News
Morning Update: South Florida’s top stories for Tuesday, April 29, 2025
Here are the top stories for Tuesday, April 29, 2025. Get the weather forecast for today here.
SUBSCRIBE NOW: Get our free Morning Update email. Sign up here.
Heat flail to the finish, swept out of playoffs in record 138-83 romp by Cavaliers
Panthers score two goals in 11 seconds to edge Lightning, take 3-1 lead in series
Estranged husband accused in wife’s death in Spain dies by suicide in jail, attorneys say
Fort Lauderdale senior living home tied to infamous New York landlords
DeSantis’ new Broward School Board appointee talks about his big move, strong local ties
Boca Bash 2025 goes smoothly, with few problems reported amid patrols
Travel Troubleshooter: Vail Resorts canceled the season. Where’s my refund?
Miss Manners: I’m tired of only talking about food when I’m out with friends
Miss Manners: I’ve done this for years as a teacher, but maybe it’s an absurd tradition?
DEAR MISS MANNERS: As a teacher for the past 30 years, I have been fortunate to receive thoughtful gifts of thanks and appreciation from my students and their families during the holiday season and at the end of the school year.
Related Articles- Miss Manners: I’m tired of only talking about food when I’m out with friends
- Miss Manners: I skipped a party for a colleague I don’t like. Should I have lied about why?
- Miss Manners: I don’t like what strangers say about my kids and my husband
- Miss Manners: She gets offended when men question her breast impants
- Miss Manners: An early retiree wants to go places. Her husband isn’t enthusiastic
These gifts often include mugs, chocolates, baked goods or gift cards. (Between us, I will admit that my favorite gifts are notes of appreciation from students and parents.)
In return, I have always taken the time to write careful and personal thank-you notes for each of these gifts. Part of my motivation has been to set an example for my students, demonstrating the importance of expressing gratitude through a handwritten note.
However, this practice is time-consuming, particularly during my breaks, when the sheer volume of letters overwhelms me.
At Christmas this year, the time it took prompted me to pause and reflect: Is it truly necessary to write a thank-you note for a thank-you gift? It feels a bit circular.
I can’t imagine not writing the notes, but I feel compelled to ask: Would a simpler acknowledgment suffice, or is this a tradition I should continue?
GENTLE READER: Yes! Continue!
Let us not risk perpetuating that prevalent, but totally false, idea that a present given in thanks need not be acknowledged — that it would lead to a loop in which the giver and recipient would spend the rest of their lives thanking each other.
Nonsense. A letter of thanks does not require a response; a present, given for whatever reason, does.
Those children were probably somewhat involved in giving you those presents — they may even have chosen them. Do you want to leave them wondering if you even cared?
Children almost never receive letters (well, neither do adults, these days), so these would be special. You appreciate letters from them and their parents, so you ought to understand how much they would appreciate letters from you.
And it will be an additional boon to the parents who are requiring their children to write letters of thanks for their birthday and holiday presents.
DEAR MISS MANNERS: I am permanently in a wheelchair as a result of an injury. There is nothing wrong with my mind.
Many people assume I cannot speak for myself, and some move my wheelchair in directions I do not wish to go.
What can I say to these strangers to convey that I am capable of speaking for myself and that I do not care to be treated like a piece of furniture?
Some people are considerate — holding doors for me and asking if I would like help. Others are quite rude.
GENTLE READER: “Excuse me, but I am right here” to those who talk above you. And “STOP!” to anyone rude enough to move your wheelchair without your permission.
Related Articles- Asking Eric: We think the grandparents should know about their son’s secret child
- Travel Troubleshooter: Vail Resorts canceled the season. Where’s my refund?
- Asking Eric: My mother seems jealous of the attention to my injured son
- Miss Manners: I’m tired of only talking about food when I’m out with friends
- Asking Eric: Years later, there’s fallout from the drama of my missionary days
DEAR MISS MANNERS: I’m feeling stuck about how to respond to a text message that combines a thank-you and a compliment.
For example, would you respond to a text message that says, “Thank you for the delicious dinner” with a “thank you” (for appreciating the dinner), a “you’re welcome” (for the thank-you), or both?
GENTLE READER: Neither. You’re off free.
Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, gentlereader@missmanners.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.
Today in History: April 29, Los Angeles riots after Rodney King verdict
Today is Tuesday, April 29, the 119th day of 2025. There are 246 days left in the year.
Today in history:On April 29, 1992, a jury in Simi Valley, California, acquitted four Los Angeles police officers charged with assault and using excessive force in the videotaped beating of motorist Rodney King; the verdicts were followed by six days of rioting in Los Angeles which destroyed hundreds of businesses and resulted in over 60 deaths.
Also on this date:In 1916, the Easter Rising in Dublin collapsed as Irish nationalists surrendered to British forces.
Related Articles- Vehicle smashes through Illinois building, killing 4 young people and injuring others
- The Memphis church pivotal in Martin Luther King Jr.’s final days suffers a devastating fire
- Jack in the Box launches turnaround with plan to close up to 200 locations
- The EPA is allowing the sale of cheaper, higher-ethanol E15 gasoline across the US this summer
- Autopsy confirms Gene Hackman died from heart disease, notes his Alzheimer’s and prolonged fasting
In 1945, during World War II, American soldiers liberated the Dachau concentration camp.
In 1991, a powerful tropical cyclone made landfall in Bangladesh, creating a storm surge that resulted in more than 138,000 deaths.
In 1997, the Chemical Weapons Convention, a worldwide treaty banning the use of chemical weapons and mandating the destruction of existing chemical weapons, went into effect.
In 2008, Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama denounced his former pastor, the Rev. Jeremiah Wright, for what he termed “divisive and destructive” remarks on race.
In 2011, Britain’s Prince William and Kate Middleton were married in an opulent ceremony at London’s Westminster Abbey.
Today’s Birthdays- Musician Willie Nelson is 92.
- Baseball Hall of Famer Luis Aparicio is 91.
- Conductor Zubin Mehta is 89.
- Singer Tommy James is 78.
- Golf Hall of Famer Johnny Miller is 78.
- Comedian Jerry Seinfeld is 71.
- Actor Kate Mulgrew is 70.
- Actor Daniel Day-Lewis is 68.
- Actor Michelle Pfeiffer is 67.
- Singer-TV personality Carnie Wilson is 57.
- Tennis Hall of Famer Andre Agassi is 55.
- Actor Uma Thurman is 55.
- Actor Megan Boone is 42.
- NHL center Jonathan Toews is 37.
- Pop singer Foxes is 36.
- Golfer Justin Thomas is 32.
Dave Hyde: Monday showed why Panthers are all we’ve got for big hopes
On one side of South Florida, the Miami Heat did what they never do Monday night.
They broke.
