NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: September 4, 2026, 2:41 PM ET

Quarterback Shakeups & Contract Drama

The NFL quarterback landscape shifted dramatically in the past 24 hours. The Raiders have named Kirk Cousins their Week 1 starter over rookie Fernando Mendoza, while the Colts have slotted Anthony Richardson as QB2 behind the incumbent starter after his trade request earlier this offseason. Richardson said he is "grateful for the chance" to compete. Meanwhile, Baker Mayfield has passed his self-imposed deadline for a contract extension with Tampa Bay, betting on himself for 2026 — a move his high school coach endorses. In New York, Geno Smith is writing his comeback story with the Jets, nine years after they drafted him. Jalen Hurts confirmed growing apart from former teammate A.J. Brown last season, telling GQ "clearly" when asked about the rift.

Contracts, Cap & Transactions

The Cardinals locked up a key receiver as Michael Wilson's extension is worth $75M over three years. Dallas opened $19M in cap space by restructuring deals for Kenny Clark, DaRon Bland and Jake Ferguson. In a lighter note, the Cowboys' fullback Hunter Luepke's jersey trade with Von Miller includes comical chicken farm ownership. Elsewhere, Emmitt Smith was sued in a $2.5M fraud claim from a Native American development group over a solar loan. The Khosla family has closed on a record purchase of the Seattle Seahawks from Paul Allen's estate.

Personnel Moves & Front Office Intrigue

Jalen Hurts is acclimating as four pressing questions emerge for the Eagles, including whether running back Jerome Lemon is poised to contribute. The Chiefs plan to build a dominant defensive line around Chris Jones, betting rookies Peter Woods and R Mason Thomas can provide the help he needs. A piece on 22 NFL personnel with the most to gain or lose highlights how Mayfield and C.J. Stroud can play into big contracts, plus whether Aaron Glenn is on thin ice. The Athletic's investigation found that Dianna Russini's relationship with Mike Vrabel violated standards but showed no clear bias. The Giants' Cam Skattebo said he mulled retiring after an injury to his right ankle last season. Meanwhile, the Cowboys' first-rounder Caleb Downs has exceeded expectations ahead of his NFL debut, per the hype around him.

Legends, Losses & Legal News

Alphonso Smith, a two-time All-America defensive back at Wake Forest and four-season NFL veteran, has passed away at 40, the program announced. Former NFL QB and Fox analyst Mark Sanchez agreed to plead guilty in connection with an alleged assault in Indianapolis last year. Travis Kelce closed on a $5.35M home purchase in Ohio long before his July wedding to the pop superstar.

Betting Markets & Gaming

NFL betting has surged to $30 billion annually, but sportsbooks see stalling growth as prediction markets gain ground. The scene in Vegas features bettors in high-stakes survivor pools where the meatball brothers try to turn $1,000 into $20 million. For those ready to wager, the 2026 betting guide offers odds, tips, and best bets for the season. Fans are familiar with the 49ers' long flight to Australia; the team traveled a week early on an enormous plane, handling biosecurity concerns before facing the Rams in Melbourne. Meanwhile, the NFL is expanding its Inspire Change initiative internationally ahead of a record nine global games in 2026.

Fantasy Football Focus

Fantasy managers preparing for drafts need to dive into these crucial notes. The 30-plus player notes cover key big names at the most important positions. After your draft ends, Mike Clay's Playbook, Part 3 offers league-winning manager strategies. A look at extension-eligible players could impact dynasty rosters next season.

Draft & Future

Eight months before the 2027 NFL draft, Mel Kiper Jr. has 10 big preseason takes that predict Jadan Baugh as the RB1, five first-round quarterbacks, and safeties/tight ends galore. Every team's success might hinge on 32 X factors like Marvin Harrison Jr., Jared Verse, and Travis Hunter, who could define their team's fortunes. In final analysis for the Jaguars, the duo of Liam Coen and Trevor Lawrence aim to avoid another period without consecutive playoff seasons this century, with many believing 2026 can be different.