
<p>When people, even those who aren’t very familiar with basketball, think of the NBA, images of dunks often come to mind. Some of the first names that spring to mind when discussing basketball are big guys like <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/joel-embiid-and-two-other-biggest-2023-nba-all-star-starter-snubs-20230127-SPD-3351.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shaquille O’Neal</a></strong> and <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-3-most-likely-destinations-for-victor-wembanyama-20230129-SPD-3358.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Wilt Chamberlain</a></strong>.</p>



<p>NBA scouts have been drooling over tall talents like Victor Wembanyama and Chet Holmgren for a variety of reasons, including, but not limited to, their height and wingspan.</p>



<p>Though taller players have always had an edge on the court, shorter players have never been discouraged from trying to make it to the NBA. Here, you will learn the names of the three players in NBA history who were the smallest to ever suit up for the league.</p>



<h2>3. Mel Hirsch (height: 5’6″)</h2>



<p>It’s one thing to get into the league when you’re just 5 feet 6 inches tall; it’s another to keep your footing once you’re there. Mel Hirsch, a guard, was able to make the Boston Celtics squad for the 1946-47 season.</p>



<p>Hirsch’s performance wasn’t very noteworthy, even by the standards of the time. He played in just 13 games, but his stats were respectable: 1.5 points and 0.8 assists per game on 20.0% shooting from the field and 50.0% from the foul line.</p>



<h2>2. Earl Boykin (height 5’5″)</h2>



<p>Earl Boykins, in contrast to Hirsch, spent a total of 13 seasons in the NBA, playing at a high level the whole time. Considering that the typical NBA player retires after only 4.5 years, it’s very astounding.</p>



<p>On average, Boykins scored 8.9 points per game for his career across his stops with the New Jersey (now Brooklyn) Nets, Cleveland Cavaliers, Orlando Magic, Los Angeles Clippers, Golden State Warriors, Denver Nuggets, Milwaukee Bucks, Charlotte Bobcats (now Hornets), Washington Wizards, and Houston Rockets.</p>



<h2>1. Muggsy Bogues (height 5’3″)</h2>



<p>At long last, we reach Muggsy Bogues, the stuff of legend. For 14 years, Bogues was a reliable starter despite his little stature. His extraordinary athleticism allowed him to succeed, and he finished his career with 39 blocks.</p>



<p>Bogues, who was stealthy, quick, and highly cerebral, played for the Washington Bullets, the Charlotte Hornets (now the New Orleans Pelicans), the Golden State Warriors, and the Toronto Raptors. With the 1986 FIBA World Championship, he led the tournament in scoring and assist averages at 7.7 and 7.6, respectively.</p>


The top 3 smallest players throughout NBA's history - thesportsdrops NEWS

The top 3 smallest players throughout NBA's history

destacadas


<p>The era of <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-4-best-moments-of-tom-bradys-nfl-career-20230201-SPD-3366.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Brady</a> </strong>as the starting quarterback for the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-tom-brady-could-retire-for-good-in-2023-if-bucaneers-win-super-bowl-2204-20220714-SPD-2204.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tampa Bay Buccaneers </a></strong>has come to an end. The all-time great quarterback said he was retiring from the NFL for good on February 1. This was his second straight year of retirement announcements.</p>



<p>Since Brady was going to become an unrestricted free agent again at the age of 45, Tampa Bay had to have been considering a replacement for him long before he announced his choice. To replace Brady as their starting quarterback, the Bucs will need to make a splash in free agency and/or the draft.</p>



<p>When the Buccaneers have stabilized their salary cap position without Brady, they may begin exploring free-agent options among established veterans. The club possesses nine draft picks, including the nineteenth overall pick in the first round. In light of all that, let’s take a look at the three best candidates for the Bucs’ next quarterback:</p>



<h2>Jimmy Garoppolo – free agent</h2>



<p>While Garoppolo’s attempts to take over for Brady with the Patriots were limited to a few Deflategate-related fill-in starts (along with Brissett), he has a chance to do it on a regular basis with the Buccaneers. He has nearly fully recovered from the damage to his left foot. If Trey Lance (broken ankle) and Brock Purdy both are able to play quarterback for San Francisco, the city is in for a thrilling QB fight (elbow surgery).</p>



<p>Garoppolo has had success under both Josh McDaniel and Kyle Shanahan, so he should feel at home in any system the Buccaneers play. He is also used to successfully relying on a supporting cast to achieve victory. The big issue is whether Garoppolo thinks there are other opportunities that are more alluring to him.</p>



<h2>Anthony Richardson – draft</h2>



<p>The Buccaneers snatched Trask away from Dan Mullen and the Gators. Overall, Billy Napier’s offense has made Richardson a more promising prospect. Even though Bryce Young, C.J. Stroud, and probably Will Levis will be selected before Richardson, the Buccaneers may have a better chance at the newest professional Gator if they choose No. 20 instead of the Seahawks.</p>



<p>If Richardson, who is 6-4 and 232 pounds, can work on his mechanics, downfield accuracy, and decision-making, he will unlock his tremendous potential as a quarterback. Since the Buccaneers fired Byron Leftwich as offensive coordinator, there is one more unknown factor in addition to Brady’s absence.</p>



<h2>Baker Mayfield – free agent</h2>



<p>Mayfield is eligible since Monken served as Cleveland’s offensive coordinator for one season (2019). Despite the disappointing outcome, Monken seemed to like many facets of Mayfield’s game and may believe he can get more out of him as a more seasoned option with an improved supporting cast.</p>



<p>This is why the Bucs chose Mayfield over Sam Darnold, Andy Dalton, and others, but the reuniting isn’t enough to make this a sure thing.</p>


Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Top 3 potential quarterback successors to Tom Brady - thesportsdrops NEWS

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Top 3 potential quarterback successors to Tom Brady


<p>On Wednesday, <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-return-to-buccaneers-and-four-other-options-for-tom-brady-20230118-SPD-3332.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Brady</a> </strong>announced his retirement from the National Football League. As a player for the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/there-was-no-respect-there-ryan-fitzpatrick-reveals-why-tom-brady-annoys-him-2769-20220916-SPD-2769.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">New England Patriots</a></strong> and <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-tom-brady-could-retire-for-good-in-2023-if-bucaneers-win-super-bowl-2204-20220714-SPD-2204.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a></strong>, the GOAT provided fans with many memorable moments over the course of 23 seasons.</p>



<p>The 45-year-social old’s media video retirement announcement was his second consecutive year away from the sport of football. However, this retirement, according to Brady, is “for real” as opposed to the temporary retirement he took last year (which lasted just 40 days).</p>



