in perception.

Previous seasons saw the Chiefs as heavy favorites with odds around -200. Their current -110 line suggests just a 52.38% implied chance of winning the division, indicating oddsmakers anticipate much tighter competition ahead.

The defending champions reached the Super Bowl for the fifth time in six seasons last year, but their journey raised questions.

Critics pointed to several narrow, unconvincing victories throughout their campaign. Those doubts materialized when the Philadelphia Eagles decisively defeated them 40-22 in Super Bowl 49.

Meanwhile, both the Chargers and Broncos show promising trajectories. Jim Harbaugh has revitalized Los Angeles with his arrival, while Denver may have found their franchise quarterback in Bo Nix.

Both teams reached the playoffs last season before exiting in the wild card round.

Should either challenger take a meaningful step forward while Kansas City grapples with offensive line concerns, the Chiefs could see their remarkable division championship streak come to an end.

The AFC West appears more competitive than it has been in years, setting up what could be a season long battle for divisional supremacy.

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Lamar Jackson Shows Off Arm Strength In Viral Video

The Baltimore Ravens’ Lamar Jackson has established himself as one of the NFL’s most electrifying quarterbacks.

His dual-threat capability allows him to deliver powerful, accurate passes while creating dynamic plays with his legs.

Despite his consistently high-level performance, some critics continue to question his throwing abilities.

A recent video has silenced many of these doubters, showcasing Jackson’s remarkable arm talent as he effortlessly launches deep passes that would be catchable for receivers at any level.

“Ravens superstar QB Lamar Jackson casually throwing a 50-YARD dime to a high schooler. Lamar is coming into the season with VENGEANCE.” Dov Kleiman shared.

Elite: Ravens superstar QB Lamar Jackson casually throwing a 50-YARD dime to a high schooler

Lamar is coming into the season with VENGEANCE. pic.twitter.com/pzHMZ8VhE6

— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) May 18, 2025

Once criticized for his supposed limitations as a traditional pocket passer, Jackson has not merely answered his critics but evolved into one of the most versatile offensive weapons in professional football.

He presents opposing defenses with an unsolvable problem, whether throwing or running.

The Ravens clearly recognize the exceptional talent they possess in Jackson, and reports suggest they’re prepared to demonstrate their commitment in unprecedented fashion.

According to emerging information, Baltimore could finalize a monumental contract extension that could fundamentally alter the NFL’s financial landscape.

Lamar Jackson’s last major deal came in 2023, a five-year extension worth $260 million.

That contract keeps him locked in with the Ravens through 2027. But across the league, it’s now common practice for teams to get ahead of the curve with their franchise stars.

If the cap allows it, they extend early and often. That trend likely points to Baltimore exploring another deal with Lamar sooner rather than later in 2025.

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New Packers WR Shows Off Impressive Reaction Skills

The Green Bay Packers finally ended their 23-year drought of selecting wide receivers in the first round when they chose Matthew Golden from Texas at No. 23 overall.

Golden marks the first receiver taken by the franchise in the opening round since Javon Walker in 2002, and his early showings suggest he was worth the wait.

During a recent rookie reaction test, Golden demonstrated remarkable abilities that validated the selection.

He maintained laser focus throughout most of the drill, tracking each flag with precision.

“Matthew Golden has ELITE reaction skills. The Packers drafted a future WR1,” noted Dov Kleiman.

Matthew Golden has ELITE reaction skills

The Packers drafted a future WR1. pic.twitter.com/9TOkh2Z41U

— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) May 18, 2025

His only misstep came at the very end when he prematurely concluded the test after the second-to-last flag, turning away and missing the final drop. Despite this small error, his overall performance left a strong impression.

At just 21 years old, Golden brings both youth and substantial experience to Green Bay.

His collegiate career spans 36 games across three seasons, including eight starts as a true freshman at Houston before transferring to Texas where he started every contest last season.

Golden consistently delivered when stakes were highest, rushing for over 100 yards against powerhouse Georgia in the SEC Championship and repeating the feat versus Arizona State during the College Football Playoff quarterfinals.

His blend of youth and proven performance aligns perfectly with the Packers’ talent evaluation philosophy.

His athletic prowess became undeniable at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, where Golden clocked a blistering 4.29 seconds in the 40-yard dash.

The recently circulating video showcasing his reaction skills only adds to the excitement surrounding his potential.

As the Packers look to inject speed and precision into their passing attack, Golden offers both in abundance with his exceptional quickness and focus that could prove game-changing.

