NFL Football 8 Hours

Last updated: September 16, 2026, 10:03 PM ET

Saints Backfield

New Orleans coach Kellen Moore expressed optimism that Alvin Kamara will return for Week, saying the veteran running back practiced in full and is in a great place physically. Kamara's availability would restore the Saints' primary rushing threat after he sat out the opener.

Seattle QB Room

The Seahawks ruled out Sam Darnold for Sunday's matchup with the Cardinals, though the team avoided injured reserve and expects him back later in the season. Seattle must now lean on its backup options against a divisional opponent desperate for a win.

Atlanta Uncertainty

Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr. described himself as close to returning but stopped short of confirming he will face the Panthers on Sunday. Coach Kevin Stefanski added that he is not ruling anybody out at the position, leaving Cooper Rush and Tua Tagovailoa in the conversation as Atlanta weighs its options.

Cincinnati Health

Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow is managing back tightness but called it ridiculous to sit, signaling he expects to start against the Texans. His presence keeps Cincinnati's high-powered passing attack intact for a critical early-season test.

Bay Area Injuries

The 49ers will be without receiver De'Zhaun Stribling for roughly 10 weeks following ankle surgery, and tight end Tonges is lost for the entire season. The dual absences thin out a receiving corps already navigating a demanding opening stretch.

Minnesota Run Game

The Vikings placed running back Jordan Mason on injured reserve after he underwent thumb surgery, sidelining him for at least four weeks. Minnesota must reshuffle its backfield rotation while Mason recovers.

Kansas City Secondary

Chiefs rookie cornerback Mansoor Delane, who aggravated a shoulder injury after recording his first interception, is on track to play against the Colts. His return would bolster a Kansas City defense preparing for a tough Indianapolis offense.

Dallas Milestone

Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott needs four touchdown passes to pass Tony Romo in the franchise record book, a mark he could reach against the Commanders. Teammates and former pass-catchers shared stories about Prescott's rise as he approaches the milestone.

League Buzz

Across the league, three teams are grappling with quarterback injuries, and insiders are tracking the latest QB1 uncertainty in Seattle, Minnesota and Atlanta. The Rams and Chargers have also stumbled out of the gate, raising early concerns about their playoff trajectories.

Power Rankings

Through one week of games, Buffalo, Seattle and Baltimore rose in the rankings, while analysts highlighted a standout newcomer making an immediate impact. The shakeup reflects how quickly early results can reshape the league hierarchy.

Rushing Legacy

Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith acknowledged that Ravens running back Derrick Henry has the stamina to break his all-time NFL rushing record. Smith's endorsement adds weight to the debate over whether Henry can sustain his punishing workload long enough to chase the mark.

Playoff & Draft Outlook

ESPN's projections show how the 14-team playoff picture could line up, along with updated Super Bowl LXI odds for every contender. Looking further ahead, the Football Power Index projected the 2027 draft order for Round, identifying which teams could be positioned for an early pick.