NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: July 29, 2026, 8:31 AM ET

Quarterback Battles and Roster Moves

The Raiders have named Kirk Cousins their starting quarterback to open training camp, prioritizing the veteran over rookie Fernando Mendoza. Meanwhile, the Browns face a significant quarterback decision, with sources indicating a potential competition between Tua Tagovailoa and Michael Penix Jr., and Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders are also in the mix for starting roles in Cleveland and Las Vegas, respectively. The Colts, despite Anthony Richardson's earlier trade request, are not looking to move him and envision a roster with all three of their top quarterbacks.

Contract Extensions and Player News

Cornerback Denzel Ward has secured his position as the NFL's top-paid defensive back, agreeing to a two-year, $62.2 million deal with the Browns that includes $52.3 million guaranteed reached agreement on a deal. In Philadelphia, Jalen Carter is set to become the highest-paid defensive tackle in NFL history with a four-year, $152 million extension, potentially reaching $160 million. The Vikings have also finalized a significant contract, extending right tackle Brian O'Neill through the 2030 season for up to $96 million agreed to a four-year contract extension. Pro Bowl defensive lineman Leonard Williams has confirmed ongoing deal talks with the Seahawks.

Fantasy Football and Offseason Impact

As the 2026 season approaches, fantasy football enthusiasts are dissecting potential breakouts, bounce-backs, and late-round gems. Analysts are highlighting impactful offseason additions, with 50 players identified as poised to make an immediate mark with their new teams. Discussions are also focusing on specific fantasy draft considerations, such as the perceived value difference between Colts' Daniel Jones and Alec Pierce, with Jones reportedly ready to go while Pierce starts camp on the PUP list. Late-round draft fliers are also being recommended, with Liz Loza offering her top targets.

Team Updates and Player Status

49ers coach Kyle Shanahan has taken full responsibility for a recent car accident that resulted in serious injuries, stating that a report attributing fault elsewhere was incorrect wanted to make clear he was at fault. Jets quarterback Geno Smith expressed regret for being a distraction due to an off-field dispute that drew police attention. Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield is expected to play out the final year of his contract and become an unrestricted free agent. Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, has affirmed that the 2026 season will be his last in the NFL affirmed Tuesday that 2026 will be his final season. The Bears are reportedly frustrated by Kyler Gordon's recurring injury issues, with the nickelback needing to improve his health consistency.

Other League News

The Bills have unveiled new gray alternate uniforms, described as a tribute to the heritage of Western New York described by the team. The Giants will hold their training camp in West Virginia this season, embracing the "Country Roads" theme going to the place where they belong. Former All-Pro receiver Wes Welker has been hired by the Washington Commanders as their new tight ends coach. The Vikings have suspended assistant coach Gerald Alexander for three weeks without pay following an April arrest for drunken driving. The "Madden NFL 27" video game is set to release on August 13, with six players receiving the highest rating at launch. Panthers tight end Mitchell Evans was carted off the field during practice with a lower-body injury was carted off the field. Colts defensive tackle DeForest Buckner is returning to practice after recovering from a neck injury and subsequent surgery returns to the practice field. Three-time Pro Bowler Jamal Adams, has agreed to join the Minnesota Vikings after previously playing for the Las Vegas Raiders agreed to join the Minnesota Vikings.