On the other side of town, the Florida Panthers did what has come to define them playoff after playoff. They kept believing, kept charging, to the point of scoring two goals in 11 seconds in Game 4’s third period to reclaim control of their playoff series in a 4-2 win against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
If ever there was a moment that underlined where things stand in our sports town, of the torch that’s passed, Monday night was it.
Let’s face it, we love winners in South Florida and covet championships, and the Panthers are all we got right now.
The Dolphins tread water. The Marlins aren’t in the picture. The Heat remain the gold standard of the past few decades, and there’s every reason to think team president Pat Riley will figure how to move on from this season sabotaged by Jimmy Butler’s exit. But there’s no insurance on that.
The Panthers are this stretch of time’s hope for more champagne showers and shared cigars. Monday said why. That chaotic third period showed how.
“It was one of those games that doesn’t have a normal ending,” Panthers captain Aleksander Barkov said.
Related Articles- Florida Panthers take 3-1 lead in series over Lightning | PHOTOS
- Panthers score two goals in 11 seconds to edge Lightning, take 3-1 lead in series
- Panthers-Lightning rivalry spreads to coaches: ‘He chirped me . . . Well done’
- Dave Hyde: An epic South Florida Saturday fizzled for Panthers, Heat (and sort of Dolphins)
- Panthers beaten by Lightning in Game 3 | PHOTOS
The night, and maybe the series, was moving away from them. They gave up two goals to Tampa in 11 seconds to trail 2-1 in the second period. They faced a five-minute Tampa Bay power play after a top defenseman, Niko Mikkola, was ejected for a bad hit early in the third period.
Aaron Ekblad scored a tying goal that was properly overturned by offsides.
“That was a kick in the teeth,” coach Paul Maurice said.
So much was working against them, but Brad Marchand realized something about this team he just joined in March after 17 years in Boston.
“The one thing you notice is the level of calm all around,” said Marchand, who had two assists Monday night. “That’s what you see. These are the moments you embrace and enjoy in playoff times.”
What happened defines these Panthers. Ekblad tied it up — and this one counted. Eleven seconds later — this game had the two quickest scores in NHL playoff history — Seth Jones then threw a shot at the net. It pinged off a Tampa Bay skate, fluttered under the arm of goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy and eased over the goal line for a 3-2 lead.
Just like that, they weren’t losing back-to-back home games and returning to Tampa in a 2-2 series.
They lead 3-1 in the series now. They’re one more win from advancing. They had the kind of night that hardens the idea they can repeat as champions.
“When you play against this team, they had a swagger and a belief where they just kept coming at you,” Marchand said. “It doesn’t matter what happened in the game. They believed in their system, and each other, and kept coming.
“When you get in the room and you see the way they’re coached, and the way they work on an every day basis, it all makes sense. It’s an incredible room to be a part of.”
Two springs ago, the Panthers and the Heat were in their respective final series. Neither won. That didn’t matter. It was a rare, shared moment.
Last spring, Panthers had the stage to themselves after the Heat fell early in the playoffs and won their first Stanley Cup title. That was new and different.
This spring it’s not new or different.
On one side of Monday night, the Heat’s offseason couldn’t start quickly enough. They were mopped up by Cleveland, 138-83, in as humbling a playoff sweep as there is.
“There’s going to be a lot of changes this summer, knowing how the guy with the silver hair works,” center Bam Adebayo said.
How much can Riley do this summer?
The Panthers are the hope now. They’re the organization with everything clicking. They had the kind of win Monday night that great endings have. There’s a long way to go. But chill the champagne and keep the cigars ready. They’re all we got right now.
Show Caption1 of 9Florida Panthers goaltender Sergei Bobrovsky (72) during game 4 against Tampa Bay Lightning of the Eastern Conference at Amerant Bank Aren)a in Sunrise on Monday April 28, 2025. (Carline Jean/South Florida Sun Sentinel)ExpandToday in History: April 28, Abu Ghraib torture images made public
Today is Monday, April 28, the 118th day of 2025. There are 247 days left in the year.
Today in history:On April 28, 2004, the world first viewed images of prisoner abuse and torture by U.S. troops at Abu Ghraib prison in Iraq, via a report broadcast on the CBS television news program “60 Minutes II.”
Also on this date:In 1789, mutineers led by Fletcher Christian took control of the ship HMS Bounty three weeks after departing Tahiti, setting the ship’s captain, Lieutenant William Bligh, and 18 other crew members adrift in the Pacific Ocean.
Related Articles- Francis Ford Coppola accepts AFI Life Achievement Award with tributes from Spielberg, Lucas and more
- Things to know about the US coal industry and proposed changes under the Trump administration
- As Musk gained power in Washington, his popularity has fallen, an AP-NORC poll finds
- Today in History: April 27, deadly tornadoes strike the Southeast
- White House journalists use annual press dinner to celebrate First Amendment
In 1945, Italian dictator Benito Mussolini and his mistress, Clara Petacci, were executed by Italian partisans after attempting to flee the country.
In 1947, a six-man expedition led by Norwegian Thor Heyerdahl set out from Peru aboard a balsa wood raft named the Kon-Tiki on a 101-day, 4,300 mile (6,900 km) journey across the Pacific Ocean to the Polynesian Islands.
In 1967, heavyweight boxing champion Muhammad Ali was stripped of his WBA title after he refused to be inducted into the armed forces.
In 1994, former CIA official Aldrich Ames, who had passed U.S. secrets to the Soviet Union and then Russia, pleaded guilty to espionage and tax evasion, and was sentenced to life in prison without parole.
In 2001, a Russian rocket lifted off from Central Asia carrying the first space tourist, California businessman Dennis Tito, and two cosmonauts on a journey to the International Space Station.
In 2011, convicted sex offender Phillip Garrido and his wife, Nancy Garrido, pleaded guilty to kidnapping and raping a California girl, Jaycee Dugard, who was abducted in 1991 at the age of 11 and rescued 18 years later. (Phillip Garrido was sentenced to 431 years to life in prison; Nancy Garrido was sentenced to 36 years to life.)
Today’s Birthdays:- Former Secretary of State James A. Baker III is 95.
- Actor-singer Ann-Margret is 84.
- Chef Alice Waters is 81.
- TV host-comedian Jay Leno is 75.
- Actor Mary McDonnell is 73.
- Musician Kim Gordon (Sonic Youth) is 72.
- Supreme Court Justice Elena Kagan is 65.
- Baseball Hall of Famer Barry Larkin is 61.
- Golfer John Daly is 59.
- Rapper Too Short is 59.
- Actor Bridget Moynahan is 54.
- Actor Jorge Garcia is 52.
- Actor Penelope Cruz is 51.
- TV personalities Drew and Jonathan Scott are 47.
- Actor Jessica Alba is 44.
- Actor Harry Shum Jr. is 43.
- Singer-songwriter Melanie Martinez is 30.
