NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: September 4, 2026, 6:49 AM ET

NFL Headlines

The San Francisco 49ers touched down in Melbourne after a travel operation complicated by biosecurity protocols and logistics. Meanwhile, the Seattle Seahawks officially have new ownership, as the Khosla family closed on a record-breaking purchase of the franchise from Paul Allen's estate.

Quarterback News

The Raiders have named Kirk Cousins their Week 1 starter over rookie Fernando Mendoza. Meanwhile, Anthony Richardson will serve as the Colts' backup quarterback entering the 2026 season, with coach Shane Steichen making the call months after Richardson's trade request was made public. Geno Smith is embracing his return to New York, saying he looks forward to writing a comeback story nine years after the Jets drafted him.

Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts confirmed in a GQ interview that he and former teammate A.J. Brown grew apart last season, responding "Clearly" when asked about the strained relationship. In Carolina, the Panthers hope a more aggressive approach under first-time playcaller Brad Idzik can help franchise quarterback Bryce Young reach another level this season.

Injury & Roster Notes

Giants running back Cam Skattebo said on Thursday that he briefly considered retiring after suffering an open fracture of his right ankle during his rookie season. The Cowboys have opened up $19 million in cap space, with veteran defensive tackle Kenny Clark, cornerback DaRon Bland and tight end Jake Ferguson having their deals reworked for flexibility, per sources. The Cardinals have signed wide receiver Michael Wilson to a three-year, $75 million extension, according to sources.

Fantasy & Betting Prep

Mike Clay's post-draft guide offers ways to manage your team, whether in a keeper, dynasty, or redraft league. Fantasy managers who missed the homework window can still find analysis-ready notes on big-name players at the most important positions. The 2026 NFL betting guide covers odds, tips, and best bets for the season ahead.

Storylines & Analysis

The Athletic's review found that Dianna Russini's relationship with Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel violated newsroom standards, though it showed no clear bias toward him. Kansas City is betting that highly drafted rookies Peter Woods and Masterd will give future Hall of Famer defensive tackle Chris Jones the support he's been missing to headline a dominant defensive line. The connection between quarterback and offensive coordinator could define Carolina's season — the aggressive scheme under Brad Isdik might unlock a new level of play for Young.

Legal, Odds & Off-Field News

Former NFL quarterback and Fox broadcaster Mark Sanchez has agreed to plead guilty in connection to the alleged attack of a truck driver in Indianapolis last year. Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith and his company have been cited in a $2.5 million lawsuit alleging misappropriated funds meant for a Texas solar farm project, according to a Native American development group. Travis Kelce closed on a $5.35 million home in Ohio long before his July wedding to the pop superstar. The Cowboys' Hunter Trapeze gave up his jersey number to Von Miller, and the negotiation included an unexpected perk — Miller now owns a stake in Luepke's family's small chicken farm operation.

Key People & Extension Watch

Former Wake Forest defensive back Alphonso Smith, a two-time All-America selection who played four seasons in the NFL, has died at age 40. Baker Mayfield and C.J. Stroud are among the 22 people with the most to gain or lose this NFL season, with big contracts and coaching security on the line. Players who could be big factors in next offseason's extension window include top cornerbacks and wide receivers who may be on the move if they can't reach deals. For fantasy drafters, the guide to team playcallers breaks down what to expect from every signal-caller, from veterans to first-year coaches.