As the New York Giants gear up for the new season, attention has turned to the recent injuries of key offensive linemen John Michael Schmitz and Evan Neal.

Both suffered ankle injuries in the final preseason game against the New York Jets. And this has raised concerns about their readiness for the season opener against the Minnesota Vikings on September 8th.

Schmitz and Neal: What Happened in the Last Preseason Game

John Michael Schmitz, the starting center for the Giants, had to leave the field after getting rolled up on during a fourth-and-one play in the first offensive drive.

After getting checked by the medical team on the sidelines, Schmitz was ruled out for the rest of the game with an ankle injury.

This wasn’t the first time Schmitz faced trouble this preseason—he had already missed more than a week of training camp due to a shoulder injury.

Unfortunately, last season was tough for Schmitz. He struggled and allowed 30 total pressures and five sacks, which put him near the bottom among NFL centers.

Evan Neal, who plays right tackle, also left the game with an ankle problem after completing 21 plays, which was exactly what the coaches planned.

But Neal’s injury caused a bit more worry since it was the same ankle he had surgery on during the offseason.

However, Neal quickly reassured everyone that his early exit was part of the plan and that his ankle felt fine, even though he got rolled up in the final play.

MRI Results and What’s Next

Both Schmitz and Neal went for MRIs after the game to make sure there were no serious injuries.

Thankfully, the results came back clear, giving the Giants some relief. Coach Brian Daboll even mentioned that Schmitz was in good spirits and walking around just fine, so both players are expected to be ready for the first game.

Even so, the Giants are playing it safe. They’re considering backup options like veteran Greg Van Roten and Austin Schlottmann as potential starters at center if Schmitz isn’t ready.

For Neal’s spot, Jermaine Eluemunor is prepared to step in at right tackle if needed.

Getting Ready for the Season Opener

As the final preseason days unfold, the Giants diligently work to ensure their roster is in top shape. With Schmitz and Neal on the mend, the team is hopeful they’ll be good to go for Week 1.

Other injured players, like starting left guard Jon Runyan Jr. and potential starting cornerback Cor’Dale Flott, are also expected to return soon, which will strengthen the team even more.

Meanwhile, backup quarterback Drew Lock, who’s been dealing with oblique and hip injuries, also shows signs of improvement.

How he progresses might impact whether the Giants keep two or three quarterbacks, especially since Coach Daboll has shown confidence in rookie Tommy DeVito.

Giants’ Injury Concerns Easing Before Big Game

As the Giants gear up for their season opener against the Minnesota Vikings, it looks like their injury worries are starting to ease.

The clear MRI results for John Michael Schmitz and Evan Neal are a good sign, and the team is making sure they’re fully prepared for Week 1.

With the offensive line’s condition being so important, the next few days will be critical for locking in the final lineup for the season start.

Thus, the Giants will monitor their players closely and make any necessary changes. That way, they can make sure they have the best possible team ready for the Vikings.

Some athletes do more than win—they change the game entirely. Among them are 12 Black athletes who broke down barriers, stood up for what’s right, and left a mark beyond the field, court, or track.

Legends like these have inspired millions by showing that determination, skill, and courage can overcome even the toughest challenges. And their incredible stories and lasting legacies continue to resonate today.

So, let’s dive into their profound impact, both on and off the playing field.

1. Michael Jordan (Basketball)

Michael Jordan is often seen as the best basketball player ever, with a huge impact on the game. He started his NBA career in 1984 after an impressive college run at the University of North Carolina, where he won an NCAA championship.

During his first season with the Chicago Bulls, Jordan quickly became a superstar, scoring an average of 28.2 points per game and winning the NBA Rookie of the Year award. But his influence went far beyond playing basketball.

Jordan’s intense drive to win led him to six NBA championships with the Bulls, and he earned five MVP awards during the regular season. He was known for stepping up in high-pressure moments, winning six NBA Finals MVP awards, a record that still stands today.

Jordan’s scoring skills were unmatched, and he holds the highest career scoring average in NBA history at 30.12 points per game. He had an even higher average of 33.4 points per game in the playoffs, showing he could shine when it mattered most.

