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The Herald Scotland
4 days ago
- Sport
- The Herald Scotland
49ers should learn from Chiefs and stop making Super Bowl excuses
Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, a three-time Super Bowl MVP, was asked about the challenge of resetting and resuming the relentless football grind after a Super Bowl defeat - February's blowout loss to the Philadelphia Eagles preventing Kansas City from becoming the first team to capture three successive Lombardi Trophies. "I feel like I focus every year, because I know how special of a run that we're on and how many years left I'll have with all these great players and a great team," said Mahomes. "And every team is different and you don't want to miss an opportunity. "When you lose a Super Bowl, I think there's sometimes in those workouts - you might be a little tired - (but) you have that extra, added motivation to finish even harder or finish even stronger." NFL POWER RANKINGS: Where teams stand post-draft It was the latest insight into the mindset of Mahomes and his dynasty - and both might have a case as the greatest in league history by the time their runs conclude - especially in the face of their rare setbacks. And let's not forget, the 2024 Chiefs somehow won a franchise record 15 regular-season games and, then, the conference - even though they couldn't protect Mahomes (sacked a career-high 36 times), couldn't consistently run the ball and lost No. 1 wideout Rashee Rice to a season-ending knee injury in Week 4. Compare that to the 2024 49ers, who followed up their overtime loss to Kansas City in Super Bowl 58 with a 6-11 campaign - their worst since 2018, when the team was forced to use three starting quarterbacks. And, yes, last season's Niners were stripped of several key players - Christian McCaffrey, Brandon Aiyuk, Dre Greenlaw, Javon Hargrave - due to injuries for most of the year. Yet coach Kyle Shanahan, who previously signaled his most recent outfit was out of sorts from training camp on, admitted Thursday, "I felt guys weren't ready to come back. And I understood that. But I told them how I won't really understand it this year." The dreaded Super Bowl hangover, emotional debilitation or whatever you want to call it felt like the latest excuse for an organization that's had several as its championship drought now extends beyond three decades. There was former quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo's fourth-quarter overthrow of wide open Emmanuel Sanders in Super Bowl 54, a game the 49ers probably win if the connection is made. There was safety Jaquiski Tartt's dropped interception in the fourth quarter of the 2021 NFC championship game - and if he hangs on, San Francisco (not the Los Angeles Rams) almost surely reaches Super Bowl 56. Then there was the late defensive collapse and Shanahan's controversial decision to receive the opening kickoff of overtime in Super Bowl 58 - which actually might have been the right call regardless - which Kansas City ultimately claimed 25-22 on a game-ending touchdown. The Niners have also been occasionally sideswiped by major injuries in recent seasons and always seem to be in the midst of significant contractual issues every summer - though that shouldn't be the case in 2025, especially now that Brock Purdy is no longer on the quarterbacking version of welfare. Still, funny how that stuff never seems to affect the Chiefs, who will reach the league's version of the final four no matter what roadblocks are thrown in front of them. Coach Andy Reid attributes much of it to his veteran leaders, players like Mahomes who don't skate during or skip out on the team's offseason program. "All the good leaders have been here," Reid said. "It's good to have them there. When they're there, it's a certain energy that comes with it. Expectations from all the ... new guys - free agent type or the college kids - and they set a tempo with that." Meanwhile, Shanahan's just glad to have perfect attendance for a change after so many years of having the spring and summer sidetracked in some capacity by financial standoffs between players and the front office. "I thought the coolest thing was everyone being there on the first day," Shanahan said in reference to the start of this year's offseason program. "We had every guy show up and I didn't have to call anyone and beg them, which said a lot." Sure does, even if Shanahan intended it as a compliment to his current crew after several expensive veterans were purged in recent months as the team cleared room for Purdy's five-year, $265 million extension. Tight end George Kittle, who was extended along with Purdy and linebacker Fred Warner, says having the business side of football resolved should help on the field. "I'm glad they decided to do that," said the six-time Pro Bowler. "That's awesome for us because now we have everybody in the building that's just focused on playing football and focusing on just getting a little bit better every single day. "It's good for football because now all we're