Could the San Antonio Spurs have a next-generation version of the “Twin Towers” next season? ESPN’s new NBA mock draft opens the door to that possibility.

On Monday night, the Spurs took a big step closer to reaching the NBA Finals for the first time since 2014 when they won Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals. With Victor Wembanyama, arguably the best player in the NBA today, San Antonio has a very real chance to win the franchise’s sixth championship next month.

Still, while almost all of the organization’s attention is on the West Finals, they must also look forward to June’s NBA Draft. Well, when it comes to their selection at 20th overall, ESPN’s Jeremy Wu predicts the Spurs will select Kentucky big man Jaden Quaintance.

Quaintance is a risky selection as he played only four games in his first season with the Wildcats after suffering a serious knee injury, including a torn ACL. Wu reported, “Although he looked explosive and in good shape at his Pro Day, many NBA observers in the stands noticed he was favoring his right foot.”

Could Wembanyama and Quantance be ‘Twin Towers’ 2.0 for Spurs?

If he gets a clean bill of health, Wu notes that the 6-foot-10 tall man could help form a very nasty defensive combo with Vembanyama (7 feet 5 inches).

If Quaintance can live up to his potential, which will take some time as he is still only a teenager, he and the French phenom could form one of the greatest duos in Spurs history, a new version of the “Twin Towers”. That duo paired Hall of Famers Tim Duncan and David Robinson for three seasons from 2000–2003, making the playoffs each season and winning the championship the third year running.

Robinson, 7-foot-1, and Duncan, 6-foot-11, were a dominant front-court duo due to their blend of skill, athleticism and toughness. Vembanyama and Quaintance are a little different, but they can stick together for a long time and develop into an effective duo on defense.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

A new NBA mock draft from ESPN shows the New York Knicks will use their first-round selection in June on a player who is unlikely to make much of an impact next season.

There is a lot of hope and excitement about the Knicks right now. On Tuesday night, they begin their Eastern Conference Finals series against the Cleveland Cavaliers at home and as favorites. Due to their excellent play over the past few weeks, this could be the franchise’s best chance to win an NBA title in decades.

Still, while the organization is hyper-focused on the East Finals, they should also keep some attention on what’s coming next, and that’s the NBA Draft next month. And when it comes to their choice at No. 24 at the June event, ESPN’s Jeremy Wu believes the team will take Houston big man Chris Cenac Jr.

On paper, getting an impact player from an elite team in 2025-26 sounds like a great accomplishment. But according to the draft expert, don’t expect Cenac Jr. to be more than a role player next season.

Will Chris Senac Jr. be Mitchell Robinson’s replacement for the NY Knicks?

Wu wrote, “Cenac measured well at the combine and excelled physically in on-court drills, with good amplitude and mobility for a center that makes him a worthwhile developmental bet.” “He made progress with his tenacity and rebounding in Houston, but is still a ways away from contributing to a winning NBA team.

“Still, his immense size and fluid movement skills give him a chance to carve out an eventual role in the NBA if he can find more offensive identity. There’s probably more rim-protection upside than his worrisome lack of blocks, as he was asked to play conservatively and focus on rebounding as part of Houston’s approach.

For a team that is hoping to win a championship this spring, and compete for more over the next few seasons, using a first-rounder on the prospect who will be the best role player next season is disappointing. However, Wu noted that with backup center Mitchell Robinson leaving in free agency this summer, the Knicks will have to look for a potential replacement.

Robinson is also basically a role player, but a very good player who specialized in certain skills. If Cenac Jr. can be just as meaningful or more in a few years, Knicks fans will be happy with this selection.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

ESPN’s latest NBA mock draft opens the door for the New York Knicks to select a potential OG Anunoby replacement with their top pick at the June event.

Since arriving in a trade ahead of the 2023-24 trade deadline, Anunoby has been a valuable part of the Knicks roster. He’s a reliable three-point threat, an underrated scorer, a talented athlete, but more than anything, he’s a tenacious defender who can guard both forward spots.

However, if the Knicks disappoint in this year’s playoffs and fail to reach the Finals, the 28-year-old could be used in a blockbuster trade. Furthermore, he still has three years and $135 million left on his massive contract. This is a huge number for a player who has never earned All-Star honors in the NBA.

