Yardbarker
Yardbarker
x

The Worcester Railers have announced that they’ve suspended forward Kolby Johnson in order to keep his ECHL rights. This comes right after he was activated off the 14-Day; he hasn’t played in a game since March 1st vs Adirondack Thunder. Johnson played in 34 games with the Railers this season, putting up two goals, two assists for four points, and 100 PIMs. The Rosetown, Saskatchewan native began the year in the SPHL with the Pensacola Ice Flyers, putting up one goal and 30 PIMS in three games with the Ice Flyers. Prior to going pro, the 25-year-old played three seasons in USports, which included a year at York University and two years at Trinity Western University. He put up five goals, five assists for 10 points, and 122 PIMs in 51 USports games. Johnson spent the end of the 2023-24 season playing eight games between the FPHL and SPHL.

There’s no doubt that the Railers brought in Kolby Johnson to throw his body around and drop the gloves when needed. Worcester has since established a couple of other players like Matthew Kopperud and Mason Klee, who also have no problem dropping the gloves and bring more of an upside than Johnson did. Johnson has also been suspended on three different occasions this season, which hasn’t exactly helped the Railers. Over time, the relationship between the team and player likely soured, eventually leading to him being suspended by Worcester. The Railers will be back in action on Friday Night for the first of two big games vs Reading Royals.

This article first appeared on Inside The Rink and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST

AFC Notes: Draft Visits, Broncos, Chargers, Chiefs, Raiders
General Sports

AFC Notes: Draft Visits, Broncos, Chargers, Chiefs, Raiders

For the complete list of visits ahead of the draft, check out our updated 2025 NFL Draft Visit Tracker! Broncos Baylor WR Hal Presley took a visit with the Broncos. (Mike Garafolo) Kentucky CB Maxwell Hairston had a 30 visit with the Broncos. (Mike Klis) Oregon DT Jamaree Caldwell had a 30 visit with the Broncos. (Mike Klis) Nevada S Kitan Crawford had a 30 visit with the Broncos. (Mike Klis) Chargers Georgia LB Chaz Chambliss will take a visit with the Chargers. (Ryan Fowler) Fresno State LB Tuasivi Nomura has a 30 visit with the Chargers. (Ryan Fowler) Arizona RB Jacory Croskey-Merritt will take a 30 visit with the Chargers. (Ryan Fowler) Kansas CB Cobee Bryant said he took a 30 visit with the Chargers. Chiefs Tennessee DT Omarr Norman-Lott has nine official 30 visits scheduled, including with the Chiefs. (Ian Rapoport) Georgia DL Warren Brinson had a formal Combine interview with the Chiefs. (Justin Melo) Missouri OL Cam’ron Johnson received interest from the Chiefs following their local prospect day. (Aaron Wilson) Marshall S J.J. Roberts reportedly took a 30 visit with the Chiefs. (SportsDudeHeinz) Central Arkansas RB Shunderrick Powell will visit the Chiefs. (SportsDudeHeinz) Georgia DL Warren Brinson took a 30 visit with the Chiefs. (Charles Goldman) Oregon DB Dontea Manning worked out for the Chiefs. (Aaron Wilson) Raiders UCLA LB Carson Schwesinger took a 30 visit with the Raiders. (Tashan Reed) Kentucky CB Maxwell Hairston took a 30 visit with the Raiders. (Ian Rapoport) Michigan OLB Josaiah Stewart took a 30 visit with the Raiders. (Albert Breer) UCLA QB Ethan Garbers said he’s visiting the Raiders. (Justin Melo) Iowa DT Yahya Black took a 30 visit with the Raiders. (Aaron Wilson)

