NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: August 24, 2026, 11:37 PM ET

Quarterback Decisions

The Cleveland Browns have named Deshaun Watson QB1, bringing the 30-year-old back under center for a franchise that remains haunted by its long search for stability at the position. Coach Todd Monken said Watson's postgame comments Saturday won't factor into his decision, and he anticipates naming a starter Monday. Watson faces enormous pressure to succeed after an inconsistent preseason, but the veteran remains atop the depth chart for now.

Transactions and Trades

The Texans acquired wide receiver Kayshon Boutte in a trade with the Patriots on Monday, sending a pick and a player back to New England. The Saints continued to reshuffle, signing two-time All-Pro kicker Daniel Carlson, while also acquiring running back Zamir White in a trade that sent veteran linebacker Deion Jones to the 49ers. The Bengals released offensive lineman Cody Ford on Monday, ending his three-season tenure in Cincinnati.

The LaFleur brothers are set for a joint practice, as Packers head coach Matt LaFleur hosts younger brother Mike and the Cardinals this week. In a historic first, the Browns are waiving tight end Dae'Quan Wright, who has an agreement for the 2026 season to play for LSU if he clears waivers, a unique path from Cleveland to the collegiate ranks.

Injuries and Roster Moves

The Ravens believe center Danny Pinter is lost for the season after going down in practice, and they are unsure whether Pro Bowl defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike will be ready for Week. The Raiders' Ashton Jeanty is likely dealing with a sprained ankle after being helped off the field Sunday, according to sources. The Seahawks lost rookie safety Bud Clark for the long term after he broke his right ankle in Sunday's 19-16 loss to the Titans, with lineman Mason Richman also sustaining a major injury.

The 49ers activated George Kittle from the PUP list as he chases a Week 1 return against the Rams, while the Cardinals did the same for pass rusher Josh Sweat. The Giants' Malik Nabers shed the red no-contact jersey and took part in live drills Monday moving toward Week. Eagles rookie receiver Makai Lemon practiced fully for the first time since a hamstring injury and believes he can be in top form for the opener. The Steelers are at an impasse with Joey Porter Jr., as the cornerback remains sidelined on the PUP list, coach Mike McCarthy says.

League and Legal Developments

Niners owner Jed York pleaded no contest to two misdemeanor charges after being arrested in Ohio in a prostitution-related case. Police in Texas have closed the case into the death of Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Ed Oliver's son, with the Harris County Sheriff's Office reporting no criminal findings with the case now closed. The Cowboys' Cee Dee Lamb's home in Fairview, Texas, was burglarized while he was at camp in Oxnard, California, according to police.

LSU coach Lane Kiffin has defended his pursuit of NFL rookies seeking a fifth year of college football, saying he is one of many coaches trying to do so. The Patriots' Will Campbell has spent the summer regaining strength lost to injury and picking the brains of top offensive linemen. Patriots coach Mike Vrabel said his Saturday comment about depth was not a shot at the front office, but a reason why Drake Maye, A.J. Brown and others haven't played in preseason.

Projections and Forecasts

Bill Barnwell has Kansas City on top of his list of the five teams most likely to improve this season, notably noting the Giants and Jets after dreadful campaigns in 2025. NFL Nation reporters have projected all 32 teams' 53-man rosters with the deadline one week away. Field Yates reported his fantasy football favorites, having repeatedly landed Justin Herbert and Justin Jefferson in drafts this summer, while ESPN's Fantasy Football Hall of Fame inducted its first two players, Moss and Charles, celebrating the game since 1995.

Cowboys Wrap-Up

Takeaways from the Cowboys' month in California, including a good first impression from rookie Caleb Downs, the emergence of Trackman Dak, and hot dog insights have been collected for a training camp wrap-up. The Cowboys' building has a strange dynamic as the season approaches.

Coaching and Culture

Lane Kiffin and the Cardinals' Matt LaFleur will meet as head coaches, as Mike's the younger brother, have a joint practice and preseason game this week. As the team gathers in Wisconsin, the brother coaches will trade playbooks, a family arrangement that has generated personal interest.

Offensive Line and Special Teams

A standout undrafted rookie's viral postgame speech has drawn reactions from Schottenheimer and Pete, as Shiyazh Pete of the roster celebration, a member of Navajo Nation, was overwhelmed by fan response after the Cowboys match with the Cardinals.

Defense

The Chiefs and Lions might both return to playoffs. For the Cardinals, Josh Sweat returns, helping to activate more pressure. The Eagles' camp ended with hustle, and the offensive line looks set, but the defensive tackle situation has depth question marks. At the edge, a rookie copes, while a loss at safety could heighten the Hawks' defensive struggles.

Final

The Patriots center Pinter has been lost for the year; the 49ers' Kittle status remains. Cleveland and New England both challenge narratives, while the New York team emerges with a cooked set. Once the deadline approaches, all 32 franchises are on the move.