NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: April 9, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

NFL Roster Moves & Veteran Status

The 49ers secured defensive depth by agreeing to a one-year contract with former Bengals defensive end Cam Sample on Thursday, according to sources. Elsewhere on the offensive line, the Falcons navigated the sudden retirement of right tackle Kaleb McGary by adding veteran Taylor, while the Giants bolstered their interior protection Wednesday, finalizing a one-year deal with former Ravens guard Daniel Faalele per league sources. Simultaneously, Atlanta tight end Kyle Pitts Sr. signed his franchise tender and reported to offseason workouts, signaling commitment despite the uncertainty surrounding the roster.

Quarterback Dynamics & Draft Prospects

In Las Vegas, quarterback Kirk Cousins publicly stated his expectation that he should only be under center if deemed the team's superior option, acknowledging the shadow of the expected selection of Fernando Mendoza who is reportedly foregoing the draft ceremony. The Raiders, holding the No. 1 overall pick and ten total selections for the 2026 draft as they prepare for a rookie QB, face historical context, as they last paired a first-time head coach with a rookie No. 1 pick in 2007 a situation experts are analyzing. Meanwhile, the Texans demonstrated long-term confidence by exercising the 2027 fifth-year options for both franchise quarterback C.J. Stroud and All-Pro defensive end Will Anderson Jr. a key move for team stability.

Team Draft Intel & Strategy

As the 2026 draft approaches, teams continue to solidify their board positions, with reporters gathering intelligence across the league for all 32 franchises addressing major positional questions. The Denver Broncos, lacking a first-round selection for the third time in five years following the Jaylen Waddle trade, are preparing for the No. 62 pick among their seven total selections assessing needs without a top selection. In the NFC South, the New York Giants are positioned early in the first round with seven picks, though significant organizational shifts could occur if they were to trade defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, a move one analyst suggests the team cannot afford given his current contract status. Furthermore, experts are projecting outcomes for top prospects, with Peter Schrager releasing his comprehensive mock draft, while analysts offer comparisons, naming Rueben Bain Jr. and Mendoza among the class's most polarizing players requiring deep scouting evaluation.

Offseason Workouts & League Business

The Baltimore Ravens observed a noticeable shift in quarterback Lamar Jackson's demeanor upon reporting for offseason workouts this week, with the former MVP reportedly excited to integrate with the new coaching staff signaling positive momentum. Conversely, the Atlanta Falcons are managing off-field issues, as pass rusher James Pearce Jr. remains absent from team workouts due to facing three felony charges coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed Wednesday. Beyond team preparations, the UFL signaled expansion plans targeting 2028, with Oklahoma City confirmed as one incoming market, while the NFL itself faces regulatory scrutiny, as the Justice Department has commenced an investigation into the league's television contracts examining potential anticompetitive practices.

Player Legacy & League Reflection

The career achievements of former Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David are drawing serious Hall of Fame consideration, with former teammate Gerald McCoy asserting that "If his career is not Hall of Fame worthy. I don't know whose is" when comparing him to Canton legends. In a somber development, the passing of Bears legend Steve "Mongo" McMichael at age 67 in 2025 revealed that the Hall of Famer was diagnosed with CTE following a five-year battle with ALS, prompting his wife to donate his brain for research a final contribution to science. Separately, former quarterback Colin Kaepernick announced his forthcoming memoir, "The Perilous Fight," scheduled for publication on September 15, promising to deliver context regarding the events leading to his on-field protest offering his perspective on the controversy.

Team Specific Intel & Fantasy Outlook

The Cleveland Browns are preparing for the 2026 draft with two first-round selections among their nine total picks, including a recent visit from prospect Concepcion as they prioritize team needs. Quarterback Tanner McKee of the Philadelphia Eagles may draw trade interest again as the team enters the draft process with nine selections overall assessing all available assets. Meanwhile, analysts are already preparing for the upcoming fantasy season, with Mike Clay releasing detailed breakdowns profiling over 60 wide receivers to help managers plan their rosters. Lastly, even as speculation continues over Brandon Aiyuk’s future, who has not played since October 2024, the 49ers face decisions regarding their star wide receiver's contract status.