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Nightcaps is your daily column to catch up on the biggest sports, news, and culture stories you might have missed while working at your desk. This column runs Monday through Friday on OutKick.com.

The last Friday of July marks the final day of the month. Has this been a long month for you? For some, July feels like it stretches out, much like January. The rest of the months seem to fly by. I don’t mind July lingering since summer holds a special place until Labor Day. However, January often feels like a challenge.

Today, Friday is problem-free. We are on the verge of August, offering a calm before the storm. Let’s join hands and make the most out of this month-ending Friday Nightcaps.

Speaking of surprises, Paulina Gretzky is celebrating the rumored LIV deal on a yacht in a striking watermelon dress. Her husband, Dustin Johnson from the U.S., was spotted during the par 3 tournament.

In other news, Tony Romo faces an indefinite leave (any guesses on when he’ll return?), and ESPN’s analyst Monica McNutt continues to stir discussions. Would you ever return to a former job just for the love of the sport? Karl Ravech did, to many people’s astonishment.

That’s a professional move!

Grab what you need to push through the day. Settle in for a Friday ‘Cap with Monica McNutt smiling during the 2026 WNBA draft at The Shed in New York.

Let’s start with OutKick’s fan-favorite Monica McNutt! You didn’t expect a day without talk about her, did you? Although we’re not diving into the WNBA today, McNutt, ESPN’s WNBA analyst, whom many dislike, still holds a position despite recent layoffs. This means we’ll continue to hear Caitlin Clark takes for a while.

Thank goodness!

McNutt gave her opinions from a nail salon in a SportsCenter version watched by few. Imagine tuning in and resisting the urge to change the channel.

Now, let’s focus on deserving ESPN screen time. It’s an intriguing moment in sports world. Even this week, McNutt criticized Caitlin Clark’s lack of accountability and self-awareness.

It’s odd when Ryan Clark claimed he was fired due to racism, while McNutt continues without issue.

Rhino, believe as you wish! Monica McNutt attended the 2026 ESPYS at Lincoln Square in New York on July 15.

Looking forward to a drama-free WNBA weekend? Sophie Cunningham plays tonight in Portland. Let’s see what unfolds.

Moving along…

From one ESPN staffer to another:

Paulina Gretzky, Romo, & Ravech:

Last night, Karl Ravech surprisingly appeared during the Nats-Braves game after recent layoffs. He simply returned to work with no explanation.

Sources shared that Ravech will complete remaining assignments, including MLB games and Little League World Series coverage.

The intention is unclear, but likely Ravech’s decision. He was laid off with Ryan Clark, Cam Newton, among others. His return suggests a personal choice.

This story highlights differences between Ravech’s and Ryan Clark’s responses to their firings.

Ravech faced it head-on, while Clark resorted to podcasting complaints.

A lesson in handling career setbacks.

To wrap up this Friday class:

• LIV Gold reportedly finds an investor willing to assist the league.
• Paulina Gretzky seems pleased, which brings her back into the limelight.
• Dustin Johnson’s golf prowess now feels ages away.
• Paulina appeared at the Masters, supporting Dustin Johnson.
• The speculation around Tony Romo arises following last weekend’s OWI arrest and indefinite leave.
• Guess when he returns on Sept. 4, one day before NFL’s first game.
• Though CBS names JJ Watt as Romo’s replacement, it’s uncertain.
• Watch for Packers-Vikings game coverage holding Romo’s name on that Sunday.

That’s a wrap for today and this week. Great month leading towards August. Time to gear up.

End with Paige Spiranac promoting new golf content as we head into August.

Looking forward to Monday. Email Zach at [email protected] for thoughts on Romo. Zach Dean writes for OutKick.