NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: September 17, 2026, 2:02 PM ET

NFL Week 2 Injury Landscape

The Seahawks have ruled out quarterback Sam Darnold for Sunday's game against the Cardinals due to a lingering injury, though the team avoided placing him on injured reserve. In Atlanta, Michael Penix Jr. is described as close to a return but remains uncertain for Week 2 against the Panthers. Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski added that he is not ruling anybody out when it comes to his quarterback room, which has been dealing with injuries to Cooper Rush and Tua Tagovailoa.

Bengals and Chiefs Updates

Joe Burrow is dealing with back tightness but told reporters Wednesday he expects to play against the Texans, calling the idea of sitting out "ridiculous." Kansas City received encouraging news as rookie cornerback Mansoor Delane, who aggravated a shoulder injury after recording his first career interception, is on track to play against the Colts.

Saints and Vikings Backfield News

Saints coach Kellen Moore said he feels good about Alvin Kamara's chances of playing in Week 2 after the running back practiced in full. Meanwhile, the Vikings placed running back Jordan Mason on injured reserve after he underwent thumb surgery, sidelining him for at least four weeks.

49ers Injury Blows

San Francisco received difficult news as receiver De'Zhaun Stribling had ankle surgery and is expected to miss about 10 weeks. Tight end Tonges will miss the entire season, further depleting the 49ers' pass-catching depth.

Bears Prep for Flores' Vikings Defense

Chicago quarterback Caleb Williams and the Bears are bracing for a challenging week of preparation against Brian Flores' aggressive Vikings defense. The team described the week of prep as "not so much fun," with coach Ben Johnson calling it a "mental war" when going against Flores' scheme.

Browns' Mayfield Fallout Continues

Buccaneers assistant coach Ken Zampese, who coached Baker Mayfield in Cleveland, said the Browns mucked it up by trading away their former No. 1 overall pick, arguing Cleveland already had its QB1 in Mayfield. Mayfield added to the storyline by donning a Michigan tank top after losing a bet with coach Todd Bowles, following Michigan's stunning upset of his alma mater Oklahoma.

Colts' Allen Charged

Colts wide receiver Keenan Allen was formally charged with two misdemeanors for drunk driving, with authorities alleging he blew a .224 on a breath test — nearly three times the legal limit.

Stroud and Texans in Focus

C.J. Stroud took the high road when asked about body language critique from former Texans great Andre Johnson, who called the quarterback's demeanor "bad." Elsewhere, Kyrie Irving offered to pay Al-Shaair's fine after the Texans linebacker was docked $11,941 for wearing a tribute to a slain Palestinian girl.

Prescott Nears Cowboys Record

Dak Prescott needs four touchdown passes to pass Tony Romo in the Cowboys' record book, and ESPN gathered nine stories from teammates and coaches who have caught touchdowns from the Dallas quarterback over the years.

Week 2 Buzz and Power Rankings

ESPN's insider notebook has the latest on QB1 uncertainty in Seattle, Minnesota and Atlanta, plus rough starts for the Rams and Chargers. The power rankings poll through one week has some surprises, with the Bills, Seahawks and Ravens rising.

Rushing Record Talk and Playoff Projections

Emmitt Smith acknowledged that Ravens running back Derrick Henry has the stamina to break his all-time NFL rushing record. ESPN's Football Power Index projects the 2027 draft order for Round, while the playoff picture breaks down how the 14-team field could line up and which teams have the best chances to reach Super Bowl LXI.