NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: April 22, 2026, 5:30 AM ET

Quarterback & Offensive Movement

The quarterback carousel continues to spin as Justin Fields expressed his desire to join the Chiefs specifically to learn under the tutelage of Patrick Mahomes, positioning himself for mentorship rather than immediate QB1 status elsewhere. Meanwhile, in recovery news, Colts signal-caller Daniel Jones has reportedly begun dropping back and throwing again, marking a significant milestone just over four months after sustaining a ruptured Achilles tendon. Separately, free agent veteran Jimmy Garoppolo is reportedly considering hanging up his cleats entirely, sources indicate, adding another name to the pool of potential organizational changes this offseason.

Draft Prospects & Team Needs

As the draft approaches, team reporters across NFL Nation released their mock drafts, predicting landing spots for top talent, though questions remain whether Fernando Mendoza is the only quarterback projected to go in the first round, given his unique blend of curiosity and command. The Seahawks have signaled their keenness to trade down from their current slot, even expressing a willingness to deal within the division, while the Jets' general manager cautioned against overanalyzing the nixed predraft visit with defensive end prospect David Bailey, who remains a possibility at No. 2. Adding intrigue to the Day 2 projections, wide receiver Zachariah Branch was arrested in Athens, Georgia, on possible misdemeanor charges early Sunday morning, potentially impacting his standing despite being widely expected to be selected on Day.

Contract & Financial Updates

Financial negotiations have yielded some major agreements, notably the Cowboys locking down kicker Brandon Aubrey to a new deal that instantly establishes him as the highest-paid kicker in NFL history, according to his agents. In a massive commitment to the offensive line, the San Francisco 49ers secured left tackle Trent Williams with a substantial two-year, $50 million extension announced Monday. These high-value signings contrast with the broader financial rankings, where analysts detailed the highest-paid players at every position across the league, from quarterback down to punter.

Player Health & Offseason Participation

Several key offensive contributors are reporting positive health updates as offseason programs commence. Rams star receiver Puka Nacua is cleared to be a "full participant" following a period in rehab, with Coach Sean McVay noting the receiver "looks great." Similarly, 49ers linebacker Fred Warner stated he has "no restrictions" for the start of team activities after suffering a season-ending ankle injury last October. Conversely, the Colts will be without wide receiver Alec Pierce for initial workouts after he recently underwent surgery to address nagging ankle pain that plagued him last season.

Coaching & Personnel Shifts

The coaching world saw former Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin joining NBC Sports as a studio analyst for "Football Night in America," according to sources, marking his post-coaching career move. On the player personnel side, Ravens defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike underwent neck surgery last week, though doctors remain optimistic that he will be able to resume playing later this season. Furthermore, new Colorado Buffaloes coach Shedeur Sanders praised the "new vibe and new energy" surrounding the Cleveland Browns under first-year offensive coordinator Todd Monken.

Veteran Status & Off-Field Intrigue

The Steelers organization is reportedly giving Aaron Rodgers time to decide on his status, as General Manager Omar Khan stated there is no firm deadline for the quarterback to confirm whether he will return or retire this season. In a separate matter involving public image, former Patriots coach Mike Vrabel addressed the publication of photos showing him embracing a woman, assuring fans they will receive "the best version of me " Meanwhile, rapper Drake appeared to troll incoming Bears quarterback Caleb Williams during his "Iceman" album rollout by posing in a Green Bay Packers jacket amidst blocks of ice, while Williams himself is eager to build off his big college year following downtime at Coachella.

Draft Model Analysis & Future Talent

Analytics models are heavily weighing in on draft scenarios, with one predictor suggesting that teams like Dallas might need to trade up, while simultaneously questioning whether Ty Simpson will slide out of Round 1. Analysts are also projecting which players might exceed expectations, with Mel Kiper Jr.'s annual list including 15 players poised to outperform their draft slot, featuring speedy receivers and gritty linemen. Looking further ahead, one extensive scouting effort identified Prospect X as the brightest diamond in the 2026 draft class, while Jeff Legwold released his "Leggy 100" ranking of the best pure talent available in that future pool of prospects.

Player Commentary & Team Culture

Vikings star receiver Justin Jefferson was frank regarding the team’s quarterback situation, expressing enthusiasm for Kyler Murray's playmaking abilities while being blunt about the departure of J.J. McCarthy. Former Cowboys coach Jimmy Johnson advised the Jets that making the right picks is more valuable than simply stockpiling selections, a lesson relevant to New York, which currently holds eight picks across the first two rounds. Finally, free agent wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. worked out for the Giants on Monday and successfully completed a physical with the team, signaling potential interest in adding the veteran presence.