One dead as Florida authorities declare a ‘mass casualty’ in boat crash near Clearwater bridge.
CLEARWATER, Fla. (AP) — One person has died and several were injured Sunday when a boat crashed into a ferry off the Memorial Causeway Bridge and then fled the scene, authorities said.
The Clearwater Police Department posted on X that there were multiple injuries and the crash had been declared “a mass casualty incident” by the Clearwater Fire & Rescue Department due to the number of injuries.
All of those injured were aboard the ferry, which was carrying more than 40 people. Police did not provide any information about the person who died.
The ferry came to rest on a sandbar just south of the Memorial Causeway bridge and all patients and passengers have been removed.
Police did not immediately provide any information about the boat that fled the scene.
Authorities did not immediately provide the number of those who were hurt.
“All local hospitals have been notified. Multiple trauma alerts have been called with helicopters transporting two of the more seriously injured,” the post said.
Videos on social media showed several first responders rushing to the scene with lights flashing.
Police cautioned drivers to avoid Memorial Causeway.
The U.S. Coast Guard and Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission will investigate the crash.
Heat’s Kevin Love announces the passing of his father, former NBA player Stan Love
MIAMI — Away from the team for the playoffs and several weeks prior, Miami Heat center Kevin Love on Sunday night posted on Instagram the passing of his father, former NBA player Stan Love.
The Heat for weeks have been listing Love as being away from the team due to personal reasons, declining further details.
Stan Love, 76, played in the NBA and ABA from 1971 to 1975 with the Baltimore Bullets, Los Angeles Lakers and San Antonio Spurs.
The brother of Beach Boys singer Mike Love, Stan Love was an All-Pac-8 player at Oregon, selected No. 9 in the 1971 NBA draft by the Bullets.
In a heartfelt tribute to his father, Love offered a lengthy post Sunday night on Instagram that read:
“Dad, you fought for a long time. The hardest stretch being these past 6 months. The most painful to witness being these last few weeks. And even at the end as you continued to deteriorate – I still saw you as a Giant. My Protector. My first Hero.
“The words we continuously heard from you in your last chapter were how blessed you’ve been to have such a loving family. And in return how much you’ve loved your wife and kids. Your only wish was to be at home surrounded by your family when you took your dying breath.
“That breath came. And now it’s time to rest.
“You have undoubtedly been my greatest teacher. A role often served by a Father figure. You taught me admirable qualities like respect & kindness. Humor & wit. Ambition & work ethic. Grit & aggressive will. The insight that failure brings. And that time is our most precious commodity.
“Over the years my Dad and I had our differences. I mourn the times I felt angry and isolated – my heart weighs heavy knowing we lost that time and can’t get it back. But our division led to me finding myself. I was running from something but that time away provided the wisdoms of forgiveness and reconciliation. And an unwavering sense that he loved me through it all, in every moment. ‘The best last lesson one generation can teach the next: how to die with peace about how you’ve lived.’ This may be my Dad’s greatest gift. Teaching me that healing happens in your soul and that healing is there for the taking, even in the face of imminent death. Dad loved his family unconditionally and left his children with one of life’s great lessons.
“As the memories stream down my face I feel as if I can see it all so clearly now. It’s a f – – – – d up fact of life that towards the end, your own life or someone else’s, things that once seemed so complicated and confusing now seem transparent.
“Like all of us, my Dad was imperfect. But despite his flaws, and my own, we are a successful story of father and son. A never ending bond, rooted in love, that will forever remain eternal.
“Dad, I’m so proud to be your son. My only hope is that you’re proud of me. It was all I ever wanted. Thank you for everything.
“I love you.
“Your son,
“Kevin.”
Those within the Heat were aware of Love’s reasoning for being away from the team, protecting that confidentiality. Love briefly was with the Heat the day of their play-in victory over the Chicago Bulls two weeks ago, before again stepping away from the team.
Inter Miami, without Messi, loses 1st MLS game of season as FC Dallas rallies for a 4-3 victory
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP) — Inter Miami lost its first MLS game of the season Sunday with Lionel Messi watching from a private box as FC Dallas scored three unanswered goals in the second half for a 4-3 victory.
Inter Miami squandered a two-goal advantage and slipped to 5-1-3, with 18 points.
Inter Miami lost at Vancouver in the first leg of its CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinal round on Thursday. Messi played all 90 minutes of Miami’s 2-0 loss. With the teams playing the second leg in Miami on Wednesday, the 37-year-old Messi playing Sunday seemed unlikely.
Pedrinho scored the go-ahead goal in the 81st minute to cap the comeback for Dallas (4-3-3, 15 points). Logan Farrington retrieved a ball before it crossed the backline and centered to an open Pedrinho, who converted from 15 yards.
Goals from Osaze Urhoghide and Anderson Julio within a five-minute span midway through the second half tied it at 3.
Urhoghide got Dallas within one when he beat Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender with a shot outside the 6-yard box in the 64th minute. Julio scored the equalizer when he retrieved a long ball from Pedrinho, dribbled unmarked inside the large area and beat Callender with an 18-yard conversion.
Down an early goal, Miami responded with two strikes within a 13-minute span in the first half.
The tying score was ruled an own goal when a shot by Fafá Picault bounced off Dallas defender Shaq Moore near the goal line and into the net in the 16th minute.
Allen Obando put Miami ahead with a goal in the 29th minute. Picault centered a pass to Obando inside the 6-yard box where he tapped in a shot for his first Miami goal.
Miami signed the 18-year-old Obando on loan from the Ecuadorian first division in March.
David Martinez padded the lead for Miami with a goal in the 56th minute. He retrieved a loose ball on the left wing and converted with a shot that landed inside the right post.
Dallas struck first on Shaq Moore’s goal in the eighth minute. Moore retrieved a loose ball and blasted a shot from 18 yards that landed high inside the left post.
In addition to Messi, his former Barcelona teammates Luis Suárez and Jordi Alba didn’t play Sunday.
___
AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer
Marlins get two more homers from rookie Ramirez, but rally falls short in Seattle
SEATTLE (AP) — Cal Raleigh tied for the major league lead with his 10th home run, Logan Evans won his MLB debut and the Seattle Mariners beat the Miami Marlins 7-6 on Sunday.
Connor Norby’s three-run homer in the eighth cut Seattle’s lead before Andrés Muñoz pitched a 1-2-3 ninth for his 10th save, tying San Diego’s Robert Suarez atop the majors.
The Mariners have won six straight series and 12 of their last 16 games.
Raleigh’s homer tied Arizona’s Eugenio Suárez. J.P. Crawford also homered. Jorge Polanco had three hits, including two doubles, and two RBIs. Julio Rodriguez hit a two-run single.
Evans (1-0) made his debut after All-Star right-hander Logan Gilbert went on the 15-day injured list Saturday with a right elbow flexor strain. Evans gave up two runs on two hits and three walks with three strikeouts.