Maybe that’s why Jeremy Wu’s new ESPN NBA mock draft predicts the team will use their first-round pick in June on Arizona big man Koa Peat.

Can Koa Pete replace OG Anunoby?

“Pete chose to declare for the draft and has the opportunity to solidify his role on the board with a strong predraft process,” Wu wrote. “Some teams see him as an excellent candidate to return to school and improve his stock, an option that is available to him.

“Scouts view his perimeter shooting as a key swing skill that will impact his career path, as he is not particularly effective at scoring outside 15 feet at this stage of his career. But his strength and quickness relative to his size, coupled with a solid offensive feel and ability to defend the perimeter, give him a chance to find a spot at the right position.”

The 6-foot-8 prospect isn’t quite the same three-point shooter as Anunoby, but he has similar athletic talent and the ability to be a problem for opposing forwards. One area where he is better than the nine-year vet is that he is a better ball handler and passer. The 19-year-old is a project, but he would come at a fairly cheap rate and wouldn’t need to be a top scorer or distributor, just a strong defender.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

In ESPN’s latest NBA mock draft, the Los Angeles Lakers find an interesting replacement for Deandre Ayton in the June event.

This has been a very good season for the Lakers. Despite some early bumps in the road and major questions about the team’s chemistry and dedication to defense, LA came into the season in a much stronger position. However, injuries to Luka Doncic and Austin Reeves seemed to end any hopes of a deep run in this year’s playoffs. Or so we thought.

Thanks to the brilliance of LeBron James and some shockingly good play from Luke Kennard, the Lakers actually lead 3-1 in their opening-round series against the Houston Rockets entering Game 5 on Wednesday at home. Still, while the chance to go far in the postseason is back, the front office needs to keep an eye on the impending offseason.

In a few months, the team will have to find out if LeBron James, Austin Reaves, or Deandre Ayton are in their plans after this season. It seems like they want James back – at the right price – and will certainly give Reeves a huge raise in free agency. It seems Ayton is a strange man. Although he has been solid for them in 2025-26, he hasn’t made a case that he will be difficult to replace.

Los Angeles Lakers predicted to draft UNC’s Henry Vissar

Perhaps that’s why the Lakers have selected Ayton’s replacement with their first-round selection in ESPN’s new NBA mock draft.

Jeremy Wu writes, “The Lakers have some roster uncertainty next season with James and potentially Reeves (player option) entering free agency. The most glaring need is at center, where they stand to move on from the stellar Deandre Ayton.” “Henry Vissar will elevate their skill level and add a floor-spacing element that the roster is lacking.”

The North Carolina center is 7-feet and 225 pounds. The junior had a breakout year for the Tar Heels after transferring from Arizona. Posting 17.0 points, 8.7 rebounds, 1.2 blocks and shooting 42% from three.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

The Las Vegas Raiders have big decisions to make over the next three days. Of course, the first pick won’t be a tough decision, but general manager Jon Spitek has nine other selections after the first round, and he needs immediate contributors.

Last year, the Raiders added 11 new players to their roster. However, other than running back Ashton Jeanty, the class of 2025 had a very disappointing season. The previous coaching staff preferred veterans like Alex Cappa and Tyler Lockett over Caleb Rogers and Jack Beech or Donte Thornton Jr.

If this year’s class gets as much playing time as last year’s group, the Raiders could see tremendous growth.

Las Vegas is only a few hours away, arriving on time. In the meantime, here’s a final 2026 mock draft for the Silver and Black. These selections are based on how the team can meet roster needs.

RELATED: Final 2026 NFL mock draft: Projecting Round 1 with trades

Round 1, Pick 1: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana

The only lock in this year’s draft. Once the Raiders clinched the No. 1 spot in the standings, everyone knew they would turn their attention to Fernando Mendoza, who put on a show in front of the Raiders brass during the College Football Playoff.

General manager John Spitek could make changes to the card as the clock starts ticking on Thursday night. Mendoza will be the ray of hope this franchise needs to get back on the right path.

RELATED: Las Vegas Raiders 2026 NFL Draft: Jon Spytek’s 10 picks, 4 positions to pay attention to

Round 2, Pick 36: Jermaine Bernard, WR, Alabama

According to ESPN’s Ryan McFadden and Matt Miller, the Raiders will consider a second-round prospect who could help Mendoza at offensive tackle or wide receiver.

