NFL · Big Mike Research
NFL news & betting intel.
Line moves, injury intel, and the angles that matter across all 32 teams — tracked by the Big Mike Research desk.
From the desk
The wire
Injuries only →- NFLALS Fight Revived, NBA Chaos, USMNT Wins BigChris Johnson’s ALS Battle Sparks Ice Bucket Challenge Revival The Story: Former NFL running back Chris Johnson—aka "CJ2K"—isn’t just fighting ALS, he’s calling for a full-blown comeback of the Ice Bucket Challenge. The 2014 viral sensation raised over $220M for ALS research, and Johnson’s pushing hard to reignite that fire. LeBron James is already tagged in the challenge, and if history repeats, this could snowball fast. Johnson’s diagnosis puts a face on the disease, and the timing’s right—summer’s here, the ice is cold, and the cause is urgent. The bet: If LeBron takes the plunge, this thing goes nuclear. USMNT Stuns with Knockout Stage Win The Story: The U.S. Men’s National Team just did something they’ve only pulled off once before—win a knockout-stage match. No details on the opponent yet, but the vibes are real. This squad’s been doubted for years, and while it’s early, a win like this could be the spark they need. The bet: If they keep this energy, the World Cup’s wi
- NFLChris Johnson seeks Ice Bucket Challenge revival amid ALS diagnosisFormer NFL running back Chris Johnson is calling for the revival of the Ice Bucket Challenge to raise awareness of ALS as he fights the progressive nervous system disease.
- NFLFantasy football buzz: Why Loveland has the highest ceiling in ChicagoRome Odunze? Luther Burden III? Here's why Colston Loveland is the most important Bears' pass-catcher.
- NFLTaylor Swift and Travis Kelce's wedding (FAQ version)We're answering -- or attempting to answer -- everything you want to know about the sports x pop culture event of the summer.
- NFLNFC East: Can Cowboys, Giants or Commanders unseat Eagles?Four big questions for our NFC East reporters, including biggest concerns and how the offseason impacted the QBs.
- NFLWhich U.S. area has best NFL players? Eight teams, Cup winnerEnjoying the World Cup? Well, what if NFL players were divided by where they are from and had a similar tournament? We made eight rosters and played it out.
- NFLDenver Broncos' defense searching for more turnovers in 2026Despite being among the league leaders in many defensive categories last season, the Broncos were near the bottom in forced turnovers.
- NFLEx-Titans scout, Arkansas State DB Taylor found guilty of murderBlaise Taylor, a former defensive back at Arkansas State and NFL scout for the Titans, was found guilty of murdering his girlfriend and her unborn child Wednesday in a Nashville courtroom.
- NFLLaw enforcement official confirms Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce wedding at MSG on FridayThe star couple will have their wedding at Madison Square Garden on Friday night, according to a law enforcement official briefed on the security plans.
- NFLMSG fits the plot for Taylor Swift-Travis Kelce weddingNo, we can't come to the wedding. But when it comes to the details, has the "Life of a Showgirl" singer already spelled it out for us?