focused on is football." San Francisco's stars paid, the team drawing the league's easiest schedule (the Niners' 2025 opponents had a collective winning percentage of .415 last season), McCaffrey apparently back to 100% and after an atypically long offseason to rest and recover, Shanahan knows this year's squad has little to rationalize. "The year before last year coming off the '23 season was one of the shorter breaks that we've had, having that tough loss in the Super Bowl and coming back really just like six weeks later," he said. "It's never fun to have January off, but those extra five weeks add up a lot, and I think guys were itching to get back this time, excited to get back, ready to go for the first day, and it's been a lot more fun that way." As for the Chiefs, saddled with another tough first-place schedule full of prime-time games plus a Week 1 pilgrimage to Brazil, they'll turn the adversity of an embarrassing Super Bowl showing into their own fun. "I think it'll be good for us at the end of the day," said Mahomes. "I mean, obviously looking back you want to win the game, but a lot of those (younger teammates) hadn't lost one - hadn't ended a season on a loss that are on this team now. So I'm sure they'll be motivated to go back out there and try to find a way to get to the Super Bowl and win it this year." A lesson the current 49ers have yet to learn and a goal they have yet to reach. All NFL news on and off the field. Sign up for USA TODAY's 4th and Monday newsletter.
Miami Herald
6 days ago
- Sport
- Miami Herald
Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel appears to not want to talk about potential Ramsey trade
The Jalen Ramsey-Miami Dolphins debacle has almost reached its conclusion. June 1 serves as Ramsey's proverbial freedom day as the Dolphins will finally be able to trade the All-Pro cornerback without taking a $8 million cap hit. A post-June 1 deal, however, would open up about $10 million in cap space. And as the deadline approaches, Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel appears less and less willing to talk about it. 'I'm interested in the players that I'm coaching on the field today,' McDaniel said Wednesday, adding that 'zero has changed since the last time I said anything about' him. 'It's irresponsible [not] to focus on the players working now and concern myself with that.' This comes roughly 24 hours after Ramsey tweeted '5...,' seemingly calling attention to the number of days until he can be traded. The Dolphins-Ramsey saga dates back to mid-April when news broke that both sides mutually agreed to trade the star cornerback. It's unclear what led to the decision, however, general manager Chris Grier made it known that Ramsey didn't ask for a trade or more money. 'It's never easy to replace a player like Jalen,' Grier said April 15. 'He was a good player for us. He's a good player, he'll probably be a Hall of Famer, but for the Miami Dolphins going forward, we feel like this is the best chance to help us win not only just this year, but in the future as well.' When asked about their relationship following the conclusion of the 2025 NFL Draft, McDaniel somewhat avoided the question. 'I think speaking on the relationship with Jalen on this forum kind of undercuts what I think is important today which is we've added a class and are continuing to add new players to the 2025 Dolphins,' McDaniel said April 26. 'And I think beyond that, it wouldn't do justice to these draft picks and what we're trying to do today.' Since then, the Dolphins and Ramsey have been at a stalemate of sorts. Sure, teams like the Los Angeles Rams, a team which the seven-time Pro Bowler helped lead to Super Bowl 56, have indicated interest but nothing has yet to materialize. 'I've had discussions with Miami,' Rams general manager Les Snead said April 22, later adding that 'there are a lot of nuances to that situation based on all the things that come with a trade, contracts and things like that. I'm not sure where they're at in the process.' Rams coach Sean McVay appeared excited when Adam Schein of SiriusXM's Mad Dog Sports Radio asked about the possibility of a Ramsey reunion. 'He is a total stud, and you look at, obviously he has continued to play at a really high level,' McVay said, according to Rams Wire. The veteran coach added that the team will never 'shy away from opportunities to increase the competitiveness of our roster or add great players as long as it fits within the framework of everything that an acquisition like that would entail.' With Ramsey likely soon out the door, the question then becomes who will be his replacement. The Dolphins previously let go veteran cornerback Kendall Fuller in January and signed Artie Burns, Kendall Sheffield Jr. and Ryan Cooper Jr. in addition to their selection of Jason Marshall Jr. in the 2025 NFL Draft. Outside of Kader Kohou, who primarily plays in the nickel, the cornerback room lacks recent full-time starter experience as players such as Cam Smith, Stom Duck, Ethan Bonner, Ethan Robinson and BJ Adams round it out.
