Bill Belichick's first season as North Carolina's head coach has been challenging, with poor on-field performance, off-field issues, and questions about the program's future despite significant financial investment. The team has struggled offensively and defensively, and off-field controversies include suspensions and the cancellation of a Hulu show. Long-term rebuilding plans are in place, but patience from fans and donors is required.
Myles Garrett was cited for speeding at 100 mph in a 60 mph zone for the eighth time since 2017 but declined to address the incident publicly, choosing to focus on football and team matters instead.
Patriots coach Mike Vrabel addressed a viral video of wide receiver Stefon Diggs flashing a pink substance, emphasizing the importance of off-field decision-making and confirming ongoing recovery from injury, with Diggs expected to compete for a roster spot despite recent concerns.
Patriots wide receiver Stefon Diggs was absent from practice following a social media video showing him with a pink substance on a boat, prompting team and coach Mike Vrabel to acknowledge awareness of the incident while emphasizing privacy and decision-making off the field. Diggs, signed to a three-year deal, is recovering from a torn ACL and is expected to bolster the Patriots' struggling receiving corps.
Cincinnati Bengals running back Joe Mixon declined to speak to reporters after his first practice following his not guilty verdict in an aggravated menacing case. Mixon also announced a boycott of specific reporters from outlets including Sports Illustrated, The Cincinnati Enquirer, Pro Football Network, and ESPN, citing disrespectful behavior. Mixon has been involved in off-field issues in 2023, including a misdemeanor charge and a lawsuit. Despite the controversies, Mixon remains on the team after renegotiating his contract.
Georgia football players have been involved in a series of speeding incidents during the offseason, with some of the excessive speeding attributed to unintended consequences of Name Image Likeness (NIL) deals. Coach Kirby Smart acknowledges the issue and recognizes that the introduction of NIL legislation has made it more challenging for coaches to monitor players' activities off the field. While Smart does not solely blame NIL for the off-field issues, he acknowledges that it has given players the ability to acquire faster cars. The concern lies not only in the volume of speeding tickets but also the high speeds involved, which can lead to more significant accidents. Smart emphasizes the need to address the issue and instill a sense of responsibility in the players.
Antonio Brown announced on Twitter that he plans to resume his NFL career and play for the Ravens, but he is not currently on their roster. Brown's tweet raises questions about whether he or the team believe this could actually be possible. Brown will be 35 before the start of the 2023 season and hasn't played in the NFL since he jogged off the field during a late-season game in the 2021 season as a member of the Buccaneers. Brown's off-field issues, including an arrest warrant over unpaid child support and multiple accusations of inappropriate sexual behavior, have likely contributed to teams staying away from him. Despite his issues, Brown was a seven-time Pro Bowler and an All-Pro each year from 2014-17 during his prime.
