NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: September 7, 2026, 10:37 PM ET

NFL Football

The NFL season is nearly upon us, and teams are making their final preparations. The season preview breaks down all 32 teams, offering bold predictions and key stats ahead of Week. For some franchises, the stakes are higher than others; five teams are in win-now mode, driven by aging rosters, contract situations, and draft capital demands.

Injury reports are shaping rosters as teams finalize their plans. The Cardinals are optimisticthat rookie running back Jeremiyah Love will play Sunday at the Chargers,about four weeks after suffering a high ankle sprain. Meanwhile, the Titans placed linebacker Cedric Gray in the concussion protocolafter a UTV accident. In Baltimore, coach Jesse Minter has named Jovaughn Gwynthe starting center for the opener at the Colts. The Colts, though, expect receiver Alec Pierce to be ready for Week 1after offseason ankle surgery.

Roster moves continue across the league. The Giants have released Darius Slayton,their longest-tenured player, while also agreeing to a two-year, $13 million extensionwith backup quarterback Jameis Winston. In Dallas, Pro Bowl guard Tyler Smith is headed to IRafter thumb surgery, expected to miss about four games. The Vikings are bringing back safety Harrison Smithon a one-year deal worth $12.25 million for his 15th season.

one season simulationfrom the Football Power Index suggests a Lions-Chargers Super Bowl matchup. From a betting perspective,the Rams are favoritesat +500 odds, though other storylines abound. Commissioner Roger Goodell has finalized a new extensionthat runs through the 2030 season.

Several teams are dealing with key personnel decisions. The Browns may have a package of playsready for rookie quarterback Taylen Green, utilizing his athleticism. Tennessee's offensive line is adopting a more aggressive mindsetunder new coaches Carmen Bricillo and Isaac Williams. the Falcons have named Tua Tagovailoatheir starting quarterback for Week 1 against the Steelers.

Coaches are facing familiar foes. Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels is looking to right the wrongsfrom Super Bowl LX, when the Seahawks terrorized Drake Maye. Meanwhile, 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan has changed his tuneon the Australia trip, calling it right after early concerns dissipated. He is also preparing as ifAaron Donald will play in the opener, despite no official decision from the Rams. Los Angeles does expect Puka Nacuaand left tackle Alaric Jackson to play Thursday despite ongoing legal situations.

Around the league, notable figures are in the news. Former Bears fullback Matt Suhey,who helped Walter Payton win the 1985 NFL championship,has died at. Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud is confidentahead of a pivotal Year 4 without a new contract. the Ravens have key questionsto answer despite heightened expectations, including at kicker. Former Chargers running back Joshua Kelley has transitioned to filmmakingafter his NFL career. Finally,the effects of the Mike Vrabel scandalcontinue to linger across the NFL, even as New England has moved past it.