NFL Football 3d Briefing
×Roster Shakeups Begin
The Commanders espn.com agreed to pay $1 million to settle a 2022 lawsuit alleging fan deception under previous ownership, while also informing cornerback Marshon Lattimore of his impending release before the league year. Houston espn.com bolstered its backfield by trading running back David Montgomery to the Lions, a move that impacts both teams' depth charts and fantasy football outlooks. Separately, the Texans espn.com dealt starting right tackle Tytus Howard to the Browns for a fifth-round pick, adding to their recent draft capital accumulation.
Free Agency & Cap Moves
The Chiefs espn.com plan to release offensive tackle Jawaan Taylor, creating over $20 million in cap space ahead of free agency. Cincinnati espn.com retained a key offensive lineman, signing right guard Dalton Risner to a one-year deal to maintain line continuity. Minnesota espn.com has decided to move on from veteran running back Aaron Jones and defensive tackle Javon Hargrave, informing them they will be cut or traded when the new league year begins.
Combine Standouts
Mississippi State espn.com wide receiver Brenen Thompson blazed a combine-best 4.26-second 40-yard dash, the third-fastest time for a receiver since 2003. Quarterback Taylen Green espn.com, a top-10 prospect, set several positional records during Saturday's workouts. Notre Dame espn.com running back Jeremiyah Love, a projected top-10 pick, plans to participate fully in all drills, including the 40-yard dash. Polarizing Vanderbilt QB Diego Pavia espn.com remained unfazed by criticism as he showcased his skills.
Injury & Coaching News
Cowboys pass rusher Donovan Ezeiruaku espn.com underwent hip surgery five weeks ago for a labrum tear and could be sidelined until training camp. The Falcons espn.com fired assistant defensive line coach La Troy Lewis following sexual assault allegations. The Packers espn.com hired Super Bowl-winning special teams coordinator Cam Achord to fill the same role in Green Bay.
Front Office & League Business
The NFLPA espn.com has narrowed its search for a permanent executive director, with interim David White and former player president JC Tretter among the finalists. The NFL salary cap espn.com will hit a new high of $301.2 million for the 2026 season, surpassing $300 million for the first time. Dallas owner Jerry Jones espn.com acknowledged the Cowboys' championship drought and promised a more aggressive approach in free agency.
Quarterback Market & Draft
Houston faces a looming decision espn.com on quarterback C.J. Stroud's future and contract extension, even if a trade isn't immediately planned. The Browns espn.com are exploring quarterback options in a limited free-agent market. New combine intel espn.com suggests the Vikings, Cardinals, Colts, and Dolphins are all evaluating their quarterback options. ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. espn.com identified 13 combine standouts who boosted their draft stock, including Chris Brazzell II and Dani Dennis-Sutton. Top offensive line prospect Francis Mauigoa espn.com credited daily battles with Miami teammates for his development and is open to a position change. Alabama's Ty Simpson espn.com declared his intent to prove he is a franchise quarterback. Baylor's Sawyer Robertson espn.com, Mike Leach's last quarterback, is working to translate his college success to the NFL. A ranking of recent first-round QBs espn.com places expected 2026 No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza among the top selections from the past five years.