Beyond the NBA, Jordan was a key player on the 1992 “Dream Team” that dominated the Barcelona Olympics and brought worldwide attention to basketball.

Off the court, his partnership with Nike changed sports marketing and fashion, with his Air Jordan sneakers becoming a huge cultural hit.

In 2016, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States, was awarded to him for his impact on the game and culture.

2. Muhammad Ali (Boxing)

Muhammad Ali, originally named Cassius Clay, was more than a boxing champion; he became a global icon for his skills in the ring and his strong stance on civil rights and social justice.

Ali’s career took off in 1960 when he won a gold medal in boxing at the Rome Olympics. He quickly made a name for himself as a pro and shocked the world by winning the heavyweight title in 1964 after beating Sonny Liston.

Ali, renowned for his unique fighting style that combined speed, agility, and power, famously described it as “float like a butterfly, sting like a bee.”

Beyond his physical abilities, his confidence and charisma were undeniable, as he often predicted the exact round he would defeat his opponents.

Among his most epic battles were the legendary clashes with Joe Frazier, including the “Thrilla in Manila,” and the unforgettable victory over George Foreman in the “Rumble in the Jungle,” which remain some of the greatest moments in sports history.

But Ali’s influence wasn’t limited to boxing. In 1967, he refused to be drafted into the Vietnam War, citing his religious beliefs and opposition to the war. And this led to him losing his boxing license and being stripped of his titles.

Incredibly, Ali also became a symbol of resistance and civil rights, using his fame to speak out against racism and injustice.

After being banned from boxing for four years, he made a comeback and reclaimed the heavyweight title, which solidified his legacy as a champion boxer and champion of social justice.

3. Serena Williams (Tennis)

Serena Williams is often considered the greatest female tennis player ever. Essentially, her career has changed the sport. Serena turned pro in 1995, and by the early 2000s, she was ruling women’s tennis.

She has won 23 Grand Slam singles titles, the most by any player in the Open Era. Known for her powerful serve, aggressive style, and mental toughness, Serena has consistently been a formidable competitor on the court.

In addition to her Grand Slam titles, she has also won four Olympic gold medals—three in doubles with her sister Venus and one in singles.

Aside from her tennis achievements, Serena’s influence extends into gender equality and racial justice. She has often spoken out against discrimination and has been a strong voice pushing for positive change.

Despite facing injuries, personal struggles, and the challenges of being a Black woman in a predominantly white sport, her resilience has made her an inspiration to many.

Alongside her tennis success, Serena has made big strides in fashion and business, with her clothing line and a growing investment portfolio focused on supporting minority-owned businesses.

There’s no debate that Serena’s legacy is one of excellence, resilience, and empowerment, making her a sports star and a cultural leader.

4. Usain Bolt (Track and Field)

Usain Bolt is universally recognized as the fastest man in history, having set world records in the 100-meter, 200-meter, and 4×100-meter relay. Born in Jamaica on August 21, 1986, Bolt’s skill  became evident early in his career.

Rising to international fame at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, he won gold in the 100m and 200m, both in world record times, becoming the first athlete to achieve this feat since the introduction of fully automatic timing.

Continuing his dominance, Bolt excelled at the 2012 London Olympics and the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, where he once again claimed gold in the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay, making him the only sprinter to win all three events at three consecutive Olympics.

With a world record of 9.58 seconds in the 100m, set in 2009, and an unbeaten 19.19 seconds in the 200m, his remarkable achievements have firmly established his status as the greatest sprinter of all time.

Alongside his incredible speed, Bolt’s charismatic personality and signature “Lightning Bolt” pose made him a global superstar.

Not to mention, his influence extended beyond track and field, earning him numerous accolades, including the IAAF World Athlete of the Year award six times and the Laureus World Sportsman of the Year award four times.

More importantly, his legacy lies in how he brought global attention to athletics and inspired a new generation of sprinters.

5. Jackie Robinson (Baseball)

Jackie Robinson made history in 1947 by becoming the first African American to play in Major League Baseball (MLB) in the modern era, breaking the sport’s color barrier.

