Heading into the 2025 NFL season, the Philadelphia Eagles boast the top-ranked linebacker unit, highlighted by standout Zack Baun, who earned a league-high 90.2 PFF grade last season. Newly drafted Jihaad Campbell is expected to bolster their already formidable group alongside Nakobe Dean and young talents like Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and Smael Mondon Jr.

In the second spot, the Detroit Lions are represented by Jack Campbell, who is cementing his status as an emerging star after a strong 2024 season. The New England Patriots' linebacker corps is deepened by new acquisitions like Robert Spillane, while the Kansas City Chiefs rely on Nick Bolton and Leo Chenal to lead their defense.

With the NHL season underway, the Washington Capitals are banking on the potential of their young talents while navigating the challenges injuries pose to their roster. Key players like Alex Ovechkin and Evgeny Kuznetsov are expected to lead, but depth players such as Dylan Strome and Connor Brown are stepping up as well.

In the net, the team's reliance on Darcy Kuemper has been crucial, especially with their defensive strategies shifting. As the Capitals aim for a playoff position, their ability to develop and integrate younger players while ensuring veteran performance will be essential.

The fantasy landscape for linebackers is shifting as new names emerge for 2025. Zack Baun has proven to be a breakout star, leading the league in PFF grades and IDP scoring. Alongside him, Jamien Sherwood, Daiyan Henley, and Blake Cashman are rising, all finishing in the upper percentile for tackles against expectations. Notable players like Jack Campbell and Edgerrin Cooper are also positioned for potential breakout seasons, enhancing their value in drafts.

The linebacker tiers are critical for fantasy managers. In Tier 1, the elite players are primarily from tackle-friendly defenses, showcasing exceptional tackling skills. Tier 2 highlights full-time starters with LB1 potential, while Tier 3 includes starters with lower expectations but possible value. Notably, Terrel Bernard and Foyesade Oluokun are bounce-back candidates after injury-impacted seasons, poised to return to top-tier production.

The Stanley Cup Final is proving to be a nail-biter, with the Edmonton Oilers and Florida Panthers locked in a competitive series. Following a thrilling Game 4, the Oilers made a comeback from a 3-0 deficit to win 5-4 in overtime, thanks to Leon Draisaitl's game-winning goal. With the series now tied at 2-2, excitement builds as they head to Game 5 in Edmonton.

Connor McDavid is on the brink of a historic milestone, nearing 150 playoff points in his career, a mark only two players have hit faster. His contributions, while not yet including a goal in this series, remain pivotal, as he leads with six assists. Wayne Gretzky's endorsement as the best player in hockey adds to the pressure as McDavid's focus on securing a Stanley Cup title intensifies.

In an electrifying start to the Stanley Cup Finals rematch, Leon Draisaitl showcased his full health, scoring a pivotal overtime goal that helped the Edmonton Oilers overcome a 3-1 deficit against the Florida Panthers, winning 4-3. With this victory, the Oilers take an early series lead. Draisaitl’s performance, including his second goal of the night, not only highlighted his return to peak form but also tied him for a league record with three overtime goals in a postseason. Connor McDavid’s assist on the winning goal emphasized the duo's enduring chemistry, with head coach Kris Knoblauch acknowledging their improved health compared to last year’s playoffs.

With crucial contributions from other players like Mattias Ekholm and newcomer Kasperi Kapanen, the Oilers demonstrated their depth and resilience. The game served as a reminder of their ability to rally back, having previously faced a similar situation in last year's finals. As they prepare for Game 2, the focus remains on sustaining this momentum and maintaining their health throughout the series.