Yardbarker

Zac Wassink

Zac Wassink is a longtime sports news writer and PFWA member who began his career in 2006 and has had his work featured on Yardbarker, MSN, Yahoo Sports and Bleacher Report. He is also a football and futbol aficionado who is probably yelling about Tottenham Hotspur at the moment and who chanted for Matt Harvey to start the ninth inning of Game 5 of the 2015 World Series at Citi Field. You can find him on X at @ZacWassink

EXPERTISE:

NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, Premier League, MLS, US Soccer, UFC

Former Cowboys star shares major concern amid Jerry Jones, Micah Parsons stalemate

Jones raised eyebrows when he admitted on Tuesday that he "absolutely" couldn't say for sure that Parsons will feature in Dallas' Week 1 game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sept. 4. 

Why Baker Mayfield has been predicted to be in MVP conversation

Mayfield is working with his third offensive coordinator in three seasons.

Even more signs point to Browns choosing unique QB path

In late July, Browns GM Andrew Berry confirmed that quarterbacks Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel could all be on the active roster for the club's Week 1 game.

49ers’ Christian McCaffrey shares what makes Brock Purdy a 'special' QB

49ers star running back Christian McCaffrey discussed why he feels it's "special" to share an offense with Brock Purdy.

Why Chiefs' Patrick Mahomes has 'more motivation' heading into 2025 season

The Chiefs fell short of becoming the first team in NFL history to three-peat as Super Bowl champions.

Why Bills' Josh Allen feels winning MVP Award 'doesn't change' his life

Allen emerged as the MVP for the 2024 regular season, but his campaign came to an end via a 32-29 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game.

How Panthers QB Bryce Young 'earned a lot of respect' after 2024 benching

Panthers head coach Dave Canales explained how Bryce Young impressed Carolina personnel with how he handled being benched.

'Clearly separated himself': Why one QB is winning Browns' competition

Lance Reisland of the Cleveland Plain Dealer explained why Joe Flacco "has clearly separated himself from the quarterback competition."

Alarming issue has been preventing Rams' Matthew Stafford from practicing

A recent update indicated that Stafford had been held out of practices throughout training camp due to a lingering back problem "in the interest of maintenance."

Intriguing solution to Commanders' Terry McLaurin problem emerges

Getting a deal done with McLaurin before the situation turns ugly should only benefit the Commanders as it pertains to pursuing a championship.

Steelers' Aaron Rodgers situation appears to be improving after alarming report

Mike Tomlin and Co. took a gamble when they trusted that the offense wouldn't suffer after Rodgers spent the voluntary portion of the offseason program as an unsigned free agent.

Russell Wilson has already had a 'very positive impact' on Giants star

Wilson is the undisputed leader of the New York offense until further notice. 

Bucs GM preaches patience regarding returns of Chris Godwin, Tristan Wirfs

It sounds like Chris Godwin and Tristan Wirfs could both be spectators when the Bucs face the Falcons on Sept. 7. 

Jets' Justin Fields addresses training-camp struggles ahead of preseason opener

Justin Fields insisted that rough outings are "inevitable" at this time of the year.

Could Deshaun Watson force Browns to make tough QB decisions before 2026?

NFL insider Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk mentioned that Deshaun Watson could make things difficult for the Browns later this year. 

Michael Penix Jr. makes bold prediction about Falcons offense for 2025 season

Penix Jr. is certainly feeling confident heading into his first full season as a starter.

New Buccaneers backup QB sparks memories of team landing Tom Brady in 2020

The Buccaneers winning the Brady sweepstakes in early 2020 proved to be a franchise-altering event.

Insider addresses contract Commanders' Terry McLaurin wants after trade request

McLaurin is the favorite target for Washington quarterback and reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year Jayden Daniels.

Browns coaches address summer struggles endured by rookie QB

One Browns rookie QB was on the receiving end of some harsh criticism on Monday. Some of his coaches then addressed the rookie's performance so far.

How rookie QB Will Howard has impressed Steelers coaches

Howard has largely been an afterthought to outsiders this offseason, but it sounds like the rookie is impressing those within the organization. 

Patriots veteran offers passionate defense of struggling rookie

The Patriots made the rookie their new starting left tackle when they selected him with the fourth overall pick of the 2025 NFL Draft. 

Geno Smith has perfect message for all the Raiders doubters

Smith will first get an opportunity to back his words up with his play.

Major prediction emerges on Cowboys, Micah Parsons contract standoff

Assuming Parsons and the Cowboys work things out, it's widely believed that his extension will make him the new highest-paid non-quarterback in the NFL.

Joe Flacco gets honest about being a mentor to younger Browns QBs after receiving criticism

Flacco expanded on previous comments regarding his mentorship of a young QB room in Cleveland.

Mets manager tries to defend controversial decision after loss

The Mets had an opportunity to notch a thrilling come-from-behind win in the bottom of the ninth inning of Monday's game.