The article highlights five young NBA role players—Jonathan Kuminga, Ajay Mitchell, Ryan Rollins, Kyshawn George, and Jaime Jaquez Jr.—who are significantly improving early in the 2025-26 season, potentially impacting their teams' success.
Drake Maye has shown significant improvement in his pocket awareness and decision-making over the past month, leading to a series of impressive plays and a breakout season, highlighting his growth from last year and his ability to turn negative situations into positive outcomes.
Yooka-Replaylee is a highly improved and revitalized remake of the 2017 game, offering smoother gameplay, fully unlocked abilities, and enhanced exploration, making it a worthy successor to Banjo-Kazooie comparisons.
Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel acknowledged the team's embarrassing 33-8 loss to the Colts in Week 1, viewing it as a low point and expressing optimism that things can only improve from here, despite the setbacks and turnovers.
Syracuse football's defense, particularly tackling, remains a weakness despite offseason efforts to improve through studying top teams and changing coaching techniques, highlighting ongoing challenges in their defensive performance.
Evan Neal has shown steady improvement playing inside on the Giants' offensive line during training camp, with coach Daboll noting his quickening play and adaptability. Rookie Darius Alexander has also displayed promising athleticism and potential as a defensive lineman. Additionally, new running back Cam Skattebo is seen as a powerful addition to the backfield, complementing second-year back Tyrone Tracy Jr.'s skills.
Ben Shelton advanced to the third round at Wimbledon, highlighting significant improvements in his backhand and overall game, after a strong start to his tournament following recent losses on grass. He is optimistic about his evolving skills and aims for further success, potentially facing top-ranked Jannik Sinner if he reaches the quarter-finals.
Daron Payne has shown a remarkable and positive change in his approach during the Commanders' offseason practices, impressing coach Dan Quinn and indicating a potentially impactful season for the team's defense.
Patriots quarterback Drake Maye showed progress in his second season, with coach Josh McDaniels praising his ability to learn from mistakes and improve his processing and decision-making during practice, indicating a positive trajectory for his development.
Bo Nix, having led the Broncos to the playoffs in his rookie season, is confident in his progress but emphasizes the need for continuous improvement and hard work to achieve further success, including making noise in the playoffs again.
The Arizona Cardinals improved slightly in the NFLPA's second annual franchise report card before the 2024 season, moving from 31st to 27th in overall rating. However, they still ranked in the bottom five in three out of 11 categories and the top half in only two. Head coach Jonathan Gannon received the team's best grade (A-), while owner Michael Bidwill received an F, ranking 30th in the NFL. Efforts to address facility issues, such as locker room renovations and upgrades to the weight room, have been announced, but the team still faces challenges in player satisfaction and facility ratings.
Kentucky Wildcats showed improved defense in their 75-63 victory over Ole Miss, holding them to 37.5% from the field and 22% from beyond the 3-point arc. The improvement was attributed to a player-driven meeting where defensive strategies were discussed and implemented, resulting in immediate results. Ugonna Onyenso's impressive 10 blocked shots highlighted the game, and the team hopes to carry this defensive momentum into their upcoming game against No. 13 Auburn.
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones believes quarterback Dak Prescott has room for improvement despite his strong regular season performance, emphasizing the need for improvement in the postseason. Jones expects Prescott to continue to get better and acknowledges that there are areas where he can improve, both individually and within the team's scheme.
Teven Jenkins has been named the Bears' Most Improved Player, showcasing impressive performance and versatility throughout the season. He received high grades from Pro Football Focus and remained humble despite the recognition. Jenkins switched between guard positions and overcame a calf injury, demonstrating his adaptability and potential for further growth, with his coach believing that his best is yet to come.
Jalen Hurts reflects on the Eagles' disappointing season, acknowledging the need for personal improvement and better leadership. Despite breaking franchise records, he recognizes his own shortcomings and the missed opportunities. Hurts emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and growth, both as a player and a leader, in order to elevate the team's performance in the future.