<p>If this is it for Brady, he will go down in history as the greatest of all time. He leaves the league with several throwing records, including the most in Super Bowl victories, playoff victories, yards, and touchdown passes. Listed below are the four highlights of his professional career.</p>



<h2>4. First Super Bowl victory</h2>



<p>After Drew Bledsoe was injured in 2001, Brady was thrust into the starting lineup. However, at this stage in his career, he was still simply a game manager, and thus, very few people thought that the former sixth-round selection and a strong Patriots defense had a chance against the then-St. Louis Rams and the “Greatest Show on Turf.” In retrospect, it’s clear that Super Bowl XXXVI was only the first of many reminders of why it’s a bad idea to write off Brady</p>



<p>After scoring 14 unanswered points to make the score 17-17 with under a minute to play, the Rams seemed to have momentum on their side. Brady has no intention of postponing his Super Bowl party because of the extra time. The then-second-year professional displayed remarkable composure, completing five of eight throws, and setting the stage for Vinatieri’s game-winning field goal as time expired, giving the Patriots their first Super Bowl victory.</p>



<h2>3. Return to New England</h2>



<p>Every Patriots fan marked October 3, 2021, on their calendars when Brady departed New England. It was Brady’s first home game in Foxborough since his return. It was hoped that this game would allow fans to finally watch Tom Brady go up against Bill Belichick, who has been Brady’s coach for most of his career.</p>



<p>When Tom Brady made his first trip to Gillette Stadium as an opponent, New England fans got to see him one final time. During the thrilling victory, Brady set a new mark for throwing yards. With the 19-17 victory against Bill Belichick’s club, Brady joined an exclusive group of just three other quarterbacks in NFL history who had defeated each of the league’s 32 teams.</p>



<h2>2. Seventh and final Super Bowl victory</h2>



<p>Some speculated that Brady will hand over the reins to a younger star in Super Bowl LV. In any case, Brady’s game-winning effort served as a timely reminder that he was, indeed, the greatest quarterback of all time. While Mahomes struggled, the veteran quarterback was perfect, leading the team to a 31-9 victory against the Kansas City Chiefs.</p>



<p>As of the 2020 season, Brady’s seven Super Bowl victories gave him more Lombardi Trophies than any NFL franchise. After 20 seasons in New England, the quarterback startled the sports world by announcing he was leaving for a new team, where he promptly won the Super Bowl</p>



<h2>1. 2016-17 Super Bowl LI</h2>



<p>By the middle of the third quarter, the Patriots were down 25 points to the Atlanta Falcons, and it seemed like Brady had shown his human side. While the signal-caller may have been brought to earth in the first half, by the time the confetti had settled, they had achieved almost mythological status.</p>



<p>Brady was flawless as he led the Patriots to a 28-28 tie with two minutes remaining in regulation. This is the best comeback by the greatest ever. Brady attained sports immortality by creating a moment that can be internationally remembered with just one simple phrase: “28-3.” This was the crowning achievement in a long series of honors, awards, and victories for Brady.</p>


Top 4 best moments of Tom Brady's NFL career - thesportsdrops NEWS

Top 4 best moments of Tom Brady's NFL career


<p>When it comes to the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/three-nba-teams-with-the-most-potential-for-february-sales-20230121-SPD-3338.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA Draft</a></strong>, there is no such thing as a ‘can’t-miss’ kind of player. Victor Wembanyama, a French superstar, would come the closest if there were. As a result, he has caught the attention of dozens of scouts.</p>



<p>This year, Wembanyama looks just stunning on the pitch. He’s got the shot-blocking chops of Dikembe Mutombo, the ball-handling skills of Chris Paul, and the long-range shooting prowess of Buddy Hield.</p>



<p>The 19-year-old is widely expected to be selected as the first overall choice in this year’s NBA Draft, and thus, many clubs will jostle for position to choose him. Take a look at the three possible teams that have the best shot of doing just that.</p>



<h2>3. Charlotte Hornets</h2>



<p>This year’s <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/kyle-kuzma-to-leave-wizards-and-other-potential-upcoming-trades-involving-shooters-20221219-SPD-3270.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charlotte Hornets</a></strong> team has been a complete and utter failure. With LaMelo Ball’s health issues and the uncertainty surrounding Miles Bridges’ future, the team has been in dire need of another scorer.</p>



<p>If Ball’s health continues to deteriorate, the Hornets would be smart to put an end to his season. It’s attractive to think that they’ll have Wemby and Ball for the next decade, so they may as well sink the rest of the season.</p>



<h2>2. Detroit Pistons</h2>



<p>The youthful core that the Detroit Pistons have assembled is already among the most remarkable and promising in the NBA. Their prospects of making the playoffs were all but dashed when they lost Cade Cunningham for the year.</p>



<p>So, even if they lose, they may still come out on top. While waiting for Cunningham’s recovery, they may allow their young stars like Jaden Ivey, Jalen Duren, and Sadiq Bey to learn from their errors and develop into better players, increasing their chances of earning the first overall selection.</p>



<h2>1. Houston Rockets</h2>



<p>The Houston Rockets have some of the league’s youngest players. Unfortunately, coach Stephen Silas hasn’t done a good job of nurturing their abilities. They aren’t going down, but they are terrible.</p>



<p>However, Wembanyama has the potential to be the game-changer for this team, much as the legendary Hakeem Olajuwon did for the NBA’s Los Angeles Lakers. There has never been a more dynamic and adaptable jumbo frontcourt than the one that would be formed by pairing Jabari Smith Jr. with Alperen Sengun.</p>


Top 3 most likely destinations for Victor Wembanyama - thesportsdrops NEWS

Top 3 most likely destinations for Victor Wembanyama


<p>After the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/three-nba-teams-with-the-most-potential-for-february-sales-20230121-SPD-3338.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA’s 2023 All-Star</a></strong> starters were named on Thursday, a few reserves with justifiable complaints were expected. The starting have been announced, with the fan vote accounting for 50%, the media vote for 25%, and the player vote for the remaining 5%. It was revealed that Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James has been named an NBA All-Star for the 19th time, matching Abdul-Jabbar for the most All-Star appearances in NBA history. </p>



<p>James, who received the most votes in the league as a whole, will lead one team in the next All-Star Game on February 19 in Salt Lake City. The other team’s captain will be Giannis Antetokounmpo of the Milwaukee Bucks, who received the most votes in the Eastern Conference. The NBA has employed a captain system for the All-Star Game for the last six years, and James has participated in every one of them. </p>



<p>In addition to 2019 and 2020, Antetokounmpo now has the honor of serving as captain for a third time. Unlike previous years, when captains choose a week or two in advance of All-Star weekend, this year’s game will include an unannounced twist: the two players will choose their teams in the days leading up to the game. These are the three biggest 2023 NBA All-Star starter snubs, as per&nbsp;<em>CBS Sports.</em></p>



