Category Archives: football

culture, football, mystery, sports, team

Andy Reid says Chiefs ‘move on’ as mystery surrounding missing draft pick Josh Simmons lingers

2025 年 10 月 21 日 admin Leave a comment

The bizarre Josh Simmons situation remains a mysterious subject surrounding the Kansas City Chiefs. Chiefs head coach Andy Reid had little to offer on Monday after Simmons missed his second straight game last week in what is becoming an increasingly odd circumstance.

“As far as Josh goes, I don’t have any updates for ya,” Reid told reporters. “(General manager Brett) Veach is handling everything there. And so, we just, ya know, just move on with that.”

The Chiefs have been tight-lipped about the reasons why their first-round pick has been sidelined, while reports have described the situation as “extremely unusual.”

Simmons first missed the Chiefs’ 30-17 Sunday Night Football win over the Detroit Lions on October 5, after leaving the team to head home to California to deal with what Kansas City referred to as a family matter. Coach Reid then declined to comment further on the situation during a press conference on October 15.

“As far as Josh Simmons’ situation goes, I’m not going to comment on it today,” Reid said. “Veach is handling everything there. And we’ll leave it at that.”

Star quarterback Patrick Mahomes hinted at the seriousness of the issue. “I’ll keep conversations kind of between us,” Mahomes said. “But I’m always praying for him. I’m praying for all my teammates, so I’m always praying for him. I’ll just keep everything else kind of private to us.”

An ESPN Chiefs reporter noted during an interview on the “Only Weird Games” podcast that Simmons left the team at an “extremely unusual” time, and no one within the organization knows when he will return.

Simmons also missed this past Sunday’s 31-0 win over the Las Vegas Raiders. The Chiefs initially drafted Simmons with the No. 32 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, and he started each of the first five games while playing 95 percent of the offensive snaps.

Despite Simmons’ absence, Kansas City hasn’t missed a beat. Jaylon Moore has protected Mahomes’ blindside over the last two weeks as the offense has averaged 30.5 points per game, helping the team improve to 4-3 on the season.

The Chiefs have an extra day of preparation this week for their Week 8 Monday Night Football contest at home against the Washington Commanders, who could be without quarterback Jayden Daniels due to a hamstring injury.
https://nypost.com/2025/10/21/sports/andy-reid-says-chiefs-move-on-as-mystery-surrounding-josh-simmons-lingers/

barcelona, entertainment, football, sports, transfer

Sergio Aguero makes feelings clear about Julian Alvarez ‘transfer’ amid links with Barcelona

2025 年 10 月 21 日 admin Leave a comment

**Sergio Aguero Declines to Comment on Julian Alvarez’s Potential Barcelona Move, Praises Atletico Madrid Striker**

Former Argentina striker Sergio Aguero has chosen not to speculate on the possibility of Atletico Madrid star Julian Alvarez joining Barcelona. Instead, he heaped praise on the former Manchester City forward and expressed a desire for Atletico fans to continue enjoying Alvarez’s performances on the pitch.

Reports have suggested that the Catalan club is monitoring Alvarez as a potential long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski. The Polish striker is in the final year of his contract and has not yet been offered a renewal.

Aguero stated, “I wouldn’t speculate on future signings; I think this is the time to enjoy his achievements with Atletico. What Julian has achieved is astonishing. A player with the ability to move all over the pitch, he demonstrates an enormous level of sacrifice and talent.”

He added, “People always talk; last year there were plenty of rumors too. But honestly, this is just the beginning. My focus is on improving every day, winning with my teammates here. That’s all I have in mind.”

### Barcelona’s Interest and Alvarez’s Background

Barcelona were reportedly linked with Alvarez during his time at Manchester City but did not match the asking price when the striker left the Premier League club in 2024. It is known that Alvarez is a Barcelona fan, as revealed by his former coach.

