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NFL's most improved units entering 2025 season headlined by Chicago Bears offense Ayrton Ostly, USA TODAYAugust 5, 2025 at 8:01 PM Every offseason, NFL teams have the opportunity to upgrade their rosters and coaching staffs to make a marked improvement over the prior year.

- - NFL's most improved units entering 2025 season headlined by Chicago Bears offense

Ayrton Ostly, USA TODAYAugust 5, 2025 at 8:01 PM

Every offseason, NFL teams have the opportunity to upgrade their rosters and coaching staffs to make a marked improvement over the prior year.

The Washington Commanders were one of the biggest surprises in the 2024 season. They improved from 4-13 to 12-5 and made the NFC championship game for the first time in three decades. That turnaround came from a new coaching staff as well as a new starting quarterback in No. 2 overall pick Jayden Daniels.

Washington became a top-10 offense by points (fifth) and yards (seventh) after finishing in the bottom third league-wide the year prior. The improvement was almost as stark on the other side of the ball; Washington's defense went from last in the league in points and yards allowed to 18th and 13th, respectively.

Not every team will experience a jump like the Commanders did in 2024, but some teams may see significant improvements in 2025. That could be from free agent signings, draft selections, coaching changes, or a combination of all three.

Some teams stand out from what they've done this offseason which makes them prime candidates for improvement. Here are our eight most improved units entering the 2025 NFL season:

NFL's most improved unitsChicago Bears offense

The Bears' offense finished the 2024 season 28th in points and last in yards league-wide. Considering the talent of No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams at quarterback, that was a huge letdown. But there are few units more primed for an improvement in 2025 than Chicago.

The Bears hired former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. He was the play-caller for one of the top offenses in the NFL over the last two seasons. The franchise utilized free agency and a trade to upgrade the offensive line by acquiring guards Jonah Jackson and Joe Thuney, as well as center Drew Dalman.

The Bears completed the trifecta of factors by using their top two draft picks on tight end Colston Loveland and wide receiver Luther Burden III. Chicago has made changes at the coaching level, bringing in veterans and investing in high-profile rookies on offense. It's hard to find a better combination than that, and it should prime them for a jump to better production.

Las Vegas Raiders offense

Similar to Chicago, Las Vegas used coaching changes, trades, free agency and the draft to improve the offense in 2025.

The offensive coaching staff has been overhauled with Chip Kelly now in as offensive coordinator. He produced a national championship-winning offense for the Ohio State Buckeyes last year and could bring similar concepts to the Raiders.

Las Vegas will have a new quarterback in 2025 in Geno Smith. He's the first Raiders quarterback with at least one Pro Bowl on his resume since Derek Carr back in 2022. The team also used its top pick on the best running back in the draft in Ashton Jeanty and took wide receiver Jack Bech with its second selection.

The AFC West will be a tough division once again in 2025 but Las Vegas should be in much better shape on offense to fight for wins.

Tennessee Titans offense

The Titans didn't overhaul their staff, instead relying on the draft and free agency to improve the offense. Tennessee was a bottom-five scoring offense and led the league in turnover percentage in 2024.

No. 1 overall draft pick Cam Ward should be an upgrade at quarterback as a rookie. The Titans invested in the offensive line by signing free agents Kevin Zeitler at guard and Dan Moore Jr. at left tackle. Neither are top talents at their positions, but they raise the floor for the position group.

Tennessee used both free agency and the draft to improve the pass-catching group. Veteran wide receivers Tyler Lockett and Van Jefferson as well as fourth-round picks Chimere Dike and Elic Ayomanor will contend for starting roles and offer better options at the position. It'd be a surprise if Tennessee ended 2025 as a top-10 offense but they should be closer to league-average than last season.

New England Patriots offense

The Patriots had one of the worst offensive lines and skill position groups in the NFL in 2024. For 2025, a new coaching staff is in place, led by proven offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. New England used free agency and the draft to bolster the rest of the offense around second-year quarterback Drake Maye.

Veteran wide receivers Stefon Diggs and Mack Hollins may be past their peaks but provide better talent at the position than what New England fielded last season. Proven starters Garrett Bradbury and Morgan Moses will shore up center and right tackle, respectively.

