The NFL regular season is just around the corner and with that comes a fresh wave of drama. With trades, roster cuts and quarterback battles all making headlines, it’s clear the 2025 campaign is already bubbling with tension.
Minnesota is loading up and have their sights on a veteran wide receiver. Shedeur Sanders is fighting off rumors about his spot with the Browns. And in New Orleans, the competition for the starting QB role between Tyler Shough and Spencer Rattler could set the tone for the Saints’ entire year. Let’s break down what’s real, what’s smoke and why it should matter for every NFL fan counting down the days till opening kickoff.
Vikings trade fallout: Extra draft picks could help land WR
The Vikings’ front office isn’t messing around. By snagging an extra draft pick in the Sam Howell trade with Philadelphia, Minnesota has put itself in position to potentially bring a veteran wide receiver. With Rondale Moore suffering a season ending injury, the Vikings find themselves back in the market for a WR. Reports say former Viking wideout Adam Thielen is on the radar although it doesn’t seem the Carolina Panthers are interested in parting ways at this time.
By adding an extra pick via trade this morning, the Vikings now have added ammunition to go trade for a wide receiver. They have inquired on former Vikings WR Adam Thielen, but Carolina has been reluctant to deal the respected and productive veteran. https://t.co/LE7ABd5jfi
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 24, 2025
What an extra pick gets the Vikings is more bargaining power. When you’re shopping for a proven wideout, more capital makes you a more attractive trade partner. Minnesota can sweeten a trade package in hopes of acquiring a vet like Thielen or someone else. This type of move has worked in the past for contenders. Look at the Eagles when they grabbed A.J. Brown or what happened when the Bills bet big on Stefon Diggs.
On top of that, the added pick could let Minnesota plug multiple holes, not just receiver. But it’s obvious that Minnesota’s top priority is bringing in another pass catcher who can move chains on third down and help alleviate some pressure off the shoulders of Justin Jefferson. If you’re a Vikings fan, you should be watching the receiver market like its draft night all over again.
Shedeur Sanders’ reality in Cleveland: No ties cut
Let’s put this to rest. Shedeur Sanders will not be cut by the Cleveland Browns according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. Sanders isn’t just hanging around; he’s already made a statement.
Sanders drew attention with his arm talent and touch during rookie workout sessions. Browns staff have noticed he plays with poise despite some rookie mistakes. More importantly, the talk of him being cut has cooled down as buzz builds about his role. If he keeps improving, Sanders could challenge for the backup spot sooner than later if given a fair shot.
So why did Shedeur drop on draft boards around the league? Some league insiders claim there was an effort to tank his stock, but that’s a story for another day. For now, the Browns should be happy they finally woke up and snagged him in the fifth round. With plenty of questions about other QBs ahead of him, Sanders could get on the field faster than people think.
Saints QB1 Battle: Shough vs. Rattler decision imminent
In New Orleans, the Saints QB battle is coming down to the wire. Tyler Shough and Spencer Rattler both want to be the alpha dog for a team in desperate need of clarity. The Saints took a gamble in the draft, passing on names like Shedeur Sanders and doubling down on their young pair.
Neither Shough nor Rattler has created a wide gap in camp, but the coaching staff is going to make decision soon. Head coach Kellen Moore, who knows a thing or two about developing QBs, will settle the race this week allegedly. Some analysts think Rattler’s arm gives him the edge, while others are betting on Shough’s steadiness and command in the huddle.
Whatever happens, the loser could be shipped out or spend a long year holding the team iPad. The pressure is through the roof since Saints fans have been craving answers at the position since Drew Brees retired. Whichever QB wins this battle could define Moore’s tenure in New Orleans and set the tone for this new Saints era.
The final whistle
Front office decisions and on-field battles are what get us ready for the NFL season. The Vikings’ getting extra draft picks, Shedeur Sanders carving out his opportunity in Cleveland and the Saints’ high-stakes QB duel all showcase the razor-thin margins in the NFL. As preseason rosters shrink and real football draws near, these storylines demand our attention. Keep an eye on the news ticker, anything can happen when rosters and futures are on the line.