Hugo Rafael Varas, Julian Alvarez’s first coach, spoke to Super Deportivo Radio in September and revealed that the Argentine striker was not entirely comfortable at Atletico Madrid’s Wanda Metropolitano stadium. Varas suggested a potential move could be on the horizon but expressed a preference for Alvarez joining Real Madrid over Barcelona.

“I think he’s played too many games on the sidelines, he’s never played in the position he should be playing,” Varas said. “I know he’s told his family that he’s thinking about the team, he thinks he plans to play and do well, and his goal is to continue being the national team’s No. 9.”

He further added, “I think that at some point there will be a change of coach or the same. Recently a person told me to go to Barcelona and the truth is that he is not at Barcelona because he did not put the money he had to put in. He would leave, because he was always a Barca fan. I would like him to play for Real Madrid.”

### Current Contract and Future Outlook

Julian Alvarez signed a six-year deal when he joined Atletico Madrid in 2024 and currently has five years remaining on his contract.

—

**About the Author**

Sripad is a veteran Sportskeeda football journalist with around 10 years of experience. He began writing during his school days and developed a passion for football in the early 2000s. A lifelong Chelsea fan, Sripad regards Lionel Messi as the undisputed GOAT and favors managers Jose Mourinho and Sir Alex Ferguson.

He follows major European leagues alongside others such as the MLS, Saudi Pro League, Eredivisie, and Liga MX. Sripad is known for relying on credible sources and providing thorough background information in his writing. His work has earned recognition within the football community and has been shared by prominent figures including John Terry, Gary Lineker, and Declan Rice.

When not covering football, Sripad enjoys watching past Formula 1 races and playing FIFA. If given the chance to change a football rule, he would want VAR to be fully automated and offside rules to be less stringent.

Edited by Sripad.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/football/news-sergio-aguero-makes-feelings-clear-julian-alvarez-transfer-amid-links-barcelona

brawl, entertainment, football, news, sports

NFL referee steps in to protect Seahawks’ Jaxon Smith-Njigba in wild ‘MNF’ brawl scene

2025 年 10 月 21 日 admin Leave a comment

This referee went above and beyond on Monday night during the Seahawks’ 27-19 home win over the Texans on “Monday Night Football.”

Former NFL defensive back and current official Nathan Jones stepped in front of Seahawks star Jaxon Smith-Njigba on the Texans’ sideline to prevent any fireworks during a potentially combustible situation.

The incident unfolded roughly halfway through the fourth quarter after Texans cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. intercepted a Sam Darnold pass intended for AJ Barner, with the Seahawks leading 27-12. As Stingley ran out of bounds, he stiff-armed Smith-Njigba, causing the receiver’s helmet to fall off.

Smith-Njigba, the former Ohio State star who had earlier received an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty after scoring a touchdown, responded by shoving Stingley in the back as both headed toward the benches. Several Texans players rushed over, with linebacker Christian Harris even shoving Smith-Njigba into the bench.

Sitting on the bench, Smith-Njigba extended his arms outward, seemingly indicating he was not trying to escalate the situation. Meanwhile, some Texans teammates held Harris back to prevent further confrontation.

As tensions rose, Seahawks teammate Cooper Kupp and others made their way over to defuse the situation. That’s when Nathan Jones worked his way through the pile of bodies to surround Smith-Njigba. Standing face-to-face with the receiver, Jones put his arms on each side of him, helping to calm both sides down.

Stingley ultimately received an unnecessary roughness penalty for his actions.

ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky praised Jones for his quick and decisive intervention.

“That’s a good job by that official, that referee right there, to protect that player, man,” Orlovsky said. “I don’t know that official’s name, but that’s outstanding by him.”

A Newark native, Nathan Jones played college football at Rutgers before being drafted in the seventh round of the 2004 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. Over an eight-year NFL career spanning 106 games, Jones played for the Cowboys (2004-07), Dolphins (2008-09, 2011), Broncos (2010), and Patriots (2011). He tallied three interceptions and six sacks during his time in the league.

