NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: June 14, 2026, 8:40 PM ET

Player Health & Personnel Moves

The league mourned the loss of former defensive end Aldon Smith, who died at 36 after a career that spanned the 49ers, Raiders and Cowboys Former lineman dies. In a separate health‑related development, former Lions center Frank Ragnow detailed how a failed physical forced his abrupt retirement, saying his body “told me to stop playing” after a year of speculation Retired center speaks. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers confirmed coach Todd Bowles’ confidence in Baker Mayfield, stating he “absolutely” wants the quarterback as a long‑term starter despite ongoing contract talks, a stance that underscores the team’s commitment to stability at the position Mayfield backed.

Legal Issues & Discipline

Former wide receiver Henry Ruggs was denied parole by the Nevada Board of Parole Commissioners, remaining incarcerated nearly five years after a fatal crash in Las Vegas, a decision that keeps the case in the public eye Parole denied. In Denver, linebacker Jonathon Cooper faced arrest after allegedly violating a protection order, adding another legal entanglement to the Broncos’ roster concerns Cooper arrested. Conversely, the NFL concluded its investigation into Chiefs defensive backs coach Dave Merritt, finding insufficient evidence to cite a personal‑conduct violation and thus imposing no discipline, a rare closure to a high‑profile inquiry Merritt cleared.

Team Storylines & Off‑Field Focus

Cleveland’s quarterback battle continued to dominate preseason chatter, with the Browns weighing the merits of starting Shedeur Sanders versus veteran Deshaun Watson while also assessing how new wide receivers will fit into the offense, a situation that could shape the franchise’s trajectory this season QB competition outlined. In Kansas City, head coach Andy Reid remained tight‑lipped about Travis Kelce’s attendance at the high‑profile Kelce‑Swift wedding, emphasizing that the tight end’s primary focus is training camp, a reminder of the team’s on‑field priorities amid media frenzy Kelce focused. Seattle celebrated its Super Bowl legacy as the Seahawks received their LX championship rings, featuring diamonds, sapphires and fan‑tribute engravings, a symbolic nod to the franchise’s recent success and its loyal fan base Rings presented.

Wide Receiver Review

The league also wrapped up its personal‑conduct review of Buffalo Bills star Stefon Diggs, determining there was insufficient evidence of a policy breach and closing the case without penalty, allowing the receiver to remain fully available for upcoming games Diggs cleared.