If that’s the case, the wideout is likely to have a more immediate impact by having a clear path to playing time on the field. Unless Las Vegas trades DJ Glaze, a rookie right tackle will have to compete with him for the job.

As rookies, Jack Beech and Donte Thornton Jr. played sparingly. Additionally, Spytek prepared him for former play-caller Chip Kelly’s offense. Offensive-minded head coach Clint Kubiak may want a different skill set or type of receiver for his system.

Jerami Bernard would be an ideal fit due to his ability to line up at all three receiver spots. Additionally, his experience in a motion-heavy offense should translate well to Kubiak’s scheme, which includes pre-snap movement to highlight mismatches.

Although Bernard does not have escape speed, he is difficult to bring down after the catch. More importantly, he rarely missed passes in college. Kubiak can finally rely on him as a reliable high-IQ playmaker to lead his receiver corps.

Round 3, Pick 67: AJ Holsey, S, LSU

AJ Holsey will provide the Raiders with the best of both worlds at safety. He can set the tone for the back end of the defense with bone-jarring tackles and forced turnovers in coverage.

Over the last two years at Houston and LSU, Halsey became a football magnet, recording eight interceptions and 12 pass breakups. He also played with controlled aggression and went the previous campaign without conceding a penalty.

Halsey is an all-around safety who can earn playing time immediately due to his ball skills. If necessary, he will line up on special teams while working his way up the depth chart.

Round 4, Pick 102: Domonique Orange, DT, Iowa State

Domonique Orange’s skill set and recent experience is exactly what the Raiders need on their defense.

Defensive tackles Jonah Laulou and Tonka Hemingway should play more snaps in the upcoming season after getting four sacks each. Las Vegas needs the nose tackles to combat double-teams and stop the run.

According to Pro Football Focus, the Orange played the second-most snaps (412) in the A-gap among FBS players. The 6-2, 325-pounder could start on opening day at nose tackle in defensive coordinator Rob Leonard’s 3-4 defense.

Round 4, Pick 117: Travis Burke, OT, Memphis

Although Glaze is the frontrunner to become the starting right tackle, he has had a disappointing sophomore season. He allowed 10 sacks, according to Pro Football Focus.

Yes, the Raiders’ previous coaching staff bears some of the blame for the poor offensive line play, however the new arrangement should not simply hand the starting job to Glaze. Spytek could add competition at right tackle.

Travis Burke has experience on both sides of the line, dating back to his time at Gardner-Webb. After playing left tackle for two years at Florida International, he joined the Memphis Tigers at right tackle in 2025.

If Burke is unable to beat out Glaze for the main spot at right tackle he could work his way into the swing tackle role.

Round 4, Pick 134: Ketron Allen, RB, Penn State

Las Vegas is expected to sign a veteran running back after the draft. Najee Harris is still available. However, for now, Spytek can fill the RB2 role with an experienced ball-carrier.

Ketron Allen played four collegiate seasons and led Penn State for three of those tenures. He has three-down ability if he is able to complete his blocking assignments. The 5-11, 216-pounder caught 70 passes for 490 yards and four touchdowns with the Nittany Lions.

Kellon Black is a popular choice for the Raiders due to Mendoza’s Indiana ties, but Kubiak may prefer a bigger tailback similar to his previous RB2, Zach Charbonnet, who is listed at 6-1, 214 pounds. At 5-9, 208 pounds, Black is an undersized running back.

Round 5, Pick 175: Caden Curry, EDGE, Ohio State

Max Crosby should be healthy for the upcoming season, though Spytek can’t ignore the wear and tear on the star’s body due to surgeries over the years. The team shut him down, in part, for his well-being so he could begin the recovery process from surgery on his meniscus.

All told, the Raiders need to improve their pass-rush depth. Free-agent acquisition Kwity Payne has the potential to line up at different positions, but Malcolm Cousins ​​will play on another one-year, prove-it deal.

While Caden Curry doesn’t have the versatility or athletic profile of a starting-round prospect at the position, the 6’3″, 257-pound defensive end could be an up-and-coming player. In his only season as a starter at Ohio State, he recorded 11 sacks and 16.5 tackles for loss.

