NFL Football 24-Hour Briefing
×Quarterback Moves & Team Decisions
Vikings executive vice president Rob Brzezinski espn.com said the team is "exploring all possibilities" to improve quarterback play in 2026. Panthers coach Dave Canales espn.com is ceding playcalling duties to offensive coordinator Brad Idzik without pressure from management. Texans GM Nick Caserio espn.com called trade speculation about quarterback C.J. Stroud "moronic." Falcons GM Ian Cunningham espn.com informed quarterback Kirk Cousins the team will release him March 11. Dolphins GM Jon-Eric Sullivan espn.com said "everything is on the table" regarding quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, whose representatives confirmed he still wants to play.
Contract Extensions & Free Agency
Ravens GM Eric De Costa espn.com expressed confidence about extending quarterback Lamar Jackson while making a "market-setting" proposal to center Tyler Linderbaum. Raiders GM John Spytek espn.com expects star defensive end Maxx Crosby to remain with the team in 2026 despite trade rumors. Steelers GM Omar Khan espn.com hopes for a quick resolution regarding quarterback Aaron Rodgers' potential return as starter. Bears management espn.com believes they deserve draft compensation after the Falcons hired Ian Cunningham as their new GM.
Player Health & Transactions
Cowboys All-Pro left guard Tyler Smith espn.com underwent minor cleanup surgery on his right knee but will be ready for the offseason program in April. Jets GM Darren Mougey espn.com confirmed the team will use one of their tags on running back Breece Hall if they cannot reach a long-term agreement before Tuesday's deadline. Patriots espn.com released running back Antonio Gibson after two seasons with the team. Chargers starting center Bradley Bozeman espn.com announced his retirement after eight NFL seasons and 110 starts.
College Football & Draft News
Four-star quarterback Gunner Rivers espn.com, son of NFL legend Philip Rivers, committed to NC State. The NFL combine espn.com features top draft prospects participating in the 40-yard dash and other drills. Analysts are projecting where the best players in the 2026 draft class will get picked in April. The Lions espn.com will play their first international game since 2015 in Munich, Germany, with opponent and date to be determined.
League Developments
The UFL espn.com announced rule changes for its 2026 season, including four points for field goals of at least 60 yards and banning most punts inside the opponent's 50-yard line. This marks the first coaching change for the Ravens espn.com since their inaugural season. Questions remain about whether quarterback Mac Jones espn.com will be on the 49ers' roster next season, as the team isn't planning to trade him but could be swayed by the right offer.