Seattle’s Randy Arozarena reached base for the 23rd consecutive game, the second-longest active streak behind Philadelphia’s Kyle Schwarber (32), who played Sunday night.
Norby had three hits and three RBIs. Agustín Ramírez hit two solo homers, but grounded out to end the game. Max Meyer (2-3) pitched four innings and gave up five runs.
Ben Williamson was scratched from the Mariners’ lineup with back spasms. The third baseman missed his first game since making his MLB debut April 15. He is hitting .310.
Key momentThe Marlins’ had runners second and third with none out in the fifth. Evans gave up a run before ending his debut by striking out Jesús Sánchez
Key statFive games into his major league career, Ramírez is hitting .474 with seven extra-base hits including three home runs, in 19 at-bats.
Up nextEdward Cabrera (0-1, 6.14) pitches for Miami against the Dodgers’ Dustin May (1-1, 3.68) at Los Angeles on Monday. Seattle starts Bryce Miller (1-3, 4.21) at home against the Angels’ Jack Kochanowicz (1-3, 5.47) on Tuesday.
Man’s body pulled from Intracoastal Waterway in Hollywood
Hollywood detectives are investigating the death of a man who was found Sunday in the Intracoastal Waterway, a city police spokesman said.
Police spokesman Christian Lata said the department received a call around noon about “an unresponsive person” floating in the waterway. The man was pronounced dead by Hollywood Fire Rescue.
The Hollywood Police Department Detective Bureau has been assigned the case. Lata said more information will be released as it becomes available
Former Dolphins edge rusher Emmanuel Ogbah finds deal with new team
Longtime Miami Dolphins edge defender Emmanuel Ogbah is on his way out.
Ogbah, after five seasons with the Dolphins, is signing a one-year deal for up to $5 million with the Jacksonville Jaguars, according to agent Drew Rosenhaus.
It reunites the edge rusher with new Jaguars defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile, who was Dolphins linebackers coach from 2020 to 2023.
Ogbah, 31, started his Dolphins tenure with back-to-back nine-sack seasons in 2020 and 2021 as a valued defensive end in ex-coach Brian Flores’ defense.
A holdover in 2022 as coach Mike McDaniel took over but previous defensive coordinator Josh Boyer was retained, Ogbah signed a four-year, $65 million contract as a free agent to rejoin Miami.
His play took a turn for the worse that season, though, as he had just one sack before a torn triceps injury cut his year short after nine games. Miami also traded for outside linebacker Bradley Chubb at the trade deadline that year.
Ogbah was limited in his playing time as a reserve in 2023, but he still managed 5 1/2 sacks and an interception that season. After being released that February, he was unsigned deep into the 2024 offseason before he rejoined the Dolphins once the player expected to replace him, Shaquil Barrett, abruptly retired before training camp.
Among edge rushers for 2025, the Dolphins have 2024 first-round pick Chop Robinson and two standout veterans coming off serious knee injuries in Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb. They also have special teamers who can vie for playing time in Quinton Bell and Cameron Goode, and Miami will count on the development of 2024 fifth-round selection Mohamed Kamara.
Boca Bash 2025 on Lake Boca Raton | PHOTOS
Hundreds of boats take over Lake Boca Raton for the annual Boca Bash boat party.
Dave Hyde: Dolphins get bigger, tougher — but plenty of work left
They needed a bigger, badder defensive line.
So, they drafted Michigan 330-pounder Kenneth Grant.
They needed a tougher, tone-setting offensive guard.
So, they traded up for Arizona’s Jonah Savaiinaea.
The Miami Dolphins also needed two starting cornerbacks, another safety, a young quarterback to mold, a landing spot to trade unhappy veteran Jalen Ramsey, another one for unpredictable Tyreek Hill and some good, young depth especially on the tissue-thin trenches.
It was a to-do list that couldn’t all get done in one draft.
The odd part was they didn’t really try to tackle it after those top two picks. Or they couldn’t try as the day broke wrong for them. Something, considering a team with expansive needs shrunk their draft to the point the secondary looks especially full of questions right now.
But start here: The Dolphins corrected their self-made problems at the top of the draft. They needed to toughen this team, needed to bring more power on their lines and general manager Chris Grier’s opening picks should do that.
Related Articles- Former Dolphins edge rusher Emmanuel Ogbah finds deal with new team
- Chris Perkins: Breaking down the AFC East’s draft . . . Dolphins’ grade might surprise you
- Chris Perkins: A glance at Miami Dolphins’ 2025 draft class and how they fit
- Dolphins add slew of wide receivers among undrafted free agent pickups after draft
- Fast facts: Learn more about the Dolphins’ Day 3 draftees
Grant means the defensive line can return to being a strength of the team — well, if Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips stay healthy, of course. And if they get a secondary to help. Throw in fifth-round defensive tackle Jordan Phillips, and the stated goal of building the defensive line was reached.
Savaiinaea means the Dolphins won’t have a starting offensive lineman over 27 years old, reflecting a philosophical change from having the league’s oldest roster last year. He means folks can calm down about Liam Eichenberg starting (he won’t). Savaiinaea also means this offense took another step toward having an inside running and actual short-yardage game.
These opening picks replace 2019 first-round tackle Christian Wilkins and 2020 second-round guard Rob Hunt. They went out the door for big money as the Dolphins let them hit free agency rather while choosing to invest in the likes of Hill and Ramsey. Which leads to the problem of this draft.
Start here: The Dolphins entered with four picks in the first four rounds, and with so many needs the prime question was how to expand those draft picks. Instead, they shrunk them. They left with only Grant and Savaiinaea in those four rounds.
Part of that was trading up from the 48th to 36th for Savaiinaea cost their third-round pick (98th overall). That’s an expensive move for a non-premier position. If he’s as good as they think, all is good. But the day-after question is if a combination like Georgia guard Tate Ratledge, taken 57th by Detroit and Western Kentucky cornerback Upton Stout, taken 100th by San Francisco, would impact the roster more?
The other part of that is they traded their fourth-round and sixth-round pick for Houston’s fifth-rounder and a 2026 third-rounder. A head-scratcher. Not just because this was still in the meat of the draft as analysts framed it. But Grier, too. He’s under fire to win this year. Now, a fourth-round pick isn’t going to change the team’s fortune. But he could help.
Chris Perkins: A glance at Miami Dolphins’ 2025 draft class and how they fit
You can come up with reasons why this was done, but I prefer think the obvious one: Grier saw this in the team’s best interest. He got some value by the draft chart, recouped the pick spent on Savaiinaea and will find cornerbacks off the remaining free-agent pile. Asante Samuel Jr. Stephen Gilmore. Someone. Two, actually.