Round 6, Pick 185: Toriano Pride Jr., CB, Missouri

Due to size limitations, Toriano Pride Jr. will likely be a late pick on Day 3, but if not for his 5-10, 185-pound frame, he could be a popular sleeper pick.

Pride played two years at Clemson and a few years at Missouri, recording four pass breakups and two interceptions in each of his last two collegiate seasons. He uses 4.32 speed to make up for his lack of size in coverage and tackles well in space.

Pride isn’t going to line up against elite receivers at the pro level, but he could have a future at safety or behind Terron Johnson.

Round 6, Pick 208: Bishop Fitzgerald, S, USC

Spytek discusses the mathematics of his security room, which only has three players.

#attacker GM Jon Spytek: “We now have 3 safeties on the roster. It’s just a math equation that we must add one, and it’s a very good safety class. Obviously, it’s something we have to attack, and I’m glad the class looks the way it does.”

On security situation.

– Justin Churchill (@ChurchillAtoZ) 14 April 2026

The Raiders need to double down at the position. They may take a chance on Bishop Fitzgerald, who can contribute on special teams and bring ball production on the back end of the defense.

Critics will question Fitzgerald’s athletic profile, but that didn’t stop him from recording 24 pass breakups and 10 interceptions over the past two years at North Carolina State and USC.

Round 7, Pick 219: David Guesta, NT, Kentucky

The Raiders end the draft with another 300-plus-pounder who can stop the run but is better as a pass-rusher than the Orange, who is projected to go in the middle rounds.

You need to look beyond the basic box score numbers to realize David Guesta’s playmaking ability beyond his run stopping ability.

According to Pro Football Focus, Gusta recorded 29 pressures with an 11 percent pass-rush win rate last season. He’s an intriguing late-round prospect who could carve out a three-down role in the defensive line rotation. In 2025, the Kentucky product played 258 snaps in the A-gap, according to PFF.

Maurice Moton covers the Raiders for the Silver and Black TODAY – Powered by Sportsknot. You can follow him on Twitter @momoton.

RELATED: 5 Las Vegas Raiders Whose April Minicamp Appearance Tells Us Everything

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A notable NFL mock draft suggests the Los Angeles Rams will make one of the biggest trades of the 2026 event for a player considered the best at his position.

After falling just short of reaching the Super Bowl earlier this year, the Rams’ brain trust is motivated to finish the story in 2026. And why not? They will bring back most of the same roster, including reigning NFL MVP Matthew Stafford.

However, they made some notable changes the following season to overcome division rivals and defending league champions, the Seattle Seahawks. They made a blockbuster trade for Kansas City Chiefs All-Pro Trent McDuffie. Then added his teammate Jaylen Watson in free agency. His aggressiveness has earned him the praise of rival officials.

Now, they will look for more players who can contribute in this week’s NFL Draft. They have one less selection in the first round after giving up their selection at 29th overall in the McDuffie trade. However, they still have the 13th overall pick. At that spot, they should be able to get a very good player. But there are rumors that they may not be enough.

Could the Los Angeles Rams trade up in the draft for Cornell Tate?

Maybe that’s why The Athletic’s Rams reporter Nate Atkins predicted a bold move in the outlet’s latest NFL mock draft that would have them give up the Nos. 13 and 61 picks and a 2027 fifth-rounder this week.

Atkins wrote, “The Rams are often trying to reach the top 10, but often have to go very far to achieve it.” “This year is different. They move from No. 13 to No. 6 to pursue potential receiver run backs. Carnell Tate is an option in this draft who projects as a future No. 1 pick without injury concerns. And that matters if the Rams are unsure about paying Puka Nakua.”

Atkins mentions that if Makai Lemon were still available at pick 13, he believes the Rams would remain in that slot. But receivers can blow up from that board to the back end of the top 10. This trade would bring to L.A. the player draft evaluators consider the most NFL-ready receiver at the moment.

Nacua is entering the final year of his rookie contract. After two Pro Bowl appearances in three seasons, re-signing him would seem like a no-brainer. However, the ongoing civil lawsuit and erratic behavior off the field over the past six months has raised some doubts over whether he can be invested in in the long term. The 24-year-old recently completed treatment at a holistic care and rehabilitation facility to deal with his recent internal troubles.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

The 2026 NFL Draft was already shaping up to be an exciting draft for the New York Giants, where they entered the event with the No. 5 overall pick in the first round. This is the first opportunity for general manager Joe Schoen to adapt the roster to new head coach John Harbaugh.

