Cornerback was one of the positions going into the offseason I thought could use another major infusion of talent. Outside of Marshon Lattimore’s time with the Saints the team has not had a bona fide number one caliber cornerback. We’ve seen the defense benefit from having one and what the defense looks like without one in recent years. The defense can still be very well be good and effective without a number one but knowing you have one who can take the opposing team’s best receiver out of the game is a game changer. So the Saints have gone through the offseason without any flashy additions to the cornerback room. I’m sure they would have liked to but with all the focus on upgrading the offense it seems like the plan will have to wait for another day. In the meantime though there is a major opportunity for the young cornerbacks on the roster to show they can be long term answers at the position. Kool-Aid McKinstry is entering his third year in the league and offers the best chance of these young corners to break out and become a number one corner. He’s been a reliable starter who has shown flashes of success but with the inconsistency you expect from a young player. Kool-Aid will look to make the patented third year jump a lot of young players tend to make. I’m sure the Saints would love to see it and they just might be with the feedback we have been getting from OTA’s and minicamp.
Official Visits Fuel Wave of 2027 Commitments June 2026 has been a landmark month for Tulane Green Wave football recruiting under head coach Will Hall. The program hosted a series of official visits that translated directly into commitments, adding significant talent and momentum to the 2027 class. What started as steady growth earlier in the offseason (6 Commits) exploded into a flurry of pledges, with Tulane securing approximately 18 commitments during June alone. This surge has pushed the class size to around 23 commits (Was 24, DB Deshaun Wylie De-Commit), with a strong emphasis on local Louisiana prospects, trench players, skill-position athletes, and versatile defenders. The Green Wave are building depth and competition across multiple position groups while capitalizing on the growing appeal of the program in New Orleans and beyond. Official Visits Drive the Momentum Official visit weekends in June proved decisive. Prospects got an up-close look at Yulman Stadium, the Uptown campus, the coaching staff, and the culture, and many didn’t need long to decide. June Commits: • Joshua Sylvain (WR, Miami Carol City HS, FL) Visited Tulane on June 18 and committed shortly after. The 6’4”, 205 lb big-bodied receiver brings length, contested-catch ability, and red-zone mismatch potential. • Multiple defensive backs and local standouts, including James Tyson (CB, St. Charles Catholic, LaPlace, LA), who had a strong OV and pledged. • Other visitors and quick turnarounds in the defensive line, edge, and skill groups helped fuel the run of commitments. These visits, combined with strong evaluations from camps and prior relationships, created a snowball effect. Coach Hall and the staff have been aggressive and targeted, landing players who fit the scheme and bring high character/intangibles. The June Commitment Haul (2027 Class) Here is a compiled list of the June 2027 commitments for Tulane. Early-to-Mid June Additions: • Teddy Graff (TE, 6’5”/220, Ensworth HS, Nashville, TN) Committed June 5. Blocking tight end with size and upside. • Anquan Jackson (RB, South Jones HS, Ellisville, MS) June 6. • Kavarris Duncan (DL, Winterboro HS, Alpine, AL) June 6. Interior presence. • Ray’Quan Williams (WR, 6’0”/163, St. Augustine HS, New Orleans, LA) June 7. Local speedster and playmaker (#111 WR nationally per 247). • Peyton Perkins (RB, Eupora HS, MS) June 7. Versatile athlete. • James Tyson (CB, 5’11”/180, St. Charles Catholic, LaPlace, LA) June 7. Local DB with strong OV. • Jackson Shaw (OT, 6’6”/260, Catholic HS, Baton Rouge, LA) June 7. Local offensive line help. • Gus Faulkner (S, 6’2”/212, Fairhope HS, AL) June 9. Athletic Hybrid LB. Mid-to-Late June Surge: • Ja’ir Burks (WR, Jesuit HS, New Orleans, LA) June 14. Another local New Orleans skill player. • Jaden Terrance (WR, Archbishop Rummel HS, Metairie, LA) June 14. Local versatile addition. • Hans Emery Julien (EDGE, 6’3”/235, Baylor School, Chattanooga, TN / Laval, Quebec) June 15. Explosive, high-motor pass rusher with length and Canadian prep background. • Malik Ward (EDGE, 6’4”/235, Gautier HS, MS) June 15. Long, athletic disruptor with Gulf Coast production. • Demetrius Terrell (DL, 6’3”/265, Parker HS, Birmingham, AL) June 16. High-upside interior lineman with two-way experience and violent hands. Strong scouting notes on pass rush and run defense. • Dallas Crescenzo (WR, 6’0”/183, Bastrop HS, TX) June 17. Became the 20th commit overall. Big-play vertical threat, excellent route runner, YAC creator, and return-game weapon. Previously decommitted from Purdue; polished and competitive. • Joshua Sylvain (WR, 6’4”/205, Miami Carol City HS, FL) June 19 (after June 18 OV). Imposing length, contested-catch specialist, deep-ball threat, and mismatch creator. One of the more physically dominant WRs in the class. • Aymaud Sykes (RB, 6’0”/180, Dry Prong HS, LA) June 21. Patient, decisive downhill runner with elite acceleration (4.29 40), long speed, contact balance, receiving versatility, and two-way/ATH traits. High-character leader with track pedigree and multi-sport background. Detailed scouting highlights vision, elusiveness, and finishing ability. These additions give Tulane notable strength at WR (multiple additions including local speed and big-bodied options), EDGE/DL (three impactful front-seven pieces in quick succession), secondary (DB/CB/S depth), and offensive line reinforcements, plus backfield and tight end help. Many bring Louisiana or regional ties, which resonates with the fanbase and aids retention/development. Class Outlook and What It Means Tulane’s 2027 class is taking shape rapidly and competitively for an American Conference program. The June haul demonstrates strong staff work in identifying fits, building relationships, and converting official visits into pledges. The emphasis on size/speed at skill positions, length and motor on the edges, and local talent creates a balanced foundation. Note: One earlier commit, DB De’Shawn Wylie, recently flipped to UConn, adjusting the net total slightly (class currently at 23 hard commits). This is normal in recruiting and doesn’t diminish the overall momentum or quality of the remaining group. Under Coach Will Hall, Tulane continues to raise its recruiting profile. The combination of on-field success, NIL/transfer portal activity, and genuine player development is attracting prospects who see a clear path. June’s official visit success and commitment wave position the Green Wave well for the rest of the summer, fall camps, and the 2026–27 cycle. #RollWave Tulane fans have plenty to be excited about. The wave is building. #RMFW Make sure to follow Patrick Harkness on X
Adding Etienne Jr. and keeping everyone healthy will immediately improve the running back room.
Yulman Stadium has been electric this June. In the IDPF or under the lights and in the Louisiana heat, the Tulane Green Wave coaching staff, led by head coach Will Hall, turned their summer camp circuit into a major recruiting statement. Across multiple sessions, the Green Wave extended 11 scholarship offers to talented prospects from Louisiana and beyond. The camps featured position-specific drills, 1-on-1 competitions, and direct evaluations from Coach Hall and his staff. Prospects left with more than just memories, several walked away with their first (or latest) Division I offer from a program that continues to build momentum in the American Conference and on the national recruiting trail. Standout Performers and Scholarship Recipients Tulane’s staff targeted size, athleticism, versatility, and scheme fit. Here are some of the prospects who earned offers during the recent camp sessions. Blair “Big Red” Lewis (Class of 2029 | OT | Jeanerette High School, LA | 6’6”, 300+ lbs)
The massive offensive tackle dominated the trenches with powerful hands, leverage, and improving footwork. After strong showings in pass pro and run blocking, he earned his Tulane offer from OL coach Cody Kennedy. Lewis already holds offers from LSU, USC, and Memphis and is one of the top 2029 linemen in the country. Trilon Francis (Class of 2028 | TE/DE Hybrid | Lafayette Renaissance Charter Academy | 6’3”, 230 lbs)
