Sports News Today — August 21, 2026
Takeaways from NFL preseason Week 2: Is the Raiders' young secondary ready for primetime? and more — today's sports signal.
The dog days of summer are winding down and the sports world is heating up as we count down to the start of the new season. In the NFL, preseason action is in full swing, with several teams looking to make a statement before the regular season kicks off. The Raiders are among those trying to iron out some wrinkles, particularly in their young secondary, which will need to step up if they're going to make a deep run. Meanwhile, the Lions are gearing up for a showdown with the Rams at SoFi, fueled by a rebuilt O-line and a pair of lucrative contract extensions.
Off the field, there's plenty of news to keep an eye on. The Seattle Mariners are calling up top prospect Emerson Hancock, generating buzz among baseball fans. In the WNBA, UConn stars Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd are opening up about their relationship in a new docuseries. But not all off-field news is positive - a former Kings trainer has come forward with allegations of pregnancy discrimination, highlighting the ongoing need for greater accountability and support in professional sports. And in the business world, Lakers minority owner Jesse Buss is reaffirming his commitment to the team, saying he won't be selling his 4% stake anytime soon.
Today's signal:
• Takeaways from NFL preseason Week 2: Is the Raiders' young secondary ready for primetime? (espn.com)
• Sources: M's calling up top prospect Anderson (espn.com)
• Ex-Kings trainer alleges pregnancy discrimination (espn.com)
• Lakers minority owner not selling his 4% stake (espn.com)
• With $1 billion in contract extensions and a rebuilt O-line, Detroit will see you at SoFi (espn.com)
• Paige Bueckers, Azzi Fudd publicly share relationship beginnings in new docuseries (espn.com)