The New England Patriots have made a crucial decision regarding their quarterback position. Veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett will start the season, while 2024 No. 3 overall draft pick Drake Maye will wait in the wings. This decision may seem surprising to some, given the hype surrounding Maye, but it’s a wise move for the franchise’s rebuild.

Brissett’s experience and familiarity with the system give him an edge over Maye, who is still learning the playbook and adapting to the NFL. Brissett has started 48 professional games and has 39 games of college experience under his belt, whereas Maye played in 30 college games. The veteran quarterback also has a deeper understanding of defensive coverages and can manipulate cadence and snap count, skills that Maye will develop with time.

Head coach Jerod Mayo emphasized that the decision was based on multiple factors, including the need to think about both short-term and long-term goals. “As an organization, we feel like Jacoby gives us our best chance to win right now,” Mayo said. The coaching staff and front office are unanimous in their support for Brissett, citing his ability to handle the complexities of the game and his processing speed.

Maye, on the other hand, is still learning and growing. While he has shown progress in practice, he needs more time to develop. The Patriots don’t want to rush him into action and risk exposing him to unnecessary hits and mistakes. As Mayo put it, “You don’t want to put a guy out there when he doesn’t know exactly how to protect himself from certain looks.”

The upcoming games against the Cincinnati Bengals, New York Jets, and San Francisco 49ers will be a litmus test for Brissett and the Patriots’ offense. If Brissett performs well and the team wins, it’s likely he’ll remain the starter. However, if Maye continues to impress in practice and shows he’s ready for prime time, he could supplant Brissett as the starter.

Mayo emphasized the importance of competition and urged Maye to keep pushing himself. “If he beats Jacoby out, I mean, there’s nothing else really to be said — and hopefully he continues to get better,” Mayo said. The Patriots are taking a patient approach with Maye, recognizing that his development is a long-term process.

Maye is on right trajectory even if he isn’t there yet

The Patriots’ decision to start Brissett is not just about the quarterback’s skills; it’s also about the team’s overall performance. The offensive line’s ability to protect Brissett and create opportunities for the offense will play a significant role in determining the quarterback’s job security.

Maye’s development will continue to be monitored, and he’ll get more practice snaps with the first-team line and skill players. His progress has been steady, and he’s shown flashes of brilliance in training camp practices. Against lower-level competition, Maye outplayed Brissett in preseason games, Mayo admitted.

The Patriots are taking a patient approach with Maye, recognizing that his development is a long-term process. As Mayo put it, “It just starts in practice and also in the game where Drake has played better.” The battle between Brissett and Maye will continue, and it’s only a matter of time before Maye gets his chance to start.

The question is no longer if Maye will start but when. Mayo expressed confidence in Maye’s abilities, saying, “The guys on offense and defense are starting to really have that confidence in a guy like Drake, knowing that he’s doing some things that we haven’t had in a long time.”

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NFL star Jason Kelce has revealed the secret ingredient behind the success of his hit podcast, New Heights, which he co-hosts with his brother Travis.

Key Points

The podcast has witnessed a massive surge in popularity, leading to a reported $100 million deal with Amazon-owned Wondery. Jason attributes the show’s success to the authentic and loving relationship between the two brothers, which resonates with listeners.

Jason Kelce has revealed the secret to the success of New Heights podcast with brother Travis

Jason believes that their genuine and honest interactions, as well as their exciting lives, contribute to the podcast’s appeal. He also credits the show’s ability to attract advertisers, which has led to its massive success.

The podcast has played a significant role in Travis’s personal life, including sparking his romance with Taylor Swift. Jason, on the other hand, is preparing to make his broadcasting debut on ESPN’s ‘Monday Night Countdown’ on September 9, after retiring from the NFL in March.

Jason has signed a multi-year contract with ESPN, which will see him appear pre-game and at halftime, as well as part of ESPN and ABC’s coverage of the Super Bowl XI in 2027. He plans to bring his authentic and honest approach to broadcasting, just like he does on the podcast.