<h2>3. Domantas Sabonis</h2>



<p>Sabonis’s performance with the Kings has been outstanding. His absence results in a ten-point drop in scoring for every hundred possessions for the second-ranked Kings offense, according to CTG.</p>



<p>To add insult to injury, Sabonis has played 45 games to Zion’s 33 and Williamson is expected to miss at least two more weeks. When comparing their loss totals, the Kings are now three games ahead of the Pels.</p>



<h2>2. Anthony Davis</h2>



<p><strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-3-worst-performing-nba-teams-in-2022-23-20230122-SPD-3342.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Davis</a></strong> has a true shooting percentage of 65.9 and is averaging 27.2 points, 12.1 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game. The first three statistics are much superior than Zion Williamson’s bests, especially in terms of rebounds and blocks. In terms of TS, the numbers are quite similar.</p>



<p>Even without any other excellent defenders, the Lakers’ defensive rating would be the best in the NBA if Davis were playing. He is the Lakers’ defense, while Zion has improved defensively, but he is more of a byproduct of a successful New Orleans defense than a star in his own right. Davis was, for a while this season, the league’s top performer.</p>



<h2>1. Joel Embiid</h2>



<p>In this situation, Embiid was more deserving of a starting spot than Anteokounmpo was, therefore his exclusion was unjust. Embiid was voted third among frontcourt players by the media and players, behind Tatum and Durant, but he came in at a fourth place in the fan poll, which was won by Giannis. The key distinction lay there.</p>



<p>The notion that the fans are the game’s lifeblood and should have a say in the All-Star Game selection process has some merit, but in this case, the league made a mistake. Embiid outscores Antetokounmpo despite shooting at a far lower percentage from the field.</p>


Joel Embiid and two other biggest 2023 NBA All-Star starter snubs - thesportsdrops NEWS

Joel Embiid and two other biggest 2023 NBA All-Star starter snubs


<p>The <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-return-to-buccaneers-and-four-other-options-for-tom-brady-20230118-SPD-3332.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL divisional playoffs</a></strong> ended many debates over who the top teams were. The league’s four finest clubs will square off in the conference finals. The Philadelphia Eagles defeated the New York Giants by a large margin, proving once again that they are a top-tier NFL club and a legitimate title contender. </p>



<p>The NFC Championship Game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the San Francisco 49ers will be played on January 21 at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The 49ers advanced by defeating the Dallas Cowboys, setting up the conference’s top-two seeds against each other.</p>



<p>This year’s AFC Championship Game features a rematch between the Kansas City Chiefs and Cincinnati Bengals, two of the greatest teams in the league. Although Patrick Mahomes played through a high ankle injury to help the Chiefs beat the Jaguars, Joe Burrow led the Bengals to a dominating win against the Bills in Buffalo’s snow.</p>



<h2>AFC Championship – Kansas City Chiefs</h2>



<p>Already, the anticipated rematch between the Chiefs and Bengals from last year’s AFC championship game is exciting. When you add in <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-kickers-in-nfl-history-20221228-SPD-3287.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Patrick Mahomes</a></strong> and Joe Burrow and consider that Mahomes is playing with a high-ankle sprain, you have a recipe for another classic in the NFL.</p>



<p>Mahomes is 0-3 against Burrow in the previous two years, including a 27-24 overtime loss in last year’s AFC Championship Game that Kansas City squandered after leading 21-10 in the second quarter. The average margin of victory in those games has been three points, with Cincinnati outscoring Kansas City 26-6 in the last frame and overtime.</p>



<p>Since they had a winning record at Arrowhead Stadium during the regular season, they have a solid shot of beating the Bengals there. Though the Chiefs eventually prevailed 27-20 against the Jaguars in the Divisional Round, the Chiefs’ offensive line had been the league’s deadliest throughout the regular season.</p>



<h2>NFC Championship – San Francisco 49ers</h2>



<p>Unfortunately for fans of both teams, the 49ers and Eagles have only ever met once in the playoffs (the 49ers won 14-0 in the 1996 NFC Wild Card round). Both of today’s starting quarterbacks, Jalen Hurts and Brock Purdy, weren’t even conceived then. This will be the youngest NFC Championship Game ever, with Hurts (24 years, 175 days) facing off against Purdy (23 years, 33 days).</p>



<p>In his first year as a starter, Purdy became just the fourth quarterback to win a conference title after being taken in the sixth round or later (or going undrafted). It marks the 49ers’ 18th trip to the NFL’s conference championship game (and third in the last four years). As far as we can tell, they are the only NFC club that has never been to Philadelphia for a playoff game.</p>



<p>Kyle Shanahan has played in an NFC Conference Championship game before, in 2021 when his team fell 20-17 to the Los Angeles Rams. Hopes have been raised, their performance has improved, and Purdy seems to be the frontrunner to start next season.</p>


NFL: The 2 heavy favorites to take home 2023 Conference Championship title - thesportsdrops NEWS

NFL: The 2 heavy favorites to take home 2023 Conference Championship title


<p>Every NBA team spends the whole season building a championship-caliber roster. It’s not uncommon for a club to open the season as heavy favorites to win their division and go far into the playoffs after assembling a squad full of talented individuals.</p>



<p>Less than three months remain in the regular <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-3-small-forwards-in-2022-23-nba-season-20221202-SPD-3219.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2022-23 NBA season</a></strong>, and thus far it has been wonderful. Some teams have underperformed both surprisingly and predictably, and it’s up to them to figure out whether they can make a comeback.</p>



<p>Nowadays, even modest slipups aren’t really so insignificant. While there is still much time this season and any team may make a turnaround, these three teams will be taking a long, hard look at themselves to see if they can fix their flaws this year.</p>



<h2>3. Golden State Warriors</h2>



<p>It’s understandable that the reigning champions, who have an aging core, would take it easy during the regular season. However, the team’s 6-18 road record, 17th-ranked offense, and negative point differential beggar belief. Sure, the Warriors weren’t doing so hot before Curry’s recent absence or Andrew Wiggins’.</p>



<p>The Warriors’ starting lineup has been dominating all season long, and the team’s recent showings against the Celtics, provide cause for confidence that they can still compete with top-tier contenders. No one knows whether the bench can carry any significant load, and the defense is no longer a reliable safety net. The Warriors have very little room to make mistakes now, yet they continue to do it nevertheless.</p>



<h2>2. Atlanta Hawks</h2>



<p>While the Hawks’ current five-game winning streak is encouraging, this season has still fallen well short of the lofty expectations that accompanied the deal for Dejounte Murray. The defense has become better, but the offense is in danger of being ranked among the worst in the league because of its reliance on a small number of players.</p>