Still, after the Giants traded three-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence to the Bengals in exchange for the 10th overall pick? Giants fans have their eyes set on Thursday night, where New York now has two first-round picks.

Now that the team has the first two picks and eight overall, it’s time for updated projections from Nos. 5 to 193 in the 2026 New York Giants mock draft.

RELATED: New York Giants GM Joe Schoen excited about top NFL draft prospect

First round, No. 5 overall – Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State

A prodigy who is not found anywhere other than the Madden video game, Styles is very attractive to Harbaugh. Stiles and Tremaine Edmunds, a 6-foot-5 athlete capable of running the 40 time in a 4.46-second time, will give the Giants a pair of monstrous linebackers at MetLife.

RELATED: NY Giants rumor mill reveals preferred pick at No. 5 in NFL Draft, plus 3 backup plans

First round, No. 10 overall – Jordan Tyson, WR, Arizona State

Chances are, a surprise prospect like Caleb Downs could be available here, if so, the veteran could double the impact on Ohio State’s defenders. Still, with Malik Nabors recovering from a season-ending knee injury, it’s possible the Giants want to provide their young franchise QB with another high-upside receiver. Tyson has WR1 potential, and if he reaches it, we could see shades of the Bengals duo of Chase and Higgins. It’s worth the gamble.

RELATED: Evaluating the New York Giants’ options with the No. 10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft

Second round, No. 37 overall – Emmanuel Pregnon, OG, Oregon

Strengthening the offensive line will certainly continue to be a priority for a Giants team that has been very inconsistent so far. Guarding Jackson Dart is a must, and while Pregnon has experience at left guard, his power would fit perfectly at right guard as well. Plus, the 6-foot-4 315-pounder is extremely strong, he’ll knock a lot of guys out of the way with darts and a skatebow.

RELATED: 5 NY Giants options with the 37th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, including Chris Johnson

Fourth round, No. 105 overall – Donte Corleone, DI, Cincinnati

The cold, hard truth is that Dexter Lawrence is gone. The Giants needed a DL before they could settle their “middle stone”, now that weakness is even bigger. Addressing the position in the second round is a possibility, but the Giants won’t find anyone like Lawrence. Corleone won’t replace Lawrence’s abilities as a pass-rusher, but he is a strong nose tackle who will be effective against the run early on.

Fifth round, No. 145 overall – Charles Demings, CB, Stephen F. Austin

RELATED: Former New York Giants All-Pro defender wants to play for John Harbaugh

Sixth round, No. 186 overall – Jalen Stroman, S, Notre Dame

RELATED: Ravens Pro Bowler gives NY Giants fans reason to be worried about John Harbaugh

Sixth round, No. 192 overall – Nolan Rookie, OT, Penn State

RELATED: 4 bold NY Giants trade ideas for the No. 5 pick, including a blockbuster Myles Garrett deal

Sixth round, No. 193 overall – Pat Coogan, C, Indiana

RELATED: 3 New York Giants who could be traded during the 2026 NFL Draft

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A new ESPN NFL mock draft shows a player who is often projected to be picked in the top five this month will fall to the Dallas Cowboys at No. 12 overall.

After another seven win season, the Cowboys need to improve their selection in this month’s NFL Draft. Fortunately for Dallas, they will have a chance to add two top-20 players to the event after acquiring an additional first-round pick before this season’s trade deadline.

Along with their two selections in Round 1 – 12 and 20, respectively – the Cowboys have been linked to a variety of stud prospects, including Tennessee cornerback Jerrod McCoy and Washington receiver Denzel Boston. However, along with two first-rounders, they have also been linked to a top-five trade-up to land one of the best players in this year’s class.

However, they may not need to give up one of those selections in order to bring elite talent to the event. On Tuesday, ESPN’s Peter Scherzer released his new NFL mock draft, and at pick 12, he has the Cowboys getting Ohio State star safety Caleb Downs.

Caleb Downs stats: 68 tackles, 1 sack, 2 forced fumbles, 2 interceptions

He wrote, “Buckeyes defensive coordinator Matt Patricia told me on ‘The Schrager Hour’ that Downs will be the smartest player on whichever team drafts him and should be the face of the franchise.” “The Cowboys need that on defense, even if the safety isn’t given the same importance as a pass rusher or cornerback.