Steelers definitely didn't leave meeting with Aaron Rodgers empty-handed
NFL

Steelers definitely didn't leave meeting with Aaron Rodgers empty-handed

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been in the headlines as they continue to be the most likely landing spot for veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The two sides have had some sort of mutual interest in coming together since the first week of free agency, but Rodgers is continuing to take his time when deciding his future. Pittsburgh is the most logical landing spot for the four-time MVP, but a starting job could open up elsewhere — which is why he is not rushing anything. Retirement is also a possibility as Rodgers will turn 42 in the middle of the 2025 season. Rodgers is a polarizing figure in the NFL, and it seems like the fan base in Pittsburgh is relatively split on the organization signing him. Many are unhappy with how long this process is taking, and frustration is certainly building in the city of Pittsburgh. The 2025 NFL Draft is just over a week away, and the Steelers could find themselves in a spot to take a quarterback, which makes it of the utmost importance that Rodgers makes his decision before the event. Team insider Mark Kaboly is not as worried as some fans, however, as he proclaimed on X that the franchise had to have gotten some sort of reassurance from Rodgers or his team that he would end up signing in Pittsburgh. "Do you really believe that the Steelers weren't given some kind of assurance that Aaron Rodgers plans on signing with them?" Kaboly asked. "You think they are that stupid? Sure, nothing is guaranteed with Rodgers until it is, but they most definitely got more than an inkling of what's going to happen." Pittsburgh is historically known as one of the most consistent and successful organizations in all of sports, so it is a bit odd to see it in this state of limbo as it waits for a free agent to make a decision. If the season began today, the organization would be relying on Mason Rudolph to start, which is not exactly a recipe for success. Kaboly is right, the Steelers would have had to have had some verbal agreement with Rodgers to be comfortable allowing him to wait this long before signing. He took a visit to the facility a couple of weeks ago to meet the coaching staff, and he spent a good portion of the day there. And all things looked like they went well. He didn't sign then, but the Steelers could have gotten a good feeling for what was going to happen moving forward, which is why the franchise is not panicking. With the draft approaching, fans should expect a decision from Rodgers shortly. If there was any caveat in giving Rodgers his time and space, it was likely that a decision had to be made before the NFL Draft. Pittsburgh wants to build a Super Bowl-winning roster, and it is best to do that through the draft. It would be difficult to do without a quarterback in place. Whether Rodgers signs or doesn't shouldn't dictate if the Steelers decide to draft a quarterback. The organization needs to figure out what is going to happen at that position in the future, and Rodgers should be viewed as a temporary Band-Aid. Pittsburgh could be in a position to select either Jaxson Dart or Shedeur Sanders in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, and Rodgers would be a great veteran to sit behind and learn from while developing.

DIRECTV packages and pricing in 2025: The complete rundown on everything new with DIRECTV
Entertainment

DIRECTV packages and pricing in 2025: The complete rundown on everything new with DIRECTV

