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15 articles summarized · Last updated: LATEST

Last updated: September 7, 2026, 3:19 PM ET

Quarterback Carousel

The Falcons have named Tua Tagovailoa their Week 1 starter against the Steelers, though the team remains tight-lipped about the backup pecking order. Meanwhile, the Giants have secured their backup situation, agreeing to a two-year, $13 million extension with Jameis Winston through 2028. In Minnesota, veteran safety Harrison Smith is returning for a 15th season on a one-year deal worth $12.25 million.

Patriots & 49ers Storylines

Josh McDaniels is owning the blame for how the Seahawks terrorized Drake Maye in Super Bowl LX, saying flatly: "I didn't do a good enough job. Point it at me." Across the conference, Kyle Shanahan has changed his tune about the Australia trip, now embracing the NFL's first regular-season game Down Under after early concerns dissipated. Shanahan is also preparing as if Aaron Donald will play in the opener, despite the Rams not yet committing to their star defensive tackle. On the Rams' side, Sean McVay expects Puka Nacua and Alaric Jackson to suit up Thursday despite ongoing legal situations.

League-Wide Outlook

Roger Goodell has signed a four-year extension running through the 2030 season. For the full landscape, ESPN's 2026 season preview ranks all 32 teams with bold predictions and key stats heading into Week. The betting market shows the Rams as Super Bowl LXI favorites at 5-1 odds, while one Football Power Index simulation envisions a Lions-Chargers Super Bowl matchup.

Player & Team Focus

C.J. Stroud enters Year 4 without a new contract, but the Texans quarterback insists he's a hell of a football player and remains confident ahead of the biggest season of his life. In Baltimore, the Ravens face four key questions despite heightened Super Bowl expectations, including their kicking situation and Nnamdi Madubuike's return. Elsewhere, Mike Vrabel has emerged from his offseason scandal, but its effects linger across the NFL. Former Chargers running back Joshua Kelley has traded the gridiron for the director's chair, pursuing filmmaking after his playing career ended.