This monumental event took place when Robinson joined the Brooklyn Dodgers – a move that required immense courage and resilience due to the racial discrimination he faced.

Robinson’s debut was pivotal in the civil rights movement, symbolizing a significant step forward in the fight against segregation.

Not only was Robinson a trailblazer off the field, but he was also an outstanding player on it. He proved his excellence early on, winning the MLB Rookie of the Year award in 1947 and being named the National League MVP in 1949.

Throughout his 10-season career, Robinson was a six-time All-Star and played a crucial role in helping the Dodgers win the World Series in 1955.

His impact on the game was so profound that his number, 42, has been retired across all MLB teams, and April 15th is celebrated as Jackie Robinson Day each year.

Beyond baseball, Robinson’s legacy extends far into civil rights and social justice. After his retirement, he used his platform to advocate for civil rights and was actively involved in various social and political causes.

6. Tiger Woods (Golf)

As you may already know, Tiger Woods transformed golf, a sport long dominated by white athletes, and is seen as one of the greatest golfers ever.

Woods burst onto the scene with a historic win at the 1997 Masters, where he won by a record 12 strokes at just 21 years old, becoming the youngest winner and the first African American to win a major championship.

Bringing a new level of athleticism, precision, and mental toughness to the game, he also made golf more popular with a wider audience, thanks to his diverse background.

Over his career, Woods has won 15 major championships, second only to Jack Nicklaus, and has 82 PGA Tour wins, tying the all-time record with Sam Snead.

In addition to his victories, Woods’ influence reshaped the sport, particularly during the late 1990s and early 2000s, when his dominance—known as the “Tiger Slam,” holding all four major titles at once—changed the golf landscape and inspired a new generation of golfers.

Furthermore, he became a global icon, with endorsements and a presence far past the sport.

Despite facing personal and professional challenges, including injuries and a highly publicized scandal, Woods made a stunning comeback by winning the 2019 Masters—one of the biggest moments in sports history.

7. Jesse Owens (Track and Field)

Jesse Owens is famous for his fantastic performance at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where he won four gold medals in the 100-meter, 200-meter, long jump, and 4×100-meter relay.

This achievement made him a global sports legend and delivered a strong message against Adolf Hitler’s idea of Aryan superiority.

Owens’ victory in Nazi Germany was a powerful moment. It showed the strength of African Americans and stood as a symbol of equality and determination.

Even before the Olympics, Owens was already making headlines. 1935, at the Big Ten Championships in Ann Arbor, he set three world records and tied a fourth in less than an hour, often called “the greatest 45 minutes in sports history.”

Despite facing racism in the U.S., Owens stayed focused on succeeding. His friendship with German competitor Luz Long, who gave him tips during the long jump event, is a touching example of how human connections can rise above even the most divisive beliefs.

After his Olympic success, Owens returned to a segregated America and struggled to find work. Despite his fame, President Franklin D. Roosevelt didn’t invite him to the White House, and Owens had to take various jobs, including racing horses, to support his family.

Later in life, Owens found more steady work and became a goodwill ambassador, traveling worldwide to promote peace and equality. Amazingly, his legacy continues to inspire many athletes and civil rights activists.

8. Simone Biles (Gymnastics)

Simone Biles is widely considered the greatest gymnast ever. Her incredible athleticism, precision, and consistency have changed the sport.

Biles has won 30 World Championship and Olympic medals, more than any other gymnast in history. Her difficult routines, combined with perfect execution, have set a new benchmark in gymnastics.

Biles’ path to the top hasn’t been easy. She has openly talked about her struggles with mental health, especially during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where she withdrew from several events to focus on her well-being.

This decision sparked a global conversation about athletes’ mental health and showed Biles’ bravery both as an athlete and a person. She returned to win a bronze medal on the balance beam, proving her resilience and dedication.

Besides her gymnastics achievements, Biles has become a role model for young athletes, especially for girls of color.

You have to commend her; Bile’s advocacy for survivors of sexual abuse and her openness about mental health have made her a strong voice in sports and beyond.