Yahoo
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Knicks vs. Pacers fans: Jon Hamm makes Tyrese Haliburton a mad man. More stars at Game 1
USA TODAY and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Pricing and availability subject to change. It was a star-studded affair inside Madison Square Garden. There's always celebrities in the arena whenever the New York Knicks are at home, but the ante turned up a notch as the team hosted its first Eastern Conference final home game since 2000. As New York has embarked on its 2025 playoff run, more stars have shown up. It's a given to see loyal fans such as Spike Lee, Ben Stiller and Tracy Morgan in attendance, but the Game 6 clincher against the Boston Celtics in the second round brought out a flock of stars. Timothée Chalamet, Bad Bunny, Russell Wilson and Lenny Kravitz were just some of the many notable people in the crowd. Advertisement While the world has drastically changed since the Knicks' last conference finals appearance, you can always count on high-profile people sitting courtside for the Knicks, and plenty turned up for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals. Here's a look at who attended Game 1 between the Knicks and Indiana Pacers: Jon Hamm makes Tyrese Haliburton a mad man "Mad Men" star Jon Hamm made a mad man out of Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton after snagging a loose ball on the sidelines that Haliburton believed he could've kept inbounds. The incident happened with 2:55 remaining in the second quarter as the Knicks led 58-54. Haliburton tipped the ball away from New York's' OG Anunoby and attempted to gain control before it bounced out of bounds. Haliburton immediately went up to referees after the play to complain of interference by Hamm, but nothing came of it. Advertisement TNT analyst Stan Van Gundy joked, "If you are going to be a Knicks fan, help them." Knicks halftime show tonight had Shaq on his feet Singer Mary J Blige performed during halftime at Madison Square Garden, but the "Inside the NBA" crew unfortunately had the responsibility of broadcasting the half-time show through Blige's performance. Midway through his halftime report, commentator Shaquille O'Neal couldn't hold off dancing any longer. He jumped out his seat and started grooving to Blige. "I can't take it no more Ernie (Johnson)," O'Neal said as he danced. Kenny Smith appeared to get the dancing bug next because he also jumped up to dance: "I can't control it either." Knicks halftime show tonight: Mary J Blige Singer Mary J Blige was the halftime performer at Madison Square Garden for Game 1. The New York City native performed her hit single "Family Affair." She's used to rocking out halftime shows. She performed at the Super Bowl 56 halftime show in Inglewood, California in February 2022. Timothée Chalamet, Ben Stiller, Tracy Morgan front and center "Wonka" star Timothée Chalamet has the golden ticket — a front row seat at Madison Square Garden for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. He's been a staple at Knicks home games this season and Wednesday was no exception. The New York City native paired orange pants and a striped orange button-up with Timberland boots. Chalamet didn't attend the game with girlfriend Kylie Jenner this time, instead he sat next to fellow Knicks superfan Ben Stiller and Tracy Morgan. Tracy Morgan, Timothee Chalamet and Ben Stiller attend Game One of the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2025 NBA Playoffs between the New York Knicks and the Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden on May 21, 2025 in New York City. Martha Stewart has arrived Martha Stewart, the lifestyle icon, arrived at Madison Square Garden Radio City Music Hall Knicks watch party rocking No ticket to Madison Square Garden, no problem. Diehard Knicks fans that couldn't make it to the game flocked to a watch party at Radio City Music Hall to cheer on the blue and orange in Game 1 vs. the Pacers. Knicks great Carmelo Anthony cheers on former team Former Yankees pitcher CC Sabathia isn't the only New York legend in the house. Advertisement Ten-time NBA All-Star Carmelo Anthony, who played for the Knicks from 2011 to 2017, was on hand to