Malabika Dutta

1 week ago | essentiallysports.com | Malabika Dutta

Tyler Atkinson is a rare gem in this recruiting class. Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 210 pounds, he’s not just the top linebacker in the nation, but the 7th overall prospect. His versatility sets him apart from the rest. While many classes boast standout QBs, offensive tackles, and WRs, Atkinson’s value is unmatched. In a field where only two linebackers crack the top 50, he’s miles ahead of the competition—especially the No. 2 linebacker, Xavier Griffin, who’s committed to USC.

1 week ago | essentiallysports.com | Malabika Dutta

David Pollack once lived and breathed football—no time for love, no room for distractions. But that changed when he met Lindsey. The only catch? She was from rival Parkview High, while David repped Shiloh Christian. Following that, his friends warned him not to date the “enemy,” but he didn’t care. And in 2005, fresh off being drafted by the Bengals, he married her—his first and only girlfriend. “Best decision I ever made,” wrote David years later.

1 week ago | essentiallysports.com | Malabika Dutta

Nico Iamaleava just sent shockwaves through CFB. His exit from the Tennessee Volunteers football team over the weekend wasn’t just surprising — it rattled the entire NIL landscape. Once a prized five-star recruit, Nico is now the hottest name on the board as the spring transfer window opens. His departure reportedly stemmed from a standoff over NIL money — with $4 million said to be the magic number. But there’s a catch.

1 week ago | essentiallysports.com | Malabika Dutta

Kalen DeBoer’s blueprint? Build a team that can bend, not break. Up front, it starts with flexibility. Yes, the offensive line is all about versatility. Guys like Olaus Alinen and Michael Carroll are learning it all—guard, tackle, you name it. “We’re cross-training everyone,” said DeBoer. “Dual roles. Double duty. That’s the plan.” And it doesn’t stop there. Receivers are flipping inside and out. Safeties can lock up like corners. Corners can shift to nickel in a flash.

1 week ago | essentiallysports.com | Malabika Dutta

The 2025 NFL Draft is right around the corner, and one name heating up the board is Mykel Williams. The Georgia standout has been gaining serious steam — especially with the Carolina Panthers. According to Sportskeeda’s Tony Pauline, Carolina might already have their eyes locked on him. “Since Georgia’s pro day, all the buzz has centered on the Panthers’ love for Williams,” shared Pauline in his latest 2-round mock draft.