NFL Football 24-Hour Briefing
×Quarterback Carousel
Colts GM Chris Ballard espn.com expressed optimism about reaching deals with quarterback Daniel Jones and wide receiver Alec Pierce before free agency begins. Falcons GM Ian Cunningham espn.com informed Kirk Cousins the team will release him March 11, the first day of the league year. Dolphins GM Jon-Eric Sullivan espn.com stated "everything is on the table" regarding Tua Tagovailoa's future. Texans GM Nick Caserio espn.com called trade speculation about C.J. Stroud "moronic." Vikings executive vice president Rob Brzezinski espn.com confirmed the team is "exploring all possibilities" to improve quarterback play in 2026.
Contract Negotiations
Ravens GM Eric De Costa espn.com expressed confidence about extending quarterback Lamar Jackson while making a "market-setting" proposal to center Tyler Linderbaum. Cowboys All-Pro left guard Tyler Smith espn.com underwent minor cleanup surgery on his right knee but will be 100% ready for the offseason program in April. Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey espn.com has received an offer that would make him the highest-paid kicker in the NFL, though his agent is seeking closer to $10 million per season.
Coaching Changes
Broncos coach Sean Payton espn.com announced offensive coordinator Davis Webb will call plays this season. Panthers coach Dave Canales espn.com ceded playcalling duties to offensive coordinator Brad Idzik without pressure from management. UFL officials espn.com announced rule changes for the 2026 season, including four points for field goals of at least 60 yards and banning most punts inside the opponent's 50.
Free Agency Moves
Bucs GM Jason Licht espn.com and coach Todd Bowles believe veteran wide receiver Mike Evans has "earned" the right to explore free agency despite the team's desire for him to stay. Jets GM Darren Mougey espn.com confirmed the team will use one of its tags on running back Breece Hall if they can't reach an agreement before the deadline.
Trade Market Speculation
Raiders GM John Spytek espn.com expects star defensive end Maxx Crosby to remain with the team in 2026 despite trade rumors. Bengals director of player personnel Duke Tobin espn.com said trading defensive end Trey Hendrickson could prove challenging. ESPN analysts espn.com ranked top offseason trade candidates, with Brian Thomas Jr. and Maxx Crosby among the most discussed players.
Staffing Updates
Lions offensive lineman Taylor Decker espn.com indicated through social media he's returning for his 11th NFL season, putting off retirement. 49ers GM John Lynch espn.com offered an optimistic view on contract negotiations with left tackle Trent Williams after reports of struggles to find a solution. Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell espn.com and interim GM Rob Brzezinski shared their thoughts on the team's open general manager role following Kwesi Adofo-Mensah's departure.
Combine Developments
NFL rookies espn.com provided valuable advice to 2026 draft prospects as they begin their combine experience. ESPN analysts espn.com predicted Week 1 starters for all 32 NFL teams in 2026, with speculation about Kirk Cousins potentially returning to Minnesota and Kyler Murray possibly joining the AFC.
Team-Specific Updates
Cardinals GM Monti Ossenfort espn.com claimed to have spoken with quarterback Kyler Murray, though sources indicate they haven't communicated since the season ended. Bears officials espn.com believe they should receive draft compensation after the Falcons hired Ian Cunningham as their new general manager. Steelers GM Omar Khan espn.com hopes for a quick resolution regarding Aaron Rodgers' potential return as the team's starter next season.