NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: August 20, 2026, 10:31 AM ET

Quarterback Developments

Rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza relies on his extensive notebook habit as he prepares for Thursday's preseason game at Houston, demonstrating the "lifelong learner" mentality that has defined his rise through the ranks. The 8 p.m. ET contest on ESPN will test whether his studious approach translates to live action against the Texans. Meanwhile, the Steelers announced that second-year quarterback Will Howard will start against the Jets on Friday, with 2026 fourth-round pick Drew Allar serving as his backup, continuing Pittsburgh's quarterback developmental rotation.

Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders remains unfazed by the ongoing competition for the starting quarterback position, stating he feels no pressure ahead of joint practice with the Bills on Thursday. His calm demeanor suggests confidence in his preparation regardless of the final decision. Across the league, uncertainty looms for half of NFL teams heading into next offseason, with 16 situations featuring quarterback1 questions for 2027, each carrying projected likely and unlikely outcomes that could reshape franchise trajectories.

Baker Mayfield brushed aside critics as he prepares to lead the Buccaneers against the Chiefs in Saturday's preseason matchup, vowing that Tampa Bay will "shock a lot of people this year." His confident rhetoric reflects the team's belief in their offensive capabilities despite external skepticism. Adding veteran perspective, Von Miller, now, expressed his singular focus on winning a Super Bowl during his introductory remarks at Cowboys training camp in Oxnard, California, as Dallas works the veteran linebacker into their defensive scheme.

Injury Updates

Colts star tight end Tyler Warren sustained a groin injury during Wednesday's joint practice and did not return, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming season. The severity of the injury remains undetermined, but his absence from practice signals a setback for Indianapolis's offensive planning. Similarly, Commanders defensive lineman Jer'Zhan Newton underwent surgery Wednesday to repair a torn pectoral muscle, confirming fears about his durability after a promising rookie campaign.

Saints running back Alvin Kamara is expected to be sidelined for at least the next month due to a sprained MCL, a significant blow to New Orleans's ground game continuity. His absence during the critical preseason period will test the team's depth at running back. Chargers center Tyler Biadasz faces an even more challenging recovery timeline, as he is out indefinitely following ACL damage and additional left knee injuries sustained in practice, potentially impacting Los Angeles's offensive line stability throughout the season.

Texans second-year wideout Jayden Higgins will miss the entire season after suffering a torn ACL during a joint practice with the Raiders, a devastating development for both player and organization. The injury occurred during what was expected to be a pivotal year for Higgins's development. In a broader draft impact, Puka Nacua and Jeremiyah Love have seen their draft positions drop in recent mock drafts due to injury news and potential suspensions, reflecting how quickly player availability can shift fantasy and real NFL landscapes.

Fantasy Football Insights

Eric Karabell's running back tiers provide crucial guidance for fantasy managers identifying where value drops off throughout the draft process. His breakdown helps separate premium options from later-round targets, offering strategic clarity for draft preparation. Complementing this, Karabell's wide receiver rankings into tiers serve the same purpose for the receiving corps, helping managers navigate positional depth charts and maximize draft capital allocation.

Six players are generating significant "drumbeat" excitement in fantasy circles, with potential to become league winners if their current momentum carries into the regular season. These names include key contributors who could exceed their draft-day valuation. Additionally, former Ole Miss starters Dae'Quan Wright, Zxavian Harris, and Wydett Williams, all of whom signed with NFL teams this summer, were granted a temporary restraining order for a fifth year of eligibility, adding complexity to roster decisions across multiple franchises.

Coaching and Team Perspectives

Despite finishing the 2025 season below expectations, head coach Dan Campbell and other NFL coaches maintain strong belief that the Lions will return as contenders in 2026. Their championship window remains open according to Campbell, and support from peers like Sean McVay and Matt LaFleur reinforces this optimistic outlook. The team's identity focus aims to combat what many perceive as a harder schedule this season, emphasizing resilience and adaptation.

Kyle Shanahan dismissed speculation that Christian McCaffrey is sitting out practice due to contract desires, clarifying that the team is merely being cautious with its star running back. This reassurance addresses concerns about potential distractions during training camp activities. Meanwhile, Ravens defensive end Calais Campbell broke his silence regarding a devastating family tragedy, requesting continued prayers and support after addressing the death of his mother and his brother's murder charge publicly for the first time on Tuesday.

Roster Moves and Signings

Former Cowboys Pro Bowl cornerback Trevon Diggs plans to sign a one-year deal with the Seahawks, bringing veteran experience to Seattle's secondary. The move reunites him with familiar faces and provides depth in a competitive NFC West. In another significant transaction, the Giants traded guard Daniel Faalele to the Jaguars for a sixth-round draft pick in 2027, addressing Jacksonville's offensive line needs while giving New York future draft capital.

The Buccaneers and Vita Vea agreed to a one-year extension that guarantees him $30 million, ending his hold-in situation and securing the two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle's services through another season. This substantial commitment reflects Tampa Bay's recognition of Vea's impact on their defensive line. Running back Najee Harris signed a one-year deal with the Giants, bringing his proven track record to New York's backfield competition where he expressed having "a lot to prove" in his new environment.

Training Camp Highlights

Multiple brawls marred the Saints-Cowboys joint practice, with so many fights occurring that coaches from each team discussed canceling the session entirely. The intensity of these confrontations highlighted the competitive fire burning during preseason preparations, though discipline concerns emerged from the chaotic scenes. Panthers quarterbacks Bryce Young and receiver Jalen McMillan put on a notable show during their Jacksonville camp session, providing positive momentum for Carolina's offensive development.

Dallas Cowboys training camp updates revealed that RT Terence Steele is seeking consistency in his performance, while rookie wide receiver Roman Wilson continues to shine in early drills. These individual developments contribute to broader team dynamics as the Cowboys evaluate personnel combinations heading into the regular season. The Panthers' young core demonstrated flashes of chemistry in their joint session, suggesting potential growth areas for the franchise's rebuilding timeline.

Offensive System Analysis

While Chicago's success will always be tied to its quarterback position, a deeper examination reveals that Ben Johnson's Bears offense operates with sophistication beyond just Caleb Williams's individual talent. The system's underlying mechanics and strategic elements showcase Johnson's coaching acumen and create a foundation for sustained offensive production. This multi-faceted approach positions the Bears' offense as more than a single-player story, emphasizing collective execution and scheme diversity.

Bears second-year tight end Colston Loveland continues emerging as both an on-field fantasy star and off-field personality, building his reputation through consistent performance and community engagement. His dual-threat capability adds another dimension to Chicago's offensive versatility. The Bears' offensive identity under Johnson appears to be solidifying around complementary pieces rather than relying solely on individual brilliance, suggesting a more balanced and sustainable approach League Expansion Vision

NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell stated there is "no doubt" that the league will eventually establish a team permanently based outside the United States, marking another step toward international expansion. This declaration aligns with ongoing efforts to grow the sport globally and capitalize on international markets. The eventual timeline and location remain speculative, but Goodell's confidence signals serious organizational commitment to geographic diversification as part of the NFL's long-term growth strategy.