“Downs can team up with Jalen Thompson and Malik Hooker and help cut down the big plays that plagued Dallas last season. If he’s on the board, he’ll be a steal at No. 12.”

There has been much speculation that Downs could go fifth to the New York Giants. Additionally, many draft analysts view him as one of the most NFL-ready players in this year’s class due to his impressive versatility and high football IQ. The All-American and Jim Thorpe Award winner had 68 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, 2 interceptions and a sack last season.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

According to ESPN’s updated NFL Mock Draft, the player who looked likely to be taken early in the top 10 of the NFL Draft will fall to the Miami Dolphins at No. 11 overall.

After a disappointing 7–10 season, change was expected. However, Miami fans got more than they expected. He fired head coach Mike McDaniels and replaced him with Green Bay Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley. Then they started working on reimagining the roster.

The Dolphins took on a lot of dead cap, breaking up with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, linebacker Bradley Chubb and receiver Tyreek Hill. They then traded veterans Minkah Fitzpatrick and Jaylen Waddle. The bold overhaul has left glaring holes on the roster, especially in the wide receiver room.

That’s why the Dolphins have been linked to several pass catchers with their pick at No. 11 in the draft, including USC’s Makai Lemon and Arizona State’s Jordan Tyson. However, ESPN draft expert Mel Kiper believes a stud WR prospect who many thought could go top five will fall to Miami.

Will Carnell Tate fall to the Dolphins at No. 11 in the NFL Draft?

“Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill are gone. But Carnell Tate’s route-running ability, sure hands and range as a pass catcher will move quarterback Malik Willis to WR1 and boost the Dolphins’ lackluster receiver room,” Kiper wrote in ESPN’s new NFL mock draft.

The Ohio State star has long been considered the top receiver in this year’s class, with projections calling him going to the New York Giants at No. 5 or the Cleveland Browns at No. 6. However, in ESPN’s mocks, he is the second WR off the board after the Browns took Lemon with their first pick.

Some draft pundits, obviously, believe the Trojan star is the best receiver in the 2026 class. But many are impressed by Tate’s all-round skills and ability to make an immediate impact in the NFL. If he loses to the Dolphins at 11, Miami’s decision-makers won’t be disappointed.

Tate had a breakout season in 2025, posting 875 receiving yards and nine touchdowns on 51 catches.

After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

The 2026 NFL Draft is right around the corner – just a few weeks away – and the Kansas City Chiefs are sitting on a chest of picks we haven’t seen in the Patrick Mahomes era. We’re talking top-10 picks, three shots in the top 40 and eight picks in the first five rounds. Translation? Brett Veach has the ability to reload this roster in a big way with young, impactful talent.

Let’s be real – the defense didn’t exactly bring the heat last season. Casey finished 22nd in sacks, and the pass rush was unable to consistently get to the house. That has to be changed. Good news? This draft class is loaded with juice off the edge and playmakers in the secondary – exactly what the Chiefs need to get that unit back to championship level and take pressure off their high-octane offense.

With that in mind, here are two prospects that ESPN’s Matt Miller is circling for draft night.

reuben ben jr

Reuben Benn Jr. is built like a wrecking ball off the edge – about 6’2″-6’3″, 260-275, with a compact frame that’s all about power and pop. Over three seasons (2023-2025), he prepared for 38 games and filled the stat sheet: 121 total tackles, 33.5 TFL, 20.5 sacks, as well as a handful of splash games with a forced fumble and even a pick.

But 2025? That’s when he really flipped the switch – 54 tackles, 15.5 TFL, 9.5 sacks, and a ridiculous 92.5 PFF grade that put him in the top-three among all EDGE defenders in the country. Oh—and 67 total pressure. The dude was staying in the backfield.

Turn on the tape, and it’s easy to see why he’s climbing the boards. Ben has that explosive first step, plays with natural leverage, and wins with violent hands and a nonstop motor. He’s not your typical tall, hunched pass rusher. He’s more of a power disrupter who can break loose in the pocket and act as a bully. And it’s not just pass rush juice, he’s a legitimate edge-setter in the run game, stays disciplined in his gaps, and shows high football IQ through the game.

