Disgraced journalist Marcus Hayes tries to tear down Isaiah Rodgers with misleading headline

When it comes to stirring the pot and riling up Philadelphia sports fans, The Inquirer’s Marcus Hayes always finds a way to outdo himself.

His latest offense? A misleading and needlessly inflammatory headline about Eagles cornerback Isaiah Rodgers, calling him a “disgraced gambler.” Once again, Hayes proves that he’s more interested in clicks than credible journalism.

Marcus Hayes Strikes Again: Bad Headlines, Worse Intentions

Disgraced gambler Isaiah Rodgers helped save the Eagles’ season | Marcus Hayes https://t.co/v2MnQ8FMBN

— Philadelphia Inquirer Sports (@phillysport) January 22, 2025

Marcus Hayes has built a reputation for sensationalism, and this Isaiah Rodgers piece is just another chapter in his tiresome saga. The headline on the actual article, “‘I guess these moments are destined for me’: Disgraced gambler Isaiah Rodgers helped save the Eagles’ season,” paints Rodgers as little more than a scandalous footnote in NFL history. Never mind that the article itself tells a compelling story of redemption and resilience, highlighting Rodgers’ yearlong journey of discipline, self-improvement, and determination.

Instead of leading with Rodgers’ triumph, Hayes chose to drag him through the mud with an unnecessary reminder of a suspension that the player has already atoned for. Why? Because that’s what Marcus Hayes does. He doesn’t celebrate Philadelphia athletes—he tears them down for cheap controversy.

Marcus Hayes’ Pattern of Poor Journalism

Unfortunately, this isn’t a one-off mistake. Marcus Hayes has been playing this game for years. Remember his hit piece on Joel Embiid? In a column ostensibly about Embiid’s absence, Hayes bizarrely brought up Embiid’s deceased brother, seemingly for shock value, without adding anything meaningful to the story. It was tasteless, uncalled for, and left fans furious.

Now, Hayes is up to his old tricks, targeting Rodgers, a player who has done everything right since his suspension. Instead of celebrating Rodgers’ grit, work ethic, and crucial contributions to the Eagles’ season, Hayes opted for a headline designed to rile up readers and court outrage. And, predictably, it backfired.

Want to interview me, talk about football . I was open to speaking on the past and where I was last year but from here on out I wont be speaking on nothing but where my feet are NOW !
Have a good day !

— Isaiah Rodgers Sr. (@rodgers_isaiah) January 22, 2025

Philadelphia Deserves Better Than Marcus Hayes

This city thrives on passion and loyalty, especially when it comes to its sports teams. Philadelphia fans rally behind players who embody the city’s values—hard work, resilience, and determination. Isaiah Rodgers is a perfect example of that. After a year of grinding with no guarantee of a second chance, Rodgers has stepped up to play a pivotal role for the Eagles.

Yet, instead of amplifying this story of redemption, Hayes chose to dwell on the past. His decision to label Rodgers a “disgraced gambler” wasn’t just lazy—it was malicious. Philadelphia fans deserve better than this tabloid-style journalism from The Inquirer.

Marcus Hayes doesn’t write for Philadelphia sports fans; he writes to provoke them. Whether it’s Joel Embiid, Isaiah Rodgers, or the next target in his sights, Hayes has shown time and again that he values controversy over credibility.

It’s time for The Inquirer to recognize the damage done by these inflammatory headlines. Maybe they’ll start editing Marcus Hayes’ work with more care. Or maybe it’s time for them to move on entirely. Until then, Philly fans will continue to call out the unnecessary negativity he brings to the city’s sports coverage.

Isaiah Rodgers deserves better, Joel Embiid deserves better, and Philadelphia deserves better. It’s time to let Marcus Hayes know: We’re not falling for it anymore.