NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: March 27, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

League Operations & Legal Headwinds

Labor talks stalled earlier than planned this week between the NFL and the NFL Referees Association as the two sides failed to achieve progress on a new collective bargaining agreement, prompting the competition committee to finalize wide-ranging rule change proposals intended to account for a growing possibility of a work stoppage amid tense negotiations. Adding to the league's off-field challenges, the NFL, along with sportsbooks Fan Duel and Draft Kings, faces a new lawsuit in Pennsylvania state court targeting them and data partner Genius Sports over allegations of gambling addiction filed by a plaintiff Tuesday. Separately, Panthers LT Rasheed Walker confirmed Thursday that a January gun charge, stemming from an arrest at LaGuardia Airport, is slated for dismissal, clearing a potential hurdle for the young lineman as he prepares for the season.

Offseason Roster Moves & Contract Adjustments

The Buffalo Bills aggressively bolstered their offensive line depth on Thursday by securing veteran free agents Austin Corbett and Lloyd Cushenberry III, signaling a commitment to protecting their quarterback amidst a competitive AFC East. In contrast, the Denver Broncos have maintained a comparatively low profile in free agency following one major trade, leaving them with four significant roster needs remaining as the draft approaches following the initial spending spree. Meanwhile, the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Myles Garrett, finalized modifications to his contract language with the Cleveland Browns on Tuesday, according to league sources, indicating a mutual agreement on important structural details before the draft calendar heats up.

Quarterback Carousel & Player Commentary

The Minnesota Vikings continue to offer varied public statements regarding their crowded quarterback situation, with coach Kevin O'Connell providing ambiguous answers throughout the offseason concerning the four arms currently competing for snaps ahead of the league meetings. In contrast, Zach Wilson has reportedly found a new home, agreeing to a one-year contract with the New Orleans Saints to fill out their quarterback room as confirmed by sources. On the subject of starting roles, Joe Flacco, now back in Cincinnati backing up Joe Burrow, asserted that teams were "dumb" for passing on signing him as a primary starter this offseason, despite ultimately landing a backup job following his stint with the Browns.

Draft Prospects & Pro Day Assessments

Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson expressed strong confidence following his pro day workout in front of NFL scouts, stating he is "absolutely" a lock to be selected in the first round of the upcoming draft based on his final impression. Across the country, Ohio State receiver Carnell Tate elected not to run the 40-yard dash at his university's pro day on Wednesday, arguing that the event's primary metric can be "overvalued," even as analysts evaluate him against the Buckeyes' recent history of top receiver prospects since 2022. This pre-draft evaluation period is further complicated by existing fantasy projections; Mike Clay released his 2026 fantasy outlook this week, detailing 25 trends that fantasy players must understand as the offseason progresses.

League Scheduling & Future Events

NFL owners are expected to formally vote on hosting Super Bowl LXIII in Las Vegas following the 2028 season, sources indicated, adding another marquee event to the city's growing sports portfolio after 2028. In a unique scheduling adjustment for the coming season, the Super Bowl champion Seahawks will initiate their title defense on Wednesday of Week 1 instead of participating in the traditional Thursday night kickoff game, necessitated by their commitment to play in Australia this year. Furthermore, former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III has received an invitation from USA Football to participate in two training camps beginning next month in Chula Vista, California, as he seeks a spot on Team USA's flag football roster.

Retirements, Lawsuits, and Celebrity Sighting

Linebacker Lavonte David officially announced his retirement after a stellar 14-year career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, during which he served as a 12-time captain and frequently led the league in tackles since entering the league. Separately, Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua is facing a civil lawsuit from a Los Angeles woman who alleges he made an "unprovoked antisemitic statement" and subsequently bit her on the shoulder during an altercation. In celebrity sports crossover news, Taylor Swift and fiancé Travis Kelce made their red carpet debut together at the iHeart Radio Music Awards, where Swift, after accepting the Artist of the Year award from Olympic gold medalist Alysa Liu, offered a public shoutout to the Chiefs tight end during her acceptance speech.

Coaching Changes & League Innovations

The Green Bay Packers are integrating changes to Matt LaFleur's coaching staff, which includes the return of Luke Getsy to the offensive side of the ball, while Jonathan Gannon is reportedly set to implement a 3-4 base defensive scheme in his new role. In a different league, UFL co-owner Mike Repole detailed his vision for remaking the spring football circuit, which includes utilizing smaller venues and introducing a high-value four-point field goal option as part of his operational strategy. Meanwhile, Tom Brady publicly stated that when he explored the possibility of returning to the NFL after his initial retirement, the league itself did not "like that idea very much" during recent commentary.