Jones’ transition from NFL player to official clearly showed his commitment to the game, proving invaluable in moments like Monday night’s intense confrontation.
https://nypost.com/2025/10/21/sports/nfl-referee-steps-in-to-protect-seahawks-jaxon-smith-njigba-in-wild-mnf-brawl-scene/

football, health, injuries, injury, sports

Everton´s Branthwaite set for prolonged absence after operation

2025 年 10 月 20 日 admin Leave a comment

Jarrad Branthwaite is set for a longer spell on the sidelines, as Everton have confirmed the defender will undergo surgery.

Branthwaite has yet to feature for Everton in the 2025-26 season after sustaining a hamstring injury during pre-season. Initially described as a “minor niggle,” the issue has since worsened, resulting in a setback for the 23-year-old.

Everton’s statement revealed that Branthwaite will undergo a surgical procedure to address the injury, with no date currently set for his return to action.

“Following specialist consultation, it has been determined the defender will undergo a surgical procedure to address the issue,” the club said. “Branthwaite will commence a structured rehabilitation programme under the supervision of the club’s medical team following the operation.”

Branthwaite signed a five-year contract with Everton in early July, having previously attracted interest from clubs such as Manchester United and Tottenham.

Last season, he played 30 Premier League matches and contributed significantly to Everton’s defence, helping secure eight clean sheets. Notably, only James Tarkowski (42) recorded more blocks than Branthwaite’s 23 in the competition last term.
https://www.soccernews.com/everton-s-branthwaite-set-for-prolonged-absence-after-operation/391429/

business, entertainment, football, sports

Eagles’ Saquon Barkley ‘owns’ inconsistency in running game

2025 年 10 月 20 日 admin Leave a comment

As the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, they snapped a two-game losing streak that had seen the team regress. One of the highlights of the game was the Eagles’ passing attack, which showed strong production throughout.

Despite the team’s bounce-back performance, it was another lackluster outing for Saquon Barkley and the running game. Barkley rushed for just 44 yards on 18 carries, averaging 2.4 yards per attempt. This marks the continued struggle for the star running back, who is still searching for his first 100-yard game after an impressive 2,000-yard season last year.

After the game, Barkley took accountability for the running game’s ineffectiveness, according to Zach Berman. “I need to do a better job of not taking negative runs. I keep saying that—I know I sound like a broken record—but it’s something I got to do. I own it. But at the end of the day, we won the football game,” Barkley said.

While Barkley works to improve his own performance, Philadelphia’s aerial attack was notably productive. Quarterback Jalen Hurts threw for over 300 yards and three touchdowns, leading to standout performances from receivers DeVonta Smith and A.J. Brown.

Despite the struggles on the ground, Barkley expressed his happiness with the team’s victory, noting that the “joy of winning” had been missing for a while, according to NJ.com. “We won a football game and it feels really good to win again,” Barkley said. “I thought we lost sight of the joy of winning, and I’m happy. Am I satisfied? No. We have a lot of room to improve and we’re going to go back and work on it, but it’s good to win.”

**Eagles’ Jalen Hurts Defends Saquon Barkley**

With the Eagles’ win over the Vikings, it remains crucial for the coaching staff and Barkley to fix the running game and get it back to the high level it showed last season. While Barkley owns his part, Hurts emphasized that it’s a “group effort.”

“Saquon is the best,” Hurts said. “And I don’t want him to feel like he’s carrying that by himself. It is a group effort. Everyone is involved in that. Everyone has to look and say, ‘Well, how can we help get something going the way it needs to go?’ Offensively, as a unit, it doesn’t matter how it looks. I said it’s about finding ways to win games, but we want to make sure all areas are green and in a good place.”

