England head coach Thomas Tuchel listens to the national anthem ahead the World Cup Group L soccer match between England and Ghana in Foxborough, Mass., Tuesday. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner)

Sorsby now

must wait

(AP) — Brendan Sorsby will have to wait until 2027 to begin his NFL career. The NFL informed the 22-year-old quarterback on Tuesday that it will not hold a supplemental draft this year, and encouraged him to focus on preparing for possible entry into the league through the regular draft next year.

The league told Sorsby of its decision in a letter that was obtained by The Associated Press. Sorsby had applied for the supplemental draft after a legal battle with the NCAA, which had declared him ineligible for making thousands of bets on sporting events worth at least $90,000 during his college career.

NCAA panel

adopts rules

(AP) — The NCAA adopted a new eligibility model for Division I athletes allowing five seasons of competition over a five-year period beginning upon initial college enrollment or the academic year following their 19th birthday, whichever occurs first.

The Division I Cabinet approved the change from the longstanding tenet of college sports that gave athletes five years to complete four seasons of competition with their eligibility clock starting at the time of enrollment, regardless of age. It eliminates waivers for extended eligibility except for pregnancy, religious missions or active-duty military service. No longer will extensions be considered for athletes who are injured.

England and

Ghana tie

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. (AP) — England dominated possession but came up empty on several late scoring opportunities in a 0-0 draw with Ghana at the World Cup. Both teams won their opening matches, with Ghana beating Panama 1-0 and England defeating Croatia 4-2.

Now both still have work to do in Group L before securing a spot in the knockout round. England had a chance to take the lead in the 86th minute when Nico O’Reilly’s header hit the crossbar. Harry Kane gathered the rebound but couldn’t get enough on it with his left foot and shot high.

England hasn’t lost to an African country at the World Cup in nine meetings.

NHL looks

to Texas

NEW YORK (AP) — The NHL is exploring expansion to Texas, focusing on Houston or Austin, with a framework agreed upon with billionaire Dan Friedkin and his family. Commissioner Gary Bettman said Tuesday that the Board of Governors executive committee endorsed the plan for the next six months.

The total investment, including an expansion fee and building a new arena, would be $3.5 billion. Discussions initially centered on Houston before Austin joined the conversation.

This move could make the NHL the largest professional sports league in North America. The league last expanded with the Seattle Kraken in 2021.

Falcons sign

Kyle Pitts

ATLANTA (AP) — The Atlanta Falcons have agreed to a three-year, $54 million contract with tight end Kyle Pitts Sr., securing another foundation player through the 2028 season. The deal was announced by Pitts’ agency, Athletes First, in a social media post. The agency says it is the largest three-year deal for a tight end in NFL history. The agreement comes three weeks after the team signed wide receiver Drake London to a four-year, $141 million deal. Pitts set a career high with 88 catches last season.

He had 928 receiving yards and five touchdowns. The deal includes $36 million in guaranteed salary.

Superfan at

World Cup

GUADALAJARA, Mexico (AP) — Héctor Chávez, known as Caramelo, is a beloved figure among Mexican soccer fans. He has attended 543 matches supporting Mexico’s national team, “El Tri,” since 1986. Chávez, now at his 11th World Cup, is joined by his son, Caramelo Jr.

Both are known for their oversized sombreros. Despite his popularity, Chávez faces criticism for drawing too much attention. He says the high costs of attending the World Cup has kept some fans away. Chávez remains committed to supporting the team, emphasizing the importance of passionate fans in creating a vibrant atmosphere.