Trading Ramsey remains a must. There’s no plan to bring him back. Hill presents enough of an internal problem if they can’t trade him. Grier and coach Mike McDaniel have to reclaim this team’s culture. And you wonder why they had no interest in Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders?
Sanders would be a fit for McDaniel’s offense and was great value in the fifth round. But the Dolphins aren’t equipped to handle the noise around him. It has enough headaches right now with Ramsey, Hill and a cratered culture.
So, they took Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers in the seventh round. That’s not an investment. It’s a training-camp arm. A hope. Like the six other picks in the fifth, sixth and seventh round.
They entered the draft needing so much they couldn’t do enough. What they did in getting bigger and tougher on the lines was nice. There’s just a lot of work left to be done.
Chris Perkins: Breaking down the AFC East’s draft . . . Dolphins’ grade might surprise you
They came for the canonization of a millennial saint. They stayed for Pope Francis’ funeral
By VANESSA GERA
VATICAN CITY (AP) — Thousands of young people from around the world had come to Rome expecting to rejoice this weekend in the canonization of the first millennial saint during the Vatican’s Holy Year. They ended up bidding farewell to Pope Francis instead, with their exuberance giving an uplifting tone to Saturday’s otherwise somber funeral.
Related Articles- Trump expresses doubts Putin is willing to end the Ukraine war, a day after saying a deal was close
- Today in History: April 26, the Chernobyl nuclear plant disaster
- What to know about the funeral and burial of Pope Francis
- Photos: From mightiest to humblest, hundreds of thousands gather for Pope Francis’ funeral
- Trump pays his respects to a pope who publicly and pointedly disagreed with him, meets Zelenskyy
“He always said you have to be joyful about life, you have to live life in a similar way,” said Marco Falchi, who traveled from his home near Perugia with his wife and 11-year-old son. He and his wife credit Francis with reviving their spirituality, and they named their son, Francesco, after him.
The family is also devoted to the cause of sainthood for Carlo Acutis, a young Italian who died in 2006 from leukemia and inspired faith in many young Catholics. They planned their trip to Rome around that.
The canonization of Acutis had been scheduled for Sunday during the first-ever Jubilee of Adolescents, dedicated to teens. It was suspended after Francis’ death on Monday.
Falchi was struck by the lack of deep mourning at the funeral for the pope, and he is convinced Francis would have been pleased. “Especially since this was the jubilee for adolescents, he certainly didn’t want a day of mourning but he wanted a day of joy,” he said.
‘I feel like I grew up with Francis’There was a clear blue sky over St. Peter’s Square. Some people camped out the night before to get a good spot. Many stood respectfully, their hands folded, as they followed the Mass on large screens. Radio broadcasts in multiple languages added to the hum of humanity. They applauded when Francis’ simple wooden coffin was moved outdoors.
Tens of thousands of Catholic faithful had planned their trips before the pope’s death.
“I bought my ticket for Carlo,” said Reyes Arribas, a 23-year-old from Valencia, Spain. “And then suddenly Pope Francis died, so I came to the funeral.”
Show Caption1 of 12Faithful react during the funeral of Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican, Saturday, April 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) ExpandShe confessed that while she admired Francis, she felt a closer affinity to his predecessors, St. John Paul II and Benedict XVI. Her feelings for Acutis, however, are very strong. She excitedly praised him as “the first saint of young people” because he was immersed in the technological world of today.
Even those who were disappointed by the suspended canonization were gratified that they could celebrate Francis, loved by many for his humility and concern for the poor.
“I feel like I grew up with Pope Francis,” said Jessica Naranjo, a 27-year-old from Austin, Texas. “I felt very connected with him in the way he advocated for social justice and the environment. This was a big loss for me.”
“I”m disappointed that I’m here celebrating the pope’s life instead of celebrating with the pope,” she said.
Ana Kalen, a 22-year-old medical student, traveled to Rome for the Acutis canonization with a group from Sarajevo, Bosnia-Herzegovina.
“The plans have changed, but we are still so glad to be here for this historical moment,” Kalen said, a Bosnian flag draped over her shoulders. “We are sad about each death. But we do believe that Pope Francis is in a better place.”
Francis resonates with young CatholicsAfter St. John Paul II died in 2005, the mood was different. The faithful made pilgrimages from his Polish homeland and elsewhere to mourn a towering figure of the 20th century in a spirit of deep sadness and loss.
Francis had a different style. During his 12-year papacy, he urged people to maintain a sense of humor, and that spirit seemed to guide many participants Saturday.
Groups of young people filled St. Peter’s Square before the funeral Mass. One from a parish in Cassano Magnago in the northern Italian province of Varese danced in circle and sang religious songs.
The pope’s death during Easter season filled them with a sense of peace, one teenager said.
“It’s a good sign,” said 16-year-old Matteo Cozzi. “The death of a pope at Easter is a sign of hope.”
UF QB Graham Mertz the biggest surprise among 7 Gators drafted
GAINESVILLE — Quarterback Graham Mertz was one of the nation’s top quarterback recruits when he signed with Wisconsin, but a longshot to get drafted by the time he left Florida.
The Houston Texans decided to give the 24-year-old an opportunity to prove himself, selecting him during the sixth round of the NFL draft with the No. 197 overall pick.
After UF failed to produce a draft pick during the first three rounds for the first time since 2012 and just the third instance since 1990 (’92, ’93), Mertz was among seven Gators to have their name called during the draft’s third day (Rounds 4-7).
Florida head coach Billy Napier, right, talks with quarterback Graham Mertz during a timeout of the Gators' 39-36 overtime loss to Arkansas Nov. 4 in Gainesville. (AP Photo/John Raoux)The 6-foot-3, 212-pound Mertz was the 10th quarterback selected among 13 drafted overall, going ahead of Texas’ Quinn Ewers and Indiana’s Kurtis Rourke, who led College Football Playoff teams. Also selected in the sixth round were Ohio State’s Will Howard and Notre Dame’s Riley Leonard, who squared off in the national title game won by Howard’s Buckeyes.
Mertz spent six years at the collegiate level and started 48 starts, allowing him to acquire experience and hone his leadership skills while also improving accuracy and decision-making he struggled with at Wisconsin.
The Kansas native arrived at UF after he transferred following the 2022 season to culminate an inconsistent career in Madison. Mertz threw 38 touchdowns and 26 interceptions while completing just under 60% of his passes for the Badgers.
But Mertz would set program records at Florida for completion percentage in a season (72.9) and consecutive passes without an interception (239) while throwing 20 touchdowns and just 3 picks before he suffered a broken collarbone during a narrow loss at Missouri to end his season.
Mertz, though, failed to build on his breakout 2023 season, suffering a concussion during a season-opening 41-17 loss at Miami. During an overtime loss Oct. 11 at Tennessee, he tore the ACL in his left knee to end his college career.
