NFL Football 24 Hours

Last updated: September 17, 2026, 6:03 AM ET

Quarterback Carousel Dominates Week 2 Storylines

The NFL's quarterback landscape remains in flux as multiple teams grapple with injuries and uncertainty heading into Week. The Seahawks ruled out Sam Darnold for Sunday's game against the Cardinals due to an unspecified injury, though the veteran avoided a stint on injured reserve. In Atlanta, Michael Penix Jr. didn't rule out playing against the Panthers on Sunday, with the young quarterback described as "close" to a return. Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski added another layer of intrigue by saying he's "not ruling anybody out" when it comes to his quarterback situation, which now includes injured Cooper Rush and Tua Tagovailoa. The Bengals received better news as Joe Burrow said he expects to play against the Texans despite dealing with back tightness, calling the notion of sitting out "ridiculous."

Injury Report: Running Backs and Receivers Hit Hard

Several skill-position players are facing extended absences. The Vikings placed Jordan Mason on injured reserve Wednesday after the running back underwent thumb surgery, sidelining him for at least four weeks. The 49ers received a double dose of bad news as receiver De'Zhaun Stribling is expected to miss approximately 10 weeks following ankle surgery, while tight end Tonges will miss the entire season. The Jets are dealing with their own depth concerns as rookie wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. is week-to-week with an ankle sprain and safety Minkah Fitzpatrick is also expected to miss time, prompting the team to add depth including receiver Shepard. The Chargers, depleted at receiver after their loss to the Cardinals, are adding Valdes-Scantling to their practice squad.

Saints Optimistic About Kamara's Return

New Orleans received encouraging news as coach Kellen Moore expressed optimism about Alvin Kamara's availability for Week. The veteran running back practiced in full and is reportedly in "a great place" physically, suggesting he should be ready to face the Panthers. Kamara's presence would provide a significant boost to a Saints offense looking to establish rhythm early in the season.

Chiefs Rookie Cornerback Trending Toward Playing

Kansas City received positive news regarding rookie cornerback Mansoor Delane, who is on track to play against the Colts despite aggravating a shoulder injury after recording his first career interception. The rookie's availability would bolster a Chiefs secondary preparing for a challenging matchup against Indianapolis.

Mayfield Saga Continues in Tampa Bay

The Baker Mayfield storyline took another entertaining turn as the Buccaneers quarterback donned a Michigan tank after losing a bet with coach Todd Bowles. The Oklahoma Sooners, Mayfield's alma mater, were stunned by Michigan, forcing the quarterback to wear the rival's colors. Meanwhile, Buccaneers assistant coach Ken Zampese didn't hold back when discussing the Browns' handling of Mayfield, saying Cleveland had their QB1 and "mucked it up" before trading him away. Zampese, who was Mayfield's quarterbacks coach in Cleveland, offered a candid assessment of the organization's decision-making.

Stroud Takes High Road Amid Criticism

Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud brushed off criticism from former Texans great Andre Johnson, who critiqued the young signal-caller's body language. Stroud took the high road when asked about the comments Wednesday, demonstrating the maturity that has made him a franchise cornerstone in Houston. The exchange highlights the scrutiny facing young quarterbacks even from team legends.

Bears Prepare for Flores' Complex Defense

Chicago's offense faces a significant test Monday night against Brian Flores' Vikings defense. Bears quarterback Caleb Williams is preparing for a mental war, with coach Ben Johnson describing the preparation as "not so much fun" given Flores' reputation for exotic blitz packages and disguised coverages. The challenge represents a critical early-season test for Williams and the Bears' offensive evolution under Johnson's guidance.

Ben Johnson's Culture Shift in Chicago

Speaking of Johnson, the Bears' new head coach has introduced a simple but effective mantra that has taken hold in the locker room. The "No block, no rock" philosophy has resonated with players, emphasizing that even the "little guys" need to get a hat on a hat for the offense to function. The pithy phrase has become a rallying cry for a team looking to establish an identity under new leadership.

Prescott Nears Cowboys Record

Dak Prescott is approaching a significant milestone in Cowboys history. The quarterback needs four touchdowns to pass Tony Romo in the franchise record book, and the timing could align with Sunday's matchup against the Commanders. Teammates and former players shared stories about Prescott's journey, including one memorable account from a player who caught a touchdown pass from the Mississippi State product.

Ravens Make Kicker Change

Baltimore made a special teams decision Tuesday, releasing Jake Moody from the practice squad after Tyler Loop's impressive performance in the season opener. The move signals the Ravens' confidence in Loop as their kicking solution Henry Chasing History

Emmitt Smith acknowledged this week that Ravens running back Derrick Henry has the stamina to break his all-time NFL rushing record. The Hall of Famer's endorsement carries significant weight given Smith's 18,355 career rushing yards. Henry's combination of size, speed, and durability has positioned him as perhaps the most credible threat to Smith's longstanding mark.

Off-Field Developments

Colts wide receiver Keenan Allen was formally charged with two misdemeanor drunk driving counts after allegedly blowing a .224 on a breath test, nearly three times the legal limit. The veteran receiver now faces legal proceedings that could impact his availability. In another legal matter, attorneys representing the former girlfriend of Josh Jacobs have filed a motion seeking to have evidence in the case permanently sealed. Meanwhile, the Giants ownership transfer is now complete, according to Tisch Blodgett, finalizing the shift of shares from Steve, Laurie, and Jonathan Tisch.

Roster Moves Around the League

The Panthers made roster adjustments Tuesday, waiving receiver Jimmy Horn Jr. and signing linebacker Tyrel Dodson from the practice squad. The moves reflect Carolina's ongoing efforts to optimize its 53-man roster early in the season.

Social Justice Statement Draws Support

Texans linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair received support from an unexpected source after being fined $11,941 for wearing cleats honoring a slain Palestinian girl. Kyrie Irving offered to pay the fine, highlighting the ongoing intersection of sports and social activism. The gesture underscores the solidarity among athletes on issues they consider meaningful beyond the field.

Power Rankings and Early Season Analysis

One week into the season, power rankings reveal surprising movement, with the Bills, Seahawks, and Ravens climbing. ESPN's poll also highlighted standout newcomers making immediate impacts. the 2027 draft order projection offers an early glimpse at which teams might be selecting near the top, based on ESPN's Football Power Index. And in the playoff picture, updated projections reveal how the 14-team postseason field could line up, along with Super Bowl LXI odds.

Week 1 Offensive Explosions

Four NFL offenses erupted in Week, with Chicago, Baltimore, Buffalo, and Jacksonville among 10 teams that scored 30 or more points. The scoring surge made for a bettor-friendly opening Sunday, as touchdowns galore created a "bettor-friendly trifecta" with a variety of players finding the end zone. Fantasy managers are now sorting through the noise, with matchup rankings for Week 2 identifying Prescott and McLaurin as poised for rebounds. The Facts vs. Feelings analysis breaks down what eight notable Week 1 performances actually mean for Week.

Broncos' September Struggles Continue

Denver's early-season woes persisted with Monday's loss to the Chiefs, dropping the Broncos to 4-8 in September under Sean Payton. The schedule doesn't get easier for Denver, raising concerns about another slow start in a competitive AFC West.

Week 2 Storylines to Watch

As Week 2 approaches, several compelling narratives emerge. Seven things to watch include whether the Titans can score against the Eagles and whether Ben Johnson can solve Brian Flores' defense. Around the league, QB1 uncertainty continues to dominate conversation in Seattle, Minnesota, and Atlanta, while the Rams and Chargers both stumbled out of the gate. The insider notebook provides the latest buzz on these developing situations as teams finalize their preparations for Sunday.