Yardbarker

Eric Smithling

Eric Smithling is a writer based in New Orleans, LA, whose byline also appears on Athlon Sports. He has been with Yardbarker since September 2022, primarily covering the NFL and college football, but also the NBA, WNBA, men’s and women’s college basketball, NHL, tennis and golf. He holds a film studies degree from the University of New Orleans. You can find him on Twitter/X and Threads at @ericsmithling and at Bluesky at @ericsmithling.bsky.social.

EXPERTISE:

NFL, College Football, NBA, Men's and Women's College Basketball, NHL

Absurd first career HR a promising sign for Royals top prospect

Kansas City Royals right fielder Jac Caglianone made sure his first career home run was a memorable one.

Chief weakness for every NFC starting quarterback

No starting QB is perfect — even three-time Super Bowl champion Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs. Ahead of training camps opening in late July, Yardbarker NFL writers identify the chief weakness of every starting quarterback in the NFC.

Lakers sale could lead to the franchise's next golden age

The next golden age of the Los Angeles Lakers could soon be upon us.

Ravens' Lamar Jackson gets wish, extra scrutiny after two-time Pro Bowl signing

Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson added a job title on Wednesday: assistant general manager.

Rams' trade 'obstacles' could have significant impact on 2025 outlook 

Sean McVay recently conceded that "obstacles" could hinder the team's attempt to trade for Jalen Ramsey. If correct, it could limit what the Rams are capable of in 2025.

Astros outfielder adds to emerging ROY case with huge game in blowout win

Houston Astros rookie outfielder Cam Smith continued to build his case for American League Rookie of the Year consideration with a huge game on Tuesday.

Deebo Samuel update could have significant impact on 2025 Commanders

Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn recently discussed what he's seen from Samuel during offseason workouts, and his comments could raise expectations for the Commanders this fall.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander joins Hall of Fame company with Game 5 performance

Oklahoma City Thunder point guard is a win away from his first NBA championship, but he's already put himself in conversation with basketball legends following a historic Game 5 performance.

Red Sox CBO's bold prediction could come back to haunt him

Following Sunday's stunning Rafael Devers trade, Boston Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow potentially made things worse after sharing a bold prediction.

10 things to know about historic Gage Wood start at 2025 MCWS

Arkansas Razorbacks pitcher Gage Wood completed arguably the greatest start in men's College World Series history on Monday, throwing a no-hitter with 19 strikeouts in a 3-0 win over Murray State.

Ranking Kevin Durant's preferred destinations: West division foes offer biggest rewards

Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant's potential destinations for the 2025-26 season came into focus on Saturday following a report from ESPN NBA insider Shams Charania.

Adam Scott in excellent shape to join U.S. Open record books

No golfer has better withstood the conditions at this year's U.S. Open at Oakmont than Adam Scott. Because of that, the PGA Tour veteran has put himself in an excellent position to secure his second major and first since the 2013 Masters.

Rory McIlroy talks post-Masters malaise after subpar U.S. Open third round

Rory McIlroy's biggest win might have also been his greatest curse.

Despite benching, we might not have seen the last of Oilers goalkeeper

In a postseason run that has been anything but ordinary, chances are the saga isn't over yet.

Massive recruiting win gives Florida HC Billy Napier extra leverage entering 2025 season

Despite limited on-field success in three seasons as Gators head coach, Napier's strong recruiting class should give him extra job security.

Napheesa Collier builds MVP resume with incredible first half vs. Sparks

The 2025 WNBA MVP Award is increasingly looking like Napheesa Collier's to lose.

Raiders' comments shift expectations for RB Ashton Jeanty

Jeanty's dual-threat capabilities could mean more snaps.

Mets' Jeff McNeil's reemergence another ominous sign for rest of NL

If Jeff McNeil keeps up his current pace, the Mets should be even more dangerous during the season's second half. That's a scary thought for the rest of baseball.

Former NFL GM's bold Aaron Rodgers prediction should worry Steelers

According to former NFL general manager and current ESPN analyst Mike Tannenbaum, the Pittsburgh Steelers made a colossal mistake.

Room for improvement: One unit on each NFC team that needs work

Roster construction is usually top of mind 365 days a year for every NFL front office. But no team is built perfectly.

Davante Adams reveals biggest difference between Rams and previous two NFL homes

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Davante Adams joined the franchise in March, and he's already noticed a difference from his previous two NFL homes with the Las Vegas Raiders and New York Jets.