Jets fans will love the team’s latest practice squad additions
This offseason, fans of the New York Jets fell in love with a trio of undrafted receivers: Brandon Smith, Quentin Skinner, and Jamaal Pritchett. All three quickly made their presence felt this summer to the point where fans were hoping to see their preseason darlings would crack the final 53-man roster over players like Malachi Corley and Xavier Gipson.
But the news that Allen Lazard was healthy dashed those hopes. Gipson claimed the only vacant spot in the wide receiver room, but had already moved ahead of Corley in the receiver pecking order.
While Aaron Glenn and Darren Mougey were okay cutting ties with the 2024 third-round pick, they moved swiftly to ensure the fan favorites did not slip away.
The trio’s flashes this summer were more than enough to earn spots on Gang Green’s practice squad, which is great news for a fanbase that wanted them around, but even better for the new regime in Florham Park.
The Jets re-signed Brandon Smith, Quentin Skinner, and Jamaal Pritchett to the practice squad
In the modern NFL, retaining developmental talent in-house while maintaining competition at the bottom of the depth chart is exactly how you build a strong roster.
And with the Jets’ receiver room among the weakest in the NFL, it is not unthinkable that these guys could be promoted to the NFL roster sooner rather than later.
However, with Tyler Johnson also on the practice squad, they might have to wait in line for their opportunity on Sundays. Skinner led all Jets receivers with 114 receiving yards during the preseason, which was headlined by a beautiful touchdown grab against the Giants, while Smith didn’t finish far behind.
— NFL (@NFL) August 17, 2025
The former Iowa wideout led the team with 10 receptions while finishing with one less yard than Skinner, and many considered him the most impressive of the three. However, it was Pritchett who possessed the best opportunity to make the roster.
The 22-year-old lost the punt returner battle to Gipson despite impressing on punt return duties, all while being a more impressive receiver than his main competition.
It’s rare for three undrafted players at the same position to spark this much excitement, but the Jets found a rare diamond in the rough with these three. Maybe it’s the overt lack of excitement at wide receiver for the Jets, but they’ve still given fans a reason to be excited about their development.
In a season where the Jets desperately need new playmakers to emerge, keeping this trio in the building might prove to be one of the smartest moves Glenn and Mougey make entering 2025.
BREAKING: David Ortiz Returns to the Boston Red Sox as Assistant Coach – Big Papi Comes Home to Lead the Next Generation!
In a move that has sent shockwaves through Red Sox Nation, David Ortiz, the iconic slugger who helped deliver three World Series championships to Boston, is officially returning to the team as Assistant Coach. After a legendary career filled with clutch hits, leadership, and unforgettable moments, Ortiz is back at Fenway Park, ready to mentor and guide the next generation of Red Sox stars.
A Legend Returns: The Story Behind Big Papi’s Comeback
David Ortiz’s name is synonymous with the Boston Red Sox’s most successful era of the 21st century. “Big Papi” was the heart and soul of the team that broke the 86-year World Series drought in 2004, and he continued to lead the Red Sox to championships in 2007 and 2013. Known for his larger-than-life personality, clutch performances, and ability to deliver in the most high-pressure moments, Ortiz became not only a Red Sox legend but a symbol of resilience and victory.
Since retiring after the 2016 season, Ortiz has remained an important figure in Boston’s baseball culture, often returning for special events and maintaining close ties to the team. Now, he’s coming back for a much more significant role, personally invited by Alex Cora, the Red Sox’s manager, to help mentor the team’s young hitters and develop a new generation of stars.
Why This Reunion Matters: Leadership, Legacy, and Development
While many legendary players return to coach, Ortiz’s comeback carries unique significance. He doesn’t just bring his skills as a player—he brings the heart and soul of the Red Sox. Ortiz knows what it takes to win in Boston, and his leadership will be invaluable in helping the team’s next wave of players develop both on and off the field.
What David Ortiz Brings to the Red Sox:
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Mentorship: Ortiz’s extensive experience in clutch moments, his hitting expertise, and his understanding of the mental side of the game will help guide young hitters and players.
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Culture: Ortiz’s return reinforces the winning mentality and the legacy of the Red Sox, creating a bridge from their successful past to their future ambitions.
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Fan Excitement: Ortiz’s homecoming has electrified Red Sox Nation, with fans eager to see their hero return to Fenway, not just as a symbol of past triumphs but as a guiding force for future success.
For the Red Sox hitters, learning directly from one of the best clutch hitters in MLB history is an invaluable opportunity to improve their approach and mindset.
Red Sox Nation Reacts: Social Media Explodes
The announcement of Ortiz’s return exploded on social media, with fans expressing their excitement and celebrating the reunion. Fenway Park lit up with cheers as Ortiz’s return was officially confirmed, and hashtags like #BigPapiIsBack and #RedSoxLegend began trending.
One fan tweeted: “David Ortiz is back with the Red Sox?! This is the greatest news we could’ve hoped for! The team is going to be unstoppable!” Analysts across the baseball world hailed the move as a brilliant decision, with many calling it a crucial addition to the team’s development process.
Challenges Ahead: From Slugger to Coach
While Ortiz’s career on the field is legendary, coaching requires a different set of skills. Translating his success into teaching others, particularly young hitters, will be an exciting challenge. Ortiz’s leadership, however, has always been about more than just batting averages—it’s about instilling confidence, teaching patience, and helping players manage the pressures of the game.
With Ortiz’s charisma, deep baseball knowledge, and understanding of the mental game, he is more than ready to take on the challenge of coaching and developing the Red Sox’s next great hitters.
The Bigger Picture: Legends Shaping the Future of the Red Sox
Ortiz’s return to the Red Sox is part of a growing trend across sports where retired legends come back to help shape the next generation. It’s a move that shows the Red Sox are focused on the long-term future, ensuring that their winning culture endures. Ortiz’s presence is a testament to the Red Sox’s commitment to excellence, not just on the field but in developing players with the right mindset to compete at the highest level.
What This Means for the Boston Red Sox and Their Fans
For Red Sox fans, Ortiz’s return is the ultimate symbol of continuity and hope. It’s a reminder of the glorious past while bringing energy and optimism for the future. Fans will get the chance to witness Ortiz’s leadership and mentorship firsthand, ensuring that the legacy of greatness that he helped build is passed on to the next generation of players.
As the 2026 season approaches, Red Sox Nation is abuzz with excitement, eager to see what Ortiz’s coaching presence will bring to the team’s young stars. With Big Papi back in the fold, there is a renewed sense of hope and confidence surrounding the Red Sox’s pursuit of another championship.
Conclusion: A Homecoming Filled with Legacy and Promise
David Ortiz’s return to the Boston Red Sox as Assistant Coach is far more than just a coaching hire—it’s the return of a legend, a mentor, and a symbol of excellence. Ortiz’s leadership, wisdom, and understanding of the game will help shape the future of the Red Sox and ensure their championship pedigree continues.
As the 2026 season begins, Red Sox Nation stands ready for the next chapter in the team’s storied history, one that promises to blend the past’s triumphs with the future’s aspirations. With Big Papi back at Fenway, the best may still be yet to come.
