NFL Football 3d Briefing
×Contract Extensions and Free Agency
Ravens GM espn.com Eric De Costa expressed confidence about a contract extension for QB Lamar Jackson while the team has made a "market-setting" proposal to Tyler Linderbaum. Meanwhile, Falcons GM espn.com Ian Cunningham informed QB Kirk Cousins that the team will release him March 11, the first day of the league year. The Cowboys espn.com have agreed to a three-year contract with running back Javonte Williams that includes $16 million in guaranteed money, sources told ESPN. Sources espn.com indicate the Cowboys and free-agent-to-be running back Javonte Williams reached agreement on a three-year contract that includes $16 million in guaranteed money.
Roster Moves and Releases
The Patriots espn.com have released running back Antonio Gibson after two seasons with the team. Chargers center espn.com Bradley Bozeman announced his retirement after eight years in the NFL and 110 starts. The Chiefs espn.com released veteran defensive end Mike Danna as they work to get under the salary cap by the start of the new league year in two weeks. Sources espn.com indicate the Falcons plan to place the franchise tag on tight end Kyle Pitts Sr.
Coaching and Management Updates
Steelers GM espn.com Omar Khan is hoping for a quick resolution regarding the possible return of Aaron Rodgers as the team's starter next season. The Raiders espn.com GM John Spytek said he expects star defensive end Maxx Crosby to play for the team in 2026 amid trade speculation. Ravens coaching staff espn.com is ushering in "a new age" as this marks the first time since the team's inaugural season that they've made a change at head coach.
Combine and Draft News
The NFL combine espn.com continues to generate buzz as coaches and general managers speak to the media. QB Rivers espn.com has committed to NC State, following in his father Philip's path. The Texans espn.com coach De Meco Ryans continues to exceed expectations as he enters Year 4 with the franchise. Sources espn.com indicate the 49ers aren't planning on trading Jones, but could the right offer sway them?
Rule Changes and International Games
The NFL competition committee espn.com is discussing the possibility of authorizing replay officials to throw flags for non-football acts. NFL competition committee co-chairman espn.com Rich Mc Kay said Sunday that he is not anticipating an attempt to ban the tush push this year. The Lions espn.com will play an international game in Munich, Germany, for the first time since 2015.
Player Performance and Analysis
Sources espn.com indicate the Cowboys are aware of potential fallout of using the franchise tag on Pro Bowl wide receiver George Pickens. Tyreek Hill espn.com reuniting with Eric Bieniemy and Patrick Mahomes could be just the tonic for the veteran receiver. Cowboys' Will Mc Clay espn.com discussed draft and free agency plans in a recent Q&A about upgrading Dallas' roster this offseason.
UFL and Alternative Leagues
The UFL espn.com announced changes for its 2026 season, which starts March 27, including awarding four points for field goals of at least 60 yards and banning most punts inside of the opponent's 50-yard line. The league continues to position itself as an alternative to the NFL while implementing unique rule changes to attract viewers.
Medical Updates
Cowboys' Smith had minor cleanup surgery on his right knee but will be 100% ready for the offseason program in April, sources told ESPN. The All-Pro left guard's procedure was described as routine maintenance following the season.
Draft Preparation
As the NFL combine espn.com approaches, top prospects will participate in the 40-yard dash and other drills. Kiper's latest NFL mock draft espn.com projects the entire first round ahead of the combine workouts. Draft intel espn.com reveals who is considered the best player in the class and whether Vegas might trade out of the No. 1 pick.
Free Agency Rankings
Free agency tiers espn.com have been established by analysts ranking the best players on offense based on their potential offseason contracts. The rankings provide insight into who could get paid significant money when free agency opens.