<p>Nobody is moving, neither the ball nor the player. Trae Young and Murray engage in a futile charade of who will take the lead, with Young’s 3-point percentage being over 35 percent due solely to a recent hot run. For a club that just traded Kevin Huerter and desperately needs shooting, it just won’t cut it. Atlanta is fourth in the NBA in 3-point percentage, behind only Denver, Chicago, and Los Angeles.</p>



<h2>1. Minnesota Timberwolves</h2>



<p>The <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-3-teams-in-2022-23-nba-season-so-far-20221210-SPD-3243.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Timberwolves</a></strong> had been predicted to win 50 games and finish in the playoff’s top four. They risked a lot to acquire Rudy Gobert, but they must have thought they could contend for a conference championship in the West Conference to make such a move. There was no intention of this lasting very long.</p>



<p>After coming so close to winning a playoff series last year, this group will have a difficult time making the playoffs this year. Although it was the defense that was expected to improve significantly, they have actually regressed since last year.</p>


Top 3 worst performing NBA teams in 2022-23 - thesportsdrops NEWS

Top 3 worst performing NBA teams in 2022-23


<p>Most likely, the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/bojan-bogdanovic-and-other-potential-players-warriors-could-look-to-acquire-20221225-SPD-3282.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Houston Rockets</a></strong> are attempting to trade Eric Gordon to other teams in exchange for draft selections. In all likelihood, Orlando will answer calls for Terrence Ross and Gary Harris. Both Charlotte and Detroit should be willing to listen to offers from older players.</p>



<p>These players were vital, yet they are hardly spoken of outside of February. One may always expect a few deadlines to be extended at the conclusion of any given period.</p>



<p>Even though this is one of the most packed playoff races in league history, there are five clubs who stand out as not just the most likely sellers at the deadline but the pivots of the entire market. The rest of the league is waiting for these teams to make a decision, and if a deal changes the outcome of the championship in February, one of these teams is likely to be involved.</p>



<h2>3. Chicago Bulls</h2>



<p>This group will never amount to anything. This era of Bulls basketball, ironically, started two days ago when the Orlando Magic reached the same decision and traded Vucevic to the Bulls. It’s possible that this agreement is currently preventing Chicago from progressing. </p>



<p>With just 21 victories, they won’t be able to choose in the first four picks. If not, the Magic will make the selection. From that vantage point, it may be best for the Bulls to simply wait it out and figure out a retool in the winter. Since Vucevic’s contract is up and DeRozan is in his mid-30s, a transfer sooner rather than later is preferable.</p>



<h2>2. Washington Wizards</h2>



<p>If for no other reason than that, no player who was really content with his present club would say as much on the record about his approaching free agency as Kuzma has, he will likely be dealt before the deadline. He’s the mythical big wing who can shoot, and who won’t hurt you on either end of the court, therefore he should be a perfect match for almost any playoff team. The truth isn’t as cut and dry.</p>



<p>Of course, Kuzma is more of a test than anything else. He plays a position where teams are willing to overlook shortcomings in otherwise good players like himself. In the summer, a team will likely offer a package of lucrative assets in exchange for Kuzma, betting that they will sign him to a large multiyear deal and, in doing so, perhaps setting the market for comparable wings.</p>



<h2>1. San Antonio Spurs</h2>



<p>Those who can play the position of center or power forward in the playoffs are quite uncommon. Karl-Anthony Towns, in a single game last spring, was able to force Steven Adams off the court due to the extreme need for flexibility. A smaller player at the center who planned to flip screens and make up for offensive losses could get away with it until just lately. </p>



<p>Nikola Jokic has given one conference new planning challenges, while the other has Joel Embiid and Giannis Antetokounmpo to contend with. In order to defeat the incorrect center, all it takes is one mismatch.</p>


Three NBA teams with the most potential for February sales - thesportsdrops NEWS

Three NBA teams with the most potential for February sales


<p>After a miserable 31-14 defeat to the Cowboys on Monday night, <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-news-tom-brady-could-retire-for-good-in-2023-if-bucaneers-win-super-bowl-2204-20220714-SPD-2204.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Brady</a></strong> and the Buccaneers’ playoff hopes for this year are officially over. This was just Brady’s fourth one-and-done performance in his 23 seasons as an NFL starting quarterback, and the loss was the second most lopsided of his career. </p>



<p>The 45-year-old told reporters he would ‘take it one day at a time’ in the wake of Monday’s defeat, being characteristically evasive. Being a free agent, this season marked Brady’s third season with the Bucs, and it very well may have been his last, either by the team’s or his own decision.</p>



<p>It’s possible that Brady may revisit his old stomping grounds in Tampa. It’s possible he’ll look for a new team to play for. He even could decide to call it quits at some point once again. In any case, what choices does he have? Let’s find out.</p>



<h2>Return to Buccaneers</h2>



<p>It’s no secret that Brady gets along well with the team’s higher-ups, especially the Glazer family, who own the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/tom-brady-takes-leave-from-buccaneers-until-august-20-for-personal-matters-2506-20220811-SPD-2506.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Buccaneers</a></strong> and helped lure Brady away from the Patriots in 2020. Compared to other NFL locales, Tampa, Florida, must be a lot more pleasant now that he’s reached the end of his career. And he leaves behind a short but significant legacy as a Buccaneer, ending a decade of club irrelevance with an MVP-caliber championship run.</p>



<h2>Join Jets</h2>



<p>Currently, the Jets’ sole evident need is for a veteran quarterback. Meanwhile, Brady’s arrival would instantly restore respectability to a locker room that cheered Zach Wilson’s demotion that year. For the most part, what’s holding things up is whether or not the Jets would rather have a somewhat longer-term potential.</p>



<h2>Go back to Patriots</h2>



<p>Despite the general public’s disapproval, here is where Brady made his mark, and he is still respected among his peers. The Patriots’ offense may be revamped without a financial problem. Mac Jones has to move over here and regain his bearings. It would also serve as a logical stepping stone for Brady’s eventual transition into full retirement.</p>



<h2>Join Titans</h2>



<p>Prior to re-signing Ryan Tannehill, the Titans explored a free-agent deal with Brady in 2020. The departure of general manager Jon Robinson and the hiring of coach Mike Vrabel gives the quarterback a chance to return to his roots as a quarterback.</p>



<h2>Join 49ers</h2>



<p>On paper, this seems like a match made in heaven: Brady grew up in the Bay Area and has always had a soft spot for the 49ers, and his ability to make split-second decisions and read the field effectively makes him a great fit for a system designed to get the ball to its playmakers as quickly as possible. However, the team may not be able to afford to change a winning recipe only to bring together a renowned name and a legendary team.</p>


NFL: Return to Buccaneers and four other options for Tom Brady - thesportsdrops NEWS

