Ex-Girlfriend of Packers OL at Center of Shocking Kentucky Infant Case
The NFL world has been rocked by an off-field scandal with unsettling ties to three franchises — the Kansas City Chiefs, Philadelphia Eagles, and Green Bay Packers. A University of Kentucky senior, once romantically linked to current Packers offensive lineman
Authorities identified the woman as Laken Snelling, 21, who was taken into custody on August 31. Snelling faces charges of concealing the birth of an infant, tampering with physical evidence, and abuse of a corpse. Police say the infant was found inside a closet, wrapped in a towel and placed in a black trash bag. A preliminary autopsy has left the cause of death “undetermined,” with officials noting that extensive microscopic analysis will be required to determine what happened.
The case immediately drew national headlines — not only because of its tragic circumstances, but also due to Snelling’s past relationship with Darian Kinnard, a former University of Kentucky football star now in the NFL.
Kinnard, drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, spent two seasons in Kansas City, mostly on the practice squad. Though his on-field role was limited, he was part of back-to-back Super Bowl championship teams in 2022 and 2023.
In 2024, Kinnard signed with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he earned limited regular-season snaps, including one start in Week 18 against the Giants. That year, he became part of a rare NFL fraternity, winning his third straight Super Bowl ring across two teams — two with the Chiefs, and one with the Eagles.
On August 24, 2025, just before the new season kicked off, Kinnard was traded by Philadelphia to the Green Bay Packers in exchange for a 2027 sixth-round pick. The move, reported by
While Kinnard has had no connection to Snelling in recent years, their former relationship has resurfaced in headlines as the investigation unfolds. For fans in Kansas City, Philadelphia, and now Green Bay, the news is a jarring reminder of how personal stories from the past can intersect with the professional lives of NFL players.
Snelling has pleaded not guilty and was released on bond under home incarceration with her parents in Tennessee. Her next court appearance is scheduled for September 26. The Fayette County Coroner’s Office emphasized that the investigation remains open until the cause of death is determined.
For now, Kinnard continues his career in Green Bay, preparing for the 2025 NFL season, while a tragic case connected to his past plays out in Kentucky courtrooms.
Cam Newton Picks Baker Mayfield Over Jalen Hurts in Must-Win Game Debate
In a bold statement that’s shaking up the NFL quarterback conversation, former MVP Cam Newton has thrown his support behind Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield over Philadelphia Eagles' Jalen Hurts when it comes to a must-win scenario. The remarks were made during a recent appearance on ESPN’s
While Hurts led the Eagles to a Super Bowl appearance last season and is widely regarded as one of the top quarterbacks in the league, Newton’s reasoning centers around Mayfield’s ability to perform in critical, high-pressure moments. Mayfield, who joined the Buccaneers this offseason, has already impressed with his early-season poise and efficiency.
“I’m going with Baker Mayfield if it’s a do-or-die situation,” Newton said. “I respect Jalen Hurts a lot, but when the game’s on the line, Mayfield has shown that he’s able to step up and make plays. He’s not just going through the motions, he’s playing with urgency, and we’ve seen him deliver when it counts.”
Mayfield has demonstrated his clutch ability in the first few weeks of the season, including leading the Buccaneers to multiple game-winning drives, an area where Hurts, while dominant, has yet to show the same level of consistency. With three game-winning drives already this season, Mayfield has proven that he can handle pressure, something Newton places a great deal of value on.
“Baker’s ability to deliver in the clutch is what makes him stand out,” Newton continued. “He’s already had multiple opportunities to seal games, and he’s done it. That’s something Jalen hasn’t had to do as often this season.”
On the other hand, Hurts has been nearly flawless in his play with the Eagles, leading them to a 3-0 record to start the season and racking up impressive stats, including over 1,100 passing yards and nine touchdowns. The Eagles are a more well-rounded team, with a defense that is playing at a high level and an offense that is explosive. Yet Newton argues that it’s not just about putting up great numbers — it’s about showing up when the game is on the line.
“Look, Hurts has been great,” Newton said. “But if I need someone to take the reins in a critical situation, I’m choosing Mayfield right now. He’s showing the ability to stay calm under pressure and deliver when it counts.”
Despite Newton’s confidence in Mayfield, Hurts’ Eagles are still viewed by many as the favorites in the NFC East and a team capable of making another deep playoff run. Hurts, with his leadership and consistent performances, has become one of the most reliable quarterbacks in the league. But Mayfield’s ability to lead the Buccaneers to wins in high-pressure situations has given him newfound respect, and Newton’s endorsement adds fuel to the fire of an already growing narrative around the 28-year-old quarterback.
The debate between Mayfield and Hurts is not just about which quarterback is better overall — it’s about who can perform in the most critical moments. As the season progresses, both quarterbacks will be tested in various high-stakes situations, and this discussion may only intensify as we move toward the playoffs.
As for Mayfield, this bold statement from Newton could serve as a springboard for his career in Tampa Bay. With the Buccaneers looking to make a playoff push, Mayfield’s ability to perform in clutch moments could define his legacy in Tampa Bay, just as it did for him in Cleveland. On the other hand, Hurts, with his proven track record, will have plenty of opportunities to prove why he’s considered one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks.
In the end, the matchup between these two quarterbacks may just be the most intriguing storyline of the season, with Mayfield and Hurts each looking to prove they are the ones to lead their team to glory. The football world is watching, and Newton’s pick has only added more fuel to this fascinating debate.
