EDITOR’S NOTE
It’s possible that people might’ve missed the second-largest reveal of the week: On Monday, the Golden State Valkyries introduced their new mascot, Violet the raven, in an elaborate must-watch production. (I’m sure a dance-off with Ellie the Elephant is in the future.) Meanwhile, prepare for a hit of millennial nostalgia: A new Air Bud movie is in the works — and the search is on for the film’s star. And if you’re living for The Summer I Turned Pretty, I’m happy to report that the New York Liberty is siding with the right team (IYKYK). Now, let’s get to some sports highlights…
— Maria Corpus / Editor / Madison, WI
Psst… Skimm Sports is going on a two-week break. Catch us back in your inbox in September. In the meantime, keep up with the latest highlights @theSkimm.
Let's Discuss
What to look out for in our latest episode.
The Preseason Kickoff We've Been Waiting For
What's going on: The NFL preseason is underway, but all the attention is on Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift. From her album announcement on New Heights to his GQ cover story (the head-to-toe fur look is really something) — fans are getting a preseason kickoff unlike any other. As Travis gets ready to play in his 13th season (could that be any more Taylor coded?), he didn’t just help with an album reveal, he also shared the kind of NFL superfan Taylor’s becoming. (Turns out, she knows the injury reports.) And while she may not have a Super Bowl ring — though the Grammys speak for themselves — Travis had this to say: “She will never tell anyone that she is an athlete. But I’ve seen what she goes through… and it’s mind-blowing,” he said.
Our take: Call them the ultimate PR couple, but Travis and Taylor’s moves are bound to put more attention on the upcoming NFL season. Even the league reacted to the album reveal, posting a two-word response. How can it not? One marketing firm found that Taylor has added almost $1 billion in buzz to the NFL, and her influence has shifted the league’s vibe: more young, female viewership and game-day fashion moments. The 2025 games are about to start, the album’s about to drop, and both fan bases are ready for a new season or Era, depending on how you look at it.
Related: Travis Kelce’s Most Swoon-Worthy Comments on Taylor Swift (USA Today)
Pick Six
More sports talkers you don't want to miss.
😡 A crypto group claimed responsibility for some of the WNBA sex toy incidents. They can stop now. (Well Played)
📷 Simone Biles dropped by NFL training camp — and Mr. Biles nailed the Instagram-husband playbook. (Parade)
💍 Cristiano Ronaldo finally proposed to his girlfriend of eight years, and the size of the ring will leave you speechless. No penalty here. (Well Played)
👀 Aaron Rodgers is complaining his new helmet looks like a “damn spaceship.” The photo really captures the essence. (ESPN)
🥵 These are some of the biggest hydration mistakes you’re probably making. (Self)
💕 What would you do with access to the team’s medical equipment? An ultrasound to meet your pregnant teammate’s baby, obviously. (Well Played)
Timeout...
Our Well Played co-hosts and friends of the show tackle listener Qs.
Why's the NFL preseason so important for rookie QBs?
There’s always a big debate on whether or not teams should sit a rookie QB for their first season or if they should play on day one. For a lot of rookies, the speed, pace of play, and new playbook are an adjustment after playing college ball. But Shedeur Sanders might’ve helped settle the debate. While he’s listed as a fourth-string QB on the Cleveland Browns website, he started in last week’s preseason game and scored two touchdowns. Bottom line: The preseason games can be the perfect opportunity for a team to test their new QBs without it affecting their record.
FEATURED EXPERT:
Caroline Hendershot
Reporter for the New York Jets and co-host of Well Played
Just Trust Us
Here are today’s recs to help you live a smarter life…
Meet our favorite “everything” sneaker. Whether we’re running errands, running late, or just plain running, we can’t stop reaching for these — especially their denim style.
For anyone who hopes “both teams just have fun,” we found the ultimate accessory for you.
These open earbuds are what happens when you mix the comfort of a lightweight cuff earring with the superior sound quality of a Bose speaker. And they’re currently $70 off.
Psst…love our recs? Follow @skimmshopping on Instagram for more products, gifts, and services that are actually worth the hype (and the price tag).
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