NFL: Return to Buccaneers and four other options for Tom Brady


<p>On Wednesday, the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/red-sox-top-4-replacements-for-trevor-story-after-elbow-surgery-20230113-SPD-3324.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Red Sox</a></strong> and Rafael Devers agreed to an 11-year agreement, making Devers the latest outstanding player to stay with the team after the departures of Mookie Betts and Xander Bogaerts. As Devers was already on the team, the Red Sox didn’t have to make any moves to accommodate his new contract, but it does have an immediate impact on the following winter free-agency market.</p>



<p>Devers might have finished the season with the Red Sox and then been one of the top two or three players available next winter if he had stayed with them. Instead, the independent workforce will have fewer resources available to them. But it doesn’t imply just minor players will be available in the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/top-3-mlb-extension-candidates-20230108-SPD-3314.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2023-24 season</a></strong>.</p>



<p>To that end, <em>CBS Sports</em> have make an early attempt at rating the top players who are anticipated to be free in around nine months. Take a look at the four possible players that could be available to get for free in 2023-24.</p>



<h2>4. Aaron Nola</h2>



<p>Due to a lackluster 2021 season, Nola’s numbers aren’t very impressive. In spite of this, he is a proven workhorse with three Cy Young Award top-five finishes to his name. Whether it’s with the Phillies or another team, Nola will likely be offered a lucrative long-term contract.</p>



<h2>3. Julio Urias</h2>



<p>After pitching at least 300 innings throughout the Pandemic Era, Urias will approach his walk year with the fourth-best ERA+ in that group. The fact that he will still be relatively young at 27, the fact that he throws with his left hand, and the fact that the Dodgers have lots of financial freedom moving into the new year all appear to point toward his getting a lucrative contract.</p>



<h2>2. Manny Machado</h2>



<p>After the current season, Machado can exercise his contract’s opt-out and walk away from $160 million over the remaining five years. By then, he will be 31 years old and likely fresh off a stretch that had him nominated for the Most Valuable Player Award four times in a row. </p>



<p>Although unusual outcomes with opt-out calls are possible, it is believed Machado would be able to enhance his total payout or surpass his average yearly value by signing one of the recently popular super long-term agreements. If he finds that he like life in San Diego too much to leave, then that’s OK.</p>



<h2>1. Shohei Ohtani</h2>



<p>Ohtani is a once-in-a-generation talent who will earn a once-in-a-generation salary. Hehas made it clear that he wants to help the Angels win a World Series, but that seems unlikely. If and when he becomes available, other teams, including the Dodgers and Mets, are likely to aggressively pursue him. That means Ohtani won’t have to choose winning above financial success.</p>


Top 4 possible 2023-24 MLB season free agents - thesportsdrops NEWS

Top 4 possible 2023-24 MLB season free agents


<p>The <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/top-3-mlb-extension-candidates-20230108-SPD-3314.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boston Red Sox</a></strong> have had a rough offseason so far, and on Tuesday they learned that shortstop Trevor Story would miss a large portion of the 2023 season due to elbow surgery. After Xander Bogaerts left, the expectation was that Story, who started at second base last season, would go over to shortstop.</p>



<p>Things couldn’t go much worse for the Red Sox at this time. There were a ton of good shortstops available this winter, but as of Tuesday night, they were all signed. This leaves Boston’s senior baseball executive, Chaim Bloom, with a lot of work to do in the coming weeks since the Red Sox plan to use Enrique Hernandez and Christian Arroyo in the middle infield.</p>



<p>Bloom and the Red Sox need a shortstop, but they don’t know where to go or who to ask. Check out the top four emergency options for the Red Sox, as per <em>CBS Sports</em>.</p>



<h2>4. Jose Iglesias</h2>



<p>Iglesias, alongside Andrus, is the top remaining free agent possibility is Jose Iglesias. He’s been with the Red Sox twice, both times as a second baseman by the end of the 2021 season. At this stage of his career, he should definitely stick to that side of the bag, but the Red Sox can’t afford to be greedy right now.</p>



<h2>3. Taylor Wall</h2>



<p>Wall is a switch-hitter who, in over 200 games in the majors, has produced dreadful offensive stats. Fortunately, his defensive play relies on it. While public metrics like Defensive Runs Saved give him high marks, Statcast’s Outs Above Average give him low marks.</p>



<h2>2. Joey Wendle</h2>



<p>The Red Sox have reportedly shown interest in Wendle and Miguel Rojas, who both play for the Marlins. Despite Wendle’s below-average hitting performance in his debut year with the Marlins, he had posted above-average numbers in each of the two prior campaigns. Moreover, his defensive adaptability would allow him to remain in Boston’s rotation even after Story’s late summer comeback.</p>



<h2>1. Elvis Andrus</h2>



<p>The Red Sox would be wise to pursue <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/carlos-correa-and-the-most-shocking-mlb-trades-in-this-offseason-20221223-SPD-3278.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Andrus</a></strong>. The 34-year-old has shown no signs of improving his offensive production in the past, therefore it’s quite improbable that he will do so in the future. However, he has lived up to his reputation as a solid defender, and signing him to a one-year contract wouldn’t mean the Red Sox passed up on total-package shortstops.</p>


Red Sox: Top 4 replacements for Trevor Story after elbow surgery - thesportsdrops NEWS

Red Sox: Top 4 replacements for Trevor Story after elbow surgery


<p>The <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-running-in-nfl-history-20230104-SPD-3304.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pittsburgh Steelers</a></strong> are the seventh-oldest team in the National Football League, having been established in 1933. They have won six Super Bowls, the most recent being in 2008. This puts them in a tie for second place with the New England Patriots.</p>



<p>The Steelers are a football team from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, that plays in the American Football Conference (AFC) North of the National Football League (NFL). The Steelers are the AFC’s oldest team and the seventh-oldest in the NFL, having entered the league in 1933.</p>



<p>The Pittsburgh Pirates, the predecessor of the modern-day Steelers, were founded in the early 1920s as a regional professional football club. They were accepted into the NFL on July 8, 1933. The team’s current home field is Acrisure Stadium, located in the North Shore section of Pittsburgh.</p>



<h2>5. James Farrior</h2>



<p>James Farrior was a crucial element of the Steelers’ defenses and helped the club win two Super Bowls because of his substance rather than his flare. His 104 value points put him well ahead of any other player in his position during his period. You can’t win championships without the players that put in the dirty labor, and Farrior’s name is on that list when you look up team player and contributor.</p>



<h2>4. Casey Hampton</h2>



<p>Big and powerful, Casey Hampton left his mark on the field. He was the mainstay of the 3-4 defense that helped the team win two Super Bowls, despite weighing over 300 pounds. Since defenses are equally as crucial to victory as attacks, Hampton ranks well. A look at his numbers doesn’t provide with an accurate picture of his impact.</p>