This is exactly the kind of chess piece DC Steve Spagnuolo likes. The Chiefs manage to generate pressure without constantly attacking, and Benn fits that mold perfectly. He can win outside, kick inside when passing underneath and create chaos from multiple alignments. Add to your production against top-tier competition, including big-time performances in playoff level games. And you’re looking at a guy who’s already been battle-tested.

The resume also supports it: ACC Defensive Player of the Year, All-American honors, the Hendricks Award, and one of the highest-rated EDGE defenders in college football. If Casey wants someone who can bring instant heat and toughen up that front, Benn has “plug-and-play disruptor” written all over him.

Avion Terrell

Avion Terrell is the type of DB that just screams ‘Spags Guy’. At about 5’11”, 180-186 pounds, he’s not the biggest corner in the class – but he plays much bigger than his measurables. A three-year contributor at Clemson (39 games, 31 starts), Terrell filled the stat sheet with 128 tackles, 30 pass breakups, 4 sacks, 3 picks and a ridiculous 8 forced fumbles – setting a Clemson DB record. This is not normal production for any corner… this is the creation of chaos.

His 2025 tape also supports this. He logged 46 tackles, 11 PBUs, 5 forced fumbles and 3 sacks, while locking things down in coverage, giving up only 340 yards passing all year. No interceptions, sure, but don’t get it twisted, the QBs weren’t testing him much. The man was still pressing and disrupting everything that came his way, earning All-American and First-Team All-ACC honors in the process.

And yes- check the blood lines. He’s the younger brother of AJ Terrell, and you can see his polished, technically sound play throughout the film. He’s disciplined, smooth and coachable, which is exactly what Steve Spagnuolo looks for in his DB room.

Is the plan suitable? Almost perfect. Spags likes corners that can do a little bit of everything – press, tackle, blitz, rotate inside – and Terrell checks every box. He has been lined up outside, kicked in the slot, and even comes down as a safety in run support. Blitz ability also emerges, with 4 career sacks and legitimate time off the edge.

But what really sets him apart is how he generates turnovers. Doesn’t just pick up, he punches the ball. Those 8 forced fumbles (including 5 in 2025, leading the ACC) are elite production and fit perfectly into KC’s defensive identity of causing chaos and stealing possessions.

Bottom line: This is not just a projection of symptoms. Terrell is a battle-tested, high-IQ corner with 31 starts, big-game reps and a playing style that fits Kansas City like a glove. Plug him into that secondary, and you’ll get a tone-setter who tackles like a safety and plays every moment with that dog mentality.

RELATED: Did the KC Chiefs unveil a potential Round 1 target in the 2026 NFL Draft?

The Memphis Grizzlies have been in full-on tank mode in recent weeks as the 2025-26 NBA season reaches its home stretch. These efforts continued on Tuesday night against the Philadelphia 76ers, with the team leading for most of the game on the road before shamelessly pulling their starters early in the fourth quarter and losing the game.

The Grizzlies shook things up by trading Jaren Jackson Jr. to the Utah Jazz at the NBA trade deadline last month, with many speculating that a Ja Morant trade could happen soon. While Memphis wasn’t able to do anything on that front, many still believe the Grizzlies have shifted their focus to the post-Morant era, which continued with the latest mock draft from ESPN’s Jeremy Wu, who projected them selecting point guard Mikel Brown Jr. from Louisville.

Wu said on ESPN.com, “Although he is shooting only 41% from the field this season, scouts feel comfortable with his history and his dynamic perimeter shot-making (34% from 3) continues to be a strong attribute.” “…Brown still projects somewhere inside the top 10, with evaluators remaining optimistic on his emergence as a tall (6-5) backcourt playmaker.”

Wu also said that “With Ja Morant’s long-term future uncertain, the Grizzlies should be in best-available mode.”

Some expect the Grizzlies to embark on a full rebuild this offseason, which has already begun with the trades of Jackson Jr. this year and Desmond Benn last offseason. A lot of Memphis’ future prospects may depend on how lucky they are when the NBA Draft Lottery is decided by ping pong balls in two months.

The Dallas Mavericks are on a tear after losing eight straight games in recent weeks following Tuesday night’s loss to the Atlanta Hawks. At this point, the main things Mavericks fans have to look forward to are the development of star rookie Cooper Flagg and the NBA Draft Lottery, which is scheduled to take place in May.

