NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: May 17, 2026, 5:45 AM ET

Steelers' Quarterback Room & Offseason Moves

The Steelers' decision to re-sign Aaron Rodgers has created a three-quarterback logjam, with Mike McCarthy typically carrying only three into Week, leaving the team to determine who becomes the odd man out. While questions linger about whether Rodgers has anything left and if the offense can replicate its 2025 success, the front office’s move grades positively as a calculated veteran addition. This internal competition unfolds as the NFL released its 2026 schedule, which notably opens with a Super Bowl LIX rematch between the Seahawks and Patriots in Seattle. Pittsburgh’s own slate, however, remains under closer scrutiny after a flurry of offseason activity aimed at maximizing Rodgers’ final window.

Contracts, Health & Scheduling

The Dolphins solidified their backfield by agreeing to a four-year, $64 million extension with De’Von Achane, making him the NFL’s third-highest-paid running back. Meanwhile, the Giants are cautiously optimistic about wide receiver Malik Nabers’ recovery after a second cleanup procedure on his right knee, targeting a Week 1 return. The schedule release also highlighted Kansas City’s immediate primetime test in Week, a league bet on Patrick Mahomes’ health despite his late-season ankle injury. These player-specific developments intersect with broader league business, as the NFL pushes back against criticism of its expanded streaming game lineup, facing scrutiny from President Trump and the Justice Department over accessibility.

Tragedy & Officiating Trends

The league mourned the loss of former defensive lineman Josh Mauro, with the Maricopa County medical examiner confirming his death resulted from an acute combined overdose of fentanyl, cocaine, and ethanol. This tragedy underscores ongoing concerns about substance use among players. In a separate development, the UFL’s experiment with in-game referee interviews is being watched closely by the NFL as a potential tool to shift postgame discourse toward competition rather than officiating controversies.

Draft Class Outlook & Coaching Pipeline

Attention turns to the 2025 draft class, with analysts debating Travis Hunter’s defensive-only role, the breakout potential of Ashton Jeanty and Emeka Egbuka, and Will Campbell’s evolving responsibilities. Simultaneously, the NFL’s revamped accelerator program includes notable candidates like Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, a head coach in 2025, further fueling future head coaching speculation. These parallel narratives—player development and coaching cultivation—will shape team trajectories as the new league year progresses.