A high-motor, versatile athlete who flashed explosiveness at both tight end and on the edge. His length, change-of-direction ability, and physicality stood out. He picked up his third D-I offer after conversations with the defensive staff. Lipton Zachary Mckenzie (Class of 2029 | RB/ATH | Cardinal Gibbons High School, FL | 5’9”, 165 lbs)
The shifty, explosive back made defenders miss in space with elite burst and vision. Tulane saw a playmaker who can contribute as a change-of-pace back or return specialist. Nasir Parker (Class of 2028 | WR | 6’5”, 202 lbs) Earned his fifth overall offer. Reece Robinson (Class of 2030 | QB | Parklane Academy) Received his first Tulane offer and expressed excitement about building a relationship with the staff.@reeceqb12 Kasen Anio (Class of 2030 | ATH | Zachary High School | 6’2.5”, 208 lbs) Picked up his fifth offer after a strong camp and conversation with Coach Schexnayder. Mason Smith (Class of 2030 | QB | North Desoto) Earned an offer after working with QB coach Collin D’Angelo. Other prospects from the June 17 session and earlier camps also received offers (27- DB James Tyson Tulane commit), bringing the total to 11 scholarships extended during Tulane’s camp circuit this month. The staff evaluated talent across multiple classes (2027–2030), showing a clear long-term vision for roster building. Coaching Presence and Camp Atmosphere Head Coach Will Hall, along with assistants including Collin D’Angelo, Coach Schexnayder, Cody Kennedy, and others, were heavily involved in evaluations and conversations. Prospects from across Louisiana (New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette areas) and neighboring states competed in front of the staff. Recruiting Momentum Under Will Hall These 11 offers continue a strong trend for Tulane. The Green Wave have been aggressive in-state and regionally, targeting physical linemen, versatile athletes, and explosive skill players who fit Will Hall’s offensive and defensive schemes. With the transfer portal and NIL landscape evolving, camps like these allow Tulane to identify high-upside talent early and build relationships before the bigger national names lock in. The fact that multiple 2029 and 2030 prospects earned offers shows the staff is thinking ahead while still competing for immediate needs. What’s Next? The staff will continue monitoring these 11 new offer recipients as they navigate their recruiting processes. The camp circuit delivered, and the future looks bright in New Orleans. #RollWave #RMFW Make sure to follow Patrick Harkness on X
Paying homage to a one-of-one underdog & fan favorite who deserves the title of "Champion".
Discussing how the Pelicans get into the lottery & a few prospects to keep in mind.
Tulane Green Wave fans have plenty to celebrate this cycle and previous. According to the latest 247Sports composite rankings, the Green Wave have landed the two highest-rated recruits in program history for the Class of 2026, and they’re not just any two prospects. Tylan George, the massive interior offensive lineman from West Monroe High School in Louisiana, sits at No. 1 with a 0.8939 rating. The 6’3”, 310-pound 4-star prospect has been a dominant force on the offensive line, earning praise for his pancake block totals and elite strength (515-pound squat, 315 bench as a junior). George brings immediate size, power, and local pride to an offensive line room that’s hungry for impact talent. Right behind him at No. 2 is Jordyn Crites, the 6’6”, 255-260 pound defensive lineman from Friendswood High School in Texas. Crites recently earned his 4-star upgrade and a 0.8926 composite, making him one of the most athletic and long defensive linemen in the class (83-inch wingspan, 4.8 forty, 530-pound squat). He played both defensive end and tight end in high school and brings versatility, length, and upside that fits perfectly in Will Hall’s defensive scheme. Together, George and Crites represent a seismic shift in Tulane recruiting. Not only are they the top two in the 2026 class, but their ratings mark a new ceiling for what the Green Wave can attract. One bolsters the trenches on offense with mauling power; the other adds length and explosiveness on defense. Both have potential to contribute early and raise the floor (and ceiling) for their respective position groups. This isn’t just a good class, it’s a statement. Tulane is no longer just competing for regional talent; they’re landing blue-chip prospects who have Power conference offers and are choosing to build something special in New Orleans. The Green Wave are trending up, and these two are the new faces of that ascent. #RollWave #RMFW Make sure to follow Patrick Harkness on X
