Hogs Haven
Sports Illustrated
This story is part of Sports Illustrated*’s* 2025 Power List, honoring the 50 most influential figures in sports right now. Read more in the October issue and check out who made this year’s Power Couples, Power Siblings and the Next Generation.
While he has remained remarkably in the moment, he has clearly had time to consider how he wants his life to go from here. Calling it a star rise is a bit of a misnomer because the creation of an actual star is bound by science. We can quantify and understand what leads to the final radiant burst of energy.
But in the NFL, the entire star-making enterprise can feel like riding alongside a New York City delivery cyclist weaving through the streets of the Upper West Side. There is a moment each year when a player seems to become less himself and more a product of the NFL’s all-possessing, all-encompassing algorithm of content. That moment does not always feel conscious or even consented to. At the very least, it can be disorienting.
When asked about his own concept of personal power heading into his second NFL season, though, Daniels’s response is both incredibly thoughtful and ambitious.
“I would just say the concept of power is more so just being able to control your own narrative,” he says. “And really do what you want to do and tell your story.”
ESPN
What we’re hearing on the Raiders: Defensive tackle Jonah Laulu has been a pleasant surprise. Laulu, a 2024 seventh-rounder, has already totaled three sacks and four pressures through two games. Last season, he had only one sack in 17 games (seven starts). “He’s just blossomed,” coach Pete Carroll said. “He had enough plays on film coming off of last year that caught my eye. … He’s done a nice job. He’s been very active, been really consistent with his play.” — Ryan McFadden
What we’re hearing on the Commanders: Washington allowed Green Bay TE Tucker Kraft to catch six passes for 124 yards in Week 2 — and now it must face arguably the top player at that position in Brock Bowers. Defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. said eye discipline was a key issue versus the Packers; too often, the Commanders lost sight of Kraft because of late motion or play-actions that fooled them. Washington will have to handle that much better versus Bowers, who lines up all over the field. “He’s a dynamic young tight end,” Whitt said. “You have to treat him like a receiver.” — John Keim
Stat to know: The Raiders’ defense has allowed 3.2 yards per rush this season — fourth fewest in the NFL. Meanwhile, the Commanders are averaging 5.3 yards per rush — third most. — ESPN Research
Injuries: Raiders | Commanders
Fantasy nugget: Commanders RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt appears...