The two brothers have seen the popularity of their show surge over the past year

Travis and Taylor Swift’s relationship has been a key factor in the growth of the podcast

Jason credits his new colleagues at ESPN for their support and advice ahead of his new chapter in broadcasting. He also joked about not wanting to end up like Pat McAfee, another ESPN host, during a tailgate in Philadelphia.

Despite the joke, Jason had nothing but praise for McAfee, who is approaching the one-year anniversary of his Pat McAfee Show joining ESPN. He described McAfee as “truly special” and a talented guy in the industry.

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For years, the Washington Commanders have languished in mediocrity, offering their fans little to cheer about during the tenure of former owner Daniel Snyder.

Fortunately, the new ownership group led by Josh Harris is determined to restore the franchise to its former glory, and they’ve been working tirelessly behind the scenes to rectify the mistakes of the past.

Along with enhancing the fan experience on game days, Harris and company made some bold moves during the offseason to give the team a much-needed boost heading into the 2024 NFL campaign.

Perhaps the most significant of these moves was selecting Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Jayden Daniels with the second overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.

In addition to securing the starting job, Daniels is quickly becoming a fan favorite, even appearing in a commercial alongside fellow Heisman winners Robert Griffin III and Reggie Bush, courtesy of Brandon of ML Football.

Washington QB Jayden Daniels stars in a Nissan Heisman commercial featuring RG3 & Reggie Bush

(:@NissanUSA) pic.twitter.com/ErsVdGfNn5

— brandon (@JayDanielsMVP)

While some questioned whether Daniels’ playing style, which often puts him at risk, would translate to success in the NFL, he put many of those concerns to rest during the preseason.

However, with no regular-season games under his belt, Daniels still has much to prove as he embarks on his NFL journey.

NEXT: 
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The Welshman will join the Jaguars’ practice squad as a wide receiver, a new position for him after previously playing as a running back for the Chiefs.

Rees-Zammit, who is believed to have signed a one-year contract, took to Instagram to express his excitement, saying “So happy to be here… Thanks for the opportunity. It’s go time.” He also appeared to reference his new position with a humorous emoji.

Louis Rees-Zammit has agreed a one-year contract with NFL team Jacksonville Jaguars

The former Wales rugby star joined his new team for practice on Thursday afternoon

Rees-Zammit shared his excitement at finding a new team on his Instagram account

Rees-Zammit was pictured in practice on Thursday, wearing the No 84 jersey. A back issue had hindered him during his time with the Chiefs.

The Jaguars already have a crowded running back room, with players like Travis Etienne, Tank Bigsby, D’Ernest Johnson, and Keilan Robinson on the roster. Robinson is currently listed on injured reserve.

In three preseason games with the Chiefs, Rees-Zammit managed six carries for a total of 22 yards and one catch for three yards.

His best performance was in a 34-21 loss to the Chicago Bears, where he rushed four times for 21 total yards.

However, it wasn’t enough to convince Andy Reid of his place on the team.

Rees-Zammit’s family was in Kansas City to support him during preseason training camp with the Super Bowl champions.

The 23-year-old Welshman always faced an uphill task to make the team in his rookie season.

The 23-year-old Welshman was released by the Kansas City Chiefs earlier this week

Though Rees-Zammit has long dreamed of a career in the NFL, he had never played a game before joining the NFL’s International Player Pathway in January.

He was put through a 10-week boot camp before impressing scouts at a ‘pro day’. Rees-Zammit received interest from nearly half of the 32 teams in the NFL.

The Jaguars, who missed out on the playoffs last year, start the NFL season against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday in Florida.

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Louis Rees-Zammit lands second chance in NFL after Kansas City Chiefs released him

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This recognition came from an ESPN story where over 100 current NFL players were given the opportunity to speak their minds about quarterbacks without their names being attached to their comments.

Allen received the most votes in the poll, 26, with Baker Mayfield, 17, and Aaron Rodgers, 15, rounding out the top three. The Bills star also led the race for the most overrated quarterback with 11 votes, one more than Jalen Hurts and Tua Tagovailoa.

