NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: April 3, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

League Personnel & Offseason Moves

The annual league meetings in Phoenix concluded with several organizational shifts and personnel updates across the NFL. The Raiders secured a veteran presence by agreeing to terms with quarterback Kirk Cousins, a move that agent confirmation suggests will provide mentorship for potential future signal-caller, Fernando Mendoza. Coach Klint Kubiak later endorsed Mendoza, the presumed top pick, calling the Heisman winner a "winner" following his strong pro day, where the quarterback threw approximately 56 passes in front of all 32 team scouts. Meanwhile, the Owners approved a succession plan for the Raiders, allowing Egon Durban the option to acquire a controlling stake from current owner Mark Davis.

Two prominent defensive players formally announced their retirements this week, closing out distinguished careers. Two-time All-Pro cornerback Stephon Gilmore, who earned the 2019 Defensive Player of the Year award, confirmed his departure from the league, while linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. also bid farewell to the NFL, expressing gratitude for his time in the game shortly after Walker's announcement on Thursday. In other personnel news, safety Kyle Dugger appears set to remain in the AFC North division, having inked a one-year contract with the Cincinnati Bengals after previously playing for the Steelers.

League Governance & Policy Updates

NFL owners enacted two key changes concerning officiating and facility planning during their meetings. A contingency plan was approved to centralize officiating operations should negotiations with the NFL Referees Association lead to a work stoppage, as player safety advocates, including NFLPA executive director JC Tretter, continue to stress the need for "trained, professional officials on the field" amid ongoing labor discussions. Furthermore, the league granted the Jacksonville Jaguars unanimous permission to relocate their 2027 home games to Orlando, utilizing the period while the $1.4 billion renovation of Ever Bank Stadium is completed.

Commissioner Roger Goodell voiced his support for the Rooney Rule despite facing threats of civil litigation from Florida's attorney general, asserting the hiring policy remains consistent with employment laws. Separately, Chicago Bears CEO Kevin Warren indicated that the franchise is aiming for a decision regarding the location of the team's new stadium by "late spring, early summer," providing a timeline for the high-stakes choice. The league also saw the official start of a 20-year agreement whereby Fanatics has assumed exclusive control over the NFL and NFLPA's trading card licenses, consolidating merchandise rights under one entity.

Draft Speculation & Team Outlooks

With the draft rapidly approaching, analysts are refining their top prospect rankings, focusing heavily on the signal-callers entering the league. Four prominent draft experts—Mel Kiper Jr., Matt Miller, Jordan Reid, and Field Yates—collaborated to produce a mock draft covering the top 100 selections, detailing where top prospects might land. Despite the excitement surrounding prospects like Fernando Mendoza, evaluators are cautioning that the top QBs all possess specific flaws that could impede their immediate NFL success during their rookie campaigns.

Coaching commentary offered insight into several teams' immediate futures and philosophical approaches. Tennessee Titans coach Robert Saleh suggested that the team "could always use more edge," implying a high likelihood of selecting a pass rusher with the No. 4 overall pick when addressing roster needs. In Cleveland, Offensive Coordinator Alex Monken stated that quarterback reps during the offseason will not be divided equally between Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson, and Dillon Gabriel in their ongoing QB competition as workouts commence. Elsewhere, speculation arose that the Patriots might explore a trade for A.J. Brown, though coach Mike Vrabel did not dismiss the trade chatter.

Team Dynamics & Player Updates

Offseason programs are set to begin next week, though participation levels remain uncertain for some key veterans. Ravens Coach Jesse Minter expressed doubt regarding quarterback Lamar Jackson's commitment to the voluntary workouts, stating he is unsure of the signal-caller's level of involvement in the initial team activities. Meanwhile, Chiefs Coach Andy Reid offered an encouraging assessment of Patrick Mahomes' recovery, asserting that bettors should "not bet against Mahomes playing Week 1" amid growing optimism.

In Detroit, the Lions organization defended its financial dealings concerning offensive lineman Frank Ragnow, with the CEO explaining that the team had legitimate reasons for requiring the player to repay a portion of his initial signing bonus. The Lions also look forward to an international contest, as the team’s wide receiver, who will be playing in Munich next season, described the scheduled game as fulfilling a "dream homecoming" following an unexpected call. Separately, reports surfaced detailing friction within the Eagles offense, suggesting that quarterback Jalen Hurts needs to undergo an evolution in his game to better align with team strategy.

League Expansion & Off-Field Matters

Efforts continue to expand football's reach into new demographics and regions. The Kansas City Chiefs organization has initiated a petition campaign advocating for the sanctioning of girls' high school flag football, pending a critical vote by the Kansas State High School Activities Association scheduled for April 23 to officially recognize the sport. This push comes as Broncos coach Sean Payton, having experienced flag football firsthand, expressed doubt that any active NFL players would feature on the U.S. team in the near future at international competitions.

In league conduct matters, a former female official, Robin DeLorenzo, who was dismissed in 2025, has filed a lawsuit against the NFL, alleging she endured open hostility and gender-based scrutiny during her tenure as one of the league's initial female referees. Regarding player conduct, Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua has reportedly checked into a rehabilitation facility, according to his attorney, following a lawsuit filed against him last month in Los Angeles alleging serious misconduct. Furthermore, despite speculation linking Odell Beckham Jr. with the Giants, the receiver reportedly met with John Harbaugh during the league meetings to discuss a potential partnership with the Baltimore organization.