Tonight marks the official return of NFL action as the Los Angeles Chargers square off against the Detroit Lions in the Hall of Fame Game at 8 p.m. ET, launching what should be a compelling 2025 season. Before the pads start cracking, The Athletic unveils its first-ever All-Hype Team, highlighting the offseason’s most talked-about personalities through a blend of media buzz and genuine opportunity.
All-Hype Offense Takes Center Stage
Head Coach: Ben Johnson, Chicago Bears
The Windy City is electric with anticipation as Ben Johnson—previously the Lions’ offensive mastermind—commands the sideline with his hefty $13 million annual contract. Johnson’s offensive system shows promising signs of evolution, and paired with former Saints head coach Dennis Allen anchoring the defense, the Bears organization and its faithful have legitimate grounds for excitement. This might be the most hopeful Chicago has felt since last summer’s preseason optimism.
Quarterback: J.J. McCarthy, Minnesota Vikings
McCarthy, barely 22, finds himself in an enviable position. The Vikings field one of the league’s most complete rosters, featuring Kevin O’Connell’s inventive play designs, dependable pass protection, and playmakers at every level. Training camp reports suggest McCarthy has made consistent strides, addressing lingering doubts about his NFL readiness.
Running Back: Omarion Hampton, Los Angeles Chargers
Initially expected to play second fiddle to Najee Harris—who hadn’t missed a game since entering the league in 2021—Hampton’s trajectory changed dramatically when Harris sustained an indefinite injury in a bizarre fireworks incident. The rookie now enjoys valuable first-team snaps in the NFL’s most ground-oriented attack, positioning himself for a potential breakout campaign reminiscent of Saquon Barkley’s electrifying debut season. His first NFL appearance comes tonight under the Canton lights.
Wide Receiver: Emeka Egbuka, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The former Ohio State standout has earned rave reviews from every corner of Tampa Bay’s facility. Baker Mayfield describes him as \”an absolute stud,\” while veteran Mike Evans calls him \”an unbelievable playmaker.\” Even offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard can’t contain his enthusiasm for the 22-year-old’s early impact. The Athletic’s Nick Baumgardner likened Egbuka to Chargers rookie Ladd McConkey, who shattered franchise marks—high praise that suggests big things for the Bucs’ newcomer.
Tight End: Kyle Pitts, Atlanta Falcons
Pitts has cycled through periods of hype and skepticism, but this camp’s reports indicate he’s in his finest physical condition since his explosive rookie campaign when he posted 1,026 receiving yards. Falcons beat writer Josh Kendall recently examined whether Pitts can finally deliver consistent fantasy value going forward.
Hungry for more emerging storylines and preseason coverage? Check out The Athletic’s Scoop City newsletter for the latest insights.
Major Offseason Developments
Shannon Sharpe’s ESPN Chapter Ends
Pro Football Hall of Famer and longtime ESPN personality Shannon Sharpe has officially parted ways with the network, coming just under two weeks after resolving a lawsuit filed by his former girlfriend alleging rape. The 57-year-old hasn’t appeared on ESPN programming since late April, when the legal proceedings first surfaced. The Athletic’s Andrew Marchand provided comprehensive coverage of these developments.
MLB Trade Deadline Creates Waves
Today’s 6 p.m. ET trade deadline has already produced several blockbuster moves: Seattle snagged slugger Eugenio Suárez in a late-night deal; Philadelphia pulled off a stunning acquisition of closer Jhoan Duran from Minnesota; Cincinnati bolstered their infield by landing Ke’Bryan Hayes from Pittsburgh; and the Mets made a double play, adding both Giants reliever Tyler Rogers and Cardinals closer Ryan Helsley. The Athletic’s baseball coverage team is actively grading every transaction while providing real-time updates through their dedicated trade deadline tracker.
Around the Sports World
• Former Stanford head coach Troy Taylor launched a defamation suit against ESPN and one of its reporters following a March investigation that cost him his job.
• Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani departed his start against Cincinnati after four innings due to cramping but remained in the game as designated hitter.
• Ex-NBA player Gilbert Arenas was among six individuals arrested in Los Angeles on charges related to operating illegal high-stakes poker games at his residence.
• French swimming sensation Léon Marchand demolished Ryan Lochte’s 14-year-old world record in the 200-meter individual medley at the World Championships, touching the wall in 1:52.69.
• The NBA revealed that Orlando and Memphis will clash in Berlin and London next season, with Manchester and Paris scheduled to host games in subsequent years.
Tonight’s Viewing Guide
• WNBA: Minnesota travels to face Washington at 7:30 p.m. ET on Prime Video, with Golden State desperately seeking playoff positioning.
• NFL Preseason: The Chargers and Lions officially launch preseason play at 8 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock.
Must-Read Features
• Jayna Bardahl dives deep into the mechanics behind the NFL Top 100 player rankings, examining the complex dynamics between fan expectations and player perspectives.
• Zack Meisel and Yuriko Schumacher investigate the collaborative—or competitive—nature of MLB front offices during trade season, complete with interactive data presentations.
• Joe Vardon assembles an oral history chronicling the NBA’s bubble experience, featuring candid accounts from players, coaches, and media members who lived through those unprecedented months.
• Ian O’Connor makes his case against implementing a salary cap in Major League Baseball, arguing it would betray Curt Flood’s legacy.
• The Athletic welcomes soccer experts Charlie Davies and Henry Bushnell to its growing roster of contributors.
Game tickets for tonight’s preseason opener and other upcoming contests are available through The Athletic’s ticketing partners.
(Photo credit: David Berding/Getty Images)
