Can this all just stop? Too much football news. Seriously. I realize that the post-season always brings a lot of drama, especially right when teams fall out of playoff contention. But, there must be something in the water this week, because there have been too many crazy football developments to count. Here are three of the most shocking football developments this week, as we head into the Wild Card playoff weekend.
1. Pete Carroll is out at the Seattle Seahawks
What are they thinking? Dude. I realize the Seahawks didn't make the playoffs. But, Carroll is a fantastic coach, and he did the best with what he had. If you're looking for an example of a coach that can still get wins without the best tools at his disposal, you'll find it in Carroll. I hope he ends up somewhere else, because this guy has a lot of coaching left in him. There are rumors of Jim Harbaugh going to Seattle, but when are there not Harbaugh rumors? Dan Quinn is a more likely pick. But, either way, I think Seattle is going to regret this move.
2. Nick Saban is out at Alabama
I know he's been there forever, but I didn't see this one coming. Does Nick Saban really want his last game to be losing to the Michigan Wolverines at the Rose Bowl? I totally thought this guy would at least be back for one more run. Hopefully he wasn't forced out. I can't imagine that. He probably is just finally ready for retirement. One thing is for sure: Whoever takes that job has huge shoes to fill.
3. Bill Belichick is out at the New England Patriots
This wasn't as shocking as the others, but still a surprise. New England had a dismal season. They only one four games. But, Belichick has brought years and years of success to this team, and I can't help but think that if he wanted to stay, he should have been given that chance. There are some rumors that he'll go to Atlanta. Time will tell.
There you have it. Three shocking football developments from this week. I could add to this the fact that the Chicago Bears have let go of pretty much all of their coaches, except their head coach. Just saying. Reach out to me on socials and let me know your thoughts here. Listen to my NFL podcast, "The Squad with Anne Erickson," below.
We can talk about the best quarterbacks or coaches or running backs in the NFL until we're blue in the face. But, what makes the game really exciting to watch are the personalities behind those players and staffers. Of course, having a fun personality isn't all there is in the NFL. We love watching these guys go at it on the field and witnessing their athleticism. We also love seeing expert coaches leading their teams to victories. But, having a really cool, larger-than-life personality certainly helps. So, what players have the best personalities in the NFL right now?
Before we get to our current list, let's look at some of the most best personalities in the NFL of all time. Bleacherreport.com has a listicle out of the players with the most colorful personalities of all time. Topping that list is Terrell Owens. "Love him or hate him, T.O. has the most colorful personality," they state in the article. "Over his career, he's shown all the qualities: arrogance/confidence, drama (all of 2005 in Philadelphia), excitement, unpredictably, crying (that Tony Romo press conference) and humor." That's a good call. Coming in at No. 2 is the legendary Joe Namath. "Who else could get away with wearing sunglasses on the sideline?" they exclaim. "With the long hair, the occasional Fu Manchu and the playboy attitude, he was the most compelling figure in sports during the late 1960s and early 1970s."
So, what about right now? I looked at the current season and picked a range of roles, from quarterback to coach to tight end. These guys have stood out this season for either their larger-than-life personalities or situations. Also, we discuss the current NFL in the latest episode of my podcast, "The Squad with Anne Erickson," which you can listen to below. Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts.
Patrick Mahomes
Patrick Mahomes, of course, is the star quarterback of the Kansas City Chiefs. He's considered the best quarterback of his era and possibly the next Tom Brady. But, aside from his skills, he also has a big personality. He has more than 6 million Instagram followers, and he posts a bunch of stuff up there, from football material to family photos.
Travis Kelce
Travis Kelce, the celebrated tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs, is pretty much the most famous guy in football this season. Yes, it's because of his relationship with Taylor Swift. I hate to make that a reason to have him named one of the best personalities in the NFL, but heck, even without the Taylor factor, Kelce has a huge personality that people love.
Dan Campbell
All eyes are on Dan Campbell this season, as the Lions all pulling off some incredible things. That's not common for the Detroit Lions, either. But, Campbell has some of the wackiest ideas and quotes, and that makes him loveable. Remember that time he wanted a pet Lion at practices? I love this dude.
Bill Belichick
Bill Belichick needs no introduction, but we'll introduce him anyway. He's the head coach and general manager of the New England Patriots. He's had some rough years as of late, but nothing can take away his glimmering record. Belichick just tells it like it is. He's incredible with strategies, and that really stands out with his coaching.
Jalen Hurts
Jalen Hurts, the star quarterback for the Philadelphia Eagles, is something of a hero on the field. But, off the field, he's known for his deep, insightful comments that show he has wisdom beyond his years. He's a major contender and personality.