9. Jim Brown (Football)

Jim Brown is often called the greatest running back in NFL history. During his nine seasons with the Cleveland Browns, Brown led the NFL in rushing yards eight times and set many records that lasted for decades.

His mix of power, speed, and agility made it almost impossible for him to stop on the field, and he retired as the NFL’s all-time leading rusher.

Aside from football, Brown was also a trailblazer off the field. He used his platform to advocate for civil rights and social justice, becoming a prominent figure in the movement during the 1960s.

By establishing the Negro Industrial and Economic Union (later the Black Economic Union), he focused on promoting economic empowerment among African Americans and became deeply involved in various civil rights efforts.

After retiring from football at the height of his career, Brown successfully transitioned to acting, starring in several movies during the 1960s and 1970s.

And he continued to make an impact off the field, remaining an active voice in advocating for social change and community development.

10. Pelé (Soccer)

Pelé, born Edson Arantes do Nascimento on October 23, 1940, in Três Corações, Brazil, is often called the best soccer player ever.

Playing from the late 1950s to the 1970s, Pelé did things that changed the game forever.

He’s the only player to win three FIFA World Cups (1958, 1962, 1970) and scored over 1,000 goals, which no one else has done in soccer history.

Pelé started his pro career with Santos FC when he was just 15, and by 16, he was already playing for Brazil’s national team.

In the 1958 World Cup, he made a huge impact, scoring a hat trick in the semifinals and two goals in the final, which made him famous worldwide.

He continued to shine, helping Brazil win the 1962 and 1970 World Cups. Pelé was a forward who could easily score, assist, and outmaneuver defenders.

Besides his success with Santos, where he won two Copa Libertadores and two Intercontinental Cups, Pelé also helped make soccer popular in the United States.

In the mid-1970s, he joined the New York Cosmos, bringing the sport to more people in the U.S.

After hanging up his boots in 1977, Pelé continued to influence the game as a sports ambassador, working with UNICEF and promoting soccer in various ways.

Although he unfortunately passed away on December 29, 2022, his legacy as “The King of Football” lives on, inspiring players and fans everywhere.

11. Wilt Chamberlain (Basketball)

Wilt Chamberlain, born August 21, 1936, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is among the most dominating NBA players ever.

At 7 feet 1 inch tall, Chamberlain was known for his incredible scoring, athletic ability, and physical power.

Chamberlain had an extraordinary career, setting many records, including the incredible 100 points in a single game on March 2, 1962—a record that still hasn’t been broken.

On top of that, he led the NBA in scoring for seven consecutive seasons and remains the only player to average more than 50 points per game in a season.

Known for his dominance on the boards, he also holds the record for the most rebounds per game, with an average of 22.9.

Throughout his career, Wilt won two NBA championships, earned four MVP awards, and was selected for 13 All-Star Games.

Chamberlain also changed how the game was played, as his presence made the NBA change some rules, like widening the lane, to keep him from easily overpowering opponents.

As fame grew, he became one of the first basketball players to become a global celebrity.

After retiring in 1973, Chamberlain stayed active with acting, volleyball, and business ventures. He passed away on October 12, 1999, but his impact on basketball is still felt today.

12. Arthur Ashe (Tennis)

Arthur Ashe was a trailblazer in tennis for his achievements on the court and his activism off it.

Born on July 10, 1943, in Richmond, Virginia, Ashe broke racial barriers by becoming the first African American man to win Grand Slam titles, including the US Open (1968), the Australian Open (1970), and Wimbledon (1975).

Ashe’s playing style was calm and strategic, helping him compete against and often beat stronger opponents.

His 1975 win at Wimbledon, where he upset the heavily favored Jimmy Connors, is considered one of the biggest surprises in tennis history.

Off the court, Ashe strongly advocated civil rights and social justice. He spoke out against apartheid in South Africa and worked hard to support education and health initiatives, especially after contracting HIV from a blood transfusion during heart surgery in the 1980s.

His openness about his illness helped reduce the stigma around HIV/AIDS and brought more attention to the need for better public health policies.