The Patriots used the No. 4 overall pick on the top left tackle in the draft class in Will Campbell. In Round 2, New England selected one of the more dynamic running backs in the class in TreVeyon Henderson. They invested in the offensive line again in Round 3 by selecting center Jared Wilson and took wide receiver Kyle Williams as well.

Improvements with new coaching, veteran upgrades and draft investment should push the Patriots up the rankings on offense. Contending for a division title may be a tall task but they'll be more competent on that side of the ball.

Carolina Panthers defense

Carolina's defense ranked last in the NFL in points, yards, rushing yards, passing touchdowns and first downs allowed in 2024. The team lost top pass rusher Derrick Brown to injury in Week 1 and that set the tone for a subpar year.

The franchise retained defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero, which demonstrates their confidence in him as a play-caller on that side of the ball. Instead, the team went about upgrading the talent he's working with.

Carolina hit the defensive line in free agency by signing Bobby Brown III and Tershawn Wharton as well as edge rusher Patrick Jones II, who was productive in a rotational role with the Minnesota Vikings last season. The Panthers also bolstered the secondary by signing former Raiders safety Tre'von Moehrig. Those moves should make life a bit easier for defensive stars Brown and Jaycee Horn.

In the draft, Carolina added a pair of edge rushers with different skill sets. Second-round pick Nic Scourton has a high floor thanks to his pass rush moves, motor and strength. Third-round pick Princely Umanmielen is a bit lighter but wins with his flexibility, length and speed. They may not contribute much in year one but should provide depth worth developing for Evero and company.

Arizona Cardinals defense

Arizona stocked up on offense in the draft in 2024. This offseason, they spent their resources on defense.

The Cardinals bolstered the front seven in free agency. Veterans Dalvin Tomlinson and Calais Campbell will help up front, while top free agent edge rusher Josh Sweat should be an improvement off the edge. The team used its draft capital to fill out the rest of the defense as well.

Top pick Walter Nolen won't have to produce immediately alongside Tomlinson and Campbell and can get up to speed in time. Second-round pick Will Johnson could've been a top-15 pick if not for injury concerns. If he's healthy, he could be a good starter at outside cornerback as a rookie. Arizona selected versatile defensive lineman Jordan Burch in Round 3 and he could provide a rotational piece on the inside or at edge in the Cardinals' system.

Arizona is entering its third year under head coach Jonathan Gannon and defensive coordinator Nick Rallis. With more veteran talent and high-profile rookies, the Cardinals could take a step on defense in 2025.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ranking most improved units heading into NFL season

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NFL's most improved units entering 2025 season headlined by Chicago Bears offense

NFL's most improved units entering 2025 season headlined by Chicago Bears offense Ayrton Ostly, USA TODAYAugus...

New Photo - TJ Maxx opening 6 new stores this August. See locations, opening dates.

USA TODAY and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Pricing and availability subject to change.TJ Maxx opening 6 new stores this August. See locations, opening dates. Gabe Hauari, USA TODAYAugust 5, 2025 at 6:48 AM A new T.J. Maxx store might be opening near you.

- - USA TODAY and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Pricing and availability subject to change.TJ Maxx opening 6 new stores this August. See locations, opening dates.

Gabe Hauari, USA TODAYAugust 5, 2025 at 6:48 AM

A new T.J. Maxx store might be opening near you.

The retail chain is opening six stores across four states and the District of Columbia in August, according to its website. The newest batch of openings come after Ernie Herrman, CEO of T.J. Maxx's parent company TJX, announced in May 2024 a goal of opening at least 1,300 additional locations globally across the TJX portfolio of stores.

TJX, which also oversees Marshalls, HomeGoods, Sierra and HomeSense stores, touts itself as an "off-price retailer of apparel and home fashions." According to its website, the company was founded in 1976 and operates stores in nine countries across three continents. The company said in its first quarter earnings report it owned and operated 1,338 T.J. Maxx locations.

Here's what to know about this month's T.J. Maxx openings.

Which states are getting new T.J. Maxx locations?

New stores are scheduled to open at the following locations on the following dates, according to the retailer's website:

Aug. 10: 9850 Brook Road, Glen Allen, Virginia

Aug. 21: 215 East Main St., Clinton, Connecticut

Aug. 24: 1233 North Lake Drive, Suite E, Saratoga Springs, Utah

Aug. 24: 945 North main Street, Suite F, Tooele, Utah

Aug. 24: 446 18th Street West, Dickinson, North Dakota

Aug. 28: 5300-B Wisconsin Ave NW, District of Columbia

What does T.J. Maxx sell?