DIRECTV has recently transformed its brand by aligning all of its offerings under one umbrella. With this change, DIRECTV hopes to streamline its packages and prices to combat content confusion and consumer frustration, as the streaming landscape continues to shift from traditional pay TV models into more affordable combinations of both paid and free streaming services. DIRECTV has also introduced a digital marketplace, which will provide customers with new package options that offer more choice and flexibility to build the plan that's right for you. Here's everything you need to know about what's new with DIRECTV. DIRECTV at a glance Monthly cost: $84.99-$164.99 Simultaneous Streams: Unlimited at home, 3 out-of-network DVR: Yes, Unlimited recording space; Recordings last for 9 months On-Demand Library: Yes, 70,000+ to 100,000+ (depending on package) Live TV Streaming: Yes, 90+ to 185+ channels (depending on package) DIRECTV's signature packages DIRECTV offers four signature packages that include the bulk of its features and channels. Each package includes unlimited Cloud DVR recording, local channels where available, and streaming on the go with the DIRECTV App. Entertainment The Entertainment package is DIRECTV's most basic signature package, starting at $84.99 per month. This package features 90+ channels, including Fox News, Univision, MSNBC, HGTV, and the Hallmark Channel. It also offers popular sports channels including ESPN, ESPN 2, FS1, and MotorTrend. If you're looking for the most budget-friendly option that covers all your essentials, then this may be the package for you. Choice The next step up is the Choice package. It includes everything from the Entertainment package plus additional channels like UniMás, Game Show Network, Weather Channel, and the Cooking Channel. Additional sports networks include MLB Network, Golf Channel, NBA TV, and The Big Ten Network. It also offers access to some regional sports networks, making it a solid option for the more avid sports fan. Ultimate Ultimate offers a more robust streaming package, including STARZ Encore channels, Nat Geo Wild, the FX Movie channel, and more. It also includes NHL Network, CBS Sports Network, Fox Sports 2, and TUDN. On top of getting everything from the two previous packages, Ultimate offers a wide range of content suitable for the whole family. Premier For the most dedicated streamers, the Premier package includes almost everything DIRECTV has to offer. With over 185 channels, you'll be covered from movies to sports and everything in between. Premier grants access to Max, Paramount+ with SHOWTIME, STARZ, and Cinemax, as well as all featured sports networks and regional sports networks. If you want to watch anything and everything, the Premier package likely has what you need. DIRECTV Full Channel Line-Up 2025 DIRECTV features one of the most comprehensive channel lists in the streaming world. With their new Digital Marketplace, you can be confident in finding exactly what you want to watch and build your perfect streaming line-up. Here is a full breakdown of every channel DIRECTV offers and which package it is included in. DIRECTV add-ons and Genre Packs DIRECTV features premium TV channels and networks that you can add to your existing DIRECTV package, including Apple TV+, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, AMC+, Discovery+, and Hallmark+. This is a great option for someone looking to build a curated package without having to look to the Ultimate or Premier packages for more content. In addition to premium add-ons, DIRECTV has also unveiled new Genre Packs. These serve as smaller curated bundles of channels that are geared towards specific genres like sports, entertainment, and news. You can also add more channels to an existing Genre Pack with Mini pack add-ons. These provide another great alternative to get exactly what you need from your streaming line-up, without having to pay more for the upgraded signature packages. DIRECTV free trial and deals While DIRECTV has one of the most robust channel line-ups on the market, it can be a bit pricey for some customers. If you're on the fence about whether or not DIRECTV is right for you, they offer a 5-day free trial so you can test out all of their features before spending any money. Additionally, DIRECTV is currently offering a $30 discount on your first 3 months when you sign up for a Signature Package without a device. How does DIRECTV stack up to competitors? DIRECTV has competitive pricing and channel offerings for its basic package. And while it may not feature as many channels as Fubo or YouTube TV's basic packages, it offers much more flexibility and choice in its add-ons and upgraded packages. Making it a worthy choice for streamers considering other options. FAQs How can I watch my DIRECTV away from home? The best way to stream DIRECTV away from home is with the DIRECTV app. You can have up to 3 simultaneous streams when outside of your home network. How to get DIRECTV discounts for existing customers? DIRECTV does not offer a loyalty discount for existing customers. However, some ways for existing customers to save include enrolling in auto-pay and checking promotional offers on DIRECTV's deals page or through your personal DIRECTV account. Can I watch DIRECTV on my TV without a box? Yes, you can watch DIRECTV without a dedicated DIRECTV device. The DIRECTV app is available for download on most Smart TVs and mobile devices. You can simply download the app from whatever app store you're using, and then log in with your DIRECTV account credentials. Then you can stream everything included in your package right from the app. How much is the senior discount for DIRECTV? DIRECTV does not offer a specific senior discount. However, senior customers can contact DIRECTV directly to see if any special promotions or offers may be available to them.

Jerry West was surprised Michael Jordan became a superstar with Bulls despite watching him in college: ‘I never thought he’d be this special’
NBA

Jerry West was surprised Michael Jordan became a superstar with Bulls despite watching him in college: ‘I never thought he’d be this special’

The late great Jerry West was surprised NBA icon Michael Jordan became a superstar with the Chicago Bulls despite watching him in college at UNC. Jordan played three years at UNC. He hit the game-winning shot in the 1982 NCAA Championship Game against Georgetown. The Bulls drafted Jordan with the third overall pick in the 1984 NBA Draft. “I loved him in college,” West told the Chicago Tribune in 1989. “But I never thought he’d be this special. He has the quickness, the acceleration, the hand-eye coordination and his skill level is incredible. He’s the complete package and dominates a game like no one else.” Jordan was special the minute he stepped foot in the NBA. He won the Rookie of the Year Award after averaging 28.2 points, 6.5 rebounds, 5.9 assists, 2.4 steals and 0.8 blocks. In 1987-88, Jordan won the MVP Award, the Defensive Player of the Year Award and the scoring title. MJ is the only player to do that. The Bulls won their first championship in 1991 against the Los Angeles Lakers. They became a dynasty after that. Jordan led Chicago to titles in 1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997 and 1998. The Bulls beat the Portland Trail Blazers, Phoenix Suns, Seattle SuperSonics and Utah Jazz (twice) in the NBA Finals. Jordan had two stints with the Bulls. He won five MVPs, six championships, six Finals MVPs, three steals titles and 10 scoring titles. Chicago went 6-0 in the NBA Finals in the Jordan era. Jordan played two seasons with the Washington Wizards before retiring from the NBA for good in 2003. He finished his legendary career with averages of 30.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 2.3 steals and 0.8 blocks. A Hall of Famer, Jordan is first in NBA history in points per game in the regular season and playoffs. He also holds the record for the most points scored (63) in a postseason game. West is the logo of the NBA, but Jordan is universally recognized as the greatest player of all time.

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!