Ashe passed away from AIDS-related complications on February 6, 1993. Still, his legacy lives on through the Arthur Ashe Foundation for the Defeat of AIDS and the Arthur Ashe Courage Award, given out each year at the ESPYs to those who make a big impact beyond sports.

Keep Their Legacy Alive!

These famous Black athletes have left a lasting legacy by transforming the game in ways that go far beyond the court, field, or track.

With their talent, grit, and courage, they’ve inspired millions and made an impact felt long after the records were set or the titles were won.

And after showing us how sports can be a powerful force for change, their stories continue to inspire us all to reach higher and push further.

So, if these stories have resonated with you, take a moment to dive deeper into their incredible journeys.

Share what you’ve learned, and keep the lessons of determination, resilience, and fighting for what’s right alive in your own life.

San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan has a lot to deal with this offseason, from player holdouts to minor injuries.

But one thing he’s not worried about is whether his star running back, Christian McCaffrey, will be ready for the start of the season, even though McCaffrey has been dealing with a minor calf injury.

Christian McCaffrey’s Obsessive Preparation Eases Shanahan’s Concerns

In a recent press conference, Shanahan discussed how McCaffrey’s intense focus and dedication set him apart from other players. McCaffrey is known for being meticulous about everything he does, whether training, playing, or recovering from an injury.

Shanahan even joked that McCaffrey was probably thinking about his footwork and routes while walking down the aisle at his wedding.

“That’s what’s good when you’re that obsessive about everything. When you’re hurt, you’re hurt, you can’t go. But when you take every rep, every walk-through, everything you do, you’re just so deliberate in everything. When he is probably walking down the aisle to get married, he’s probably thinking about his feet and how to do routes. No offense to [McCaffrey’s wife] Olivia (Culpo), but he’s obsessed with it,” Shanahan said, explaining that this level of focus helps McCaffrey recover and get back into the game faster than most.

Despite missing some time in training camp due to his calf issue, Shanahan is confident that McCaffrey’s thorough preparation will prepare him to go by Week 1.

“He understands what it takes to play in this game, especially at the level he does,” Shanahan added, showing his faith in McCaffrey’s ability to handle the demands of the game.

Should You Be Concerned About McCaffrey’s Injury History?

Christian McCaffrey has had an impressive career since being drafted eighth overall by the Carolina Panthers in 2017.

Over the years, he’s become one of the NFL’s top offensive players, known for his ability to dominate both on the ground and in the air, which has made him a fantasy football favorite.

Of course, McCaffrey has also faced his share of injuries, missing 23 games over the 2020 and 2021 seasons due to various issues.

Recently, his calf strain during training camp has made fantasy football players nervous, especially those who remember how his past injuries impacted their teams.

Nevertheless, Shanahan’s confidence in McCaffrey, coupled with the running back’s proven ability to perform when healthy, still makes him a top pick for fantasy football.

Last season, McCaffrey averaged 22.4 fantasy points per game, cementing his spot as the top running back. So, his consistent performance makes it hard for him to pass up, even with the risk of injury.

What to Expect in Week 1: Will McCaffrey Be Ready?

As the 49ers gear up to play the New York Jets in their season opener on Monday Night Football, everyone wonders if Christian McCaffrey will be ready to play.

While his calf injury has kept him out of practice, Shanahan’s comments suggest McCaffrey will be good to go.

Unless something changes, McCaffrey is expected to be a key player in the 49ers’ offense.

This season could be another big one for McCaffrey if he stays healthy. His intense focus, combined with his natural talent, makes him a crucial player for both the 49ers and fantasy football fans.

While injury concerns are real, the potential rewards of having McCaffrey on your fantasy team might just be worth the risk.

As Week 1 gets closer, the excitement builds to see if McCaffrey can deliver another standout season.

Shanahan’s belief in McCaffrey’s ability to bounce back quickly from injury gives hope to both 49ers fans and fantasy football players.

Oh, and by the way, we were wondering, did you catch the biggest blowouts in NFL history?

The Baltimore Orioles made a splash at the MLB trade deadline by grabbing Zach Eflin, who quickly became one of their most valuable players.

