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Rams QB Matthew Stafford Apologizes to Eagles Rookie After Refusing Jersey Swap

 
   

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The Philadelphia Eagles delivered one of the most dramatic comebacks in team history, rallying from a 19-point deficit to beat the Los Angeles Rams 33-26 at Lincoln Financial Field in Week 3. Philadelphia improved to 3-0, while Los Angeles fell to 2-1.

The Rams controlled much of the first half. Matthew Stafford connected with Davante Adams for a 41-yard touchdown, while Kyren Williams powered his way to 77 rushing yards. Behind a pair of field goals from rookie kicker Joshua Karty, the Rams led 19-7 at halftime.

The Eagles, however, flipped the script after the break. Quarterback Jalen Hurts threw three touchdown passes in the second half, including a clutch strike to DeVonta Smith. The defining moment came when defensive tackle Jordan Davis blocked a 44-yard field goal and returned it 61 yards for the game-clinching touchdown.

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The 19-point comeback marked Philadelphia’s largest home rally since 1988, with ESPN and NFL.com hailing the effort as “special teams heroics.” Eagles fans flooded social media praising Hurts, Davis, and Jalen Carter, while Rams fans were left stunned by the late collapse.

Yet the thrilling finish was quickly overshadowed by postgame drama. As players exchanged jerseys at midfield, rookie linebacker Jihaad Campbell approached Stafford for a swap. Still visibly frustrated, the veteran quarterback declined and walked away, sparking immediate controversy.

The clip went viral, with many Eagles supporters calling the snub “disrespectful” toward a rookie trying to prove himself. The backlash turned into one of the biggest talking points of the NFL weekend, overshadowing the game’s historic comeback.

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On Monday, Stafford publicly addressed the moment. “I want to apologize for not controlling my emotions in that moment. He asked to swap jerseys right when I was at my most frustrated after letting such a tough comeback slip away.”

 

Stafford added: “He’s a talented young player, and I truly hope to cross paths with him again. Next time, I’ll be the one asking to swap jerseys.” The apology may calm the storm, but it also highlights how

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Steelers Add Two Former Packers Fan Favorites to Practice Squad To Strengthen Defense Ahead Of Browns Game
  PITTSBURGH – On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers welcomed two linebackers formerly with the Green Bay Packers for a workout session. The players invited were Michael Barrett and Isaiah Simmons, as the team looks to bolster its defensive unit ahead of upcoming games. Isaiah Simmons, selected as the 8th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft out of Clemson, has appeared in 84 games. He has recorded 329 tackles (226 solo, 103 assisted), 8.5 sacks (74 yards), 5 interceptions (127 yards), 2 interception touchdowns, 9 forced fumbles, and 3 fumble recoveries. Simmons, who briefly signed with the Packers in 2025 but didn’t make the final roster, is known for his versatility and impressive speed. Michael Barrett, a 7th-round pick (240th overall) by the Carolina Panthers in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Michigan, has limited NFL experience. He has appeared in a few games on practice squads with teams like the Packers and Browns but has yet to record significant stats (0 tackles, sacks, or interceptions). At Michigan, Barrett had a standout final college season with 65 tackles, 3 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles. Alex Highsmith, a key linebacker for the Steelers, suffered a high ankle sprain during the team’s Week 2 loss to the Seattle Seahawks on September 14, 2025. The injury sidelined him for Weeks 3 and 4, with an estimated recovery time of 4-6 weeks. While Highsmith was not placed on injured reserve to maintain roster flexibility, he is still recovering post-bye week and expected to return soon. However, the Steelers are seeking temporary replacements for the edge rusher position. The workouts with Barrett and Simmons reflect head coach Mike Tomlin’s cautious approach to adding depth to the defense, especially after releasing Ja’Whaun Bentley and losing Jon Rhattigan to the Raiders. Simmons, with his experience and athleticism, could be an ideal short-term option to support T.J. Watt and Nick Herbig. The Steelers have not yet announced any contract decisions regarding the two linebackers. SOURCE: https://x.com/FarabaughFB/status/1976031373946388722