2026 NFL mock draft 2.0: 3 QBs go in top 4, while Cowboys go defense twice and Chiefs select Travis Kelce's successor

Troy Aikman recently echoed Charles Barkley's sentiments about the importance of discussing the Dallas Cowboys in sports media. Aikman believes that the Cowboys, being one of the most popular teams, deserve more attention from networks. This conversation is significant as it highlights the influence of media coverage on fan engagement and the overall narrative of the NFL, especially given the Cowboys' storied history and large fanbase.

In this week's NFL discussion, Nate Tice and Charles McDonald share their bold predictions and key matchups for Week 9, highlighting what fans should keep an eye on. They also delve into their favorite selections from the latest 2026 NFL mock draft, providing insights that could shape the future of the league. This conversation is not just about the current games; it’s a glimpse into how upcoming talent might influence the NFL landscape.

Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon has confirmed that Kyler Murray is being prepared to start against the Dallas Cowboys on Monday, following a two-game absence due to a foot injury. This news is significant as the Cardinals aim to break a frustrating five-game losing streak, and Murray's return could provide the spark the team needs to turn their season around.

Jason Kelce's recent visit to Kansas City for ESPN's 'Monday Night Football' turned into a delightful family outing as he stopped by 1587 Prime, the restaurant co-owned by his brother Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes. The Chiefs had just celebrated a victory over the Washington Commanders, and the brothers, along with their dad, shared some laughs and good food. This visit not only highlights the strong bond between the Kelce brothers but also showcases the fun side of their lives outside of football, making it a heartwarming story for fans.

The NFL is buzzing with rumors as the Kansas City Chiefs are being urged to consider a trade for a pass rusher from the Miami Dolphins. This comes amid a challenging season for some star players, including Saquon Barkley and rookie Xavier Worthy, who have struggled to meet expectations in fantasy football. The potential trade could shake things up and provide the Chiefs with the defensive boost they need, while also impacting the fantasy landscape for managers who are keeping a close eye on player performances.

As we hit the midway point of the NFL season, the odds for the AFC and NFC title races are heating up, with the Kansas City Chiefs and Detroit Lions emerging as favorites. This is significant as it sets the stage for potential Super Bowl matchups, giving fans a glimpse of which teams might dominate the playoffs. Keeping an eye on these odds can help fans and bettors alike gauge the performance and potential of their favorite teams.

Brandon Aubrey, the standout kicker for the Dallas Cowboys, has been making headlines with his impressive performances, including a thrilling game against the Giants where he scored four field goals. This has led to speculation about a potential trade with the Rams, as insiders wonder if his value could lead to a significant move. This matters because it highlights the strategic decisions teams must make regarding player trades and the impact of individual performances on team dynamics.

This week's NFL matchup between the Chiefs and Bills is generating excitement as it holds significant implications for the AFC playoff picture. Fans are eager to see how this game will impact the standings and which team will gain an edge as the season progresses.

The second men's Twenty20 international between Australia and India is currently taking place at the MCG in Melbourne. Early on, Australian bowler Josh Hazlewood made a significant impact by dismissing Indian opener Shubman Gill. This match is crucial as it showcases the competitive spirit between two cricketing giants, and fans are eager to see how the game unfolds.

Liverpool is gearing up for an exciting weekend as they prepare to face Aston Villa before hosting Real Madrid in the Champions League. This is a crucial time for the defending champions as they aim to solidify their position in the Premier League and make a strong statement in Europe. Fans are eager to see how the team performs ahead of the November international break, making this weekend's matches particularly significant.

The Baltimore Ravens celebrated a significant victory against the Miami Dolphins, winning 28-6 in Week 9, which is crucial for their playoff hopes after a rocky start. Lamar Jackson's return from injury was a game-changer, and rookie Malaki Starks had a memorable moment with his first career interception, showcasing his potential. This win not only boosts the team's morale but also keeps their playoff aspirations alive, making it an exciting time for Ravens fans.

England's rugby team is generating genuine optimism ahead of the autumn series, thanks to their recent successes, including seven consecutive wins and a strong finish in the Six Nations. The unconventional pairing of Northampton players Tommy Freeman and Fraser Dingwall adds excitement to the squad's depth, suggesting that England is not only ready to compete but also to potentially dominate in upcoming matches.

The recent Cricket World Cup victory of India's women's team over Australia has not only thrilled fans but also sparked a broader conversation about women's empowerment in India. As cricket holds a special place in the hearts of many, this win serves as a powerful reminder of the potential for sports to challenge societal norms and promote gender equality. The celebration of this victory by thousands in Mumbai highlights the growing support for women's sports and the importance of reclaiming public spaces for women, making it a significant moment in both sports and social change.

Magnus Carlsen has once again proven his dominance in the chess world by triumphing at the historic Champions Showdown in St Louis, where he decisively defeated world champion Gukesh Dommaraju with a score of 5.5-0.5. This four-player tournament brought together the top players, showcasing intense competition over three days. Despite a rocky start, Carlsen's performance solidified his status as the world's number one, reminding fans why he is a chess legend. This victory not only highlights Carlsen's skill but also elevates the profile of chess as a thrilling spectator sport.