- NFLNFL Coaching Shifts, Weighted EPA, and VAR TruthOld Dogs, New Tricks, and Bad 4th Down Decisions If you want to know why some coaches stick around and others fade out, look at the math. Word is Pete Carroll spent his final season obsessed with Ben Baldwin's 4th-down charts, trying to climb to the top of the efficiency rankings. It’s a massive pivot for a guy known for old-school grit, and it shows that even the vets know they can't outrun the data anymore. Meanwhile, Mike Tomlin is still allergic to going for it on 4th down. In a league where margins are razor-thin, punting away win probability is a losing bet. Cutting the Noise: Weighted EPA is Here A new "weighted EPA" (Expected Points Added) metric is hitting the analytics scene, and it’s about time. By downweighting garbage time and low-predictive flukes like random fumbles or interceptions, we get a clearer picture of who actually moves the needle. For bettors, this is gold—stop chasing the team that padded their stats in a 30-point blowout and start looking
- NFLKelce Charity Smashes Records, NBA Shakeup Rocks LeagueKelce’s Eagles Autism Haul Hits $3.69M—Another $1.26M in the Bag Jason and Kylie Kelce’s 6th annual Team 62 event at Ocean Drive just dropped another $1.26 million for the Eagles Autism Foundation. That pushes their total since 2021 to $3.69 million—real money for real change. No fluff, just results. NBA Free Agency Frenzy: Celtics Load Up, Lakers Land Big Man The Celtics are stacking chips like it’s 2008 all over again. Mike Conley Jr.—20 seasons in the books, 14th player ever to hit that mark—inked a 1-year deal to join Boston. Then they swiped Mitchell Robinson from the Knicks for $47.4M over 3 years. Knicks fans, you feeling that loss yet? Meanwhile, the Lakers just pulled off a blockbuster, trading for Walker Kessler and locking him down for $130M over 4 years. Utah got unprotected firsts in 2031 and 2033 plus swaps in 2028 and 2030—Jazz fans, hold your breath. Elsewhere in the league: Norman Powell ($45M/2yrs) heads to Chicago after a 22 PPG All-Star run in Miami. John Collins (
- NFLLions Cut Arnold Over Felony Charges; Sorsby Eyes 2027Lions Cut Ties with Terrion Arnold The Lions have made a decisive move, releasing cornerback Terrion Arnold following reports that he faces multiple felony charges, including four counts each of kidnapping and assault. Bond has been set at $1 million. Big Mike's Take: From a betting perspective, you don't just replace a talent like Arnold overnight, but Detroit had zero choice here. When you see "four counts of kidnapping" on a rap sheet, you don't wait for the trial to distance the brand. This is a massive hit to the Lions' secondary depth and a total waste of draft capital, but the optics were radioactive. Detroit's front office is sending a clear message: character isn't just a buzzword. Brendan Sorsby Draft Eligibility Settled The NFL has notified clubs that Brendan Sorsby will not pursue further litigation regarding his entry into the league. Instead, he will prepare for the 2027 NFL Draft. The league clarified that while they won't disciplin
- NFLRT by @TomPelissero: RT by @TomPelissero: 💻 @TomPelissero Brendan Sorsby has settled with the #NFL and NFLPA and will not be playing football in 2026 while preparing for the 2027 #NFLDraft — the @nflnetwork insider explains what it all means:💻 @TomPelissero Brendan Sorsby has settled with the #NFL and NFLPA and will not be playing football in 2026 while preparing for the 2027 #NFLDraft — the @nflnetwork insider explains what it all means: Video — @RichEisenShow Jul 1, 2026
- NFLWhat Tannenbaum wants to see from Sorsby between now and 2027 NFL draft
- NFLWhy Patrick Mahomes is Ryan Fitzpatrick's favorite for MVP
- NFLSo the end result for Brendan Sorsby is in line with the NFL’s handling of other cases that involve betting on football: A one-year de facto suspension, with a clean slate in 2027, barring further issues or revelations.
- NFLUnder the settlement between the NFL, NFLPA and Brendan Sorsby, sources say he will be allowed to participate in the pre-draft process for all non-league events, including the Senior Bowl, pro day and team visits leading up to the 2027 NFL Draft.
- NFLA statement from Brendan Sorsby, who won’t pursue further legal action or opportunities to play this season, focusing instead on his recovery and preparations for the 2027 NFL Draft.
- NFLThe NFL, NFLPA and Brendan Sorsby have reached a settlement, resolving any claims stemming from the league’s decision not to hold a supplemental draft and making Sorsby eligible for the 2027 NFL Draft, with no additional discipline for any prior conduct.
- NFLRT by @TomPelissero: RT by @TomPelissero: The Jacksonville Jaguars announced football promotions today for Shane Waldron (Assistant Head Coach/Pass Game Coordinator) and Heath Farwell (Associate Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator).The Jacksonville Jaguars announced football promotions today for Shane Waldron (Assistant Head Coach/Pass Game Coordinator) and Heath Farwell (Associate Head Coach/Special Teams Coordinator).— @JaguarsPR Jun 30, 2026
- NFLVeteran sports agent Bardia Ghahremani has joined Young Money APAA Sports. Founded by Lil Wayne and Adie von Gontard, YMAPAA represents Travis Hunter, among others, and now is acquiring Ghahremani’s ISA Football Division.
