NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: August 26, 2026, 2:52 PM ET

NFL Football

Tributes & Around the League

The sports world paid tribute to legendary singer-songwriter Dolly Parton, who died Tuesday at age. Across the NFL, teams and players honored the Volunteer State icon, whose music and philanthropy left an indelible mark on the culture.

A new study published by the British Medical Journal found that at least 25% of NFL players who died between 2016 and 2021 had CTE, adding fresh urgency to ongoing player-safety discussions. Meanwhile, 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan said the arrest of owner Jed York for attempting to engage in prostitution has "no effect" on the team's on-field goals. The NFL also unveiled the second iteration of its Rivalries uniform series, featuring eight new teams from the AFC South and NFC North.

Injuries & Roster Moves

The Texans suffered a scare Wednesday when starting right tackle Braden Smith and reserve defensive end Ali Gaye were carted off the field early in a joint practice with the Panthers. Houston also got good news on quarterback C.J. Stroud, who showed up with a new haircut and leaner physique to become more of a dual threat. Bengals star Ja'Marr Chase said he is "fine" after an injury scare in which he appeared to hurt his left knee at practice.

The Giants suffered a major blow when receiver Calvin Austin III, suffered a "serious" right knee injury while running a route at Tuesday's training camp. New York also dealt offensive lineman Josh Ezeudu to the Chiefs for a 2028 seventh-round pick. The Seahawks placed rookie safety Bud Clark and offensive lineman Mason Richman on season-ending injured reserve after both were hurt in Sunday's preseason game against the Titans.

Buccaneers rookie pass rusher Rueben Bain Jr. suffered an AC sprain, but sources said it is "nothing serious" and he is expected to be ready for Week. Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez, expressed frustration over his contract extension talks with the team as the Sept. 9 opener approaches. The Commanders, who lost Laremy Tunsil to a torn triceps on Aug. 5, are signing veteran tackle D.J. Humphries, a source confirmed. Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes said he feels "great" and remains on track to start in Week.

Raiders coach Klint Kubiak was mum on details regarding Ashton Jeanty's injury, saying only that the second-year player is "on the mend". Jets camp updates included news on the kicking competition, with Sanders winning the job, plus intel on QBs and position battles.

Team Storylines & Camp Intel

The Bears are still searching for their starting left tackle, with coach Ben Johnson calling the competition a "hot spot" 19 days ahead of their season opener at the Panthers. Carolina coach Dave Canales reiterated the team's commitment to Bryce Young for the 2026 season but said any long-term extension talk will be handled by the front office.

ESPN's Bill Barnwell identified five NFL teams that will take a step back this season, including the Broncos and Patriots, while questioning whether the Bears are getting too much hype. Denver's Bo Nix is aiming to blossom in Year 3 by slowing down his dropbacks and refining his footwork to produce more big plays.

Ravens defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, is ushering in a new era in Baltimore, with players saying he pumps belief into the roster through his competitive drive and player connection. The Jets' Aaron Glenn and Geno Smith drew scrutiny at camp, and our reporters highlighted 10 things we learned, including the promise of rookie linebacker David Bailey.

Fantasy & Draft

ESPN's Fantasy Football Hall of Fame inducted its first two players, celebrating the best performers since the game launched in 1995. In the annual Fantasy Marathon mock draft, running backs dominated the early rounds, with 13 of the first 20 picks coming at the position while most managers waited on quarterbacks. NFL Nation reporters answered the most important fantasy questions for 25 teams, providing insight from training camps. For deeper leagues, our analysts identified late-round rookie sleepers who could emerge in 2026 and beyond.

Jordan Reid projected the top 32 picks in the 2027 NFL draft, including a blockbuster trade and quarterbacks going 1-2-3. With Roger Goodell saying there's "no doubt" NFL teams will eventually play outside the U.S., we asked executives which international cities make the most sense for expansion.

Off the Field

Giants and Jets players across a generation, from Tiki Barber in the late 1990s to current rookies, shared their thoughts on the New York/New Jersey dynamic, offering a candid look at the Big Apple expectations versus Garden State reality. Patriots quarterback Drake Maye granted a Make-A-Wish on Friday at Gillette Stadium for Skylar, a 16-year-old from Massachusetts diagnosed with a brain tumor, completing a baking-themed wish for the young fan.