NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: April 17, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

Pre-Draft Maneuvering & Front Office Clarity

With the NFL Draft rapidly approaching, general managers across the league are publicly clarifying trade intentions while others prepare for potential movement within the first round. Raiders GM John Spytek confirmed that teams have inquired about acquiring the No. 1 overall pick, though he stressed that those interested parties "know where they stand" regarding Las Vegas's asking price. Simultaneously, Chiefs GM Brett Veach anticipated significant activity, stating there will "probably be a lot of trades" during the opening round, a sentiment echoed by Lions GM Brad Holmes who has historically shown a readiness to both move up and down the board to secure targets. In contrast, the Chargers shut down swirling trade rumors concerning wide receiver Quentin Johnston on Thursday, while the Dolphins management firmly declared that star running back De'Von Achane is "not available" for any deal as they prioritize an extension for the homegrown talent.

Draft Strategy & Personnel Outlook

As teams finalize their draft boards, analysis continues on which prospects fit specific team needs, with mock drafts offering projections across the first two days of selections. Mel Kiper Jr.’s latest projection includes 64 picks, mapping out potential landing spots for top quarterbacks and accounting for two expected trades. For teams looking to bolster their receiving corps, the 49ers—despite adding veterans in free agency—are targeting youth in the draft, while the Packers are actively clearing the path for second-year wide receiver Matthew Golden to emerge after losing Dontayvion Wicks and allowing Romeo Doubs to depart. Looking at quarterback situations, the Arizona Cardinals remain non-committal on naming a starter between Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew, leaving open speculation about potentially drafting Ty Simpson.

Player Updates & Legal/Financial Proceedings

Several players faced significant off-field developments this week, including a civil lawsuit judgment against a key offensive weapon. A Texas court issued a default judgment exceeding $2.8 million against Theodore Knox, named as a co-defendant in a civil suit stemming from an incident involving Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice. Separately, the league is addressing financial integrity issues, as a report detailed accusations that a former Alabama defensive end allegedly used wigs and fraudulent identities to secure nearly $20 million in loans, naming Michael Penix Jr. and David Njoku as individuals whose identities were reportedly misappropriated. On the injury front, Titans quarterback Cam Ward is progressing well, with GM Mike Borgonzi indicating Ward is "on track to throw" during the team’s June minicamp following the shoulder injury sustained in the season finale.

Team Branding & League Operations

Two franchises unveiled significant branding overhauls this week, marking the first major uniform changes in years for both organizations. The Baltimore Ravens debuted a completely revamped on-field look, the first major update since 1999, following a three-year design process. The Washington Commanders also rolled out their refreshed three-uniform set, headlined by a black "Hail Raiser" alternate featuring a newly designed secondary logo. In league administration, the NFL has begun the process of onboarding potential replacement officials as the collective bargaining agreement with the NFL Referees Association nears expiration. Furthermore, the league announced the hiring of Brian Flinn as the new senior vice president of global flag football, signaling continued investment in the non-tackle version of the sport.

Player Comebacks & Franchise Milestones

The league saw stories of perseverance and significant career anniversaries surface this week. Safety Nasir Adderley signed with the Indianapolis Colts on Tuesday, marking his return to the NFL just two months after announcing his intention to come out of retirement following the 2022 season. Meanwhile, Panthers linebacker Jaelan Phillips shared how music served as a vital bridge during his journey back to the league after being forced to medically retire during his college career. On the organizational milestone front, reflection was given to the 2014 draft when the Chiefs secured Chris Jones, a selection attributed to a "big argument" and fortunate draft positioning, cementing it as one of the most critical picks in franchise history.

UFL & Player Conduct Updates

In the United Football League, Ted Ginn Jr. returned to the Columbus Aviators sideline on Friday to coach after missing one game following his recent DWI arrest. Separately, the Giants confirmed they have held "productive" discussions with the agent for defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence in their efforts to resolve the situation after the player requested a trade. The league is also seeing players ready to step into larger roles, as evidenced by the Giants clearing out depth at wide receiver, placing greater expectation on their 2025 first-round pick, Matthew Golden, for the upcoming season.