Florida Gators head coach Billy Napier checks on his quarterback Graham Mertz (15) after he was injured in the second half of the college football game against Miami Hurricanes at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, Fla., Saturday, Aug. 31, 2024. (Willie J. Allen Jr./Orlando Sentinel)Less than six months after the injury, Mertz performed at the Gators Pro Day March 27. His return was the final time at Florida Mertz showcased the toughness he displayed repeatedly during a 31-sack 2023 season or in his final game at Tennessee, where he threw a touchdown on the play after he injured his knee.
The Texans will now give Mertz an opportunity to compete for the role of backup to rising star CJ Stroud. Former Stanford quarterback Davis Mills was his backup in 2023.
NFL teams also drafted six of Mertz’s former Florida teammates and signed others as free agents.
Receiver Chimere Dike, who played with Mertz at Wisconsin and in 2024 at Florida, was the first player selected on Day 3. The Tennessee Titans drafted him No. 103 overall, making him the 14th receiver chosen after he led UF with 42 catches, including a team-high 18 of at least 20 yards. The 6-foot-1 ½, 195-pound Wisconsin native ran a 40 time of 4.34 seconds at the scouting combine.
Former 5-star recruit Jason Marshall Jr. will return to his hometown of Miami to play with the Dolphins, who chose him with the No. 150 pick. Ten selections earlier the Carolina Panthers selected defensive tackle Cam Jackson.
At No. 152, the Dallas Cowboys selected three-year starting linebacker Shemar James, who left school a year early. Veteran Jeremy Crawshaw, a member of UF’s 2020 class, will join the Denver Broncos as the only punter drafted (sixth round, No. 216 overall). The native of Australia averaged a school-record 46.4 yards for his five-year career.
Defensive tackle Trikweze Bridges was the penultimate pick of the draft, going No. 256 to the Los Angeles Chargers. The Oregon transfer led UF with 70 tackles after he stepped in at safety because of injuries and became one of the defense’s most consistent performers.
Several Gators were undrafted.
The Tennessee Titans signed offensive lineman Brandon Crenshaw-Dickson as a free agent. He started 47 college games, including 35 at San Diego State before he transferred in 2024.
Mammoth nose tackle Des Watson (6-5, 464) signed as an undrafted rookie with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, allowing the Plant City native to remain close to home.
Receiver Elijhah Badger will join the Kansas City Chiefs, winners of three of the past six Super Bowls, as a undrafted free agent. After leading the Gators with 798 receiving yards and 4 scores on 39 catches, the former Arizona State transfer hopes to catch passes from superstar Patrick Mahomes.
Edgar Thompson can be reached at egthompson@orlandosentinel.com
Chris Perkins: A glance at Miami Dolphins’ 2025 draft class and how they fit
MIAMI GARDENS — The Miami Dolphins had eight selections in this year’s NFL draft and they used five of them on defense, and three of those on nose tackles beginning with Michigan nose tackle/defensive tackle Kenneth Grant.
There’s reason to question why the Dolphins didn’t draft a cornerback in the first three rounds but they did get defensive help early.
Here’s a look at the Dolphins’ 2025 draft class:
DT/NT Kenneth Grant, Michigan, first round (No. 13)Grant (6 foot 4, 331 pounds) is a physical run-stopper who fills a need and will be expected to be a Day One starter.
He’ll line up on the front of the Dolphins’ 3-4 defense alongside fellow tackle Zach Sieler and nose tackle Benito Jones in an attempt to improve on what was the league’s No. 9 defense against the run last season.
Grant isn’t much of a pass rusher right now but it’s thought that he can improve on that skill.
Guard Jonah Savaiinaea, Arizona, second round (No. 37)Savaiinaea (6-4, 324) has position versatility between guard and tackle but the Dolphins said Savaiinaea will be expected to be a Day One starter.
It’s not known whether he’ll play RG or LG, meaning line up next to young LT Patrick Paul or veteran RT Austin Jackson.
Savaiinaea is a physical player who has played RG, RT and LT in the past two years.
Related Articles- Dolphins add slew of wide receivers among undrafted free agent pickups after draft
- Fast facts: Learn more about the Dolphins’ Day 3 draftees
- Dolphins, still without Jalen Ramsey trade partner, add DTs, local CB, QB on Day 3 of draft
- Chris Perkins: Why didn’t Dolphins draft a cornerback in first three rounds?
- Dolphins Deep Dive: Perkins, Furones discuss NFL draft and answer your questions Monday at noon
Phillips (6-2, 312) is a run-stuffing nose tackle who can shed blocks and make tackles with skill.
He’ll be expected to compete for a roster spot and be a rotational player although there are low/reasonable expectations for fifth rounders.
Phillips takes on double teams well and shows good strength and quickness, traits that should serve him well.
CB Jason Marshall Jr., Florida, fifth round (150)Marshall (6-0, 194), a long-armed player, will most likely get his best shot at the 53-man regular-season roster via special teams even though the Dolphins are deficient at cornerback.
Marshall played the first seven games of last season before sustaining a shoulder injury. He still amassed 20 tackles, four PBUs and a forced fumble. Marshall is a disruptive player who is regarded as smart and a zone coverage specialist.
Safety Dante Trader Jr., Maryland, fifth round (155)Trader (5-11, 196) also played lacrosse player and is a skilled athlete as well as a versatile safety who can play slot, one-high, two-high or almost anything else.
Beyond that, he’s a core special teams player with experience at punt, punt return, kickoff and kickoff return, skills that should help him earn a spot on the 53-man roster as a rookie.
RB Ollie Gordon II, Oklahoma State, sixth round (179)Gordon (6-1, 226), who joins a crowded backfield among De’Von Achane, Jaylen Wright and short-yardage specialist Alexander Mattison, was the Doak Walker winner as the nation’s best RB as a sophomore after rushing for 1,732 yards.
As a junior he rushed for 880 yards. Gordon is a big back who prefers to run through defenders than run around them. Gordon is also strong in pass protection.
QB Quinn Ewers, Texas, seventh round (231)Ewers (6-2, 214) will be the third-teamer behind starter Tua Tagovailoa and backup Zach Wilson. Ewers has good arm strength but he’s inconsistent and not very agile.
Still, he had 31 TDs and 12 INTs. Ewers will likely get lots of training camp snaps because Tagovailoa won’t get much work outside of joint practices.
DT/NT Zeek Biggers, Georgia Tech, seventh round (253)Biggers (6-6, 321) is a nose tackle who has 35-inch arms that he uses to keep blockers away from his body, but as a seventh-rounder he’s a longshot to make the 53-man roster.
Biggers totaled 23 tackles, 1.0 sack, 3.5 TFL and two blocked kicks last season. Special teams play could help Biggers get attention from coaches.