- NFLThe Lions have released CB Terrion Arnold.
- NFLRT by @TomPelissero: RT by @TomPelissero: A Florida judge found probable cause for Lions CB Terrion Arnold to face charges of armed robbery and kidnapping, but denied prosecutors' motion that he be held without bond Monday. The state asked the judge to require Arnold to wear a GPS tracking device, but his attorneys argued that he would not be able to play football with such a device. More:A Florida judge found probable cause for Lions CB Terrion Arnold to face charges of armed robbery and kidnapping, but denied prosecutors' motion that he be held without bond Monday. The state asked the judge to require Arnold to wear a GPS tracking device, but his attorneys argued that he would not be able to play football with such a device. More: spr.ly/6019BDvQfZ— @ESPNNFL Jun 29, 2026
- NFLRT by @TomPelissero: RT by @TomPelissero: Nine-year NBA veteran Malik Beasley has been indicted on federal charges for gambling related to a sports betting scheme, such as point shaving and prop bets, his attorney Steve Haney tells ESPN. The government is coordinating a voluntary surrender of Beasley this week.Nine-year NBA veteran Malik Beasley has been indicted on federal charges for gambling related to a sports betting scheme, such as point shaving and prop bets, his attorney Steve Haney tells ESPN. The government is coordinating a voluntary surrender of Beasley this week.— @ShamsCharania Jun 29, 2026
- NFLPrayers up for CJ2K. 🙏
- NFLStatement from the NFL on the passing of Judge David Doty: “Judge Doty devoted his life to public service and the law, presiding over NFL-related litigation for many years during his distinguished career. We express our sincere condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.”
- NFLRT by @TomPelissero: RT by @TomPelissero: "Even though I was on SportsCenter for 34 years, I may believe someone is watching me for the very first time and I have to prove, to them, that I belong." @lindacohn on the key to 34 years of excellence at ESPN 👏"Even though I was on SportsCenter for 34 years, I may believe someone is watching me for the very first time and I have to prove, to them, that I belong." @lindacohn on the key to 34 years of excellence at ESPN 👏 Video — @SportsCenter Jun 27, 2026
- NFLRT by @TomPelissero: RT by @TomPelissero: 💻 @JCTretter Is an 18-game schedule inevitable? What other issues will be on the table during the next CBA negotiations? #NFL💻 @JCTretter Is an 18-game schedule inevitable? What other issues will be on the table during the next CBA negotiations? #NFL Video — @RichEisenShow Jun 25, 2026
- NFLRT by @TomPelissero: RT by @TomPelissero: THE TRADES KEEP COMING!! A shocker Thursday morning as LaMelo Ball is heading to Minnesota in a massive move involving Naz Reid and a bevy of draft picks: #NBA #NBADraft @tompelisseroTHE TRADES KEEP COMING!! A shocker Thursday morning as LaMelo Ball is heading to Minnesota in a massive move involving Naz Reid and a bevy of draft picks: #NBA #NBADraft @tompelissero Video — @RichEisenShow Jun 25, 2026
- NFLRT by @TomPelissero: RT by @TomPelissero: Mark your calendars 📅 The 2027 #NFLDraft in Washington D.C. will take place April 29Mark your calendars 📅 The 2027 #NFLDraft in Washington D.C. will take place April 29 - May 1!— @NFL Jun 25, 2026
- NFLRT by @TomPelissero: RT by @TomPelissero: Today's No-Truth-to-Rumors-We're-Shopping-Del-Tufo Show w/ @TomPelissero: @JCTretter | @DaMarcusBeasley | @JonKrawczynski 📺 📻 ☎️ 844-204-RICH #NFL #NBA #USMNT #WorldCup #LaMeloTradeToday's No-Truth-to-Rumors-We're-Shopping-Del-Tufo Show w/ @TomPelissero: @JCTretter | @DaMarcusBeasley | @JonKrawczynski 📺 disneyplus.com/browse/entity… 📻 espn.com/radio/play/_/s/espn ☎️ 844-204-RICH #NFL #NBA #USMNT #WorldCup #LaMeloTrade— @RichEisenShow Jun 25, 2026