Allen’s reaction was to post a social media message of rapper Lil Yachty walking out and dancing confidently to start one of his concerts. The post read, ‘So you’re telling me, I was voted as the #1 … best trash talker??? Let’s goooooo!!!’

Many players have pointed to Allen’s turnovers as the reason why he is overrated and talks too much trash. However, Allen has had more recent postseason success than most of his signal-calling contemporaries.

The Bills have made five playoff appearances in the last six years, with more success likely if they hadn’t run into the Kansas City Chiefs in the postseason three of the last four years. This year will be crucial for Allen after the departure of Stefon Diggs to the Texans.

Should Allen get over the playoff hump and lead Buffalo to its first Super Bowl title, many of his detractors would likely disappear. For now, Allen will continue to talk the talk, and hopefully, walk the walk on the field.

Josh Allen gives hilarious reaction to being voted biggest trash-talking QB in NFL

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Among those who have come to her defense is Jason Whitlock, a conservative sports podcaster and writer. Whitlock, who had previously criticized Brittany, praised her for taking a stand and expressed his admiration for her response to the backlash.

Brittany’s Instagram activity sparked a fierce debate, with some accusing her of being out of touch with reality and others commending her for her bravery. The controversy has highlighted the increasingly polarized nature of American politics, where even the simplest actions can be misinterpreted and scrutinized.

Whitlock admittedly found Brittany ‘annoying’ before she ‘liked’ a pro-Trump Instagram post

Whitlock praised Brittany for her response to the criticism, saying she had gone from being an “annoying” NFL wife to one of his favorite people associated with the league.

Brittany’s Instagram post sparked a heated debate, with some accusing her of being tone-deaf and others commending her for her bravery. The controversy has highlighted the increasingly polarized nature of American politics, where even the simplest actions can be misinterpreted and scrutinized.

Whitlock, who has been critical of Brittany in the past, said he was impressed by her response to the backlash. “She went from being this annoying wife, to now one of my favorite people connected to the NFL,” he said.

Whitlock also praised Brittany’s husband, Patrick Mahomes, for being supportive of his wife’s actions. “I think it’s a smart play, too,” Whitlock said. “I think some people, someone has told these athletes that doing all this fake, woke stuff doesn’t enhance your popularity and if you actually want to be a tiny bit of a rebel.”

The ‘Chiefs Queen’ sparked furor among Dem’ voters by liking Donald Trump’s Instagram post

Whitlock, a former Kansas City Star reporter, has been critical of Brittany in the past, but has since changed his tune. He praised her for being an attractive woman and commended Patrick for being supportive of his wife.

The controversy surrounding Brittany’s Instagram post has highlighted the increasingly polarized nature of American politics, where even the simplest actions can be misinterpreted and scrutinized. However, it has also shown that people can change their minds and opinions when presented with new information and perspectives.

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Despite some skepticism, many still believe the Buffalo Bills will reign supreme in the AFC East, even without their star wide receiver Stefon Diggs, who was traded away during the offseason.

Bills quarterback Josh Allen is ignoring the naysayers as the 2024 regular season opener approaches, expressing excitement about his current team and emphasizing that winning the Super Bowl is their top priority.

Allen’s confidence in his teammates comes despite the loss of Diggs, who was his primary target for the past four years, earning Pro Bowl recognition and consistently posting over 1,180 receiving yards and at least eight touchdown catches each season.

However, rumors of Diggs’ discontent with the team circulated throughout last season, leading to his departure to the Houston Texans. Furthermore, the Bills lost their second-leading receiver Gabriel Davis to the Jacksonville Jaguars in free agency.

As a result, the Bills’ receiving corps now consists of young prospects Khalil Shakir and rookie Keon Coleman, as well as veterans Mack Hollins, Marquez Valdes-Scantling, and Curtis Samuel. This might put additional pressure on Allen to carry the team, particularly with his rushing abilities.

