NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: August 15, 2026, 11:39 AM ET

Preseason Action and Player Performances

The NFL preseason is underway, offering a first glimpse of rookies and players in new situations. In a recent game, Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa expressed frustration after playing two series in a preseason loss to the Broncos, completing 3-of-5 passes for just 22 yards. This performance highlighted a challenging night for Tagovailoa, though other players like Mendoza and Allar also made their preseason debuts. The league is also handing out some unique awards as training camps conclude and preseason games begin, recognizing standout players and position battles in Solak's awards.

Fantasy Football Preparations

As the 2026 fantasy football season approaches, ESPN has released a comprehensive suite of resources for dedicated players. This includes downloadable and printable cheat sheets for both PPR and non-PPR leagues, as well as depth chart information. For those looking for undervalued assets, Eric Karabell has identified players like Henry and Mahomes who are being drafted later than their potential suggests. Additionally, the 2026 Fantasy Draft Guide offers rankings, projections, and analysis to help fans prepare for their drafts. Matt Bowen has also provided his QB tiers, giving fantasy managers a head start on ranking the league's signal-callers.

Injury Updates and Roster News

Several teams are dealing with injury concerns as the preseason progresses. Jets quarterback Geno Smith is considered day-to-day with an ankle injury that kept him out of Friday night's preseason opener against the Buccaneers. In a more serious development, Cardinals rookie offensive lineman Chase Bisontis may miss the entire season after tearing his left MCL during Thursday night's preseason game. The Colts' special teams coordinator, Brian Mason, also suffered a significant injury, tearing multiple knee ligaments on the sideline during a preseason game, according to a source. Saints rookie wide receiver Jordyn Tyson is also set to miss time with a hamstring issue.

League Suspensions and Off-Field News

The league has issued several suspensions for violations of the personal conduct policy. Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. will miss the first eight games of the season. Bills defensive tackle Phidarian Mathis has been suspended for the first three games due to a violation of the NFL's substance abuse policy. Commanders defensive end/linebacker Dorance Armstrong will also be suspended without pay for the season opener. In other league news, a former NFLPA lawyer has settled a federal lawsuit against the union, alleging retaliation in a settlement.

Contract Extensions and Player Milestones

The Pittsburgh Steelers have made a significant move to secure a key defensive player, agreeing to a four-year, $72 million extension with defensive tackle Keeanu Benton, making him the highest-paid defensive lineman in franchise history. Meanwhile, Seahawks outside linebacker DeMarcus Lawrence confirmed that his upcoming 13th NFL season will be his last, marking the end of a notable career.

College Talent and Draft Outlook

With the NFL draft on the horizon, scouts will be paying close attention to several college programs stacked with talent. Miami and Texas are among the twelve colleges highlighted as having significant NFL draft potential for the upcoming draft cycles. This focus on collegiate talent is a crucial part of the league's talent pipeline.

Broadcasting and Team Dynamics

ESPN analyst Troy Aikman will face broadcast limitations similar to those previously applied to Tom Brady, in connection with his consulting role with the Dolphins. In a unique look inside a team's culture, an inside look at a Harbaugh team meeting revealed a dynamic filled with personal messages and distinctive terminology. The Cowboys' Jerry Jones, reflecting on past personnel decisions, compared the trade of Amari Cooper to the Herschel Walker deal, suggesting a similar long-term benefit for the team.

Player Number Disputes and Rookie Performances

A minor dispute has arisen at LSU regarding jersey numbers, with DJ Pickett indicating he will not change from the No. 5, despite pushback from quarterback Jayden Daniels. On the field, Steelers rookie quarterbacks Drew Allar and Will Howard impressed in a 28-9 preseason victory over the Packers, showcasing promising performances early in their careers. The Seahawks, meanwhile, have added Terrion Arnold, with coach Mike Macdonald citing "overwhelmingly positive" reviews as a factor in their decision, despite Arnold facing felony charges.