NFL Football 3d Briefing
×Trade Deadline Moves
The Texans espn.com acquired running back David Montgomery from the Lions in exchange for offensive lineman Juice Scruggs and two draft picks. Houston espn.com also traded starting right tackle Tytus Howard to the Browns for a fifth-round pick. Meanwhile, the Chiefs informed offensive tackle Jawaan Taylor that he will be released before the league year begins, potentially saving $20 million in cap space.
Free Agency Updates
The Bengals retained right guard Dalton Risner with a one-year deal, keeping one of their best offensive linemen in the fold. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones espn.com promised fans that Dallas will spend more aggressively in free agency after the team's championship drought. The Vikings have informed running back Aaron Jones and defensive tackle Javon Hargrave that they will be released at the 2026 league year unless traded.
Combine Highlights
Mississippi State's Brenen Thompson clocked a blistering 4.26-second 40-yard dash, the third-fastest by a wide receiver at the combine since 2003. Top-10 quarterback prospect Taylen Green set several positional combine records during Saturday's workout. Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, ranked No. 2 on ESPN's Big Board, plans to participate in all combine drills rather than sitting out like some top prospects.
Draft Stock Movers
Mel Kiper Jr. identified 13 players who caught his attention at the combine, including Chris Brazzell II and Dani Dennis-Sutton. Former Baylor quarterback Sawyer Robertson's journey to the NFL has been a long one, as it took years for him to feel comfortable running an offense. Vanderbilt's Diego Pavia remains unapologetic about his polarizing playing style as he prepares for the draft.
Contract and Salary Cap News
The NFL salary cap has reached a new high of $301.2 million for the 2026 season, marking the first time it has topped $300 million in league history. The Texans face looming contract decisions about quarterback C.J. Stroud as they head into the offseason. Former Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson told NFL talent evaluators he's prepared to prove he's a "franchise quarterback."
Off-Field Developments
The Atlanta Falcons dismissed assistant defensive line coach La Troy Lewis following sexual assault allegations. The NFLPA has narrowed its search for a permanent executive director, with current interim David White and former player president JC Tretter among the finalists. The Packers hired Super Bowl-winning special teams coordinator Cam Achord for the same role in Green Bay.
Team-Specific Updates
The Browns are exploring quarterback options as free agency approaches, though few viable choices exist in the current market. The Vikings, Cardinals, Colts, and Dolphins all face important quarterback decisions this offseason. Dallas pass rusher Donovan Ezeiruaku underwent hip surgery five weeks ago and could be out until training camp.
Prospect Evaluations
ESPN examined where top quarterback prospect Fernando Mendoza would rank among first-round QBs drafted over the past five years. Francis Mauigoa, the top offensive line prospect, said he's open to a position change and credits battles with teammates for his development. The combine's top workouts across all positions have been analyzed by ESPN experts.
With the combine complete, teams are finalizing their draft boards and free agency strategies. The salary cap increase to $301.2 million provides more flexibility for teams to make moves As March approaches, the quarterback market remains one of the most intriguing storylines heading into free agency.