watch his former team compete. He was seated next to former Knicks teammates Amar'e Stoudemire (2010–2015) and J. R. Smith (2012–2015). Former Knick Baron Davis, who played a short stint in New York from 2011 to 2012, was also spotted. Knicks legends in the house: Patrick Ewing helps surprise fan Patrick Ewing, another Knicks icon, was on hand for Game 1. The 11-time All-Star played for the Knicks from 1985 to 2000 and currently serves as the Knicks' basketball ambassador. He helped surprise a fan wearing his Knicks jersey during a game break and presented her with another to add to her collection. Ewing's No. 33 jersey was retired by the Knicks on February 28, 2003. Advertisement Former Knicks' players Latrell Sprewell (1999–2003), John Starks (1990–1998) and Stephon Marbury (2004–2009) were also in attendance. Walter 'Clyde' Frazier Jr. gets applause The champ is here. Walter "Clyde" Frazier Jr. led the Knicks to two titles in 1970 and 1973, which remain the franchise's only NBA championships to date. Frazier looked dapper in a red and black suit as he waved on the Jumbotron. Tracy Morgan, David Chappelle in the building Comedian and Knicks superfan Tracy Morgan arrived at Madison Square Garden in style for Game 1. He donned a white shirt featuring a bloodied photo of Knicks guard Josh Hart that reads, "Standing on Bidness." The image is from the Knicks' 127-102 Game 5 loss to the Celtics on May 14, when Hart got elbowed in the face by Boston's Luke Kornet. He got stitches on the gash above his eye and returned to the game with a bandage. The back of Morgan's shirt reads, "Revenge." Advertisement He's not the only comedian in the building. David Chappelle and "Saturday Night Live" star Michael Che were spotted on "Celebrity Row" next to Morgan. Suni Lee is in the building Olympic gold medal gymnast Suni Lee is having a flipping good time at Madison Square Garden. She was spotted on Celebrity Row and earned a loud applause from the crowd after being shown on the Jumbotron. Josh Hart manifested Lee's appearance. During Lee's visit to MSG on April 6, OG Anunoby exploded for a team-high 32 points in a win over the Phoenix Suns. That led Hart to request her appearance during the playoffs: 'We need Suni (Lee) or Anne Hathaway at every game during this playoff run.' Advertisement This isn't Lee's first playoff appearance. She attended Game 2 of the first round series between the Knicks and Detroit Pistons on April 21, but the Knicks' good luck charm wasn't enough. They were defeated by the Pistons 100-94, but ultimately won the series. Date night for Jennifer Hudson, Common It's date night for singer Jennifer Hudson and rapper Common. The power couple was spotted at Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Wednesday. The pair have taken in several games together this season, including the NBA HBCU Classic during the 2025 All-Star Weekend in San Francisco. Rappers Fat Joe, Busta Rhymes in the house The New York native leaned back in his courtside seats at Madison Square Garden. Fat Joe was spotted dapping up Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau before tipoff. He's not the only rapper in the house. New York native Busta Rhymes was also on hand. CC Sabathia spotted A New York legend is in the building. Former New York Yankees pitcher CC Sabathia was spotted on Celebrity Row. The six-time All-Star led the Yankees to a World Series championship in 2009, the last title for the Yankees. Yes, basketball players get starstruck Stars are just like us — They get starstruck too. Advertisement TNT commentator Kenny Smith offered fans an inside look into how players feel competing in front of a star-studded crowd, especially in New York's Madison Square Garden and Los Angeles' Arena. "You cannot glance to the left. You cannot glance to the right. You have to stay focused in, because there's Spike Lee, Ben Stiller, all the famous rappers that you've ever wanted to talk to. They are here tonight," Smith said on the "Inside the NBA" pre-game show. "When you're in the Eastern Conference Finals, you have to knock that out and not pay attention to any of that." Larry David and Susie Essman sit courtside Larry David won't have to curb his enthusiasm tonight at Madison Square Garden. The actor and comedian was spotted courtside alongside "Curb Your Enthusiasm" co-star Susie Essman. David even got a shout-out on TNT's "Inside the NBA" pre-game broadcast. "I need to 'Curb my Enthusiasm,'" host Ernie Johnson joked after spotting David. What time is Knicks vs. Pacers? Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals between the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers tips off Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET. How to watch Knicks vs. Pacers: TV, stream Time: 8 p.m. ET Location: Madison Square Garden; New York TV: TNT Stream: Max, Sling Advertisement The USA TODAY app gets you to the heart of the news — fast. Download for award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, the eNewspaper and more. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Knicks vs Pacers fans: Jon Hamm, Timothée Chalamet, more at Game 1
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Knicks vs. Pacers fans: Jon Hamm makes Tyrese Haliburton a mad man. More stars at Game 1
USA TODAY and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Pricing and availability subject to change. It was a star-studded affair inside Madison Square Garden. There's always celebrities in the arena whenever the New York Knicks are at home, but the ante turned up a notch as the team hosted its first Eastern Conference final home game since 2000. As New York has embarked on its 2025 playoff run, more stars have shown up. It's a given to see loyal fans such as Spike Lee, Ben Stiller and Tracy Morgan in attendance, but the Game 6 clincher against the Boston Celtics in the second round brought out a flock of stars. Timothée Chalamet, Bad Bunny, Russell Wilson and Lenny Kravitz were just some of the many notable people in the crowd. Advertisement While the world has drastically changed since the Knicks' last conference finals appearance, you can always count on high-profile people sitting courtside for the Knicks, and plenty turned up for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals. Here's a look at who attended Game 1 between the Knicks and Indiana Pacers: Jon Hamm makes Tyrese Haliburton a mad man "Mad Men" star Jon Hamm made a mad man out of Indiana Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton after snagging a loose ball on the sidelines that Haliburton believed he could've kept inbounds. The incident happened with 2:55 remaining in the second quarter as the Knicks led 58-54. Haliburton tipped the ball away from New York's' OG Anunoby and attempted to gain control before it bounced out of bounds. Haliburton immediately went up to referees after the play to complain of interference by Hamm, but nothing came of it. Advertisement TNT analyst Stan Van Gundy joked, "If you are going to be a Knicks fan, help them." Knicks halftime show tonight had Shaq on his feet Singer Mary J Blige performed during halftime at Madison Square Garden, but the "Inside the NBA" crew unfortunately had the responsibility of broadcasting the half-time show through Blige's performance. Midway through his halftime report, commentator Shaquille O'Neal couldn't hold off dancing any longer. He jumped out his seat and started grooving to Blige. "I can't take it no more Ernie (Johnson)," O'Neal said as he danced. Kenny Smith appeared to get the dancing bug next because he also jumped up to dance: "I can't control it either." Knicks halftime show tonight: Mary J Blige Singer Mary J Blige was the halftime performer at Madison Square Garden for Game 1. The New York City native performed her hit single "Family Affair." She's used to rocking out halftime shows. She performed at the Super Bowl 56 halftime show in Inglewood, California in February 2022. Timothée Chalamet, Ben Stiller, Tracy Morgan front and center "Wonka" star Timothée Chalamet has the golden ticket — a front row seat at Madison Square Garden for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals. He's been a staple at Knicks home games this season and Wednesday was no exception. The New York City native paired orange pants and a striped orange button-up with Timberland boots. Chalamet didn't attend the game with girlfriend Kylie Jenner this time, instead he sat next to fellow