The retailer sells items across multiple categories, including clothes, home and beauty. Customers can also find items such as Halloween decor and pet toys at T.J. Maxx stores.

Items in the beauty category include perfumes, makeup, handbags, jewlery and luggage, and the retailer's clothing offering includes items for kids and babies.

T.J. Maxx began letting customers shop online in 2013. Customers can see the company's full offerings at Tjmaxx.com.

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X @GabeHauari or email him at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: TJ Maxx opening 6 new stores in August. See locations, opening dates.

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TJ Maxx opening 6 new stores this August. See locations, opening dates.

USA TODAY and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article. Pricing and availability subject to change.TJ ...

If Jeff Bezos Gave Every American $100, How Much Would He Have Left? Jennifer TaylorAugust 5, 2025 at 7:19 PM Drew Angerer / Getty Images Jeff Bezos is really rich. So rich, that he could give a Benjamin to everyone in the U.S. without breaking a sweat.

- - If Jeff Bezos Gave Every American $100, How Much Would He Have Left?

Jennifer TaylorAugust 5, 2025 at 7:19 PM

Drew Angerer / Getty Images

Jeff Bezos is really rich. So rich, that he could give a Benjamin to everyone in the U.S. without breaking a sweat.

As of July 17, 2025, the Amazon founder's net worth is $236.3 billion, according to Forbes. His fortune makes him the fourth-richest person in the world.

Still, giving every American $100 wouldn't be an inexpensive undertaking. Keep reading to find out exactly how much this would impact Bezos' net worth.

Find Out: If Bezos' Wealth Was Evenly Distributed Across the US, How Much Would We Get?

Read Next: 6 Subtly Genius Moves All Wealthy People Make With Their Money

Trending Now: Suze Orman's Secret to a Wealthy Retirement--Have You Made This Money Move?

Here's How Much Giving $100 to Every American Would Cost Bezos

The U.S. population is 342.1 million, as of July 17, 2025, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. However, this changes quickly, as the country gains one net person every 15 seconds.

This is a lot of people, but Bezos has a lot of money. If he gave every American $100, it would cost him $34.2 billion — leaving him with $202.1 billion.

Giving away 15% of his net worth wouldn't even cause Bezos to lose his position as the fourth-richest person in the world. Larry Page is the fifth-wealthiest person in the world, with a net worth of $151.6 billion — as of July 17, 2025 — according to Forbes.

Taking this idea even further, if Bezos wanted to give every American $500, he could do this and still be profoundly rich. This would cost him $171 billion, leaving him with $65.3 billion.

Discover More: I Asked ChatGPT What Would Happen If Billionaires Paid Taxes at the Same Rate as the Middle Class

Bezos' Wealth vs. the Average American

Being nearly at the top of the world's billionaire club puts Bezos' in an elite wealth bubble. Expenses that seem reasonable to him are unimaginable to most people.

For example, Bezos' June 2025 wedding to Lauren Sanchez cost an estimated $47-$56 million, according to Reuters. In comparison, The Knot cited the average cost of a wedding in 2025 at $33,000.

As for where the newlyweds live, Bezos' has an extensive real estate portfolio, but Miami is his primary residence. He owns three homes on Indian Creek Island — an exclusive private community on Biscayne Bay — which cost him a combined $237 million, according to USA Today.

On the other hand, the national median list price of U.S. homes was $440,950 in June 2025, according to Realtor.com. Bezos' three Miami properties cost the equivalent of nearly 538 homes at the national average list price.

Of course, Bezos clearly earns enough to handle these expenses. Specifically, he earns an estimated $3,715 per second.

In the first quarter of 2025, full-time workers earned a median wage of $1,194 per week, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This means Bezos earns more in one-third of a second than the average person does in an entire week.

So, back to the question at hand. Bezos can definitely afford to gift every American $100, if he so desired to do so.

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If Jeff Bezos Gave Every American $100, How Much Would He Have Left?

If Jeff Bezos Gave Every American $100, How Much Would He Have Left? Jennifer TaylorAugust 5, 2025 at 7:19 PM Drew...

