Welcome to the Monday edition of the Pick Six newsletter!

As the NFL offseason wraps up, 11 teams prepare for mandatory minicamp, while others, like the 49ers and Rams, have canceled theirs. This week’s focus includes the tragic passing of former NFL All-Pro Aldon Smith and teams eyeing an end to their Super Bowl droughts.

1. Aldon Smith Passes Away at 36

The NFL faced a heartbreaking loss with the death of Aldon Smith, who passed away on Saturday in the Bay Area. Just hours before his death, he engaged in a charitable act by delivering pizzas. His friend, Amir Shirazi, described a shocking scene when he returned to find Smith unresponsive in his car.

• Career Highlights:
  • Drafted 7th overall by the 49ers in 2011.
  • Recorded 14 sacks in his rookie year, finishing as runner-up for Defensive Rookie of the Year.
  • Achieved 19.5 sacks in 2012, earning first-team All-Pro honors.

Despite his early success, Smith’s career was marred by legal issues, leading to multiple arrests and a significant decline in his playing time. His haunting final interview revealed his struggles with mental health.

2. Teams Likely to End Super Bowl Droughts

With the Knicks clinching their first title in 53 years, attention shifts to the NFL. Bryan DeArdo ranked 17 teams based on their chances of breaking long title droughts:

• Buffalo Bills: Last title in 1965. With Josh Allen at the helm, they aim to capitalize on a favorable window.
• Cincinnati Bengals: Still seeking their first title. The health of Joe Burrow will be crucial for their chances.
• Chicago Bears: Last title in 1985. Following a playoff win last season, they look to build on recent success.

3. Minicamp Overreactions

As minicamps unfold, overreactions abound:

• Kyler Murray struggles but is not losing ground in the QB competition with McCarthy.
• Alec Pierce’s extension questioned due to recovery from surgery, but he could bounce back.
• Brian Thomas Jr. shows promise for a comeback season after a disappointing sophomore year.

4. Under-the-Radar Breakout Candidates

Notable breakout candidates include:

• DeMarvion Overshown (Cowboys), Luther Burden III (Bears), Xavier Watts (Falcons), and Dominick Puni (49ers).

5. NFC South Win Totals

Jordan Dajani discusses potential surprises in the NFC South:

• Saints favored to exceed 7.5 wins with a revamped offense.
• Buccaneers struggle to maintain a winning record, leaning toward under 8.5 wins.

6. Extra Points

• Travis Kelce remains focused on football despite wedding planning with Taylor Swift.
• Louisville Kings win UFL title in their inaugural season.
• Stefon Diggs cleared of assault charges, facing no NFL punishment.
• Joe Tippmann secures a $66.4 million extension with the Jets.