Steve Garcia (+120) vs Diego Lopes (-155): To kick-off UFC Freedom 250, we have an action-packed clash of two top 10 ranked featherweights with devastating knockout power. The underdog Steve Garcia comes into this matchup riding a seven fight winning streak with six coming via knockout. This tilt with the second ranked Diego Lopes I believe will be his toughest test thus far. Lopes comes into this matchup losing 2 of 3, however context here matters. Both of Lopes’ losses during that time span are at the hands of reigning champion Alexander Volkanovski. His win was an impressive destruction over highly touted contender Jean Silva. In this matchup in particular, I believe Lopes has edges in speed, durability, grappling and deserves to be the rightful favorite. What Lopes lacks in technical ability and footwork, he closes the skill gap with his potent finishing ability and granite chin. While Garcia certainly has the more technical skills of the two combatants, I do worry about his durability against a fast starter here in Lopes. Diego Lopes has plenty of experience being in the limelight…Steve Garcia does not. I believe Lopes rises to the occasion once again and gets the early finish. The Pick: Diego Lopes ML (-155) Best Bet: Diego Lopes - Inside the Distance (+120) Bo Nickal (-340) vs Kyle Daukaus (+250): The second matchup of the night features two middleweights trying to break into the contenders circle at 185 pounds. The large favorite in this matchup, Bo Nickal, decided to pursue MMA after a decorated collegiate wrestling career at Penn State. I believe it is a fair criticism to say that he has certainly underperformed expectations up til this point in his MMA career. His wrestling game hasn’t exactly translated as well as most believed and his striking mechanics are somewhat of a mess. On the other hand, we have Kyle Daukaus. He returns for his second stint in the UFC after an underwhelming first run. Daukaus is a relatively well rounded fighter possessing decent skills on the feet and on the ground. I have questions about where both men really are entering this fight as Nickal has largely underwhelmed and I have trouble really buying Daukaus’ “mini-run” since returning to the UFC. For the sake of a pick, I’ll side with Nickal. However, I don’t see any value in his price tag. I would say if you must bet a side, then Daukaus is your man. I believe the overs are the strongest way to play this fight as I don’t really rate either guy as a high-level finisher. The Pick: Bo Nickal ML (-350) Best Bet: Fight Goes The Distance (+170) Mauricio Ruffy (-750) vs Michael Chandler (+460): In a battle of ranked lightweights, we have two men at vastly different stages of their career as indicated by the betting line here. I will make this short. Michael Chandler is more interested in being a showman these days than fighting to any sort of intelligent gameplan. You then combine that with shoddy durability and you have the potential recipe for an absolute disaster. I simply do not see any way the younger, faster, and more dynamic Ruffy here blows this one. The problem is, the prices for anything Ruffy-related are much too chalky for my taste. I will predict a Ruffy first round knockout here as I believe the speed and array of attacks will overwhelm the older, slower Chandler sooner rather than later. The Pick: Mauricio Ruffy via KO/TKO (-210) Best Bet: Under 1.5 Rounds (-115) Josh Hokit (-440) vs Derrick Lewis (+310): In our first heavyweight contest of the night, we have two all-action fighters looking for quick finishes. UFC newcomer, Josh Hokit has quickly risen to fame mostly by way of his bizarre “schtick” but to his credit, his latest performance versus a top contender in Curtis Blaydes was certainly a fan friendly affair. Hokit blends an aggressive in your face style that no one has been able to solve yet in his young MMA career. On the other hand, we have longtime UFC veteran Derrick Lewis. As Lewis nears the tail end of his career, he only really brings one thing to the table and that is very early knockout finishes. If Hokit tries to showboat a little too much here, it could cost him. However, I