More 2025 NFL draft coverageDolphins add slew of wide receivers among undrafted free agent pickups after draft
Fast facts: Learn more about the Dolphins’ Day 3 draftees
Dolphins, still without Jalen Ramsey trade partner, add DTs, local CB, QB on Day 3 of draft
Chris Perkins: Why didn’t Dolphins draft a cornerback in first three rounds?
Chris Perkins: Dolphins rookie Kenneth Grant under tremendous pressure months before his first game
Fast facts: Learn more about Jonah Savaiinaea, the Dolphins’ second-round pick
Dolphins move up in second round to draft guard Jonah Savaiinaea
Miami Dolphins’ first-round draft pick DT Kenneth Grant | PHOTOS
What draft analysts are saying about Dolphins’ first-round pick Kenneth Grant
Chris Perkins: New DT Kenneth Grant’s ‘dawg mentality’ is exactly what Dolphins need
Fast facts: Learn more about Dolphins’ first-round pick Kenneth Grant
Instant Analysis: Miami Dolphins’ first-round pick Kenneth Grant
Dolphins select Michigan defensive tackle Kenneth Grant in first round of NFL draft
Dolphins add slew of wide receivers among undrafted free agent pickups after draft
Immediately as the NFL draft concluded Saturday evening, the Miami Dolphins got to work on agreements with undrafted rookies to add to the 90-man roster for the offseason.
The Dolphins, after beefing up in the trenches during the draft, dipped heavily into the wide receiver class among 13 undrafted free agents they’re signing, according to a league source. They agreed to terms with Missouri’s Theo Wease Jr., Arkansas’ Andrew Armstrong, Baylor’s Monaray Baldwin and Northwestern’s AJ Henning.
At other positions, according to a league source, the Dolphins added Missouri running back Nate Noel, a Miami product who attended Northwestern High, UCF cornerback BJ Adams, Texas Tech tight end Jalin Conyers, Auburn linebacker Eugene Asante, Minnesota cornerback Ethan Robinson, Michigan guard Josh Priebe, Western Michigan center Addison West, Alabama long snapper Kneeland Hibbert, South Carolina defensive tackle Alex Huntley and safety John Saunders Jr.
“We’re excited about some of the players we’re trying to get, and hopefully we can close some of those deals,” general manager Chris Grier said as the Dolphins wrapped up their eight-pick draft and added more young talent while his phone was consistently buzzing in his pocket during a post-draft news conference.
“As soon as our last pick went — we’re waiting for the end of the draft — but you start getting ready to communicate with players and agents to try and see if we can find a spot for them here and make it a mutual agreement.
“It’s always something you communicate with the agents throughout spring too, as well, about interest in players. We’re actively going.”
Among the late additions, Adams was a surprise to go undrafted, widely expected to go early on Day 3 in the fourth or fifth round. The 6 foot 2 Atlanta native is considered strong in man coverage and had two interceptions last year for UCF.
Armstrong, who is 6-4, was a standout for the Razorbacks last season, leading the SEC with 78 receptions for 1,140 yards.
Related Articles- Chris Perkins: A glance at Miami Dolphins’ 2025 draft class and how they fit
- Fast facts: Learn more about the Dolphins’ Day 3 draftees
- Dolphins, still without Jalen Ramsey trade partner, add DTs, local CB, QB on Day 3 of draft
- Chris Perkins: Why didn’t Dolphins draft a cornerback in first three rounds?
- Dolphins Deep Dive: Perkins, Furones discuss NFL draft and answer your questions Monday at noon
Wease also has size at wide receiver, which could complement the tandem of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, after free agent signing Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, if either he or Armstrong were to make the team this training camp. He had 884 receiving yards for Missouri last season.
His teammate with the Tigers, Noel, is shifty as a 5-8, 187-pound running back who was productive in the SEC after transferring from Appalachian State. He had 818 rushing yards at Mizzou.
Henning and Baldwin are of a different build than the two bigger wideouts, at 5-10 and 5-9, respectively.
Asante has 195 career tackles between time at North Carolina and Auburn, with 7 ½ sacks. Robinson had three interceptions for the Golden Gophers last season after transferring from Bucknell. Huntley had 81 tackles and four sacks over the past four seasons after redshirting his first college season with the Gamecocks.
The Dolphins started the draft by taking Michigan defensive tackle Kenneth Grant with the No. 13 pick in Thursday night’s first round.
In the second round, Miami went to the offensive line and traded up to bring in Arizona guard Jonah Savaiinaea.
Miami then drafted six players on Day 3: Maryland defensive tackle Jordan Phillips, Florida cornerback Jason Marshall Jr., Maryland safety Dante Trader Jr., Oklahoma State running back Ollie Gordon II, Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers and Georgia Tech defensive tackle Zeek Biggers.
This story will be updated.
Chris Perkins: A glance at Miami Dolphins’ 2025 draft class and how they fit
Daily Horoscope for April 27, 2025
General Daily Insight for April 27, 2025
We’re standing up against our temptations. The nurturing Moon enters luxurious Taurus, encouraging us to seek comfort, stability, and pleasant connections with others. Later, though, the Moon fights against transformative Pluto, creating an inner tug-of-war between following compulsions and being emotionally disciplined, one that may draw our focus away from other areas of life. Finally, the New Moon rises at 3:31 pm EDT in Taurus, giving us the resilient energy to stand strong against this impulsive mindset. We are stronger than we think.
AriesMarch 21 – April 19
Trading a sure thing for a potential improvement could be a mistake. You may be offered an opportunity that sounds great, but demands that you expend or abandon something that you already have available. It’s an important trade-off that could have lasting effects on you, and might even affect the people around you. Be honest with yourself about whether the sacrifice is worth it for something that might not even pay out. Making a list of pros and cons could help you decide.
TaurusApril 20 – May 20
It may take time for others to accept a renewed you. You might find that your reputation is undergoing more drastic shifts than you yourself are undergoing, as the changes that you’re enacting within yourself could be exaggerated to those who don’t know you very well. There could be rumors, perhaps by those who don’t want to see you change, creating obstacles to your progress, but don’t let them discourage you! You have the power and courage to set future trends.
GeminiMay 21 – June 20
The past can teach you new things. You’re learning to appreciate what you’ve already done for yourself, rather than beating yourself up for what you haven’t yet done. There’s a way to look at your history that appreciates all the hard work that you put into getting where you are now, and there’s a different way to look at any mistakes you’ve made along the way. Accepting your actions and moving forward is the best way to fuel the positive future you deserve.
CancerJune 21 – July 22
Too much, too fast could create unexpected setbacks. Be wary of taking on too much at this time — particularly since today’s “too much” may not normally be enough to fill your plate! Your internal bandwidth will naturally change over time, and you’ll need to make more room for necessary rest. It’s okay to be honest with the people around you by letting them know that you’re temporarily not able to take on as much as usual. You’re allowed to say no.
