NFL Football 24-Hour Briefing
×Contract Talks & Free Agency
Colts GM Chris Ballard espn.com said he remains hopeful about deals for QB Daniel Jones and WR Alec Pierce before free agency begins. The 49ers espn.com offered a more optimistic view on Trent Williams contract talks despite earlier reports of struggles. Brandon Aubrey espn.com is pushing for a deal closer to $10 million per season after the Cowboys' offer to make him the highest-paid kicker. The Bills espn.com are challenging Keon Coleman to return with the same training camp attitude that marked his rookie season.
Trade Speculation & Player Movement
Bengals director Duke Tobin espn.com said a trade involving Trey Hendrickson could prove challenging. Cardinals GM Monti Ossenfort espn.com claimed he's spoken with Kyler Murray, though sources say they haven't talked since season's end. The Texans espn.com called trade talk regarding C.J. Stroud "moronic" as speculation swirls. Falcons GM Ian Cunningham espn.com informed Kirk Cousins the team will release him March 11, the first day of the league year.
Coaching Changes & Staff Updates
Broncos coach Sean Payton espn.com announced Davis Webb will call plays this season. Panthers coach Dave Canales espn.com is ceding playcalling duties to offensive coordinator Brad Idzik without pressure from management. The Ravens espn.com usher in a new age with their first head coaching change since the franchise's inaugural season. Rich Bisaccia's espn.com surprising exit as Packers special teams coordinator was among topics discussed by GM Brian Gutekunst.
Roster Decisions & Extensions
Lions offensive lineman Taylor Decker espn.com indicated he's returning for an 11th NFL season. The Buccaneers espn.com believe Mike Evans has "earned" the right to explore free agency despite their desire for him to stay. Ravens GM Eric De Costa espn.com expressed confidence about extending Lamar Jackson while proposing a "market-setting" deal to Tyler Linderbaum. Steelers GM Omar Khan espn.com hopes for quick resolution on Aaron Rodgers' possible return as starter.
Draft & Combine News
The Vikings espn.com are "exploring all possibilities" to improve quarterback play in 2026. Mel Kiper Jr. projected the entire first round espn.com ahead of the combine. The NFL combine espn.com begins with top prospects participating in the 40-yard dash and other drills. The Lions espn.com will play an international game in Munich, Germany, their first since 2015.
Other Notable Developments
The UFL espn.com will award four points for field goals of at least 60 yards and ban most punts inside the opponent's 50-yard line for its 2026 season. Bears espn.com believe they should receive draft compensation after the Falcons hired Ian Cunningham as GM. Dolphins GM Jon-Eric Sullivan espn.com said "everything is on the table" regarding Tua Tagovailoa. The Jets espn.com plan to use one of their tags on Breece Hall if they can't reach an agreement before the deadline.