NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: April 12, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

Legal Troubles & Offseason Discipline

The league faces several off-field disciplinary issues as teams prepare for the draft, including a recent arrest involving Cowboys safety Markquese Bell facing charges for possession of a controlled substance and marijuana in Collin County. Separately, former NFL wide receiver and current Aviators coach Ted Ginn Jr. was charged with driving while intoxicated in Tarrant County, Texas, on Saturday. These incidents follow a ruling this week where an appeals panel upheld the decision that insufficient evidence existed to prove team collusion during the 2022 contract negotiations for quarterbacks Kyler Murray, Lamar Jackson, and Russell Wilson.

Draft Prep & Prospect Movement

As the draft approaches, teams are utilizing advanced analytics, with some organizations employing artificial intelligence to project workout measurables for prospects who skip combine events. While preparation methods evolve, certain prospects have dramatically boosted their draft stock since last season, including Dillon Thieneman and Monroe Freeling. The projections for the quarterback class remain varied, as Aaron Schatz’s QBASE 2.0 model offers a wide range of potential outcomes, forecasting ceilings and floors for the 2026 quarterback prospects. Furthermore, five Ohio State players, including QB Ty Simp, are confirmed among the 16 prospects slated to attend the first round in Pittsburgh on April 23.

Team Roster Moves & Contract Status

Several teams finalized roster adjustments this week, with the San Francisco 49ers agreeing to a one-year contract with veteran free agent cornerback Jack Jones, shortly after also securing defensive end Cam Sample on a similar one-year deal on Thursday. In Philadelphia, the Eagles executed a trade, acquiring wide receiver Dontayvion Wicks from the Packers in exchange for two draft picks. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Falcons secured their investment in running back Bijan Robinson by picking up his fifth-year option on Friday. The Vikings, conversely, face a need for depth at both wide receiver and running back positions heading into the upcoming selection process.

Front Office & Ownership Developments

In Minnesota, the focus shifts to personnel strategy, as Coach Brian Schottenheimer, having settled into his role, is reportedly adjusting his approach to draft preparation in his second year leading the Cowboys. The Jets face a rare quandary at the No. 2 overall pick, potentially breaking precedent by selecting an edge rusher like David Bailey, as the franchise has never drafted a defensive player that high. On the ownership side, Broncos owners Greg Penner and Carrie Walton Penner are expanding their sports portfolio, acquiring a minority stake of approximately 40% in the Colorado Rockies.

League Investigations & Player Tributes

The NFL continues to navigate external scrutiny, with attention focused on what a potential Department of Justice investigation could mean for television networks and fan engagement. Separately, there are internal integrity questions being addressed, as The Athletic is reportedly reinvestigating coverage surrounding reporter Dianna Russini and her relationship with coach Mike Vrabel. On a more personal note, the league observed the passing of former Jets and Louisville quarterback Browning Nagle at age 57, while rookie Gabe Taylor prepares for his debut in D.C., recognizing the legacy established there by his brother, Sean, as he dons jersey number 21. The Colts have also signaled a desire to move on from cornerback Kenny Moore II, as sources confirm the team is actively seeking a trade for the veteran defensive back.