BP Maintains Outlook, Hikes Dividend And Rolls Out $750 Million Share Buyback Akanksha BakshiAugust 5, 2025 at 9:05 PM BP Maintains Outlook, Hikes Dividend And Rolls Out $750 Million Share Buyback BP p.l.c.

- - BP Maintains Outlook, Hikes Dividend And Rolls Out $750 Million Share Buyback

Akanksha BakshiAugust 5, 2025 at 9:05 PM

BP Maintains Outlook, Hikes Dividend And Rolls Out $750 Million Share Buyback

BP p.l.c. (NYSE:BP) reported better-than-expected earnings for the second quarter of 2025, although revenue came in below Wall Street expectations. The energy company posted adjusted earnings of 90 cents per American depositary share, topping the consensus estimate of 67 cents.

Total revenue dropped to $46.63 billion from $47.30 billion in the same quarter last year, falling short of analyst projections of $48.52 billion. GAAP profit attributable to shareholders was $1.63 billion, reversing a year-ago loss of $129 million.

Underlying replacement cost (RC) profit for the quarter totaled $2.35 billion, compared with $2.76 billion a year ago and $1.38 billion in the previous quarter.

Also Read: BP And Shell See New Opportunities In Libya's Oil Fields

Oil Production & Operations recorded replacement cost profit before interest and tax of $1.9 billion. After adjusting for $300 million in impairments and other items, the segment's underlying profit rose to $2.3 billion. Results reflected lower realized prices and increased depreciation but were supported by higher production from major project ramp-ups and improved turnaround efficiency.

Gas & Low Carbon Energy generated $1 billion in RC profit before interest and tax. After $400 million in adjustments, underlying profit reached $1.5 billion. Compared with the previous quarter, results improved on higher volumes, though weaker gas prices and increased depreciation and exploration costs weighed on performance.

Customers & Products posted $1 billion in RC profit before interest and tax. On an underlying basis, profit increased to $1.5 billion after adjusting for $600 million. The gain was driven by seasonal demand, strong fuels and refining margins, and a solid oil trading performance. Turnaround activity in refining moderated the growth. Lubricants remained steady, while the convenience and mobility businesses expanded in developing markets.

Operating cash flow was $6.27 billion, up from $2.83 billion in the prior quarter. Capital expenditures totaled $3.36 billion, and divestments and other proceeds were $1.36 billion. BP ended the quarter with $26.04 billion in net debt.

View more earnings on BP

Post-tax inventory holding losses reached $407 million, and impairments were estimated between $500 million and $1.5 billion, partially offset by favorable fair value accounting effects.

"This has been another strong quarter for bp operationally and strategically. We are delivering on our plan to grow the upstream and focus the downstream with reliability across both at >96%. So far this year we've brought five new oil and gas major projects onstream, sanctioned four more, and made ten exploration discoveries, including the significant discovery in Bumerangue block in Brazil," commented Murray Auchincloss CEO of BP.

"Expected proceeds from completed or announced divestments have reached around $3 billion for the year, and we have now delivered around $1.7 billion of structural cost reductions since the start of our programme," he added.

Outlook

Looking to the third quarter, BP expects reported upstream production to decline slightly. Customer volumes are projected to rise due to seasonal trends, while product turnaround activity is anticipated to ease. Income taxes paid are expected to increase by about $1 billion due to the timing of installment payments.

The company maintained its outlook for the full year 2025. BP expects reported upstream production to decline and underlying production to be slightly below 2024 levels.

Oil output is expected to stay flat, while gas and low-carbon production are projected to decrease. Divestment and other proceeds are projected between $3 billion and $4 billion, mostly in the fourth quarter.

Shareholder Returns

BP announced a quarterly dividend of 8.32 cents per ordinary share, a 4% increase. The company also launched a $750 million share buyback program, reaffirming its commitment to return 30% to 40% of operating cash flow to shareholders through buybacks and dividends.

Earlier this month, BP flagged a potential drag on profits due to falling crude prices. Volatility in oil benchmarks could impact upcoming earnings even as the company continues its capital return strategy and energy transition plans.

Related ETFs: Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSE:XLE), iShares Global Energy ETF (NYSE:IXC).

Price Action: BP shares were trading higher by 1.79% at $33.07 premarket at last check Tuesday.

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BP Maintains Outlook, Hikes Dividend And Rolls Out $750 Million Share Buyback

BP Maintains Outlook, Hikes Dividend And Rolls Out $750 Million Share Buyback Akanksha BakshiAugust 5, 2025 at 9:0...

