NFL Football 3d Briefing
×Trade Deadline Moves
The Texans espn.com acquired running back David Montgomery from the Lions in exchange for offensive lineman Juice Scruggs and draft picks, sources told ESPN. Houston also traded right tackle Tytus Howard espn.com to the Browns for a fifth-round pick, while the Lions dealt Montgomery to address their offensive line needs.
Contract Decisions
The Bengals retained offensive lineman Dalton Risner espn.com with a one-year deal, keeping one of their top linemen ahead of free agency. Meanwhile, the Chiefs have informed tackle Jawaan Taylor he'll be released before the league year begins, potentially saving $20 million in cap space. The Vikings also notified running back Aaron Jones and defensive tackle Javon Hargrave they'll be released unless traded before the 2026 league year.
Draft & Combine Updates
Mississippi State's Brenen Thompson blazed a 4.26-second 40-yard dash espn.com at the combine, the third-fastest by a wide receiver since 2003. Quarterback Taylen Green set multiple positional records espn.com during his combine workout. Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love, ranked No. 2 on ESPN's Big Board, plans to participate in all combine drills rather than sitting out like some top prospects.
Team News & Personnel
The Cowboys' pass rusher Donovan Ezeiruaku underwent hip surgery espn.com five weeks ago and could miss until training camp. The Packers hired Cam Achord espn.com as special teams coordinator after his Super Bowl-winning tenure elsewhere. Atlanta fired assistant coach La Troy Lewis espn.com following sexual assault allegations.
Salary Cap & Financial Moves
The NFL salary cap hit a new high of $301.2 million espn.com for the 2026 season, topping $300 million for the first time in league history. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones acknowledged the team's championship drought and promised changes to their free agency approach.
Executive Changes
The NFLPA has narrowed its executive director search espn.com to finalists including current interim David White and former player president JC Tretter. Former Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson said he's prepared to prove himself espn.com as a "franchise quarterback" to NFL evaluators at the combine.
Draft Prospects Analysis
ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. identified 13 prospects who helped their draft stock espn.com at the combine, including Chris Brazzell II and Dani Dennis-Sutton. The top offensive line prospect Francis Mauigoa said battles with Miami teammates made him better and he's open to position changes. Analysts are examining where projected top pick Fernando Mendoza would rank among first-round quarterbacks from the past five years.
Team Strategy Updates
The Texans face looming contract decisions about C.J. Stroud despite not planning to trade him in the offseason. Cleveland is exploring quarterback options in free agency with limited choices available. Teams are evaluating how to handle polarizing prospects like Diego Pavia, who isn't toning down his approach despite criticism.
College to NFL Transitions
Baylor quarterback Sawyer Robertson's journey to the NFL has been unconventional, taking years to feel comfortable running an offense. His development raises questions about whether he can make the transition work at the professional level. Other prospects are working to prove they can handle the speed and complexity of NFL schemes after successful college careers.