NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: March 25, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

League Operations & Offseason Turbulence

Labor relations within the league took a downturn as negotiations between the NFL and the NFL Referees Association stalled unexpectedly due to an inability to bridge gaps in the proposed collective bargaining agreement, prompting the Competition Committee to finalize rule change proposals designed to account for a potential work stoppage involving officials. Adding to the off-field issues, a civil lawsuit was filed against Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua, alleging he made an "unprovoked antisemitic statement" and subsequently bit a woman on the shoulder during an incident in Los Angeles. Furthermore, the league faces external legal challenges, as a new gambling addiction suit targets the NFL alongside data partner Genius Sports and major sportsbooks Fan Duel and Draft Kings in a Pennsylvania state court.

Schedule Adjustments & Future Hosting Bids

The upcoming season's slate features a notable deviation for the reigning champions, as the Super Bowl LX champion Seahawks will kick off Week 1 on Wednesday rather than the traditional Thursday night slot, necessitated by their international commitment. league owners are reportedly set to approve a bid that will bring the Super Bowl back to the desert, as sources indicate Las Vegas is slated to host Super Bowl LXIII following the conclusion of the 2028 NFL season. Meanwhile, stadium development continues in Buffalo, where new renderings for Highmark Stadium showcase three massive stainless steel bison statues set to anchor a newly designed year-round fan plaza outside the venue.

Quarterback Movement & Veteran Commitments

The quarterback carousel saw a few key developments this week, most notably veteran Joe Flacco agreeing to return to the Cincinnati Bengals for a 19th professional season on a one-year contract valued at $6 million to serve as Joe Burrow's backup. Despite accepting the backup role, Flacco publicly asserted that teams passing on him for starting opportunities were making a "dumb" decision. In other QB news, the New Orleans Saints have reportedly bolstered their depth by agreeing to a one-year contract with quarterback Zach Wilson, while the New England Patriots made a corresponding move by releasing Joshua Dobbs, elevating Bailey DeVito to the role of QB2.

Player Performance & Draft Prospect Analysis

In college football news relevant to the draft, Ohio State receiver Carnell Tate opted not to run the 40-yard dash at his pro day in Columbus, explaining that the metric is often "overvalued" by evaluators, even as analysts debate how his profile compares to other recent first-round receivers from the Buckeyes program since 2022. On the injury front, Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes provided encouraging updates, posting video footage Wednesday of himself successfully executing drops and throws, marking the first visual confirmation of his progress since undergoing knee surgery in December. Separately, former Dolphin Tua Tagovailoa stated that achieving the starting quarterback role in Atlanta requires him to "play better football," acknowledging the high bar set by the Falcons organization.

Coaching Staffs & Roster Construction

Coaching changes are taking shape in Green Bay, where Matt LaFleur's offensive scheme is expected to integrate a familiar presence as Luke Getsy returns, while Jonathan Gannon is anticipated to implement a 3-4 base defensive front. Free agency analysis shows divergence across the league, with some clubs remaining quiet after the initial spending spree, such as the Denver Broncos who still face several significant roster needs heading into the draft, contrasting sharply with the activity of others in March’s spending period. Furthermore, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are adding depth at linebacker by signing free agent Christian Rozeboom, and the Atlanta Falcons secured running back Brian Robinson via a one-year deal worth $2.5 million.

Contract Implications & Player Milestones

The ripple effects of major contract extensions are being calculated across the league, particularly after a recent record-setting deal for a top receiver in 2025, which prompts questions regarding the financial implications for contemporaries like Seattle's Puka Nacua. On the retirement front, Tampa Bay Buccaneers stalwart Lavonte David announced his departure after 14 seasons, concluding a career where he served as a 12-time captain and once led the league in tackles. In positive league news, the Pro Football Hall of Fame announced it will honor three influential former assistant coaches—Mike Westhoff, Bobb McKittrick, and Ted Cottrell—for their contributions to the game. Finally, quarterbacks Joe Burrow and Robert Griffin III expressed enthusiasm for representing Team USA in the upcoming Olympic flag football competition, signaling their collective interest in "going for gold".