Jon Gruden, the former NFL head coach, passionately declared Hines Ward as the 'baddest Georgia Bulldog of all-time' during a recent rant. Gruden, known for his time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Raiders, shared his admiration for Ward, who delivered powerful hits as a wide receiver for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Ward's legacy includes a Super Bowl MVP title and impressive career stats with over 12,000 receiving yards and 85 touchdowns. Gruden's enthusiasm reflects a broader appreciation for the impact of Georgia's football program and its alumni in the NFL.

His comments serve as valuable recruitment tools, showcasing the caliber of athletes Georgia produces, and hinting at how passionate endorsements from respected figures like Gruden can sway potential recruits. Ward, now the wide receivers coach at Arizona State, exemplifies the type of player that leaves a mark both on and off the field.

The NFL's highest-paid non-quarterbacks showcase a diverse range of talent, primarily among wide receivers and defensive players. Leading the pack is Ja'Marr Chase from Cincinnati, earning an average annual salary of $40.25 million, closely followed by Myles Garrett at $40 million with the Cleveland Browns. Other notable figures include Justin Jefferson at $35 million with the Minnesota Vikings and D.K. Metcalf, who recently made a splash with the Pittsburgh Steelers at $33 million.

Amon-Ra St. Brown, Chris Jones, and A.J. Brown also represent the best of the best in their respective positions, emphasizing the league's investment in both offensive and defensive prowess. As teams continue to build competitive rosters, these contracts reflect not only player performance but also their critical roles in driving team success.

The AFC North continues to be a competitive division with significant offseason needs as teams gear up for the 2025 NFL Draft. The Baltimore Ravens, having the strongest roster, are particularly focused on enhancing their wide receiver corps after struggles in the postseason. Despite having Mark Andrews and Zay Flowers, the lack of a true WR1 proved detrimental.

Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Bengals are in desperate need of defensive improvements, especially with potential departures on their defensive line. Joe Burrow's outstanding play was overshadowed by a weak defense. The Cleveland Browns face an identity crisis, as the Deshaun Watson era has not yielded positive results, necessitating an overhaul at quarterback and offensive line. The Pittsburgh Steelers, while boasting a formidable defense, urgently need to bolster their passing game and running back performance, highlighting the crucial areas of focus heading into the draft.

In a routine move in the NFL, New York Giants cornerback Deonte Banks has relinquished his jersey number, No. 3, to newly signed quarterback Russell Wilson. Wilson, a seasoned player with a decade of Pro Bowl appearances, expressed gratitude on social media for the gesture. Banks has opted for the number 2 for the coming season, igniting conversations regarding the potential selection of quarterback Shedeur Sanders during the upcoming draft, especially as he wears No. 2. This pick could significantly alter the Giants’ quarterback landscape, with both Wilson and Jameis Winston currently on the roster.

Banks’ decision highlights a common practice among players when a new quarterback arrives. With the Giants holding the No. 3 pick in the draft, speculation abounds whether they might choose Sanders, who has established impressive collegiate records. The Giants' ongoing quarterback dilemma could lead to further changes in Banks' jersey number before the draft concludes.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are considering a strong draft strategy for the upcoming 2025 NFL draft, focusing on potential quarterback options like Shedeur Sanders from Colorado. While many mock drafts have pointed towards Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart, analysts are beginning to see Sanders as a viable option as well. ESPN's Matt Miller highlighted the Steelers' offensive strengths, particularly their run game and offensive line, which could make Pittsburgh an attractive destination for Sanders. This interest signals a potential shift in the Steelers' approach as they prepare for a future without current personnel like Najee Harris, who is leaving for free agency.

If the Steelers do set their sights on Sanders, they may need to trade up in the draft, especially to ensure they outmaneuver teams like the New Orleans Saints. Such a move would highlight their confidence in Sanders as a franchise quarterback, but it would also require a significant investment.