NFL Football 3 Days

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

NFL Draft Speculation Heats Up

As the NFL Draft approaches, multiple analysts unveiled their final projections, with Peter Schrager forecasting four major trades that could drastically alter the first round order, including speculation that top prospects like Jeremiyah Love and Sonny Styles could land in the top five. Meanwhile, the Seahawks publicly signaled their strong desire to trade down, even if it means dealing within the division, as they seek to accumulate more picks, a sentiment echoed by internal discussions in Denver regarding the Titans' top-five placement and potential trades. Analytics models are also weighing in, with one system settling key Round 1 debates on prospects like Ty Simpson and Jeremiyah Love to guide teams like the Rams, who are viewed as a potential wild card in the opening round.

Insider reports are providing granular detail on specific players, as defensive tackle Caleb Banks, who underwent offseason foot surgery, is projected by sources to receive full clearance for football activities by early June, potentially alleviating concerns about his immediate future. For the Jets, the focus remains squarely on offense with their later first-round selection, as General Manager Darren Mougey downplayed the significance of a nixed predraft visit with defensive end David Bailey, suggesting the team is still heavily leaning toward an offensive selection at Pick 16. Furthermore, the Raiders are attempting to map out their strategy for the remainder of their draft after their initial selection, examining positional needs across nine remaining picks.

The impending draft has also brought renewed attention to the security risks associated with insider information, as former NFL executives expressed certainty that it is only a matter of time before someone attempts to parlay confidential draft knowledge into illicit betting gains. On the coaching front, former Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin is reportedly securing a role as a studio analyst for NBC’s "Football Night in America," while his predecessor in Pittsburgh, Mike Vrabel, addressed recent public scrutiny, stating he had difficult discussions regarding published photographs and promising Patriots fans the best version of him .

Player Personnel & Contract Updates

In a move signaling commitment for the immediate future, the Dallas Cowboys confirmed they will not engage in long-term contract talks with wide receiver George Pickens, intending instead for him to play the upcoming season under the franchise tag. Conversely, the San Francisco 49ers solidified their offensive line, agreeing to a two-year, $50 million extension with veteran left tackle Trent Williams closing out contract drama. Financial benchmarks continue to shift across the league; the Cowboys also made Brandon Aubrey the NFL's highest-paid kicker on Monday, securing his services with a new pact announced by his agents, even as quarterback contracts continue to dominate the highest earners list across all positions.

Several high-profile quarterbacks and receivers are making strides in their recovery and team integration. Colts quarterback Daniel Jones, who suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon just over four months ago, has already resumed dropping back and throwing during his rehabilitation as confirmed by team reports, though his teammate, wide receiver Alec Pierce, will miss offseason workouts following his own ankle surgery. In Los Angeles, Rams coach Sean McVay stated that star wide receiver Puka Nacua, who required some offseason rehab, will be a "full participant" in team activities and "looks great". Meanwhile, Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson offered a candid assessment of the team's quarterback situation, expressing enthusiasm for Kyler Murray's playmaking abilities while being blunt regarding J.J. McCarthy's status.

Quarterback movement continues to be a topic of discussion, with free agent Jimmy Garoppolo reportedly considering retirement after discussions with NFL Network sources on Monday. In Chicago, newly acquired Justin Fields explained his motivation for joining the Chiefs, stating he specifically desired the opportunity to learn directly from Patrick Mahomes; this speculation contrasts with the anticipation surrounding Bears presumptive top pick Caleb Williams, who, after enjoying downtime including Coachella, is reportedly "itching to play football again". Adding a layer of celebrity intrigue, rapper Drake seemingly trolled Caleb Williams during his "Iceman" album release by posing in Packers gear near blocks of ice.

Team Culture & Personnel Matters

Saints Offensive Coordinator Doug Nussmeier received special permission from the organization to spend the entire draft with his son, Garrett, describing the opportunity to be present on draft night as "once in a lifetime". In Cleveland, running back Kareem Hunt noted a distinct shift in the locker room atmosphere, reporting a "new vibe" and "new energy" under first-year head coach Todd Monken and his staff. Regarding player health, Ravens defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike underwent neck surgery last week, but sources indicated doctors are optimistic he will be able to resume playing later this season. Furthermore, 49ers linebacker Fred Warner confirmed he is "feeling great and no restrictions" as he prepares for the offseason program after suffering a season-ending ankle injury last October.

The league is also to future talent, with reports already identifying a prospect termed "Prospect X" who analysts believe could emerge as the brightest diamond in the rough for the 2026 NFL Draft class. Finally, in a piece of unusual off-field news, former Steelers GM Omar Khan and Coach Mike McCarthy indicated they are not imposing a timeline or deadline for Aaron Rodgers to announce whether he will return to play or retire for the upcoming season.