At the trade deadline, the Mavericks opted to reduce their losses from the Luka Doncic trade by sending big man Anthony Davis to the Washington Wizards, although they surprised some by grabbing injured point guard Kyrie Irving, who will not play this season as he recovers from ACL surgery.

Recently, ESPN NBA insider Jeremy Wu released his mock draft for 2026, and he asked the Mavericks to select Irving’s long-term replacement by taking Arkansas point guard Darius Acuff Jr. with the seventh pick.

Wu said on ESPN.com, “Acuff was named SEC Player of the Year after a stellar season that solidified him as a lottery pick. His ability to navigate tight spaces on the court, create his own offense and find teammates has been a major differentiator.”

Wu also reported that “Dallas is another potential point guard landing spot, with Kyrie Irving now 33 and the Mavs building around the emerging Cooper Flagg. Finding a long-term starter at the position would be a coup for their future.”

Indeed, Irving doesn’t necessarily fit the timeline of the Mavericks, who have fully embraced a rebuild around Flagg, whom they selected as the number one overall pick last year.

Adding Acuff would give the Mavericks another building block as an electric scorer who can put consistent pressure on opposing defenses, and give Flagg more room to operate.

The NBA lottery is scheduled to take place on May 10.

The Atlanta Hawks are on a seven-game winning streak and are trying to make the playoffs with just over a month remaining in the season. This is a unique situation for the Hawks, as they are able to compete this season, while also having a chance to acquire the top pick in this year’s NBA Draft after acquiring the rights to the New Orleans Pelicans’ pick.

If the Pelicans don’t have a great record, the lottery odds could be in the Hawks’ favor, and they could add a top prospect to a team that already has a bright future.

In the latest ESPN mock draft, their pick landing at No. 6, and they have the Hawks selecting Illinois point guard Keaton Wagler.

Jeremy Wu wrote, “Wagler’s unexpected rise from off-the-radar recruit to Big Ten Freshman of the Year has given him a chance to be the second guard off the board.” “His size at his position – 6-foot-6 – 3-point shooting (41%) and impeccable playmaking puts him ahead of the curve developmentally.

“Gaining strength to navigate the paint better and becoming a better defender are also long-term keys. He is the least dynamic athlete at guard in this group, but the blueprint is in place for him to become an NBA backcourt fixture.”

The Hawks are moving on from a dynamic point guard in Trae Young this season, they need to find a way to add to that position this offseason, and Wagler could be a start. The big thing for Wagler is that he is 6’6 inches tall and can shoot the three ball in a row.

The Hawks are already a team that shoots the ball a lot, and his defensive ability could help him fit in immediately. While he may not be the hottest guard in the draft, he has everything the Hawks need in a guard.

Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James is on social media after Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo went out for an astonishing 83 points on Tuesday.

Adebayo scored in a 150-129 win over the Washington Wizards and broke Lakers icon Kobe Bryant’s record for the second-highest scoring game in league history.

While many were celebrating Adebayo’s historic accomplishment, some also mocked James, saying he had predicted a career night for the Heat star.

To recall, James once said in an interview that he knew Bryant was going to explode that night when he scored 81 points against the Toronto Raptors in 2006.

@CookedByMatt said, “LeBron predicted Bam’s 83-piece.”

@MrEggyWeggy said, “LeBron called it! He predicted this performance earlier today.”

@iam_johnw echoed, “LeBron will come out and say he predicted Bam’s 83-point game.”

@Jasonb9990 wrote, “I’m sure LeBron predicted this before the game even started.”

“Do you guys think LeBron predicted Bam’s 83 points?” asked @artoftheleague.

@realhenryobrien posted, “Since the Lakers haven’t hinted yet, LeBron can say he watched the Heat-Wizards game and predicted Bam would score 83 points.”

James probably didn’t anticipate that he would be the butt of jokes on Tuesday. They should blame Adebayo.

The three-time All-Star, James’ teammate on Team USA, finished with 20 of 43 field goals and 36 of 43 free throws on what was arguably the most random night in league history. Even Nostradamus with advanced analytics couldn’t have predicted Adebayo’s 83-point special.

Well, perhaps the best way for James to counterattack is to score 84 points when he returns to action.