Groom Secretly Spent Months Learning ASL to Sign Wedding Vows, Surprising Bride's Deaf Parents (Exclusive) Ashlyn RobinetteAugust 5, 2025 at 12:54 AM Films by Ry | @filmsbyry Zachary and Hallie Swain's wedding ceremony; Paul and Gina Kulick Zachary Swain spent months secretly learning American Sign ...

- - Groom Secretly Spent Months Learning ASL to Sign Wedding Vows, Surprising Bride's Deaf Parents (Exclusive)

Ashlyn RobinetteAugust 5, 2025 at 12:54 AM

Films by Ry | @filmsbyry

Zachary and Hallie Swain's wedding ceremony; Paul and Gina Kulick

Zachary Swain spent months secretly learning American Sign Language (ASL) to surprise his bride's deaf parents by signing his wedding vows

After the ceremony, the groom presented his new in-laws with his ASL certificate

"Learning ASL was important — not just so I could communicate with Paul and Gina, but so that our future family could grow up connected, inclusive, and understood. It's a moment I'll carry with me forever," Zachary tells PEOPLE

A groom secretly learned American Sign Language (ASL) for months before his wedding so that his bride's deaf parents could be included in his vows.

Zachary and Hallie Swain's wedding ceremony on May 17 at StoneWood Farms in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, was emotional in more ways than one. The bride's deaf parents, Paul and Gina Kulick, were in for a sweet surprise when the groom suddenly began signing his wedding vows.

"My parents were completely surprised when Zach signed his vows. It truly touched them," Hallie tells PEOPLE. "It showed them that he sees them, that he's thinking of them — not just as my family, but as part of his now too. That moment meant more than words can say."

As soon as Zachary began his vows, Hallie — who was born hearing — had to "hold back tears." Although she already knew about Zachary's plan to sign his vows, seeing him actually do it, and with "such care," was "overwhelmingly emotional."

"Every word felt like it came straight from his heart. It wasn't just romantic, it was personal and intentional," Hallie shares. "What made it even more special was that my parents had no idea he was going to sign. It was a true reflection of not just his love toward me, but of respect and connection to my family. That moment captured exactly who Zach is, and it reminded me why I chose him, and why I'll keep choosing him for the rest of my life."

Films by Ry | @filmsbyry

Zachary and Hallie Swain's wedding ceremony

Hallie's brother helped Zachary along the way with any questions he had while preparing his vows.

After the ceremony, Zachary gifted Paul and Gina his official ASL certificate. The trio happily embraced and signed together.

https://ift.tt/eP4kIqt

"It was an incredibly special moment," Zachary says. "The vows were a heartfelt surprise, but what made it even more meaningful was revealing that I had spent months learning American Sign Language at the Dallas Deaf Action Center. It was my way of showing not only my commitment to Hallie, but also to the future we're building together."

He continues, "Learning ASL was important — not just so I could communicate with Paul and Gina, but so that our future family could grow up connected, inclusive, and understood. It's a moment I'll carry with me forever."

— sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

The couple's videographer, Rylee Rohner of Films by Ry, recorded the "genuine, unscripted" wedding moments and shared the videos to Instagram and TikTok, where the "personal and unforgettable" clips rapidly received millions of views and likes.

"This was one of those moments I knew would touch everyone who saw it. Watching Hallie's parents react with so much emotion and joy was incredibly moving," Rohner tells PEOPLE. "This is exactly the kind of moment I hope to capture in every film — one that feels timeless, intentional, and full of heart. Zach and Hallie's love story was already so special, but the way they honored Hallie's parents through this moment took it to a level that was so unique."

Films by Ry | @filmsbyry

Zachary Swain gives his ASL certificate to Paul and Gina Kulick

Although Rohner has attended and filmed countless weddings, she's "truly never seen anything like this before," and will cherish the special day forever.

"It's been amazing to see how the video has inspired and moved so many others," Rohner says. "It's a reminder of how powerful love and intentionality can be."

She adds: "Being part of this celebration was more than just documenting a wedding — it was about preserving a legacy of love, inclusion, and intentionality."

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Groom Secretly Spent Months Learning ASL to Sign Wedding Vows, Surprising Bride's Deaf Parents (Exclusive)

Groom Secretly Spent Months Learning ASL to Sign Wedding Vows, Surprising Bride's Deaf Parents (Exclusive) Ash...