Knicks superfan Ben Stiller and Tracy Morgan. Tracy Morgan, Timothee Chalamet and Ben Stiller attend Game One of the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2025 NBA Playoffs between the New York Knicks and the Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden on May 21, 2025 in New York City. Martha Stewart has arrived Martha Stewart, the lifestyle icon, arrived at Madison Square Garden Radio City Music Hall Knicks watch party rocking No ticket to Madison Square Garden, no problem. Diehard Knicks fans that couldn't make it to the game flocked to a watch party at Radio City Music Hall to cheer on the blue and orange in Game 1 vs. the Pacers. Knicks great Carmelo Anthony cheers on former team Former Yankees pitcher CC Sabathia isn't the only New York legend in the house. Advertisement Ten-time NBA All-Star Carmelo Anthony, who played for the Knicks from 2011 to 2017, was on hand to watch his former team compete. He was seated next to former Knicks teammates Amar'e Stoudemire (2010–2015) and J. R. Smith (2012–2015). Former Knick Baron Davis, who played a short stint in New York from 2011 to 2012, was also spotted. Knicks legends in the house: Patrick Ewing helps surprise fan Patrick Ewing, another Knicks icon, was on hand for Game 1. The 11-time All-Star played for the Knicks from 1985 to 2000 and currently serves as the Knicks' basketball ambassador. He helped surprise a fan wearing his Knicks jersey during a game break and presented her with another to add to her collection. Ewing's No. 33 jersey was retired by the Knicks on February 28, 2003. Advertisement Former Knicks' players Latrell Sprewell (1999–2003), John Starks (1990–1998) and Stephon Marbury (2004–2009) were also in attendance. Walter 'Clyde' Frazier Jr. gets applause The champ is here. Walter "Clyde" Frazier Jr. led the Knicks to two titles in 1970 and 1973, which remain the franchise's only NBA championships to date. Frazier looked dapper in a red and black suit as he waved on the Jumbotron. Tracy Morgan, David Chappelle in the building Comedian and Knicks superfan Tracy Morgan arrived at Madison Square Garden in style for Game 1. He donned a white shirt featuring a bloodied photo of Knicks guard Josh Hart that reads, "Standing on Bidness." The image is from the Knicks' 127-102 Game 5 loss to the Celtics on May 14, when Hart got elbowed in the face by Boston's Luke Kornet. He got stitches on the gash above his eye and returned to the game with a bandage. The back of Morgan's shirt reads, "Revenge." Advertisement He's not the only comedian in the building. David Chappelle and "Saturday Night Live" star Michael Che were spotted on "Celebrity Row" next to Morgan. Suni Lee is in the building Olympic gold medal gymnast Suni Lee is having a flipping good time at Madison Square Garden. She was spotted on Celebrity Row and earned a loud applause from the crowd after being shown on the Jumbotron. Josh Hart manifested Lee's appearance. During Lee's visit to MSG on April 6, OG Anunoby exploded for a team-high 32 points in a win over the Phoenix Suns. That led Hart to request her appearance during the playoffs: 'We need Suni (Lee) or Anne Hathaway at every game during this playoff run.' Advertisement This isn't Lee's first playoff appearance. She attended Game 2 of the first round series between the Knicks and Detroit Pistons on April 21, but the Knicks' good luck charm wasn't enough. They were defeated by the Pistons 100-94, but ultimately won the series. Date night for Jennifer Hudson, Common It's date night for singer Jennifer Hudson and rapper Common. The power couple was spotted at Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Wednesday. The pair have taken in several games together this season, including the NBA HBCU Classic during the 2025 All-Star Weekend in San Francisco. Rappers Fat Joe, Busta Rhymes in the house The New York native leaned back in his courtside seats at Madison Square Garden. Fat Joe was spotted dapping up Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau before tipoff. He's not the only rapper in the house. New York native Busta Rhymes was also on hand. CC Sabathia spotted A New York legend is in the building. Former New York Yankees pitcher CC Sabathia was