NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: April 3, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

League Personnel & Transactions

The league saw several high-profile retirements announced this week, including former Two-time All-Pro cornerback Stephon Gilmore hanging up his cleats after a decorated career, highlighted by his 2019 Defensive Player of the Year award. Linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. also confirmed his departure on Thursday, thanking football in a brief statement as he concluded his playing days. In other personnel moves, safety Kyle Dugger secured a new home in the AFC North, signing a one-year contract with the Cincinnati Bengals for the 2026 season, while veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins agreed to terms with the Raiders, bringing his experience to Las Vegas according to his agent.

League Meetings & Governance

The annual league meetings concluded in Phoenix this week, generating significant buzz across various fronts reported by thirty sources. One key administrative decision involved the Raiders' future, as owners approved a succession plan granting Silver Lake co-chief executive Egon Durban the option to acquire a controlling stake from current owner Mark Davis. Furthermore, owners endorsed two significant replay rule adjustments and established a contingency plan to centralize officiating duties should CBA negotiations with the NFL Referees Association lead to a work stoppage. Commissioner Roger Goodell also addressed legal challenges, stating the Rooney Rule remains "consistent" with employment laws despite a threat of civil litigation from Florida's attorney general regarding the hiring mandate.

Offseason Dynamics & Player Status

Coaches offered updates on their quarterbacks and offseason plans amidst the league meetings. Chiefs coach Andy Reid gave an optimistic outlook on Patrick Mahomes' recovery, suggesting bettors should not count against his Week 1 availability, while Ravens coach Jesse Minter expressed uncertainty regarding quarterback Lamar Jackson's voluntary workout participation. In Cleveland, Offensive Coordinator Alex Monken indicated that reps during the Browns' quarterback competition will not be split evenly between Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson, and Dillon Gabriel in early workouts due to competitive balance. Meanwhile, Rams receiver Puka Nacua has entered rehab, as confirmed by his attorney following a recent lawsuit filed in Los Angeles last month alleging civil misconduct.

Draft Projections & Scouting

Scouting attention remained focused on the upcoming draft class, particularly top quarterback prospects. Expected No. 1 overall selection Fernando Mendoza put on an extensive display at his Indiana pro day Wednesday, throwing approximately 56 passes in front of representatives from all 32 teams. Raiders coach Klint Kubiak praised Mendoza, labeling the Heisman winner a "winner" during his press availability. However, analysts caution that top QBs face potential hurdles; one assessment detailed specific flaws that could impede their immediate success. To assist teams, four prominent draft analysts—Mel Kiper Jr., Matt Miller, Jordan Reid, and Field Yates—collaborated on a rotating mock draft covering the initial 100 selections.

Team Strategy & Facility Updates

Franchise strategies involved facility planning and roster evaluation. Chicago Bears President and CEO Kevin Warren stated the team anticipates making a final decision regarding the location of their new stadium site in "late spring, early summer" following extensive review. In franchise personnel matters, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones confirmed the team has "long-term plans" for receiver George Pickens but confirmed no contract negotiations have begun, implying the organization will utilize the franchise tag for now to secure his rights. The Tennessee Titans, looking to bolster their defense, saw new coach Robert Saleh suggest they "could always use more edge," indicating a strong interest in adding a pass rusher with the No. 4 overall pick as per his comments.

League Culture & Off-Field Matters

Off-field discussions touched on league equity and historical matters. NFLPA Executive Director JC Tretter issued a statement emphasizing that player safety mandates the presence of "trained, professional officials on the field" amid ongoing labor talks with the league office. In response to a lawsuit from a former female official, Robin DeLorenzo, who alleged gender-based hostility after her 2025 firing, Commissioner Goodell defended the Rooney Rule against legal threats. Separately, the league is embracing new initiatives, exemplified by the Kansas City Chiefs' campaign supporting a petition to sanction girls' high school flag football, pending a vote by the Kansas State High School Activities Association on April 23.

Business & Branding Developments

The business side of the NFL saw a major consolidation as the 20-year exclusive trading card license between Fanatics, the NFL, and the NFL Players Association officially commenced, centralizing league memorabilia rights under the single entity. On the branding front, the Atlanta Falcons officially unveiled new uniforms for the 2026 season, which prominently reintroduce the franchise's primary, deep red color scheme as the base design. Furthermore, the Jacksonville Jaguars received unanimous approval from owners to play their 2027 home schedule in Orlando while Ever Bank Stadium undergoes renovation.

Coaching & Player Relations

Coaching relationships appear to be mending or solidifying across the league. Jets coach Aaron Glenn firmly declared that quarterback Geno Smith is the designated leader destined to guide the team to the "promised land." In a less contentious update, Liam Coen and Robert Saleh confirmed there is no residual animosity stemming from their sign-stealing disagreement last September following their recent conversation. Meanwhile, Lions CEO provided context regarding an earlier contract issue, explaining the team had valid reasons for requiring Frank Ragnow to repay a portion of his signing bonus despite public scrutiny.