<h2>3. Terry Bradshaw</h2>



<p>There is nothing more to be said about Terry Bradshaw. He was the quarterback for four championship teams, was named Super Bowl MVP twice, and had an outsized character to match. The position of quarterback is his forte, and he ranks among the all-time greats. Terry Brady existed long before Tom Brady did.</p>



<h2>2. Ben Roethlisberger</h2>



<p>Ben Roethlisberger, despite some controversy, is ranked higher than Terry Bradshaw because of his superior individual statistics. Roethlisberger has twice led the NFL in passing yards, and he did it in a more technologically sophisticated period than Bradshaw. He led the club to two Super Bowl victories in the modern period, which is no small feat. Big Ben deserves praise for its efficiency.</p>



<h2>1. Joe Greene</h2>



<p><strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-wide-receivers-in-nfl-history-20221231-SPD-3297.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Joe Greene</a></strong> is the best Steeler of all time. Greene is the only one who really nails the city’s work ethic. In the era of the “Steel Curtain,” he dominated the field defensively. Fans of the Pittsburgh Steelers hold him in the highest regard and use him as a standard by which other players are evaluated.</p>


NFL: Top 5 best Pittsburgh Steelers players of all time - thesportsdrops NEWS

NFL: Top 5 best Pittsburgh Steelers players of all time


<p>The <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/carlos-correa-and-the-most-shocking-mlb-trades-in-this-offseason-20221223-SPD-3278.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MLB</a></strong> season will soon reach a critical deadline: Teams and their arbitration-eligible players have until Friday, January 13 to submit pay numbers for 2023. This isn’t the most exciting deadline in terms of the hot stove, but it is serious business since the great majority of players will have signed contracts for 2023 by then. </p>



<p>The unofficial beginning of extension season is marked by the filing deadline. One such deal was completed this month when <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/carlos-correa-aaron-judge-and-top-10-largest-mlb-contracts-of-all-time-20221214-SPD-3255.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Rafael Devers</a></strong> and the Red Sox agreed to a hefty 11-year, $331 million contract to keep him from becoming a free agent following the season.</p>



<p>Despite the exceptional circumstances caused by the lockout, a number of players, including Emmanuel Clase, Ke’Bryan Hayes, Ryan McMahon, and Matt Olson, signed long-term extensions between the conclusion of the lockout and the start of the season. Even though Devers’ deal was the first of the year, other massive contracts will almost definitely be signed before the 2023 season starts.&nbsp;Check out the top three MLB players who could get long-term deals.</p>



<h2>3. Brandon Woodruff</h2>



<p>Although the Brewers have a number of contract contenders, including Willy Adames and Corbin Burnes, Woodruff seems to be the most likely to sign a long-term agreement that is within the team’s budget constraints. It’s safe to assume that Adames is salivating over the shortstop contracts that were signed this offseason, and Burnes has roughly two years on Woodruff in age. </p>



<p>Since 2015, Milwaukee’s Opening Day payroll has never been better than the 17th, therefore the team must carefully use their resources. Of course, Woodruff is terrific, and the Brewers wouldn’t settle for less even if he has a better chance of signing a cheap long-term deal than Adames or Burnes.</p>



<h2>2. Logan Webb</h2>



<p>One option for the San Francisco Giants to fix things is to extend the contract of the popular domestic star, Logan Webb. Certainly not all, but a few. Webb is a local person who grew up just about two hours outside of the Bay Area, and negotiations for a contract have already started.</p>



<p>With just Mitch Haniger signed until 2025, the Giants have relatively little long-term payroll commitment, giving them a lot of flexibility. They have enough cap space to re-sign Webb and make another go at major free players in the summer after failing to get any of the big fish this time around. Webb is, bar none, the greatest player on the club, so signing him to a long-term deal is smart business.</p>



<h2>1. Kyle Tucker</h2>



<p>Though not every player on the team receives an extension (recent free agents Gerrit Cole, Carlos Correa, and George Springer are examples), the Astros make sure to keep hold of their most valuable assets. Long-term contracts have recently been given to players like Jose Altuve, Alex Bregman, and Lance McCullers Jr. Yordan Alvarez inked a six-year, $115 million contract in June of last year. Three years from now in 2023, Tucker will be eligible for free agency, and by that time he is expected to have made close to $6 million.</p>


Top 3 MLB extension candidates - thesportsdrops NEWS

Top 3 MLB extension candidates


<p>Finding a franchise quarterback who can lead the team to victory is like finding a needle in a haystack during the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-running-in-nfl-history-20230104-SPD-3304.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL Draft</a>.</strong> Offensive quarterbacks often need more time than defensive players to get comfortable with the playbook, the scheme, and their bodies.</p>



<p>Inevitably, there will be an out. Joe Burrow, Kyler Murray, and Justin Herbert have dominated from the start of the season on. Historically speaking, it wasn’t standard practice for clubs to invest early draft selections in quarterbacks.</p>



<p>There are no sure bets since <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/tom-brady-takes-leave-from-buccaneers-until-august-20-for-personal-matters-2506-20220811-SPD-2506.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tom Brady</a></strong> was the 199th choice in his Draft. Nonetheless, the following quarterbacks were widely regarded as future Hall of Famers, but they all but squandered their potential and eventually retired from the NFL due to poor performance.</p>



<h2>3. Akili Smith (1999)</h2>



<p>After his time at Oregon, Smith seemed to be a dangerous dual-threat quarterback with the ability to extend plays with his feet and rack up big yardage totals.</p>



<p>Smith seemed to be completely out of sync with his receivers from day one and was unable to make any necessary adjustments. He stopped playing after the 2002 season with a career-throwing stat line of 2,212 yards, 5 TDs against 13 INTs, and retirement.</p>



<h2>2. Ryan Leaf (1998)</h2>



<p>Ryan Leaf was compared to Peyton Manning very often. He thrived at Washington State and had all the physical qualities to become a lethal passer and the future face of the league. He spent only three seasons in the NFL before being demoted to practice squads.</p>



<p>All of Leaf’s endeavors were failures. He was clumsy, slow, and inaccurate when throwing to open receivers. He left the game with a quarterback rating of 50, 3,666 passing yards, 14 touchdowns, and a shocking 36 interceptions.</p>



<h2>1. JaMarcus Russell (2007)</h2>



<p>Without a doubt, JaMarcus Russell is the most disappointing player in NFL history. Just two years after being selected, he had fallen from LSU legend status and the status of “can’t-miss talent” to the fringes of professional sports.</p>