Last season, Allen threw for 4,306 yards and 29 touchdowns while rushing for 524 yards and 15 touchdowns. To return to the playoffs, he may need to replicate or surpass these impressive numbers.

The Bills are driven to secure their first Super Bowl championship, having fallen short in four consecutive appearances in the 1990s.

New weapons, same goals for @BuffaloBills QB Josh Allen…

https://#BillsMafia | @JoshAllenQB pic.twitter.com/

— @SiriusXMNFL

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Now, NFL insider Adam Schefter has dropped a major hint that may suggest Kelce is indeed planning to propose.

On the eve of the new season, Schefter jokingly interrogated ESPN host Laura Rutledge when she reacted to news about Kelce buying a racehorse with a Swift-themed name by quipping that he is yet to buy a ring.

Schefter asked Rutledge, “Wait, I have a question. Laura, how do you know that Travis Kelce didn’t buy an engagement ring?”

NFL insider Adam Schefter has hinted Travis Kelce could be about to propose to Taylor Swift

Rutledge replied, “I don’t know. Do you know? Are you gonna break some big news here?”

Schefter paused, looking coy, before adding, “I’m just saying that you said he didn’t buy an engagement ring, and I’m wondering how you have that information.”

Two-time NFL champion Booger McFarland chimed in, “Whoah, whoah, whoah… the awkward silence right there speaks volumes. Schefty do you know something?”

Schefter responded, “All I did was ask a question about how Laura knew he hasn’t bought an engagement ring. That’s all I was doing.”

The ESPN reporter’s hint has sparked a frenzy online, with fans convinced that he knows something they don’t.

One wrote, “We wanna know what you know!”

Schefter (right) – one of the most reputable reporters in the NFL – jokingly asked ESPN host Laura Rutledge (left) how she is so sure that Kelce hasn’t bought an engagement ring for Swift

Another posted, “Schefter *trying* to maintain a poker face after asking THE question.”

The loved-up couple has gone from strength to strength since their romance began last year.

The loved-up couple have gone from strength to strength since their romance began last year

Despite Schefter’s hint, it’s believed Kelce won’t propose to Swift until they agree on a prenup.

A source revealed that Travis and Taylor are ready for the next step, but the NFL legend won’t pop the question until financial terms are in place for if they were to ever split up.

But it is believed Kelce is not ready to pop the question until he agrees a prenup with Swift

The source is quoted as saying, “This is a lot further along than either Taylor or Travis would care to admit, since they’ve considered themselves unofficially engaged for a while and are both 100 percent committed to spending the rest of their lives together and starting a family.”

“The formalities are just their schedules that have gotten in the way, as well as the logistics of a prenup, which is obviously complicated by the vast amounts of money involved on both sides.”

“There’s just no way Taylor would walk down the aisle without a prenup. They both want it figured out before Travis gets down on one knee.”

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Troy Reeder left the Rams’ facility, headed home to spend quality time with his family, and enjoyed a quiet dinner with his wife and son.

It was a “normal” evening, Reeder recalled, a welcome respite from the whirlwind of events that had unfolded earlier that day.

Much had changed for the Rams and Reeder in a short span of time.

Just hours earlier, the Rams had traded starting inside linebacker Ernest Jones IV to the Tennessee Titans, a move that sent shockwaves through the team.

Coach Sean McVay, defensive coordinator Chris Shula, and the Rams’ players now looked to Reeder, a sixth-year pro, to step up and potentially take on the role of defensive signal caller.

“It just felt like, because of how they train you here, that you’re ready for whatever opportunity you get,” Reeder said, reflecting on his journey so far.

Reeder, who played college football at Penn State and Delaware, has made the most of his time in two stints with the Rams.

After signing as an undrafted free agent in 2019, he played mainly on special teams and as a rotational player. In 2021, he started 10 games and made 91 tackles. He also started three playoff games before playing 21 defensive snaps and 24 special teams snaps in the Rams’ Super Bowl LVI victory over the Cincinnati Bengals at SoFi Stadium.

