rom teammates eager to explore the program. The Chiefs draft-night bit—declared as entertainment by McCourty—illustrates a culture that blends humor with accountability, mentorship, and real-world guidance for players seeking transformational experiences beyond the field.

As PAC opens membership to all verified pro athletes, the article emphasizes a growing emphasis on structured support that could influence roster decisions, career longevity, and post-career opportunities. For fantasy and betting audiences, the underlying trend is clear: off-field networks and mentorship programs can shape player development, longevity, and post-retirement branding, potentially shifting how players manage risk, training, and post-career value in the long run.

16:T735,

The Detroit Lions lean on a growing USFL pipeline, reaping nine alumni in the latest roster snapshot — the most of any NFL club. Three Panthers alums anchor that group on the practice and depth charts: Jake Bates, D.J. Miller Jr., and Gunnar Oakes, with Bates already cemented as the starting kicker after a stellar 2024.

Bates’ 26 of 29 field goals, including multiple 50+ yarders, plus a record-setting 64 extra points, underpinned a 15-2 Lions campaign and a single-season points mark. That level of reliability makes Bates the clearest long-term kicker bet for Detroit in 2025, strengthening the team’s special-teams floor.

Miller Jr. arrived in August and faces an uphill roster battle, yet his 10-game UFL tape included two interceptions and nine pass breakups, highlighting playmaking versatility that could translate to a rotational role or a development path at corner.

Oakes, a seventh-round pick in 2023, brings replacement-te depth at tight end, especially if Sam LaPorta’s minor injury lingers. Even with competition around the position, the UFL experience gives him a tangible path to stick as depth behind Detroit’s core.

Beyond those three Panthers, the Lions roster lists other ex-USFLers such as Gunner Britton, Deon J

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