Nations gather in Geneva to again confront the world's spiraling plastic pollution crisis JENNIFER McDERMOTT August 5, 2025 at 10:00 AM 1 / 8Switzerland Plastic Pollution TreatyChair of the International Negotiating Committee Luis Vayas Valdivieso delivers his opening remarks, during the second part...

- - Nations gather in Geneva to again confront the world's spiraling plastic pollution crisis

JENNIFER McDERMOTT August 5, 2025 at 10:00 AM

1 / 8Switzerland Plastic Pollution TreatyChair of the International Negotiating Committee Luis Vayas Valdivieso delivers his opening remarks, during the second part of the fifth Session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution, at the European headquarters of the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2025. (Salvatore Di Nolfi/Keystone via AP)

Nations kicked off a meeting on Tuesday to try to complete a landmark treaty aimed at ending the plastic pollution crisis that affects every ecosystem and person on the planet.

It's the sixth time negotiators are meeting and they hope the last. A key split is whether the treaty should require cutting plastic production, with powerful oil-producing nations opposed; most plastic is made from fossil fuels. They say redesign, recycling and reuse can solve the problem, while other countries and some major companies say that's not enough.

Luis Vayas Valdivieso, the chair of the negotiating committee that aims to develop a legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, said: "We are pretty sure nobody wants plastic pollution. Still, we have not been able to find a systematic and an effective way to stop it."

An opportunity to 'end plastic pollution'

Vayas believes the 10-day gathering in Geneva can be groundbreaking.

"For the first time in history, the world is within our reach of a legally binding international instrument to end plastic pollution," said Vayas, who is also Ecuador's ambassador to Britain. "We are facing a global crisis. Plastic pollution is damaging ecosystems, polluting our oceans and rivers, threatening biodiversity, harming human health and unfairly impacting the most vulnerable. The urgency is real."

Only a treaty can mobilize the necessary global action, said Angelique Pouponneau, lead ocean negotiator for 39 small island and low-lying coastal developing states. At home in the Seychelles, Pouponneau said, plastic contaminates the fish they eat, piles up on beaches and chokes the ocean to undermine tourism and their way of life.

"It's the world's final opportunity to get this done and to get it done right," she said. "It would be a tragedy if we didn't live up to our mandate."

United Nations Environment Programme Executive Director Inger Andersen said the issues are complex, but the crisis is "really spiraling" and there's a narrow pathway to a treaty. She said many countries agree on redesigning plastic products to be recycled and improving waste management, for example.

"We need to get a solution to this problem. Everybody wants it. I've yet to meet somebody who is in favor of plastic pollution," Andersen said.

Between 19 million and 23 million tons of plastic waste leak into aquatic ecosystems annually, which could jump 50% by 2040 without urgent action, according to the UN.

Sharp disagreements on whether to limit plastic production

In March 2022, 175 nations agreed to make the first legally binding treaty on plastics pollution by the end of 2024. It was to address the full life cycle of plastic, including production, design and disposal.

Talks last year in South Korea were supposed to be the final round, but they adjourned in December at an impasse over cutting production. Every year, the world makes more than 400 million tons of new plastic, and that could grow by about 70% by 2040 without policy changes.

About 100 countries want to limit production as well as tackle cleanup and recycling. Many have said it's essential to address toxic chemicals.

Panama led an effort in South Korea to address production in the treaty. Negotiator Debbra Cisneros said they'll do so again in Geneva because they strongly believe in addressing pollution at the source, not just through downstream measures like waste management.

"If we shy away from that ambition now, we risk adopting an agreement that is politically convenient, but environmentally speaking, is ineffective," she said.

About 300 businesses that are members of the Business Coalition for a Global Plastics Treaty — companies such as Walmart, the Coca-Cola Company, PepsiCo, and L'Oréal — support reducing production along with increasing recycling and reuse. The coalition includes major food and beverage companies and retailers who want an effective, binding treaty with global rules to spare them the headaches of differing approaches in different countries.

Some plastic-producing and oil and gas countries firmly oppose production limits. Saudi Arabia, the world's largest exporter of one common type of plastic, has led that group in asserting there should be no problem producing plastic if the world addresses plastic pollution.

