The New England Patriots’ season of redemption under new head coach Mike Vrabel got off to a slow start Sunday, when Vrabel’s squad submitted quietly to the Las Vegas Raiders led by coach Pete Carroll — who coached the Patriots from 1997 through 1999 leading them to two playoff appearances as the last head coach before the Bill Belichick era.
At Gillette Stadium Sunday afternoon, Carroll exacted a measure of revenge for his firing 26 years ago as his Raiders defense stifled the Patriots, holding them scoreless in the second half except for a garbage time field goal with 19 seconds left in the game to make the final score 20-13.
“The New England Patriots were supposed to feel different in 2025 with new head coach Mike Vrabel replacing Jerod Mayo,” wrote Clutch Points analyst Troy Finnegan on Sunday.
“Despite a decent start, Vrabel’s Patriots looked a whole lot like Mayo’s Patriots.”
Stefon Diggs Provides a Positive Takeaway
There were, however, a few somewhat positive takeaways for the Patriots, and one in particular was wide receiver Stefon Diggs, a two-time All-Pro and four-time Pro Bowl pick signed to a three-year, $69 million free agent contract in March.
While Diggs did not make a major impact on the outcome of the game, the mere fact that he was able to play just 10 months after tearing the ACL in his right knee was an encouraging sign for the Patriots.
Six Catches For Diggs
On a day when no one on the offensive side of the ball for New England turned in a breakout performance, and second-year quarterback Drake Maye was disappointing at best — receiving a grade of C- from NBC Sports Boston Patriots insider Phil Perry and a D+ from Perry’s colleague Tom E. Curran — Diggs did everything that was asked of him by Maye and offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, catching six of seven targeted passes for 57 yards.
Diggs since last year has been in a dating relationship with hip hop superstar Cardi B, but they have mostly limited their public interactions to social media exchanges, and that is how the 32-year-old rapper whose given name is Belcalis Marlenis Almanzar sent a strong message of encouragement to her NFL boyfriend in his Patriots debut.
Cardi B Cheers Diggs From in Front of TV
Cardi B did to attend the Sunday game, but at least from her Instagram account she watched it on TV, and posted “Come on Eight!!!!!” as caption to a pic of her television screen.
“Eight” of course refers to Diggs, who claimed the No. 8 jersey after the Patriots released its previous owner, linebacker Ja’Whaun Bentley, in March.
Diggs at the time said that he chose the number because in Biblical numerology, “8” symbolizes “new beginnings,” and his move to the Patriots opened a new chapter of his life and career.
He could have, but did not also mention that his still-new relationship with Cardi B was also a “new beginning” for him.
They made their public debut as a couple in May when they sat courtside at Madison Square Garden for a New York Knicks vs. Boston Celtics playoff game.
They have since interacted publicly only through social media, most recently last week when Diggs commented “That’s a hardworking woman” on one of the rapper’s IG posts.
News
A powerful full-circle moment is unfolding for an NFL player whose actions off the field once made headlines for all the right reasons. After bravely pulling a man from a burning car and saving his life, the National Football League star is now being handed a career lifeline of his own — a second chance that’s capturing attention across the football world. At the time, his heroic act drew widespread praise, showing a side of athletes fans don’t always get to see. Now, as he looks to revive his career, that moment is being remembered as more than just a headline — but a reflection of character. Teams are always weighing talent against intangibles, and stories like this can carry real weight. As news spreads, support is pouring in from fans and insiders alike. But one key detail about this opportunity is what’s standing out most. And it could determine whether this comeback truly takes hold.
KJ OSBORN has reportedly agreed a one-year deal with the Tennessee Titans. The wide receiver, 28, has not played in…
All eyes were on Fernando Mendoza — and he delivered. With representatives from the Las Vegas Raiders in attendance, Mendoza used Indiana Pro Day to make a powerful statement, strengthening his case to be the No. 1 overall pick. From sharp throws to confident command, everything about his performance suggested a quarterback ready for the next level. For teams searching for a franchise leader, moments like this carry serious weight — especially when decision-makers are watching up close. The Raiders’ presence only added intrigue, fueling speculation about their intentions at the top of the draft. As buzz builds, Mendoza is quickly shifting from prospect to centerpiece of the conversation. But standout performances come with rising expectations. And one specific element of his Pro Day is what scouts are talking about most. It might be the factor that ultimately separates him from the rest of the class.
BLOOMINGTON, IN — The Raiders have been careful not to prematurely anoint Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza as the first pick overall in next month’s…
Jason Kelce isn’t holding back — and this time, his comments are aimed straight at the Detroit Lions. The former star sparked buzz after roasting the franchise for what he sees as a repeat of a controversial retirement situation that previously left fans furious with ownership. By bringing it back into the spotlight, Kelce has reignited debate around how the organization handles major player decisions. For Lions supporters, it’s a sensitive topic — one tied to past frustrations and lingering questions about leadership choices. Kelce’s remarks have quickly made the rounds online, with fans both agreeing and pushing back on his take. As the conversation grows, attention is shifting back to the decision itself and whether lessons were truly learned. But one specific comparison Kelce made is what’s drawing the most attention. And it might explain why this issue still resonates so strongly today.
The Detroit Lions have threatened to damage their relationship with former center Frank Ragnow after asking him to return a…
A troubling incident has put former Dallas Cowboys player Trysten Hill back in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Hill was arrested following allegations of assault involving a pregnant woman, with details from the incident quickly sparking outrage online. Images reportedly showing him smiling after the arrest have only intensified reactions, adding another layer of controversy to an already serious situation. As the case unfolds, questions are being raised about accountability and the broader issue of off-field conduct among professional athletes. Legal proceedings are expected to determine what actually happened, but the public response has been swift and emotional. For many, the focus remains on the severity of the allegations and the impact beyond football. But one specific detail in the arrest report is what’s drawing the most attention. And it could play a key role in how this case develops.
Former Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Trysten Hill was arrested in Texas for allegedly assaulting a pregnant woman. Hill, 28, was…
A surprising announcement has left fans stunned as a former quarterback for both the New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals has abruptly retired at just 31. The decision came with an emotional message, reflecting on the journey, the challenges, and the “lifelong bonds” formed along the way — a reminder that the game is about far more than what happens on the field. While the move may feel sudden, it highlights the reality many players face as they weigh physical toll, personal priorities, and life beyond football. Fans are now looking back on his career, appreciating moments that may have gone under the radar at the time. Teammates and supporters alike have begun sharing reactions, emphasizing the impact he had inside locker rooms. But one part of his farewell message is what’s resonating the most. And it offers a deeper glimpse into why he chose to walk away now.
FORMER NFL quarterback Chris Streveler has retired from football. The 31-year-old former New York Jet announced Tuesday he was hanging up his…
Jack Pugh Dies at 25 After Stepping Away From Game Amid Mental Health Battle — The Young Star’s Passing Prompts Emotional Tributes From His Former Team, Highlighting Both His Talent on the Field and the Struggles He Faced Beyond It.
A FORMER college football star has died at 25. Jack Pugh, who was a tight end at…
End of content
No more pages to load
