NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: August 25, 2026, 3:43 AM ET

Browns Name Watson QB1

The Cleveland Browns have officially named Deshaun Watson their starting quarterback, returning to the 30-year-old under enormous pressure to succeed. The franchise's decades-long quest to solve its quarterback quandary brings them back to Watson, who faces questions about durability and production following an uneven return from injury. The announcement settles the camp competition for now, though the team's failure to secure a definitively stable long-term answer at the position remains the broader storyline.

NFL Transactions and Roster Moves

The Houston Texans acquired wide receiver Kayshon Boutte in a trade with the New England Patriots on Monday, sending a pick and a player in return. The Bengals released offensive lineman Cody Ford after three seasons with the club, freeing up a roster spot and some cap flexibility. Meanwhile, the New Orleans Saints are set to sign two-time All-Pro kicker Daniel Carlson, according to his agents, adding a reliable veteran leg to the roster. The Browns are also waiving tight end Dae'Quan Wright, who has an agreement to play for LSU in 2026 if he clears waivers, a significant change for a player with college eligibility remaining.

Injury Report

The Las Vegas Raiders' running back Ashton Jeanty is likely to have sustained an ankle sprain after being helped off the practice field Sunday, per sources. The Baltimore Ravens believe center Danny Pinter is out for the season, while Pro Bowl defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike's status for the opener remains uncertain. The Arizona Cardinals activated pass rusher Josh Sweat off the physically unable to perform list Monday, allowing him to return to practice for the first time in weeks.

Giants and Steelers Updates

New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers shed the red no-contact jersey and participated in live drills for the first time since injury, bringing him another step closer to a Week 1 return. The Pittsburgh Steelers are at an impasse with cornerback Joey Porter Jr., who remains sidelined on the physically unable to perform list, as coach Mike McCarthy expressed frustration with the situation. The Cleveland Browns noted no contest in a prostitution case for a Pro Bowl receiver retiree's new teammate.

Cowboys Camp

Philadelphia Eagles rookie receiver Makai Lemon participated fully in practice for the first time since his early training camp hamstring injury, believing he can be in top form for the season opener. The Dallas Cowboys left their California camp with takeaways including a good first impression from rookie Caleb Downs and insights on Dak Prescott's strengths. After an up and down rookie season, Patriots tackle Will Campbell learned from peers like Lane Johnson and other top O-linemen this summer to regain lost strength.

Coaches and Philosophies

LSU coach Lane Kiffin defended his pursuit of NFL rookies seeking a fifth year of college football, saying he's just one of many coaches trying to do so, framing it as a predictable arms race. The Green Bay Packers and Arizona Cardinals prepared for a joint practice, where brothers Matt and Mike LaFleur met as head coaches for the first time. The Patriots' coach Mike Vrabel clarified that his earlier comments about the team's depth were not a shot at the front office, repeatedly saying the roster's limitations explain why starters have not played in the preseason.

Retirements and Achievements

Former Pro Bowl wide receiver Allen Robinson announced his retirement at 33 on Monday, ending a career that last appeared in the NFL in 2024. The NFL community received his announcement with appreciation for his five years with the Jaguars, Bears and other teams. Meanwhile, Cowboys undrafted offensive lineman Shiyazh Pete delivered a heartfelt postgame speech, which coach Schottenheimer said was "very raw."

League News

All 32 teams' 53-man rosters are being projected by lineup reporters with the deadline one week out. The police closed the case into the death of Bills defensive tackle Ed Oliver's son with no criminal findings in the Harris County investigation. Also, the Fantasy Football Hall of Fame inducted its first two players in celebration of ESPN's game introduced in 1995.