US position on the treaty

The U.S. doesn't support global production caps or bans on certain plastic products or chemical additives to them.

The State Department says it supports provisions to improve waste collection and management, improve product design and drive recycling, reuse and other efforts to cut the plastic dumped into the environment.

"If the negotiations are to succeed, the agreement must be aimed at protecting the environment from plastic pollution, and the agreement should recognize the importance plastics play in our economies," the State Department said in a statement to The .

That's similar to the views of the plastics industry, which says that a production cap could have unintended consequences, such as raising the cost of plastics, and that chemicals are best regulated elsewhere.

China, the United States and Germany lead the global plastics trade by exports and imports, according to the Plastics Industry Association.

How high will negotiators aim?

For any proposal to make it into the treaty, every nation must agree. Some countries want to change the process so decisions may be made by a vote if necessary. India, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Kuwait and others have opposed that, arguing that consensus is vital to an effective treaty.

Negotiators are discussing making some provisions opt-in or opt-out to avoid a stalemate. Bjorn Beeler, international coordinator for the International Pollutants Elimination Network, said that would mean a treaty without teeth or obligations, with little value. Cisneros said that if carefully crafted, it's an option to find some common ground.

Tracey Campbell, an executive vice president at the plastics and chemicals company LyondellBasell and vice chair of the executive committee of the World Plastics Council, said she'll ask negotiators to "find a way to agree on a few things and get started" and then build from there.

She suggested tackling things like product redesign, recycled content mandates and financing waste collection, waste sorting and recycling technologies.

In contrast, Greenpeace will be in Geneva calling for at least a 75% reduction in plastic production by 2040.

"We will never recycle our way out of this problem," said Graham Forbes, who leads the Greenpeace delegation.

Thousands of people participating

Delegates from most countries, the plastics industry and businesses that use plastics, environmentalists, scientists, Indigenous leaders and communities affected by plastic pollution are in Geneva. About 80 government ministers are attending talks that will last 10 days — the longest session yet, with adjournment scheduled for Aug. 14.

Frankie Orona, executive director of the Texas-based Society of Native Nations, has been to every negotiating session. Indigenous land, water and air are being contaminated as fossil fuels are extracted and plastic is manufactured using hazardous chemicals, said Orona.

"We feel we absolutely have to be present to let them know, and see, who are the people that are really being impacted by the plastics crisis," he said.

___

This story has been to correct the second reference to Luis Vayas Valdivieso, the chair of the negotiating committee.

___

The ' climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP's standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.

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Nations gather in Geneva to again confront the world's spiraling plastic pollution crisis

Nations gather in Geneva to again confront the world's spiraling plastic pollution crisis JENNIFER McDERMOTT A...

NFL Trades That Backfired Spectacularly Edward Clark August 5, 2025 at 9:12 PM Sometimes, a deal that looks brilliant on paper ends up turning into a running joke in the football world. That is exactly what has happened with the Carolina Panthers' massive trade for the No.

- - NFL Trades That Backfired Spectacularly

Edward Clark August 5, 2025 at 9:12 PM

Sometimes, a deal that looks brilliant on paper ends up turning into a running joke in the football world. That is exactly what has happened with the Carolina Panthers' massive trade for the No. 1 pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. What started as a bold move to secure a future star quarterback has become a cautionary tale for every team dreaming of a quick fix. Here are 15 details that show why this trade now feels like a comedy of errors.

The Price Tag Was Huge

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Carolina didn't just give up one pick; they sent two first‑rounders, two second‑rounders, and star receiver D.J. Moore to Chicago. That's a package that would make any general manager sweat. At the time, analysts praised the aggression, but the cost was staggering. It's the kind of all‑in gamble you only get a few times in a decade, and this one didn't pay off.

Bryce Young's Size Raised Eyebrows

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Bryce Young, at 5 feet 10 inches and about 204 pounds, entered the league as one of the smallest quarterbacks taken at No. 1. Scouts loved his instincts but wondered if his frame would hold up in the NFL. Fans were hopeful anyway, but small stature can mean big problems when defenders who weigh 300 pounds are closing in every Sunday.

Caleb Williams Shined Against Carolina

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Caleb Williams took the field against Carolina and didn't waste time. He threw for several touchdowns, picked apart the defense, and led Chicago to a lopsided 36-10 win. For Panthers fans, it wasn't just another loss. They watched the quarterback; they could have controlled the game from start to finish.