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CeeDee Lamb Reveals Honest Thoughts About George Pickens

The Pittsburgh Steelers trading George Pickens hardly shocked NFL fans.

Despite his electric on-field talent, his behavioral issues and frequent distractions hampered team chemistry.

Multiple reports indicated he routinely arrived late to team functions, including games. With his rookie contract set to expire after 2025 and Pittsburgh showing no interest in a long-term commitment, trading him became a no-brainer.

Pickens now joins CeeDee Lamb in an already stacked Dallas Cowboys receiving corps.

Lamb recently expressed his honest thoughts about their partnership during Kyler Murray’s celebrity softball event.

“Oh no, we both ones,” Lamb said. “It ain’t no A or B, none of that. It’s one, you look over there you see one, you look over here you see another one. So, do what you gotta do with that.”

Wholesome: Cowboys WR CeeDee Lamb speaks on new team WR George Pickens:

“We’re both ones.”

CeeDee and Pickens are already brothers. pic.twitter.com/mVoQwgmiGN

— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) May 18, 2025

Lamb has established himself among the elite NFL receivers, while Pickens remains on the ascent.

His development has been hindered by inconsistent quarterback play with the Steelers, coupled with lingering questions about his maturity.

When the trade finalized between Pittsburgh and Dallas, speculation grew about how these two strong personalities would mesh in the Cowboys’ offense.

Lamb clearly brings the more decorated resume to the partnership. Encouragingly, their early interactions suggest mutual support, potentially indicating growth from Pickens and a healthy dynamic developing between the receivers.

The Steelers’ decision to send Pickens to the Dallas Cowboys early in the offseason sparked considerable backlash from fans in Pittsburgh.

After acquiring DK Metcalf before free agency began, Pickens became somewhat expendable in their offensive plans.

Since he remained on the roster through the 2025 Draft, many assumed he would stay in Pittsburgh.

That perception changed when the team secured a 2026 third-round pick and a late-round pick swap for 2027 in exchange for the talented but enigmatic receiver.

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Bill Belichick Reveals Why He Called Out Tom Brady During Film Sessions

For the better part of two decades, Tom Brady and Bill Belichick were the most feared and respected tandem in the NFL.

On one side, we had a bright defensive mind and arguably the greatest tactician in the history of the game.

On the other side, we had a player who beat the odds over and over, despite not being the fastest, strongest, most athletic, or most talented quarterback out there.

That’s why one could only assume that Brady got some sort of preferential treatment.

Nevertheless, that wasn’t the case.

If anything, Belichick was even harder on Brady than he was on anybody else, and while reports showed that Brady grew up to resent that, Belichick thought that was the only way to hold everybody accountable.

Finally, years after their divorce, the legendary coach explained why he never let Brady off the hook:

“If I didn’t point him out then everybody walks out there feeling like they got yelled at except for him… When I could make points to Tom, then Tom could say, ‘Hey fellas he got after me too.’”

Bill Belichick on why he purposely called Tom Brady out during film:

“If I didn’t point him out then everybody walks out there feeling like they got yelled at except for him… When I could make points to Tom, then Tom could say, ‘Hey fellas he got after me too.’”

( @thepivot) pic.twitter.com/DB00vwXGGm

— Carlos A. Lopez (@LosTalksPats) May 17, 2025

That makes perfect sense, but perhaps Brady would’ve appreciated it if his coach had explained that to him.

Even so, at the end of the day, no one can argue that his ways worked.

Belichick was always a no-nonsense kind of guy, and with all the trophies he won, no one can take anything away from him.

If Tom Brady got an earful, who’s to say that you can’t get one?

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Brock Purdy Gets New Contract From 49ers

Brock Purdy’s contract extension is finally in the books.

After months of buzz and speculation, the San Francisco 49ers are making it official by securing their quarterback with a lucrative deal.

It marks a remarkable full-circle moment for Purdy, who entered the league as the final pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.

Once known as “Mr. Irrelevant,” he now stands as a franchise cornerstone for years to come.

“The 49ers and QB Brock Purdy have agreed to terms on a massive 5-year, $265M extension, per multiple reports. A massive payday for a player who was once the final player picked in the NFL Draft,” Ari Meirov of The 33rd Team wrote on X.

BREAKING: The #49ers and QB Brock Purdy have agreed to terms on a massive 5-year, $265M extension, per multiple reports.

A massive payday for a player who was once the final player picked in the NFL Draft. pic.twitter.com/vKFdcjqoJ7

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) May 16, 2025

Purdy is making NFL history again, becoming the highest-paid final draft pick of all time.