- NFLTerrion Arnold voluntarily surrendered himself tonight to authorities. Statement on his behalf from @DeniseWhite_EAG:
- NFLRT by @TomPelissero: RT by @TomPelissero: Big time playmaker for the @Jaguars who should see his numbers explode. Very talented mismatch weapon who could change how opponents defend the Jags’ passing gameBig time playmaker for the @Jaguars who should see his numbers explode. Very talented mismatch weapon who could change how opponents defend the Jags’ passing gameTom Pelissero (@TomPelissero)The Jaguars and standout TE Brenton Strange have agreed to terms on a 3 year extension worth up to $48M, with $25M guaranteed per his agents Jim Ivler, JR Roggio, and Jon Perzley @SPORTSTARSNYC— https://x.com/TomPelissero/status/2069857659357179944— @BuckyBrooks Jun 24, 2026
- NFLThe Jaguars and standout TE Brenton Strange have agreed to terms on a 3 year extension worth up to $48M, with $25M guaranteed per his agents Jim Ivler, JR Roggio, and Jon Perzley @SPORTSTARSNYC
- NFLRT by @TomPelissero: RT by @TomPelissero: What are Brendan Sorsby's realistic options for the 2026 season after the #NFL announced it will not hold a Supplemental Draft this summer? @tompelisseroWhat are Brendan Sorsby's realistic options for the 2026 season after the #NFL announced it will not hold a Supplemental Draft this summer? @tompelissero Video — @RichEisenShow Jun 24, 2026
- NFLRT by @TomPelissero: RT by @TomPelissero: By refusing to hold a Supplemental Draft this summer, did the #NFL essentially just suspend embattled QB Brendan Sorsby for the 2026 season? @tompelisseroBy refusing to hold a Supplemental Draft this summer, did the #NFL essentially just suspend embattled QB Brendan Sorsby for the 2026 season? @tompelissero Video — @RichEisenShow Jun 24, 2026
- NFLRT by @TomPelissero: RT by @TomPelissero: 💻 @VinceGoodwill Where do the #Celtics go from here after failing to acquire Giannis in a deal that reportedly included Jaylen Brown? Is moving Brown still an option? #NBA #NBADraft @tompelissero💻 @VinceGoodwill Where do the #Celtics go from here after failing to acquire Giannis in a deal that reportedly included Jaylen Brown? Is moving Brown still an option? #NBA #NBADraft @tompelissero Video — @RichEisenShow Jun 24, 2026
- NFLRT by @TomPelissero: RT by @TomPelissero: "What I see is magic. ... They all just want to win, and they want to win for this country. ... Their camaraderie, it glows." —Super Bowl champion Antonio Freeman on his son Alex Freeman and the USMNT's World Cup performance 👏 (via @RichEisenShow)"What I see is magic. ... They all just want to win, and they want to win for this country. ... Their camaraderie, it glows." —Super Bowl champion Antonio Freeman on his son Alex Freeman and the USMNT's World Cup performance 👏 (via @RichEisenShow) Video — @SportsCenter Jun 24, 2026
- NFLRT by @TomPelissero: RT by @TomPelissero: Today's Smile-Big-and-Shake-the-Commish's-Hand Show w/ @TomPelissero: @VinceGoodwill | @collin_morikawa | @afreeman86 📺 📻 ☎️ 844-204-RICH #NFL #NBADraft #PGATour #WorldCupToday's Smile-Big-and-Shake-the-Commish's-Hand Show w/ @TomPelissero: @VinceGoodwill | @collin_morikawa | @afreeman86 📺 disneyplus.com/browse/entity… 📻 espn.com/radio/play/_/s/espn ☎️ 844-204-RICH #NFL #NBADraft #PGATour #WorldCup— @RichEisenShow Jun 24, 2026
The Big Mike hotline
Big Mike texts the NFL plays behind these headlines.
Text(870) 244-6453Mispriced lines, injury alerts, and results — in your iMessage before the window closes.