NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: September 9, 2026, 10:48 PM ET

NFL Football

The countdown to Week 1 brought a cascade of injury news, starting with a significant blow to the Raiders' offense. Star tight end Brock Bowers underwent a meniscus trim Tuesday in Dallas and is expected to miss "a game or two," per league sources. The Silver and Black got a boost on the other side of the ball, however, as running back Ashton Jeanty returned to practice Wednesday, creating optimism about his availability for Sunday's opener against the Dolphins.

The Saints will be shorthanded upfront as defensive end Cameron Jordan was ruled out of Sunday's game due to a hamstring injury. The 49ers suffered a far worse fate across the Pacific, as starting defensive tackle Alfred Collins tore a patellar tendon in Tuesday's practice in Australia, an injury that will keep him out for the entire 2026 season.

Quarterback Rooms & Injury Report

The Vikings have settled their depth chart, with rookie J.J. McCarthy opening the season as the No. 3 quarterback behind starter Kyler Murray and backup Carson Wentz. For the Browns, Deshaun Watson is preparing for his first regular-season start since October 2024 and said he is eager to "showcase that I can still play in this league."

Raiders quarterback Bo Nix is pacing like a caged mountain lion ahead of Monday night's opener against the Chiefs, according to wide receiver Courtland Sutton. Over in New York, star wideout Malik Nabers was a full participant in Wednesday's practice, though head coach Brian Daboll said "we'll see" when asked if the receiver will suit up Sunday night.

Legal & Labor

Former NFL wideout Antonio Brown's legal situation took a notable turn—the alleged victim in his second-degree assault case says he "forgives" Brown and won't participate in the prosecution. Elsewhere, the criminal case against Elijah Bieniemy, the son of former Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy, is (https://headlinesbriefing.com/sports/espn-nfl/chiefs-oc-sons-case-to-procede-after-mental-evaluation-879cf192) after a psychological evaluation found him competent.

Steelers defensive lineman Cameron Heyward blasted the NFL's franchise tag club as "stupid, providing fresh ammunition for the next CBA negotiation.

Betting, Awards & Playbooks

The Rams remain the top target for bettors, drawing the most action, to win Super Bowl. For those eyeing seasonlong honors, the latest MVP award odds are out, while league executives have provided their own picks for award winners across all categories.

For healthy preparation, the full NFL rule changes for 2026 are detailed, alongside fantasy matchup rankings at the four key positions. Shadow reports and lineup locks are in the comprehensive playbook.

Forecasts & Fallout

Bill Barnwell's playoff and Super Bowl predictions include his full 14-team field. The Seahawks' title-defense quest is parsed, with key hurdles identified for the defending champs. Meanwhile, the aftershocks from the Mike Vrabel situation continue to shape news across the league.