The Las Vegas Raiders are an NFL franchise known for their 1960s roots, bold branding, a recent move to Las Vegas, and a storied playoff pedigree.
The Raiders have positioned quarterback Fernando Mendoza as a potential franchise-altering pick after drafting him No. 1 overall, while surrounding him with veteran guidance and additional talent. Mendoza has led Indiana to a national championship and is entering a high-pressure environment with a veteran cohort and a mix of high-ceiling NFL-ready players in the draft.
Hilary Knight has been traded to Detroit as part of a sign-and-trade with Las Vegas after signing a foundational contract with the expansion team. The move follows Knight’s Olympic gold in Milan and positions her as a cornerstone for Detroit’s inaugural season, with Las Vegas acquiring Detroit’s first-round pick.
Aldon Smith, the former NFL standout, has died at age 36. The 49ers picked him seventh overall in 2011 and he became one of the league’s most explosive edge players, setting franchise records early before off-field issues curtailed his career. The team has offered condolences. The cause of death has not been disclosed.
NFL star Aldon Smith has died after delivering pizzas for a homeless charity in the San Francisco Bay Area. Attorneys say his brain will be examined for CTE as part of ongoing family-initiated investigations into the death.
Jen Belichick has seen an arrest warrant recalled after her absence from a Brunswick County court regarding a misdemeanor speeding charge stemming from a May 21 traffic stop. A new disposition hearing is scheduled for Sept. 25 as her attorney seeks to resolve the case.
The Saints have reworked Alvin Kamara's contract to remain with New Orleans for 2026, reducing cap burden amid roster changes after the Etienne signing. Kamara is entering his 30s and is coming off a knee injury, but remains a five-time Pro Bowler with a long track record of production.