NFL Football 24-Hour Briefing
×Player Moves & Injuries
Cowboys' Smith espn.com underwent minor knee surgery but is expected to be fully ready for the offseason program in April. Falcons GM espn.com informed QB Kirk Cousins that the team will release him March 11, the first day of the league year. The Patriots espn.com released running back Antonio Gibson after two seasons with the team.
Contract Talks & Extensions
Ravens GM espn.com expressed confidence about a contract extension for QB Lamar Jackson while making a "market-setting" proposal to Tyler Linderbaum. Steelers GM espn.com hopes for a quick resolution regarding the possible return of Aaron Rodgers as the team's starter next season. Raiders GM espn.com expects star defensive end Maxx Crosby to play for the team in 2026 despite trade speculation.
Coaching & Staff Changes
The Ravens espn.com are ushering in "a new age" with their first head coaching change since the team's inaugural season. The Lions espn.com will play an international game in Munich, Germany, for the first time since 2015, with opponent and date to be named later.
Retirements & Roster Cuts
Chargers C 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 before the new league year begins in two weeks.
League Rules & Changes
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 for its 2026 season starting March 27. The NFL competition committee espn.com is discussing authorizing replay officials to throw flags for non-football acts.
Draft & Combine Updates
QB Rivers espn.com followed in his father Philip's path by committing to NC State, continuing the family's football legacy. The NFL combine espn.com features top draft prospects participating in the 40-yard dash and other drills. Kiper espn.com projected the entire first round of the upcoming draft ahead of the combine workouts.
Team Strategies
The Cowboys espn.com are aware of potential fallout from using the franchise tag on Pro Bowl wide receiver George Pickens, as executive vice president Stephen Jones said the team is "leaning" toward this option. The 49ers espn.com aren't planning to trade QB Mac Jones but could be swayed by the right offer.