In his first three NFL seasons, Purdy earned less than $1 million annually, a remarkable bargain considering his on-field performance.

He is scheduled for a modest raise this season through the league’s performance escalator, thanks a Pro Bowl selection.

But the 49ers had bigger plans and locked him into a contract that places him firmly among the league’s top 10 quarterbacks, with his new deal running from 2026 until 2030.

Even better, there was no holdout drama involved. Unlike past contract negotiations, San Francisco handled this one smoothly.

Purdy reported for the offseason program on time and got his deal completed before practices began.

The journey has been extraordinary, rising from backup to starter, nearly winning NFL MVP, helping the 49ers to the Super Bowl, and firmly claiming his spot as its quarterback for the foreseeable future.

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Ashton Jeanty Makes Significant Change At Raiders Workout

The Las Vegas Raiders made a bold statement in the 2025 NFL Draft, selecting running back Ashton Jeanty at No. 6 overall.

In a league where running backs typically slide down draft boards, the selection turned heads.

But Jeanty stands apart from typical prospects, having threatened college records while challenging for the Heisman Trophy.

Many analysts consider him the most promising backfield talent to emerge in years.

Already working to exceed expectations, Jeanty has begun making adjustments to his game.

Recent footage from Raiders workouts reveals a subtle change to his pre-snap stance, offering fans the first glimpse of his professional evolution.

“New team. New stance,” the NFL wrote on X with old and new videos of Jeanty.

New team. New stance. (via @JesseNews3LV) pic.twitter.com/wRVUxAMGVv

— NFL (@NFL) May 16, 2025

In college at Boise State, Jeanty stood upright in the backfield with his hands at his side. Now, with the Raiders, he is leaning forward with his hands on his knees waiting for the play to start.

His 2024 season nearly rewrote the record books, as he finished just 27 yards short of Barry Sanders’ single-season college rushing mark.

Standing 5-foot-8 and weighing 216 pounds, Jeanty combines an NFL-ready build with rare abilities to evade defenders, break tackles and create highlight-reel plays.

Pete Carroll has fully embraced the young talent. The new Raiders head coach, who previously worked with stars Reggie Bush and Marshawn Lynch, believes Jeanty possesses similar potential.

Such endorsements bring significant expectations, but Jeanty welcomes the pressure and looks prepared to deliver immediately.

His development under Carroll and offensive coordinator Chip Kelly should create an ideal situation for success.

This explains why the Raiders invested such valuable draft capital in a running back, despite conventional wisdom suggesting otherwise.

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Analyst Reveals Strongest Position Groups In NFL

After a busy offseason of transactions, the NFL landscape has clear winners and losers when examining roster strengths heading into the 2025 season.

PFF analyst Dalton Wasserman is highlighting several standout position groups that could prove decisive in the upcoming campaign.

“The strongest position groups in the NFL,” PFF wrote on X.

The strongest position groups in the NFL pic.twitter.com/rvHH75iluX

— PFF (@PFF) May 16, 2025

The Kansas City Chiefs maintain their elite quarterback status thanks to Patrick Mahomes. His arm talent and scrambling ability should continue to give defenses nightmares as the position’s pinnacle.

The Baltimore Ravens feature two particularly strong units.

At running back, Derrick Henry leads a versatile group that delivers consistent production and a powerful attack.

Meanwhile, their tight ends, led by Mark Andrews, provide quarterback Lamar Jackson with reliable targets that create matchup problems across the field.

At wide receiver, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers boast veteran Mike Evans, emerging player Jalen McMillan and first-round pick Emeka Egbuka. If Chris Godwin can return to form after a serious leg injury, it can be the league’s most dangerous group.

The reigning champion Philadelphia Eagles remain dominant in the trenches with their offensive line continuing to rank among the NFL’s best.

The unit’s combination of experience, skill and depth provides the foundation for their offense.

The Eagles also boast elite linebacker and cornerback groups, bringing speed and coverage ability that make their defense particularly balanced and difficult to attack.

When it comes to defensive line play, the Pittsburgh Steelers continue setting the standard.

T.J. Watt and Cameron Heyward lead a front that consistently disrupts opposing offenses by collapsing pockets and derailing run schemes before they develop.

Safety play belongs to the Los Angeles Chargers, where Derwin James Jr. stars in both coverage assignments and run support.

HIs versatility allows the Chargers to deploy various defensive looks without sacrificing performance.

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