D.J. Moore Became A Star In Chicago

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D.J. Moore didn't need long to make an impact in Chicago. He posted 105 receiving yards in that rout and has stayed productive week after week. Moore's consistency has given the Bears a steady target, while Carolina's offense has felt the loss. In Chicago, he's become a fan favorite and the trade's clear silver lining.

The Panthers Still Owe A Draft Pick

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The pain isn't over. Carolina's second‑round pick in 2025 also belongs to Chicago thanks to this trade. That means even if the Panthers improve, the Bears get another high‑value selection. It's rare for a team to feel like they're still paying off a bad deal years later, but that's exactly the situation here.

Andy Dalton Had To Step In

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After Bryce Young's rocky start, veteran Andy Dalton ended up taking over games. Dalton sparked a 36‑point outing one week and proved that Carolina's struggles weren't only about talent. It was an odd twist: the franchise's future sat on the bench while a journeyman played better than expected. Dalton's steady hand temporarily brought hope, but it wasn't the long‑term solution.

Frank Reich Didn't Finish His First Season

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Head coach Frank Reich, hired to guide Young, was fired before the season ended. That quick exit showed just how messy things had become. Teams rarely give up on a coach that fast unless something is truly broken. The Panthers' ownership clearly thought the reset button was needed, which left the rookie quarterback with even more uncertainty in his development.

C.J. Stroud Added Salt To The Wound

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One pick after Bryce Young, the Houston Texans selected C.J. Stroud. He quickly became a breakout star, setting records and leading his team to wins. Watching Stroud excel while Young struggled gave Carolina fans a harsh comparison. It also turned national attention back to the trade, with analysts repeatedly pointing out that Carolina passed on a better option.

Chicago's Roster Got A Boost

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The ripple effect is clear: this single trade gave them key players at several positions. Beyond Caleb Williams, the Bears used picks from the trade to draft right tackle Darnell Wright and cornerback Tyrique Stevenson. Both are starters who strengthen their roster every week. Building through multiple draft picks can be slow, but Chicago made the most of it.

A Lesson In Draft Strategy

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Carolina's approach, which involved trading a haul for one top pick, reminds everyone that chasing a franchise quarterback carries risk. Teams like the Rams have gambled and won, but many others have lost valuable depth. The Panthers' misstep is now used in sports talk shows as a case study in patience versus desperation, and fans around the league have been buzzing about it.

Bryce Young's Bench Moment Was Awkward

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In that 36‑10 loss, Bryce Young ended up playing mop‑up duty late in the game. Coach Dave Canales admitted he wanted to protect Andy Dalton from hits, so he sent Young in. That decision felt symbolic of Carolina's struggles: the supposed franchise star reduced to absorbing meaningless snaps, while the veteran was treated as the priority.

The Bears Became A Fun Team To Watch

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Chicago's rise has been quick and exciting. With Caleb Williams improvising and D.J. Moore stretching the field, the Bears' offense has turned into must‑see TV. Fans love seeing young talent develop, and this trade directly fueled that energy. It's hard not to notice how one team's misfortune turned into another's highlight reel, creating a new dynamic in the NFC.

The Panthers Missed A Rare Chance

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Starting from the ninth pick in 2023, Carolina had options. Waiting could have saved resources or even landed another quarterback later. Instead, they rushed to No. 1, hoping for instant success. That gamble cost them flexibility for seasons ahead. In hindsight, it shows how quickly a front office can misjudge timing in a league built on long‑term planning.

Quarterbacks On The Run Made Headlines

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Watching others thrive only deepened the trade's regret. The week of that fateful matchup also featured highlight plays by other mobile quarterbacks. Lamar Jackson dodged defenders for a touchdown, and Kyler Murray reached 21.27 miles per hour on a 50‑yard score. These feats reminded fans what dynamic quarterbacks can do, and made Carolina's stagnant offense stand out even more.

A Trade That Keeps On Giving…To Chicago

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The story isn't over yet. The Bears' roster continues to strengthen with more draft picks still paying dividends for them. Carolina, on the other hand, keeps searching for answers at the most important position in football. It's rare to see such a clear winner and loser in an NFL trade, but this one stands out and sparks conversations every single week.

Original Article on Source

Source: "AOL Sports"

Source: Astro Blog

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