<p>As he was high on codeine, Russell had stopped watching movies and working out. He was built for greatness and possessed the arm power and accuracy to become a legendary quarterback, but instead, he retired with 4,803 career passing yards, 18 touchdowns, 23 interceptions, and 15 fumbles. Six years and $68 million later, the Raiders still owed him $31.5 million of the total.</p>


Top 3 quarterback flops in NFL draft history - thesportsdrops NEWS

Top 3 quarterback flops in NFL draft history


<p>The running back position has been an integral part of the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-wide-receivers-in-nfl-history-20221231-SPD-3297.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a></strong> since its beginnings. In the modern era of American football, where quarterbacks and high-octane speed create the game, a dominant rush assault will prove to be the deciding factor in the outcome of games.</p>



<p>While big passes are exciting to see, nothing beats the joy of a great run defense being carved apart. Even though the running back position has evolved with the modern game of football, the history of the National Football League has a history of great ball carriers.</p>



<p>By the middle of the 2000s, having a backfield standout might be a huge advantage since many of the NFL’s all-time best running backs retired decades earlier. Several current athletes have also achieved legendary status in their respective professions. Check out the top three running backs in NFL history.</p>



<h2>3. Walter Payton</h2>



<p>The NFL record for rushing yards was held by Walter “Sweetness” Payton until 2002 when Emmitt Smith surpassed him. In addition, his 110 rushing touchdowns rank fourth all-time.</p>



<p>He was the 1977 Super Bowl XX winner and was selected to the Pro Bowl nine times. After scoring a touchdown, he was so proud of himself that he threw the ball to the referee instead of continuing the celebration.</p>



<h2>2. Jim Brown</h2>



<p>This 8-time All-Pro and 3-time MVP was more than just a fullback; he played in every game of his NFL career. A fearsome combination of size and speed allowed the massive Brown to run on defenseman with ease, and he did it seven times in all but one season, playing in 12 or 14 games each time.</p>



<p>Throughout his career, Brown scored more than one touchdown each game and set a new NFL record of 5.2 meters per track.</p>



<h2>1. Emmitt Smith</h2>



<p>After 15 years and 226 games in the NFL, <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-kickers-in-nfl-history-20221228-SPD-3287.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Emmitt Smith</a></strong> topped the list of all-time rushers. Smith, who finished last, ran the ball 4,409 times for 18,355 yards in his career.</p>



<p>Averaging 4.2 yards per carry and scoring 175 times. Smith’s career average from scrimmage to reception is 21.579 yards, which he achieved over the course of 13 years with Dallas and two with Arizona.</p>


Top 3 running backs in NFL history - thesportsdrops NEWS

Top 3 running backs in NFL history


<p>The <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-centers-in-nfl-history-20221230-SPD-3292.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a></strong> may have had one of the most racially and ethnically diverse rosters after 1985, but professional football has had tremendous popularity since at least the 1930s. At now, the wide receiver position is the most important one in the NFL.</p>



<p>When things go well or wrong for a team, the biggest outs, next to the quarterback, seem to garner the most scrutiny. Many wide receivers (WRs) over the years have won championships and even reigned as “kings” of the sport.</p>



<p>Even superstar athletes like Odell Beckham and Antonio Brown are always in the spotlight these days, as they serve as the public face of their respective teams and the NFL itself. What follows is a ranking of the best three <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-kickers-in-nfl-history-20221228-SPD-3287.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">wide receivers</a></strong> in NFL history.</p>



<h2>3. Randy Moss</h2>



<p>The tone for Moss’s career was established early in his debut year when he led the league with 17 goals. Moss led the NFL with five touchdown catches and was selected to the First Team All-Pro four times. He scored 23 touchdowns in a single season in 2007, setting a new record.</p>



<h2>2. Marvin H. Harrison</h2>



<p>Marvin Harrison, an eight-time Pro Bowler who played for 13 years and amassed 14,580 yards and 128 touchdowns, retired from the NFL in 2009. He finished his career with the Indianapolis Colts.</p>



<p>When the Colts beat the Bears in Super Bowl XLI, Harrison got his hands on a ring. He has previously been a Pro Football Hall of Fame finalist in 2014 and 2015.</p>



<h2>1. Jerry Rice</h2>



<p>Having been selected to the Pro Bowl 11 times and to the All-Pro first team 10 times, Rice holds NFL records that will never be broken. Twice he had the most receptions in the league, and on six occasions he had the most receiving yards or touchdowns.</p>



<p>His thirties were a time of great improvement, as he amassed more yards than his twenties had seen. By the time he retired in 2006, Rice had thrown for 1,549 yards and 197 scores.</p>


Top 3 wide receivers in NFL history - thesportsdrops NEWS

Top 3 wide receivers in NFL history


<p>While the center’s contributions to an <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-kickers-in-nfl-history-20221228-SPD-3287.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL</a></strong> team’s offense sometimes go undetected, they are crucial to the success of the team’s overall offense. Only a select few people have ever held this position with such high regard throughout the League’s existence.</p>



<p>Although we are all considering abilities and even mentioning offensive tackles by name if we want to seem particularly sage, centers are vital to any offensive plan.</p>



<p>Even though they play an important role, centers don’t always have the easiest time of it. Centers are underappreciated despite performing one of the few sports roles that require both cerebral and physical prowess. Check out the best centers in NFL history.</p>



<h2>3. Jim Ringo</h2>



<p>Jim Ringo was a key contributor in the Green Bay Packers’ two NFL championship runs in his last three seasons with the team. In 1961, the trio of Jim Taylor, Jim Ringo, and Paul Hornung accounted for an additional 1,800 yards on the ground.</p>



<p>Twenty-three touchdowns were the salt and pepper to the whole dish. After leaving the Packers after the 1963 season, Ringo played for the Philadelphia Eagles for four years, during which time he was named to the Pro Bowl three times.</p>



<h2>2. Mike Webster</h2>



<p>Webster may not have gotten the most recognition for the Pittsburgh Steelers four Super Bowl wins, but he was instrumental in keeping the team’s great offensive line together. To this day, he is still considered one of the finest defensive centers and creates space for Franco Harris. Webster had an integral role in the Pro Bowl every year from 1978 through 1985.</p>



<p>Webster left the Steelers after 16 years with the team. Webster was a major reason why Christian Okoye gained over 2,200 yards in a span of two seasons (1989 and 1990). The game Mike loved so much was finally purchased by him. The 50-year-old Hall of Fame center succumbed to injuries sustained while playing football.</p>



<h2>1. Jim Otto</h2>



<p>No matter the year, the Raiders standout was the top player in his position in the NFL. In order to protect quarterbacks like Tom Flores, Daryle Lamonica, and Ken Stabler, he was the best there was at what he did.</p>



