NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: April 11, 2026, 8:30 AM ET

NFL Draft Intelligence & Preparation

The preparation for the upcoming NFL Draft is increasingly reliant on advanced analytics, with teams leveraging artificial intelligence to project unseen measurables for prospects who skip combine workouts, pushing draft evaluation to "a different level". Concurrently, projection models are already forecasting career outcomes for the 2026 class, as Aaron Schatz utilized his QBASE 2.0 model to forecast career ceilings and floors for the top five quarterback prospects in that cycle. Across the league, teams are finalizing their strategies; the Denver Broncos hold seven selections and are reportedly evaluating tight ends for the No. 62 spot, while the New York Giants consider cornerback with their high pick at No. 5, holding seven total picks in the 2026 event.

Team Personnel Moves & Contract Status

Several teams finalized roster adjustments and secured long-term commitments this week. The Atlanta Falcons picked up running back Bijan Robinson's fifth-year option on Friday, though the team is also navigating internal turmoil as pass rusher James Pearce Jr. remains absent from workouts due to facing three felony charges. In San Francisco, the 49ers bolstered their defense by agreeing to a one-year contract with free agent cornerback Jack Jones, and subsequently added former Bengals defensive end Cam Sample on a similar one-year deal. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Eagles acquired wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks from the Packers in exchange for two draft picks, as the team also monitors trade interest surrounding quarterback Tanner McKee.

Quarterback Situations & Roster Strategy

The quarterback landscape remains dynamic, particularly in Las Vegas where Kirk Cousins acknowledged that he is prepared to step aside if the Raiders select highly touted prospect Fernando Mendoza. The Raiders, holding the No. 1 overall pick, face a situation reminiscent of 2007 when they paired a first-time head coach with a rookie quarterback, offering a template for what they might learn with Klint Kubiak. On the other side of the league, the Baltimore Ravens noted Lamar Jackson appeared "reinvigorated" upon reporting for offseason workouts, a positive sign for the organization as the two-time MVP meshes with new coaching staff. Furthermore, the Houston Texans exercised their 2027 fifth-year options for both quarterback C.J. Stroud and All-Pro defensive end Will Anderson Jr. .

Coaching & Organizational Developments

Coaching staffs are deep into offseason preparation, with Dallas Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer entering his second year focused on refining his draft preparation process after settling in last season. In Kansas City, the NFL's oldest coach, Andy Reid, is enjoying a rare long offseason, giving him time to implement necessary changes as the team seeks a bounceback campaign. Off the field, the ownership group of the Denver Broncos finalized the acquisition of a minority stake in the Colorado Rockies, purchasing approximately 40% of the team. Regrettably, the league mourned the passing of former Jets and Louisville quarterback Browning Nagle, who died earlier this week at the age of 57.

Team Needs and Draft Positioning

As the draft approaches, reporters are providing the latest intel on team needs and potential selections across the board. The Minnesota Vikings are noted as needing depth at both wide receiver and running back for the first time in a significant stretch, likely looking to address these gaps in the 2026 draft. The Browns enter the draft holding two first-round selections among their nine total picks, with recent activity including a visit from prospect Concepcion. Meanwhile, the Broncos are navigating their draft without a first-round selection for the third time in five years following the Jaylen Waddle trade, while the Patriots possess the most selections overall with 11.

Free Agency & Player Milestones

Veteran player movement continued as the New York Giants added depth to their offensive line by securing a one-year deal with former Ravens guard Daniel Faalele. In Atlanta, the Falcons were forced to pivot after right tackle Kaleb McGary announced his retirement, prompting the team to sign veteran free agent Taylor to fill the void. On a personal note, Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold celebrated a personal milestone, marrying his fiancée just months after competing in Super Bowl LX. In Washington D.C., rookie Gabe Taylor, wearing No. 21, prepares for his debut, understanding the legacy established by his brother Sean in the city.

League-Wide Matters & Prospect Buzz

The league faces external scrutiny as reports emerged that The Athletic is reinvestigating coverage surrounding reporter Dianna Russini and her relationship with Patriots coach Mike Vrabel, amidst questions raised this week. Furthermore, the potential impact of a federal Department of Justice investigation into the NFL remains a subject of speculation regarding its consequences for television networks and the viewing public. In terms of prospect visibility, five Ohio State players, including quarterback Ty Simpson, are confirmed among the 16 players slated to attend the first round of the draft on April 23 in Pittsburgh. Finally, the UFL has promised expansion by 2028, with co-owner Mike Repole confirming Oklahoma City as a confirmed location, though the second expansion city remains undetermined.