NFL Football 8-Hour Briefing

Last updated: October 23, 2026, 4:40 AM ET

Bears Edge Patriots

Caleb Williams and the Bears held off the Patriots 30-24 in a game Chicago never trailed, though it never looked comfortable with the lead. The win came at a cost, as tight end Cole Kmet left late and was carted off with a knee injury. Chicago also got a boost from Luther Burden III's long catch, which set up a D'Andre Swift touchdown.

Quarterbacks & Injuries

Baker Mayfield expects to return from a thumb injury and is expected to start for Tampa Bay against Carolina Sunday, barring setbacks. In Los Angeles, Rams receiver Puka Nacua left Thursday's practice with a calf injury. Eagles running back Saquon Barkley is expected to practice and is in line to play against the Cowboys. Seattle also activated running back Zach Charbonnet off the PUP list after he had yet to play this season.

Front Office & Trades

The Colts are weighing their next moves after firing general manager Chris Ballard, and several teams have reportedly shown interest in running back Jonathan Taylor. Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey pushed back against what he called slander directed at quarterback Lamar Jackson. Meanwhile, Field Yates projected a top-10 pick list for next year's draft, with three quarterbacks going early.

League Notes

Hall of Famer Marshall Faulk revealed he has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease during a podcast appearance. A weekend Steelers fan event in Paris was canceled because of civil unrest in the city. Ahead of Week, ESPN's weekly preview examined quarterback situations, trade candidates, and the NFC East race, while Caleb Williams led the arrival fashion and Texans and Lions highlighted their alternate uniforms.

Coming Up

Eagles and Cowboys meet this weekend, with Saquon Barkley in line to play. Tampa Bay hosts Carolina Sunday with Baker Mayfield expected to start.