Reeder spent time with the Chargers in 2022 and the Minnesota Vikings in 2023 before rejoining the Rams on a veteran-minimum contract.

Reeder described his time with the Chargers and Vikings as akin to “studying abroad.” He was happy to return to the Rams, “the place that raised me,” he said.

“I felt like it was a great opportunity to restart here — with a whole new perspective on things,” he said, reflecting on his return to the Rams.

After starting last season on the practice squad, he worked his way into the lineup and started six of the last nine games for a Rams team that finished 10-7 and advanced to the playoffs.

Reeder’s approach has remained the same: take it one day at a time and focus on getting better every single day.

“Every camp I come in, there’s really no guarantees for anything — whether you’re a starter, back-up, punt guard or on the team,” he said. “Just approach every day like it’s an opportunity to get better.”

Reeder said he learned much about leadership and on-field skills from watching, sharing information with, and playing alongside Jones.

Shula expressed confidence in Reeder, praising his consistency and ability to read the game.

“Just a consistent guy,” Shula said, “No matter what — consistent demeanor. It’s like having a coach on the field.”

If McVay and Shula entrust him with signal-calling responsibilities, Reeder said he would be prepared.

Helping the Rams return to the Super Bowl is his ultimate goal.

“Winning a Super Bowl in any capacity you play is the most fun I’ve ever had in a sports season and, honestly, one of the highlights of my entire life,” he said. “So, ultimately, like now in my sixth year, that’s kind of all I think about is getting back to that point.”

Etc.

The Rams signed defensive lineman Neville Gallimore, who was cut Tuesday by the Miami Dolphins. Gallimore, 27, was a third-round draft pick by the Dallas Cowboys in 2020. He played in 17 games last season and made 16 tackles, including a sack. … The Rams claimed running back Cody Schrader off waivers from the San Francisco 49ers. During the preseason, the former Missouri standout rushed for 48 yards on 19 carries, caught two passes, and averaged 30.0 yards on four kickoff returns. To make room for Gallimore and Schrader, the Rams waived defensive lineman Cory Durden and put offensive lineman Conor McDermott on injured reserve. … After missing the Monday workout because of a family matter, quarterback Stetson Bennett returned to practice. Quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo and left tackle Alaric Jackson, who were suspended by the NFL for the first two games, are not eligible to participate in team activities until Week 3. … McVay said starting running back Kyren Williams will be the Rams’ punt returner, at least for now. “It’s another opportunity for him to get touches and impact the game,” McVay said.

Get the best, most interesting and strangest stories of the day from the L.A. sports scene and beyond from our newsletter The Sports Report.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.

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The AFC North has consistently been one of the NFL’s most competitive divisions, with the Baltimore Ravens, Pittsburgh Steelers, Cincinnati Bengals, and Cleveland Browns frequently showcasing their prowess on the gridiron.

As the 2024 NFL season approaches, this trend is expected to continue, with three teams boasting legitimate Super Bowl aspirations, led by the Ravens.

Although the Steelers have struggled since the departure of quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, their seasoned head coach Mike Tomlin managed to keep them competitive, even securing a playoff berth last season.

However, the Steelers made some drastic changes during the offseason, acquiring veteran quarterback Russell Wilson and up-and-coming talent Justin Fields. Despite these moves, CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco remains unimpressed.

“The Steelers are the weakest link in the division,” Prisco stated. “They don’t hold a candle to the Browns, Bengals, or Ravens.”

“The Steelers are the weakest link in the division.”@PriscoCBS pic.twitter.com/PAV5U8vzhO

— NFL on CBS (@NFLonCBS)

Despite the Steelers’ offensive upgrades, Prisco’s assessment seems valid, given the well-rounded strength of their division rivals.

The Steelers’ only hope of avoiding a last-place finish might hinge on injuries affecting the other teams. If that doesn’t happen, it could be a challenging season for Pittsburgh, particularly if Wilson fails to deliver as the starting quarterback.

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