NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: April 9, 2026, 11:30 PM ET

NFL Draft Intel & Prospect Movement

As the 2026 draft approaches, significant pre-event movements are shaping team strategies across the league, with quarterback prospects drawing particular focus. Fernando Mendoza has informed the league he will not attend the draft in person, adding intrigue to where the Raiders might select him with the No. 1 overall pick, a scenario that echoes their pairing of a first-time head coach and rookie QB back in 2007. Meanwhile, Kirk Cousins, aware of the looming Mendoza selection, stated he only intends to play if deemed the Raiders' best quarterback option, potentially forcing a decision on his role early in the season. Outside of Las Vegas, five Ohio State players are slated to attend the first round in Pittsburgh, including quarterback Ty Simp, though Mendoza himself is not among the 16 attendees.

Draft analysts continue to refine their projections, with intel suggesting various needs across the league. The New York Giants, holding the No. 5 selection, are exploring cornerback as a genuine possibility, while the Denver Broncos are looking at tight ends for their No. 62 pick, despite lacking a first-round selection for the third time in five drafts following the Jaylen Waddle trade. Further south, the Cleveland Browns hold two first-round picks and are reportedly keen on players like Concepcion following his visit, while the Miami Dolphins assess their needs around the No. 11 spot with 11 total selections. Experts like Peter Schrager projected all 32 first-round picks based on feedback gathered during the annual league meetings, while other analysts compared top prospects to established veterans, listing comps for Mendoza and others.

Team Roster Moves & Contract Updates

Several teams finalized deals and handled contractual obligations this week, specifically bolstering offensive and defensive lines. The San Francisco 49ers secured defensive end Cam Sample, agreeing to a one-year contract with the former Bengal on Thursday, even as questions linger about Brandon Aiyuk's future with the team following his extended absence from game action since October 2024. On the offensive front, the Atlanta Falcons adjusted after right tackle Kaleb McGary's retirement, promptly adding veteran Taylor, while tight end Kyle Pitts Sr. signed his franchise tender and reported to offseason workouts. The New York Giants fortified their interior line, agreeing to a one-year deal with former Ravens guard Daniel Faalele, a move that comes as the organization navigates contract situations like that of defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence.

In franchise management, the Houston Texans proactively secured the futures of their young cornerstones, exercising the 2027 fifth-year options for quarterback C.J. Stroud and All-Pro defensive end Will Anderson Jr.. Elsewhere, Lamar Jackson reported to the Baltimore Ravens' offseason workouts, with the team noting a renewed energy from the two-time MVP under the new coaching staff. Conversely, the Atlanta Falcons are dealing with off-field issues, as pass rusher James Pearce Jr. is absent from workouts due to facing three felony charges, a situation coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed Wednesday.

League Business, History, & Off-Field Matters

The league faces external scrutiny regarding its business practices, as the Justice Department has initiated a probe into whether the NFL has engaged in anticompetitive behavior concerning its television contracts, particularly those requiring separate subscription costs for viewing access. Separately, in reflection on player legacies, former Tampa Bay linebacker Lavonte David's Hall of Fame credentials are being strongly advocated, with former teammate Gerald McCoy asserting that his career is undeniably worthy of Canton. On a somber note, the passing of Bears Hall of Famer Steve "Mongo" McMichael at age 67 was confirmed to be linked to CTE, following his five-year battle with ALS, with his brain donated for research.

In league governance and future planning, UFL co-owner Mike Repole promised expansion for the spring league in 2028, naming Oklahoma City as one confirmed destination, with the second city yet to be announced. Meanwhile, former quarterback Colin Kaepernick announced his memoir, The Perilous Fight, set for a September 15 release, which he stated will provide context for his decision to kneel during the national anthem. Finally, in non-roster personnel news, Andy Reid, the league's longest-tenured coach, has utilized his extended offseason to implement changes, facing the task of engineering a significant bounceback season.