NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: August 15, 2026, 2:34 PM ET

Seahawks Contract Extensions and Retirements

The Seattle Seahawks have secured a key member of their secondary, agreeing to a four-year, $132 million extension with Pro Bowl cornerback Devon Witherspoon. In other team news, outside linebacker DeMarcus Lawrence confirmed that his upcoming 13th NFL season will be his last. The Seahawks also added to their roster, with coach Mike Macdonald citing "overwhelmingly positive" reviews as a factor in their decision to sign Terrion Arnold.

Quarterback News and Injuries

Jets quarterback Geno Smith is considered day-to-day with an ankle injury that kept him out of the preseason opener against the Buccaneers. Meanwhile, Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa expressed frustration with his team's performance in a preseason loss to the Broncos, completing 3-of-5 passes for 22 yards over two series. Steelers rookie quarterbacks Drew Allar and Will Howard showed promise in a 28-9 preseason victory over the Packers.

Player Suspensions and Roster Moves

Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. will serve an eight-game suspension for violating the league's personal conduct policy. Bills defensive tackle Phidarian Mathis faces a three-game suspension for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. Commanders defensive end/linebacker Dorance Armstrong will miss the season opener due to a violation of the personal conduct policy.

Injury Updates

Cardinals rookie running back Jeremiyah Love is expected to miss a week with a sore ankle. Cardinals second-round pick Chase Bisontis may miss the entire season after tearing his left MCL. Saints rookie wide receiver Jordyn Tyson is sidelined with a hamstring issue. In a coaching staff update, Colts special teams coordinator Brian Mason tore multiple knee ligaments after a sideline collision.

Contract News and Front Office Decisions

The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed defensive tackle Keeanu Benton to a four-year, $72 million extension, making him the highest-paid defensive lineman in franchise history. Former NFLPA lawyer Heather McPhee has reached a settlement in her federal suit against the union.

Fantasy Football and Draft Prep

As training camps conclude and preseason games begin, ESPN has released its comprehensive 2026 fantasy football cheat sheets. Analysts are also highlighting undervalued players for fantasy drafts, with Derrick Henry and Patrick Mahomes among those recommended. For quarterback analysis, Matt Bowen offers his QB tiers. The 2026 Fantasy Draft Guide provides rankings, projections, and analysis for fans preparing for draft season.

College Football Talent Pipeline

Scouts will be closely watching the rosters of at least a dozen colleges that are stacked with NFL draft talent, including Miami and Texas.

Broadcast Notes and Team Dynamics

ESPN analyst Troy Aikman will face broadcast restrictions similar to Tom Brady's for "Monday Night Football" games. Inside the locker room, coach Jim Harbaugh's team meetings are characterized by "wise words" and an "opportunity of fatigue," according to a recent look at his unique approach.

Draft Day Decisions and Player Numbers

LSU's DJ Pickett stated he will not change his jersey number despite pushback from Jayden Daniels, asserting it won't be a distraction for the Commanders' quarterback. Jerry Jones reflected on the Micah Parsons trade, comparing it to the Herschel Walker deal that fueled the Cowboys' 1990s dynasty.

Preseason Week 1 Takeaways

The NFL preseason kicked off with Week, highlighting performances from rookies and players in new situations. Notably, Madden Mendoza and Drew Allar stood out in their debuts.