am not predicting it will. At least not yet. Hokit has a lot going for him in this matchup such as youth, athleticism, grappling upside, and a relentless pace. Combine all of those things and I feel Lewis becomes a sinking ship quickly. Hokit is the likely victor here, but when you add in the caveat that he may give Lewis a chance (no matter how fleeting it may be) to hit his win condition - I would rather not lay -440 on a guy who has a few wild card tendencies. The Pick: Josh Hokit ML (-440) Best Bet: Josh Hokit via KO/TKO (+125) Aiemann Zahabi (+320) vs Sean O’Malley (-440): Here we have a battle between two bantamweight contenders. The large betting underdog in this matchup is the surging Canadian, Aiemann Zahabi. While Zahabi may be riding a seven fight win streak, I just can’t buy it. The people he has beaten have little to no meaning in this bettor's eyes. Absolutely none of them will prepare him for the speed and creative variety O’Malley will bring into the octagon with him Sunday night. These two men could fight ten times and I would not predict Zahabi to get his hand raised a single time. O’Malley seems tailor made to exploit all of Zahabi’s shortcomings such as age, durability, lack of grappling, physicality, or finishing ability. This one is simple to me. O’Malley shines bright here. Sean O’Malley returns to form and earns a knockout victory. I can’t ignore the obvious advantages in speed, creativity, and punching power. The Pick: Sean O’Malley ML (-440) Best Bet: Sean O’Malley via KO/TKO (+210) Alex Pereira (-110) vs Ciryl Gane (-110): In our first of two title fights, we have the Interim Heavyweight Championship on the line. This matchup features fan-favorite Alex Pereira making his heavyweight debut and long-time division mainstay Ciryl Gane. The betting line may indicate a true coin flip, but that is where I will disagree. I simply do not understand how one can make this fight a true pick-em when every facet you can think of is in Gane’s favor minus punching power. I really believe this is one of the best, if not the best value spot on the card. Pereira’s path to victory is likely an early knockout and outside of that happening, I struggle to see him show he is the better man over the course of a potential 25 minute affair. Not to mention a perceived strong grappling edge plus Gane is a super mobile and agile athlete. I do not think it will be a walk in the park for Pereira to find him while they are striking. We have never seen “Poatan” at heavyweight in his entire career and then you pair that with this body transformation happening at 38 going on 39 years of age - I just don’t love it for his chances. All of this points me to one side at the current price range and that is Ciryl Gane. I believe Gane has more tools in his toolbox and more avenues to a victory. I do find it interesting and also a bit telling that when Bet Online opened their odds for this potential matchup back in February, they had Ciryl Gane listed as the (-190) betting favorite. What has changed since then? To me? Nothing. Pereira will no doubt be one of the most popular bets for this Sunday’s card, just not for this bettor. The Pick: Ciryl Gane ML (-110) Best Bet: Ciryl Gane ML (-110) Justin Gaethje (+370) vs Ilia Topuria (-550): The main event of the evening is a clash of champion and challenger for the Lightweight Championship of the world. Two-Division Champion Ilia Topuria looks to improve his MMA record to a shiny 18-0, while UFC veteran Justin Gaethje looks to do the unthinkable and pull off a massive upset victory. This fight here is simple. Ilia Topuria is just simply better at every facet of MMA than Justin Gaethje ever was. Full stop. The edges here in skill and intangibles are large. Topuria will get the job done, it is just a matter of figuring out how he will do so. I believe that Topuria will finish this fight rather quickly and rather easily. There is not a ton here to suggest that Gaethje can realistically last for more than a round or two in my eyes. I will keep this one simple; Ilia Topuria via Round 1 knockout. The Pick: Ilia Topuria via Round 1 KO/TKO (+250) Best Bet: Under 1.5 Rounds (-110) I hope that you all enjoy this truly historic sporting event on Sunday evening and I wish you all the best of luck with your bets! #GreauxTheDeaux Make sure to follow Rudy G Bets on X