LeoJuly 23 – August 22
New responsibilities may come with new challenges to navigate. You’re likely the type of person who doesn’t shy away from a challenge, and you want to make sure you’re telling the world that you’re here for the long run, loud and clear. That said, it may be better to avoid too much confrontation at this time, because it can be more explosive than normal. Rebranding yourself into an even more successful person is possible, so do your best to make a great first impression.
VirgoAugust 23 – September 22
Learning updated information may inspire a change in routine. Even if you were locked into a certain mindset or routine prior to this, being able to alter your practice in response to learning more accurate knowledge is a valuable skill. You might let go of a bad habit after learning about long-term negative side effects that it causes, or you could discover that something you thought was good for you actually isn’t. Regardless, don’t hesitate to reflect and restructure your routine.
LibraSeptember 23 – October 22
Shifting your focus can let you see a whole new world. You might be focusing on such a small part of the space around you that you’re completely missing beauty, wisdom, and fun in other places. Letting your gaze slide over toward the positive aspects of general life is a great way to regain some of your energy. Breaking free may not be easy, especially if you’ve been fixing your attention on something less enjoyable for a while, but it should be worth the wait.
ScorpioOctober 23 – November 21
Connections that need clarity may come into view. You might have been leaving a certain friendship for another day, not wanting to face what it meant for the two of you. Things may have been left off on an awkward or uncertain note, leaving you uncertain of how to move forward with the other person. The more that you strengthen yourself to be honest and straightforward with the other person, the easier it will be to get the same from them.
SagittariusNovember 22 – December 21
Creating order can bring networking opportunities. You might have been letting certain chores slip while you were juggling multiple projects and goals, and now you’re finding yourself reorganizing as a method of getting back to a place of serenity. There may be someone who’s paying attention to how you conduct yourself and your mental organization. The more that you’re able to show them that you have your affairs in order, the more likely you are to impress them. It’s time to shape up.
CapricornDecember 22 – January 19
You’re redefining your limits. Someone might have led you to believe that you were only capable of doing so much, but the truth is finally being revealed to you. You have talents beyond that which you were told you did, and you have the determination to develop skills that critics may not see in you. Your capacity to do hard things is amazing, even if you were told you wouldn’t be able to. Make sure that you’re not measuring yourself by someone else’s ruler.
AquariusJanuary 20 – February 18
What comforts you in this moment may be a window into your deeper needs. You might find that you’re turning to certain people or places for emotional security. The people who feel like family, as well as the places that feel like home, are showing you how to best support your ongoing mental health. You could find that you’re being drawn to more stable people if you’ve been living erratically, or more daring people if you’ve been playing it safe. Find the right balance.
PiscesFebruary 19 – March 20
Fresh revelations may come after changing your surroundings. You might have been stuck inside the same four walls for quite some time — even if you haven’t, some stagnation has likely set in. Whenever cabin fever strikes you, don’t hesitate to get some fresh air. Whether you decide to take a nature hike, hit up your local dance club, or simply walk through the nearest park, you can shake up your environment and shake off the dust. Live life to the fullest!
Hurricanes star wide receiver Xavier Restrepo reunites with Cam Ward, signs with Titans
Xavier Restrepo came to Miami as a fringey three-star prospect. He left as one of the program’s all-time greats.
Restrepo turned a stellar college career into a shot at the pros; the Tennessee Titans signed him as an undrafted free agent on Saturday, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The move reunites him with top pick Cam Ward.
Restrepo burst onto the South Florida football scene as a sophomore at Monarch High. He transferred to powerhouse St. Thomas Aquinas for his junior year, then wrapped up his high school career at Deerfield Beach. Restrepo earned All-County first-team honors as a senior.
Restrepo played seven games in the COVID-shortened 2020 season, making one catch for 12 yards. He was solid in 2021 and 2022, racking up 613 yards and four touchdowns in 19 games after an injury-shortened his 2022 campaign.
He got a full season as Miami’s starting slot receiver in 2023, and he established himself as one of the best at the position. Restrepo racked up 1,092 yards and scored six times. He earned All-ACC first-team honors for his strong season.
Restrepo outdid his strong 2023 season last year. He became the first UM receiver to have back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, finishing the year with 1,127 yards and 11 touchdowns. Restrepo set the all-time program records for receptions (200) and receiving yards (2,844) during his final college season. For his efforts, he was named an All-American.
“He means the world to the program, and the program means the world to him,” Miami coach Mario Cristobal said. “He is the epitome of hard work.”
Although Restrepo went late in the draft, Miami offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson said last year he would be a hard player to cut from a roster.
“I would say that if he’s on your team in camp, he’s going to be on your team when the season starts,” Dawson said. “It’s going to be hard to cut him because he’s going to work hard every day. He’s going to make plays. He might not look a certain way, he might not run a 40 the way you typically are wanting him to run. But if he’s on your squad Day 1, he’s going to be hard to cut because he’s going to be that guy every day.”
Hurricanes pick up trio of transfers, adding a wide receiver, linebacker and kicker
Miami made its first spring portal additions on Saturday, adding former N.C. State linebacker Kamal Bonner, Texas kicker Bert Auburn and BYU wide receiver Keelan Marionvia the transfer portal.
Bonner, a second-year freshman, was a multi-game starter for the Wolfpack last year, starting seven of the 12 games he played in. Bonner notched 56 total tackles, seven tackles for loss, with one sack.
The second-year linebacker had a 60.2 defensive grade from Pro Football Focus. The analytics site gave him a 61.9 run-defense grade with a 63.7 pass-rush grade and a 58.3 coverage grade. He did struggle with missed tackles, missing 16 last year and getting a 41.8 tackling grade.
Bonner, a 6-foot-2, 215-pound linebacker, has three years of eligibility. He adds more depth to Miami’s linebacker room, which lost starter Francisco Mauigoa to the draft. He could start alongside veteran Wesley Bissainthe. Miami also has veteran Jaylin Alderman and rising young linebackers like Raul Aguirre, Bobby Pruitt and Kellen Wiley, among others.
Auburn was the Longhorns’ kicker for three years, making 66 of his 86 career attempts. He also had a 100 percent extra-point percentage.
Auburn fills the void left by Andy Borregales, who was the first kicker taken in this year’s NFL draft.
Auburn, who is the Texas all-time leader in field goals made, was a first-team All-Big 12 pick in 2023.
Marion, the final transfer addition, started six games for the Cougars last year. He racked up 346 yards and a touchdown on 24 catches last season. Marion also is a standout kick returner, returning a pair of kicks for touchdowns. He was an All-American kick returner.
Pro Football Focus gave Marion a 67.5 offensive grade last season. Marion has 1,125 career yards and seven touchdowns during his tenure with BYU and UConn.
GOD DID THANK YOU FOR THIS OPPORTUNITY
