NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: June 3, 2026, 2:46 PM ET

Madden Cover and Player Recognition Caleb Williams graces Madden cover as the first Bears player to earn that distinction for "Madden NFL," while the long-alleged Madden curse continues to draw scrutiny after Saquon Barkley's latest season. The comprehensive list of Madden cover athletes from this millennium shows Williams joins an exclusive club that has seen both superstition and success for featured players.

Contract Extensions and Financial Commitments The Falcons secured their star wide receiver Drake London with a four-year, $141 million extension, while the Steelers reached agreement on a four-year, $100 million deal with linebacker Nick Herbig that includes $42 million guaranteed. In Denver, cornerback Pat Surtain II received a $5 million raise this year via a contract adjustment, and the Seahawks extended edge rusher Derick Hall with a three-year, $42 million agreement through 2029 that includes $21 million guaranteed.

Roster Changes and Team Transactions Eagles teammates had mixed reactions to A.J. Brown's departure, ranging from a sense of loss to relief that the saga is now in the rearview mirror, while Buccaneers wide receiver Chris Godwin Jr. learned Mike Evans was signing with the 49ers on social media before receiving confirmation from quarterback Baker Mayfield. Patriots newcomer A.J. Brown expressed elation about joining New England, stating he is "still in awe" after his first day with the team, having long wished to play there.

Player Development and Health Updates Chicago Bears wide receiver Rome Odunze is embracing being the WR1 after DJ Moore's exit to the Bills, seeking a more productive Year 3 with added responsibility, while Cardinals wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. continues recovering from injuries that shortened his 2025 season. In Cleveland, defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz explained his resignation after being passed over for the head coaching job, noting that "forced marriages fail" in professional relationships.

Offensive Improvements and Training Camp Updates Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert is fixing footwork for a quicker release under new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, as mandatory minicamps begin around the league. The Steelers and Dolphins are among the teams conducting mandatory minicamps this week, with reports indicating that Joey Porter Jr. and Nick Herbig appeared to be holding out during drills while awaiting contract extensions. The Bengals' defensive additions have raised expectations for team success in 2026 according to Ja'Marr Chase, while the Seahawks' improved offensive line faces the challenge of handling Matthew Stafford after the Rams traded for the 2025 Defensive Player of the Year.

Fantasy Football and Season Preview As the NFL season approaches 100 days away, fantasy football enthusiasts can turn to Mike Clay's advice on successful drafting strategies while examining the relative value and risk of Bears pass catchers Rome Odunze, Luther Burden III and Colston Loveland who are being drafted close together. Meanwhile, Eric Moody breaks down the new-look Bills WR room analyzing who could perform better in fantasy football between the team's receivers. ESPN's Football Power Index projections for 2026 provide playoff chances, potential draft order and team rankings, while a way-too-early look at the NFL season offers 100 things to know including bold predictions and injury buzz.