The latest news from Scoop City, The Athletic’s daily NFL newsletter, brought some interesting updates for football fans. Lions fans were feeling positive after a comparison of their offseason to the Cowboys, while Dallas fans expressed some negativity. The Buccaneers and star left tackle Tristan Wirfs agreed to a five-year extension worth $140 million, making him the highest-paid offensive lineman in the NFL.
Tonight, at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN and ABC, the NFL preseason kicks off with the Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio. The Texans and Bears will face off, although starters like Caleb Williams will not be playing. Despite this, there are still exciting aspects to watch during the game:
1. The new kickoffs, which promise to be more thrilling than previous seasons.
2. Bears backup QB Tyson Bagent, who had a promising rookie season.
3. Texans WR John Metchie, who is making a comeback after battling leukemia.
4. Texans RB Jawhar Jordan, a sleeper pick for fantasy football enthusiasts.
The Hall of Fame Game is an annual preseason exhibition game that serves as a fundraiser for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This year’s game will honor notable players like Julius Peppers, Steve McMichael, and Andre Johnson, who will be enshrined in the Hall of Fame. The game is usually played before the official preseason schedule, allowing teams to rest their starters.
In other news, Patriots edge rusher Matthew Judon is in a contract dispute with the team as he seeks a new deal. The Patriots have re-signed or extended 12 other players this offseason but have not reached an agreement with Judon yet. Despite the drama, both sides are optimistic about resolving the issue.
The 2024 Hall of Fame Class includes first-ballot inductee Julius Peppers and six other legends like Patrick Willis, Devin Hester, Andre Johnson, Randy Gradishar, Steve McMichael, and Dwight Freeney. Each member has a defining stat that showcases their excellence on the field.
In conclusion, the Hall of Fame Game is a special event that celebrates the achievements of football legends while providing fans with a glimpse of the upcoming NFL season. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis as the preseason unfolds.