At any rate, Philadelphia improves to 5-2 as Barkley aims to bounce back and excel against the New York Giants next Sunday.
https://clutchpoints.com/nfl/philadelphia-eagles/eagles-news-saquon-barkley-owns-inconsistency-in-running-game

football, injuries, practice, sports, teams

Kerby Joseph out of practice for Lions

2025 年 10 月 16 日 admin Leave a comment

Safety Kerby Joseph was listed as a non-participant on the Lions’ first injury report of the week. Joseph is dealing with a knee injury, but has not missed any games yet this season. The team’s practices on Friday and Saturday will bring more word on his outlook for Monday night’s game against the Buccaneers. Cornerbacks Terrion Arnold (shoulder) and Avonte Maddox (hamstring) were also out of practice. Head coach Dan Campbell said both players are likely going to be out this week. Defensive tackle D. J. Reader (back) and running back Sione Vaki (groin) did not practice. Left tackle Taylor Decker (shoulder) was limited while linebacker Zach Cunningham (hamstring) and defensive tackle Alim McNeill (knee) were full participants. McNeill is expected to make his first appearance of the 2025 season on Monday night.
https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/kerby-joseph-out-of-practice-for-lions

execution, football, injuries, sports, turnovers

Commanders QB Jayden Daniels Owns Fumble: ‘It Was On Me… We’ve Got to Be Better’

2025 年 10 月 16 日 admin Leave a comment

Jayden Daniels Faced Tough Questions Earlier This Season About Knee Injury

Jayden Daniels faced tough questions earlier this season about his lingering knee injury. By Monday night, those concerns were gone, replaced by new scrutiny over a costly late-game turnover. Daniels fumbled in the final minutes against the Chicago Bears, setting up a comeback loss for the Washington Commanders.

This week, he didn’t dodge responsibility. He took ownership of the mistake and shifted the focus toward improvement in Week 7. “But it was on me. So I take accountability,” Daniels said.

Jayden Daniels Reflects on Turnover and Slow Starts

Aside from the turnover, Daniels’ performance against Chicago was his strongest of the year. He threw three touchdown passes, overcoming an early interception, and looked like the player Washington expected when he returned from his knee issue. That’s why both he and the team want to make sure the fumble becomes just a footnote to a solid outing.

“We feel we can put up points,” Daniels said. “But we just got to be better with the details and execution, so we don’t have slow starts.”

Slow starts have been an ongoing problem for the Commanders. They’ve trailed by double digits in the first half of each of their last three games and have been outscored 36-14 in the opening quarter so far in the 2025 season. Daniels played only in the most recent game but acknowledged that the offense must set the tone early if Washington wants to stay competitive in the NFC.

Commanders Look to Bounce Back Against Cowboys

The Commanders have an opportunity to turn things around in Week 7 against the Dallas Cowboys. Dallas ranks last in yards allowed, passing yards allowed, and third-down defense through six weeks, which could give Washington’s offense the chance to get into rhythm quickly.

Washington also received good news on Wednesday. Wide receiver Terry McLaurin returned to practice after missing time with a quadriceps injury. A return this weekend would give Daniels a significant boost.

However, the team suffered another setback at the same position. ESPN’s senior NFL insider Adam Schefter reported, “Commanders placed WR Noah Brown on injured reserve, sidelining him for a minimum of four games.”

Fan Reactions

Fans immediately reacted to the news on social media. One fan wrote, “Hopefully Terry McLaurin can come back this week. They really need him.” Another added, “Tough break for the Commanders. Noah Brown was just starting to find rhythm in that offense. They’ll miss his physicality and reliability on third downs.”

Looking Ahead

The Commanders know the margin for error is shrinking. Daniels’ positive showing against Chicago gave them reason for optimism, but cleaning up execution and avoiding early deficits will be critical if they want to stay in the playoff race.

“We’ve got to be more consistent as a team—offense, defense, special teams,” Daniels emphasized.

The Commanders face the Cowboys on Sunday, October 19, at 4:25 p.m. ET at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The game will air on FOX.
https://heavy.com/sports/nfl/washington-commanders/jayden-daniels-owns-costly-fumble/