<p>While Otto was a mauler, he also exemplified the league’s shift toward more athletic centers. He played in 308 consecutive games from 1960 to 1974, which is an impressive feat of endurance.</p>


Top 3 centers in NFL history - thesportsdrops NEWS

Top 3 centers in NFL history


<p>Although <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/nfl-rumors-3-reasons-washington-commanders-playoff-chances-are-real-20221116-SPD-3157.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">kickers</a></strong> are sometimes overlooked, they play a crucial role in the success of a football team. Like referees in other sports, kickers are expected to remain unsung heroes on the field.</p>



<p>When watching an <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nfl/top-3-rookies-for-2022-23-nfl-season-20221207-SPD-3236.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NFL game</a></strong>, the sidelines often don’t get much attention. They’re trying to keep warm by repeatedly kicking the ball into the net.<br>They have to sit on the bench for the rest of the game and kick a 55-yard field goal to redeem themselves.</p>



<p>To earn the title of “greatest kicker of all time”, players must maintain a high level of performance in their field for an extended period of time, earning praise and admiration from their peers and building a solid reputation for their family in the process. Check out NFL history’s best kickers.</p>



<h2>3. Lou Groza</h2>



<p>Groza’s career wasn’t a rating winner. However, he made significant changes to the kicking industry. From 40-50 yards out, he was the first kicker to be challenged. Every year, the top kicker in college football receives the Lou Grossa award.</p>



<h2>2. Morten Andersen</h2>



<p>Morten Andersen, who lived a long life, had a career that is only rivaled by a few of the current players. Andersen has set several records over the course of his incredible 25-year career, including the most games played (382), most total field goals (565), and most earned points span (2,544).</p>



<p>He participated in seven Pro Bowls, was selected to the All-Pro team five times, and was just the second pure kicker to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.</p>



<h2>1. Justin Tucker</h2>



<p>With a career field goal percentage of 90.1% and just one point after a touchdown missed, Justin Tucker is the most accurate kicker in NFL history. He played in two Pro Bowls and was named to the First Team All-Pro for three consecutive seasons. He is also an accomplished grab kicker, with several of his kicks landing on the line.</p>


Top 3 kickers in NFL history - thesportsdrops NEWS

Top 3 kickers in NFL history


<p>The defending NBA champion <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/top-three-under-25-players-in-2022-23-nba-season-20221204-SPD-3231.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Golden State Warriors</a></strong> have stumbled to start the new season. Their bench was severely beaten up, and Steve Kerr has had trouble finding a rotation that works for them now.</p>



<p>Furthermore, it’s likely that they lack the necessary personnel to win back-to-back titles. Therefore, despite their deep affection for their prospects, they may have to abandon some of them.</p>



<p>Keeping this in mind and the Warriors’ salary cap constraints in mind, these are the three most likely trade possibilities that might help Stephen Curry and the Warriors right the ship.</p>



<h2>3. Jakob Poeltl</h2>



<p>The San Antonio Spurs are currently uninterested in a championship. Their only goal is to get the number one overall selection in the 2018 NBA Choose so that they may draft Victor Wembanyama, hence they are likely to deal away most of their older players.</p>



<p>The Dubs have benefited much from Kevon Looney’s play, but James Wiseman is too much of a liability. They’d benefit from having a big guy like Jakob Poeltl on the bench who can help anchor the defense and isn’t a major problem in the paint.</p>



<h2>2. Bojan Bogdanovic</h2>



<p>The acquisition of <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/james-harden-goran-dragic-and-all-nba-players-available-for-trade-after-december-15-20221211-SPD-3247.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bojan Bogdanovic</a></strong> was a huge win for the Detroit Pistons. Their young players have benefited greatly from his presence as a seasoned veteran, and he is now playing the greatest basketball of his career. He is, however, not compatible with their timeframe.</p>



<p>As much as they care about him, they should seek compensation for him. He fits well into Steve Kerr’s style since he is a smart player, a good distributor, an effective shooter, and a dependable team defender.</p>



<h2>1. Gary Trent Jr.</h2>



<p>It’s no secret that Gary Trent Jr. will be highly sought after in the trade market, and rumors have surfaced that the Toronto Raptors are exploring a complete squad overhaul.</p>



<p>Trent Jr. is a tenacious backcourt defender and one of the league’s best three-point shooters. As with Gary Payton II, he has the 3-and-D abilities that the Dubs have yearned for all season and has the potential to be a key spark for them.</p>


Bojan Bogdanovic and other potential players Warriors could look to acquire - thesportsdrops NEWS

Bojan Bogdanovic and other potential players Warriors could look to acquire


<p>They may say the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/nba/lebron-james-and-other-nba-greats-who-could-have-had-successful-nfl-careers-20221221-SPD-3274.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a></strong> is where the unbelievable occurs, but the <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/aaron-judge-and-other-top-3-potential-mlb-free-agents-20221113-SPD-3150.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">MLB</a></strong> isn’t too far behind. There are often surprising transactions and overseas signings throughout the offseason.</p>



<p>Even this year didn’t break that pattern. You never know what’s going to happen in this league, what with the New York Mets signing Kodai Senga to a large contract and Cody Bellinger earning MVP-kind of money.</p>



<p>Even more so with Carlos Correa’s impromptu transfer to Queens at the last minute, this offseason has all the makings of being one of the wildest in recent memory. Given this, let’s examine the three deals that shocked people the most.</p>



<h2>3. Xander Bogaerts</h2>



<p>While it was not unexpected for Xander Bogaerts to have significant interest from many organizations, the fact that he signed with the San Diego Padres was stunning.</p>



<p>Spending large money on superstars is a clear step in the right way as the Padres aim to construct a contender. However, one has to consider whether this is really the best arrangement for both people involved.</p>



<h2>2. Jacob deGrom</h2>



<p>Generally speaking, opinions on Jacob deGrom were divided. The Mets had the support of 50 percent of those polled, while the Braves had the support of percent. So, it came as a surprise when the Texas Rangers came out of nowhere to sign the finest pitcher in baseball to a massive contract.</p>



<h2>1. Carlos Correa</h2>



<p>It was planned that the San Francisco Giants will formally welcome <strong><a href="https://news.thesportsdrop.com/mlb/carlos-correa-aaron-judge-and-top-10-largest-mlb-contracts-of-all-time-20221214-SPD-3255.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Carlos Correa</a></strong> to the team on Tuesday morning. Instead, he will join the New York Mets.</p>



<p>Correa’s 13-year, $350 million agreement with San Francisco fell through when a medical concern was discovered during his physical, which was discovered only hours before his planned introduction news conference in San Francisco. According to reports, the Mets came in during the night and agreed to a 12-year, $315 million contract with Correa.</p>


Martina Alcheva