However, just as the team is gearing up for a playoff run, Eflin has landed on the injured list with a shoulder issue.

Now, the big question is: Can the Orioles maintain their momentum without one of their key pitchers?

How the Orioles’ Trade for Zach Eflin Changed Everything

The Baltimore Orioles have made a name for themselves as a team that knows how to build a competitive roster.

This year’s MLB trade deadline was no different, as they boldly decided to trade for starting pitcher Zach Eflin from the Tampa Bay Rays.

The Orioles gave up three prospects, including their no. 10 and no. 17 prospects, to get Eflin, which shows how serious they are about chasing a World Series title despite the high cost.

Eflin’s Immediate Impact on the Team

Since coming to the Orioles, Zach Eflin has shown exactly why they wanted him so badly. With a perfect 4-0 record and a low 2.13 ERA, he’s quickly become a key part of the Orioles’ starting rotation.

Remarkably, Zach Eflin made franchise history with the Orioles – he became the first pitcher to record at least 25 strikeouts while issuing two or fewer walks in his first four starts with the team.

Bob Nightengale of USA Today made a point about the trade, saying no player acquired at this year’s deadline has been as valuable to their team as Zach Eflin has been to the Orioles.

With Eflin on board, the Orioles’ pitching staff looks stronger than ever, so they have a great shot at a deep playoff run.

The team’s management, led by general manager Mike Elias, has been aggressive in going after the players they need to turn the Orioles into serious World Series contenders.

So, it’s no secret that getting Eflin is part of the Oriole’s broader plan to build a successful team for the present and the future.

Eflin’s Injury and What It Means for the Orioles

Unfortunately, the excitement around Eflin’s arrival hit a snag when the Orioles announced that he was on the 15-day injured list due to right shoulder inflammation.

And this couldn’t have come at a worse time, with the Orioles fighting for a spot in the playoffs. Eflin, who was supposed to start in a game against the New York Mets, felt soreness in his shoulder after a recent game against the Boston Red Sox.

Though the team was hopeful he could still make his next start, after testing his shoulder, they decided it was better to play it safe and give him time to heal.

Manager Brandon Hyde is optimistic that Eflin won’t be out for long, saying, “We’re optimistic that he’s going to be able to not miss much time after the IL, if any. But it’s a big loss. He’s pitched great for us. And hopefully, we’ll have him in September.”

It’s unfortunate, as the Orioles’ pitching lineup has already been hit hard by injuries, so losing Eflin right now is tough.

They’re already missing several key pitchers, including Grayson Rodriguez, Kyle Bradish, Tyler Wells, and John Means, who are all out with various injuries.

This leaves the Orioles’ rotation stretched thin, and they’ll need other pitchers to step up while Eflin is out.

Moving Forward Without Eflin

To fill in for Eflin, the Orioles have called up left-hander Cade Povich, their top pitching prospect, from Triple-A Norfolk.

Povich recently had a strong game against the Red Sox, but because of his recent pitching schedule, he won’t be able to take over Eflin’s spot in the rotation immediately.

Thus, it’s likely that the Orioles might need to get creative, possibly using a bullpen game to cover Eflin’s starts.

Sure, losing Eflin is a big hit, but the Orioles are hoping he’ll be back soon to help with their playoff push.

In the meantime, they’ll rely on their other pitchers, like Corbin Burnes, Dean Kremer, Albert Suárez, Trevor Rogers, and Povich, to keep them in the game.

Manager Hyde acknowledged the challenges ahead, saying, “The games aren’t going to stop and wait for guys. We have to have guys step up. And other teams are having similar issues to what we’re having also. Hopefully, we can get these guys back healthy in September – a few of them at least – and keep going.”

With the season winding down, the Orioles need their pitchers to stay healthy and on top of their game.

After trading for Zach Eflin, the team initially saw improvements, but his injury quickly showcased just how unpredictable baseball can be.

Nevertheless, the Orioles remain a strong contender, and their journey to the World Series will hinge on how they handle these challenges in the coming weeks.