NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: May 19, 2026, 2:46 AM ET

Quarterback Carousel

The Steelers' OTAs took an unexpected turn as Aaron Rodgers signed his one-year contract and immediately joined practice, with teammates expressing mild surprise at his arrival. Meanwhile, the Cardinals opened their offseason program without Jacoby Brissett, whose contract holdout persists as new coach Mike LaFleur confirmed discussions remain stalled with the veteran. The situation creates uncertainty for Arizona's quarterback room as the team prepares for the season.

Front Office & Legal Moves

The Jaguars saved approximately $30 million after former coach Urban Meyer lost his grievance against the team, clearing a significant salary cap charge from his 2021 firing. In scheduling news, the NFL is poised to award the 2028 draft to Minneapolis, with U.S. Bank Stadium expected to serve as the central hub for the event. The league also defended its expanded streaming game schedule amid political criticism, stating the digital platforms provide greater fan accessibility.

Roster Moves & Free Agency

The Saints are taking a patient approach with star running back Alvin Kamara, as coach Kellen Moore indicated the team is letting the offseason process play out regarding his future. With the free-agent market thinning, analysts are identifying potential fits for remaining top names like Deebo Samuel and Joey Bosa, suggesting destinations where their skills could provide an immediate upgrade.

Schedule Analysis & Team Previews

The release of the 2026 schedule has sparked early analysis, with the Lions and Eagles emerging as primary beneficiaries of the layout due to favorable bye week placement and opponent strength. Conversely, potential "Bye-maggedon" scenarios are being scrutinized, as the league's nine bye weeks could create logistical challenges for certain clubs. The schedule reveals themselves were a social media spectacle, with teams employing creative videos and memes to generate fan engagement.

Player Health & Off-Field Updates

Panthers defensive lineman Tershawn Wharton underwent neck surgery, a significant loss for a defensive front that is rebuilding its interior. Off the field, former NFL lineman Josh Mauro's death was ruled an accidental overdose, a tragic end to a career derailed by substance abuse issues. In a lighter note, musician Kid Cudi attended Bengals practice fresh from a concert, a visit quarterback Joe Burrow described as a fun distraction before camp.

Coaching Development

Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith is participating in the NFL's revamped accelerator program for coaching candidates, joining a group that includes current head coaches like Mike McDaniel, who is sharing his recent experience with aspiring leaders. The program aims to develop diverse talent for future head coaching and general manager roles across the league.

: Pittsburgh's Gamble

With Rodgers now in the fold, the focus shifts to whether the Steelers' offense can be successfully rebuilt around the 39-year-old quarterback. Analysts are questioning if his arm talent remains elite and how much the system will mirror past successful iterations, while also debating if running it back with the current roster construction is a viable path to contention in the tough AFC North.

Ravens' Resilience

John Harbaugh opened the Ravens' OTAs by lightheartedly referencing his own 2022 firing by the team, using the anecdote to illustrate the importance of perseverance and the unpredictable nature of NFL coaching tenures. The moment underscored Harbaugh's established, comfortable leadership within Baltimore's organization.