Saints fire back after Baker Mayfield’s trash talk ahead of Buccaneers matchup
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New Orleans Saints are once again at the center of an NFC South feud that never seems to cool off.
Ahead of their Week 8 matchup, the tension is rising as both teams prepare for another heated chapter in this rivalry. Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield didn’t hold back when talking about the Saints earlier this week.
"It has not exactly been clean play from their part when we play them. It is a physical game; it is what it is," Mayfield said Wednesday. "You expect it [from a] division rival... Yeah, not much else to say besides for the fact that I do not like them."
As expected, the Saints weren’t going to let those comments slide, with veteran linebacker Demario Davis responding on Thursday.
Demario Davis responds to Baker Mayfield's comments about playing the #Saints
and shares thoughts on trash talk:
"I don't have the context of what he said ... but the game is played between the white lines."
Added, "You can trash talk with your game, too, but I'm for all the…pic.twitter.com/4A9w2ZYmkv — NOF (@nofnetwork) October 23, 2025
When asked about Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield’s recent comments, Saints linebacker Demario Davis didn’t back down.
“I don't have the context of what he said ... but the game is played between the white lines,” Davis said. “You can trash talk with your game, too, but I'm for all the smoke ... the pregame talk ain't where it's at.”
Davis’ confident response sent a message to Mayfield that the Saints aren’t focused on words, but rather on letting their play speak when it matters most.
The history between these two teams adds to the anticipation. Over the years, their rivalry has featured intense physical battles and plenty of bad blood.
Oct 20, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) reacts against the Detroit Lions during the first half at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images / Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images
The Buccaneers enter Week 8 still dealing with significant injuries. Running back Bucky Irving and wide receiver Chris Godwin (fibula) have both been ruled out, forcing Baker Mayfield and the offense to find production elsewhere. Tampa Bay’s loss to Detroit in Week 7 exposed some of its offensive struggles, and now the challenge only grows with a hungry Saints defense coming to town.
Mayfield’s competitive fire has always fueled him, but he’ll need to back up his words against one of the league’s tougher units. The Saints, led by Davis, thrive on getting under their opponent’s skin. This is something that Tampa's defense models as well.
With emotions high and the rivalry hotter than ever, Sunday’s matchup isn’t just another game — it’s a chance for Tampa Bay to make a statement and remind the NFC South who still holds the upper hand.
nakobe dean donates $30 million to fight homelessness, launches “the dean haven project” in philadelphia
In one of the most inspiring acts of generosity in professional sports history, Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Nakobe Dean has donated his entire $30 million bonus and sponsorship earnings to fund a massive Homeless Shelter Initiative in Philadelphia. The initiative will build 150 housing units and 300 shelter beds, offering long-term stability and renewed hope to hundreds of individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
At a press conference held inside Lincoln Financial Field on Friday morning, Dean was joined by city officials, Eagles executives, and dozens of local families as he emotionally unveiled the “Dean Haven Project.” With tears in his eyes, Dean explained the motivation behind his historic donation.
“I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up, and I knew if I ever had the means, I’d give back in a meaningful way,” Dean said. “No one deserves to sleep on a sidewalk. Everyone deserves a roof, a bed, and a chance to rebuild.”
The project, backed by partnerships with the City of Philadelphia Housing Authority, Habitat for Humanity, and several local churches, will provide not just housing but also food programs, mental health counseling, job training, and educational opportunities. Dean’s goal isn’t temporary relief — it’s lasting change.
“Nakobe didn’t just write a check,” said Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney. “He built a vision — a long-term plan to end chronic homelessness in this city. This is one of the largest private donations Philadelphia has ever seen, and it’s coming from the heart of a man who has given his all to this city both on and off the field.”
Dean, who has spent his NFL career with the Eagles, is known for his relentless drive, leadership, and deep connection to the community. His loyalty to Philadelphia has made him not just a sports hero, but a local icon. Since joining the team, Dean has been active in numerous outreach efforts — from youth mentorship programs to community rebuilding projects — but this initiative marks his most ambitious effort yet.
Fans and fellow players across the league have taken to social media to praise Dean’s generosity. Teammate Jalen Hurts wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
“That’s real leadership. Nakobe’s always been about more than football. That man’s heart is different.”
Former Eagles linebacker Brian Dawkins also posted a heartfelt message, calling Dean’s gift “a moment that defines what it means to love your city and your people.”
The Dean Haven Project will be built in phases across Philadelphia and surrounding areas. Phase one — 50 housing units and 100 shelter beds — is set to break ground in March 2026, with completion expected by early 2027. The initiative will prioritize veterans, families with children, and individuals who have been displaced by natural disasters — an issue that continues to challenge Pennsylvania communities.
Each site will include a community resource center, offering workshops in financial literacy, employment readiness, and life skills. A portion of the funding will also support an annual “Path to Purpose” scholarship, helping young people who grew up in shelters access higher education or trade programs.
“Nakobe Dean’s donation is more than a contribution — it’s a catalyst,” said Ronald Peterson, director of the Philadelphia Homeless Alliance. “This project will transform lives and change the way we approach housing and rehabilitation in this city.”
The initiative’s impact is already rippling through the region. Eagles fans have started organizing online fundraisers to add to the project, while local businesses have pledged matching donations. Even the NFL Players Association has announced plans to recognize Dean with the Community Impact Award for his extraordinary service.
Despite his massive financial commitment, Dean was quick to remind everyone that this isn’t about fame or headlines — it’s about humanity.
“I’m blessed to play this game and be part of a team that means everything to this city,” he said. “But football is temporary. Impact lasts forever.”
As he left the podium, the crowd erupted in chants of “EAGLES! EAGLES!” echoing through the stadium with pride and emotion.
For Philadelphia, Nakobe Dean isn’t just a linebacker — he’s become a symbol of heart, humility, and hope. His donation will not only reshape lives but redefine what it means to be a hero in the truest sense.
From the streets of downtown Philadelphia to the neighborhoods still recovering from years of hardship, one message now rings clear:
Nakobe Dean has turned his success into shelter — and his legacy into love.
