USA Today

‘The network said the new movie will premiere during the “GOAT of festive films, Hallmark Channel’s 16th annual Countdown to Christmas,” adding that last year’s inaugural collaboration for “Holiday Touchdown: A Chiefs Love Story” was cable television’s most-watched movie of the year.’

‘Talk about a big vision. Smith rattled off expectations that include 7,500 jobs and annual projections of more than $200 million in economic impact and maybe $25 million in tax revenues for the city.’

‘Hamlin, 26, is coming off of one of the best years in his career. In 2024, the fourth-year safety recorded 89 tackles (including two for a loss), plus career highs in passes defensed (5) and interceptions (2). Hamlin also recorded his first career fumble recovery last season.’

‘Allen, 28, has earned it, too, given the first NFL MVP award he won a few weeks ago provided another sterling marker of his continued, multi-faceted progress. He has cut down on the turnovers that once dogged him, throwing just six picks in a season that saw him produce 40 TDs (28 passing, 12 rushes). Allen also took the Bills to another AFC title game, which fuels hope that he might eventually take them to the franchise’s first Super Bowl since their glorious 1990s. And you know how hope can sell in the NFL.’

‘Bosa was released by the Los Angeles Chargers last week, ending his time with the team after nine seasons. The former third overall pick was named Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2016 and was selected to five Pro Bowl teams.’

‘Allen and the Bills agreed to terms on a record-breaking six-year contract that keeps him in Buffalo through the 2030 season, the team announced Sunday. According to multiple reports, the contract is worth $330 million and includes $250 million guaranteed. It’s the largest guaranteed total ever given to an NFL player.’

‘Miller has been plagued by injuries during his time in Buffalo, unable to play more than 13 games in a season. He posted 14 sacks in 36 games and didn’t register a single sack over 12 games in the 2023 regular season.’

‘Rousseau is the second of three Bills players to receive a four-year extension from the team in the last two days.’

‘Shakir, 25, was set to enter the final year of his four-year rookie contract in 2025. His new deal with the Bills will kick in after the conclusion of that initial contract and ensures he sticks around in Orchard Park, New York through 2029.’

‘Morrow was still in disbelief about the generosity and love he received from the Buffalo community after receiving the car.’

‘Jauron was hired as head coach by the Bills in 2006 but never led them to the playoffs. He was fired mid-season in 2009.’

‘Allen is also the first player since Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway in 1987 to be chosen as outright MVP despite not being named a first-team All-Pro. Jackson beat him out for that honor, with Allen taking the second-team slot. Tennessee Titans quarterback Steve McNair was also a second-team All-Pro selection in 2003, when he split MVP honors with Peyton Manning.’

‘“Yeah, I was pretty surprised,” Allen said after receiving the award, “given what we know about, typically, how the voting goes. Lamar was very deserving of this award as well. I have nothing but love and respect for him and his game.”’

‘The Bills remodeled their secondary this season, which resulted in mixed reviews. They had the 24th-ranked pass defense in the NFL. Nickle corner Taron Johnson is Buffalo’s best cornerback. They are void of a standout outside corner and lack depth in the secondary. The Bills could draft a couple of cornerbacks in the upcoming draft. East Carolina’s Shavon Revel is a corner with good length that would fit in Buffalo.’

‘”Right now it obviously hurts a lot, and it’s going to linger for a while, but eventually you’ve got to move on. And hopefully you grow from this, and I believe that will be the case, but for the time being, it’s going to hurt a lot.”‘