spotted on Celebrity Row. The six-time All-Star led the Yankees to a World Series championship in 2009, the last title for the Yankees. Yes, basketball players get starstruck Stars are just like us — They get starstruck too. Advertisement TNT commentator Kenny Smith offered fans an inside look into how players feel competing in front of a star-studded crowd, especially in New York's Madison Square Garden and Los Angeles' Arena. "You cannot glance to the left. You cannot glance to the right. You have to stay focused in, because there's Spike Lee, Ben Stiller, all the famous rappers that you've ever wanted to talk to. They are here tonight," Smith said on the "Inside the NBA" pre-game show. "When you're in the Eastern Conference Finals, you have to knock that out and not pay attention to any of that." Larry David and Susie Essman sit courtside Larry David won't have to curb his enthusiasm tonight at Madison Square Garden. The actor and comedian was spotted courtside alongside "Curb Your Enthusiasm" co-star Susie Essman. David even got a shout-out on TNT's "Inside the NBA" pre-game broadcast. "I need to 'Curb my Enthusiasm,'" host Ernie Johnson joked after spotting David. What time is Knicks vs. Pacers? Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals between the New York Knicks and Indiana Pacers tips off Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET. How to watch Knicks vs. Pacers: TV, stream Time: 8 p.m. ET Location: Madison Square Garden; New York TV: TNT Stream: Max, Sling Advertisement The USA TODAY app gets you to the heart of the news — fast. Download for award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, the eNewspaper and more. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Knicks vs Pacers fans: Jon Hamm, Timothée Chalamet, more at Game 1
USA Today
05-05-2025
- Business
- USA Today
Rams finalize new contract with QB Matthew Stafford
Rams finalize new contract with QB Matthew Stafford Show Caption Hide Caption Alex Smith reflects on the new rookie QB landscape Alex Smith says the current college quarterback landscape has made rookie QBs' transition to the NFL easier than 20 years ago. Sports Seriously Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams agreed to terms on a contract extension in March. The two sides have since taken the next step. The Rams finalized Stafford's contract extension, a person close to the situation confirmed to USA TODAY Sports. They spoke on condition of anonymity because they aren't permitted to discuss the deal. NFL Network was the first to report the news. Stafford's contract earns the quarterback $44 million this season. NFL Network reported if Stafford is on the Rams at the start of free agency next year, he'll net an additional $40 million. The finalized deal puts a period on a long offseason of negotiations between Stafford and the Rams. MATTHEW STAFFORD CONTRACT: Rams finalize new deal with quarterback Prior to the agreement, the Rams gave Stafford's agent permission to gauge the quarterback's market value around the NFL after talks stalled in contract negotiations. Stafford had two years remaining on his previous deal, but it contained guaranteed money in 2026. The Rams and Stafford have enjoyed a beneficial partnership since he was dealt to Los Angeles in a blockbuster trade with the Detroit Lions in 2021. Stafford signed a contract extension with the Rams in March of 2022 after he led the franchise to a Super Bowl 56 title at SoFi Stadium. He then agreed to a reworked deal last offseason. This past season, Stafford helped the Rams win the NFC West crown. He passed for 3,762 yards, 20 touchdowns and just eight interceptions. The Rams defeated the Minnesota Vikings in an emotional wild-card playoff game that was relocated to Arizona before they fell to the eventual Super Bowl 59 champion Philadelphia Eagles in the divisional round. 'It was very obvious that we all wanted to continue the partnership and continue chasing some form of greatness together,' Rams general manager Les Snead said in March after the team and Stafford reached an agreement. 'That's exactly the conclusion that we got to and we're jacked it came to that point." Follow USA TODAY Sports' Tyler Dragon on X @TheTylerDragon.
