NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: April 22, 2026, 8:30 PM ET

NFL Draft Final Preparations & Insider Buzz

As the draft approaches, the internal machinations of personnel departments are becoming clearer, with multiple analysts releasing final projections incorporating the latest intelligence from top insiders like Jeremy Fowler. Peter Schrager's final mock suggested four massive trades would shake up the first round, potentially seeing prospects like Jeremiyah Love or Sonny Styles land in the top five, while Jordan Reid's comprehensive seven-round projection attempted to map out every team's slot from the Raiders' first pick to Mr. Irrelevant. On the trade front, the Super Bowl champion Seahawks confirmed their desire to move down the board, with GM John Schneider indicating they are actively seeking deals, even with divisional rivals. The Jets, holding the No. 16 pick, are widely expected to target an offensive weapon with their initial selection, though uncertainty remains regarding whether they will stay put or maneuver.

The eve of the draft is also seeing elevated scrutiny regarding potential information leaks, as former executives warned about insider betting risks, suggesting it is only a matter of time before someone attempts to parlay confidential team knowledge into wagering success. Meanwhile, team visits are yielding intel, though some cancellations are downplayed; Jets GM Darren Mougey urged fans not to overanalyze the nixed predraft meeting with defensive end prospect David Bailey. On the prospect health front, Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks, considered among the top interior linemen available, is expected to receive full medical clearance for football activities in early June following offseason foot surgery, sources confirmed.

Quarterback & Offensive Star Movement

The quarterback carousel continues to spin, with Justin Fields publicly explaining his desire to join the Chiefs organization specifically to absorb knowledge from Patrick Mahomes, while the Vikings' Justin Jefferson offered a candid assessment of the new quarterback room, expressing excitement for Kyler Murray's addition and being blunt regarding J.J. McCarthy. In the realm of free agency and retirement contemplation, free agent quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo is reportedly considering hanging up his cleats after the 2023 season, sources indicated. Away from the QB position, the Colts received positive news as Daniel Jones, recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon suffered four months prior, has resumed dropping back and throwing during his rehabilitation.

Team & Player Updates Across the League

Several marquee offensive players are seemingly cleared for full offseason participation, offering positive outlooks for their respective teams. Rams coach Sean McVay declared wide receiver Puka Nacua, who required rehab earlier this offseason, will be a "full participant" when the team commences its program, while 49ers linebacker Fred Warner is also reporting no restrictions after suffering a season-ending ankle injury last October. In Denver, running back Shedeur Sanders praised the atmosphere under new Browns coach Todd Monken, stating there is a "new vibe" and energy surrounding the franchise. Furthermore, the league saw significant contract movement, with the Cowboys finalizing an agreement with kicker Brandon Aubrey that installs him as the NFL's highest-paid specialist, and the 49ers securing left tackle Trent Williams with a two-year, $50 million extension to quell any contract dispute drama.

Coaching Changes & Personnel Decisions

Coaching news emerged from Pittsburgh, where former Steelers head man Mike Tomlin is securing a role with NBC Sports as a studio analyst for "Football Night in America," sources confirmed. Meanwhile, the Steelers organization, along with GM Omar Khan, indicated they are not imposing a deadline on Aaron Rodgers regarding his decision on whether to return to the field or retire this season. In unique family situations, the Saints granted Offensive Coordinator Doug Nussmeier permission to join his son, Garrett, on draft night in what was described as a "once in a lifetime opportunity" for the family. Finally, defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike of the Ravens underwent neck surgery last week, though doctors remain optimistic about his ability to resume playing this season.

Offseason Sticking Points & Prospect Focus

The Dallas Cowboys have made their stance clear regarding wide receiver George Pickens, stating they will not engage in long-term extension talks and intend for him to play the upcoming season under the franchise tag, according to executive Stephen Jones. On the injury front, Colts receiver Alec Pierce will be sidelined during offseason workouts after recently undergoing ankle surgery to address lingering pain from the previous season. Separately, the focus remains heavily on the incoming talent, with analysts tracking the unprecedented rise of consensus top pick Fernando Mendoza, while one reporter has already identified a "brightest diamond in the rough" prospect to watch for the 2026 draft class. Outside of current prospects, the perennial interest in top talent continued, as free agent wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. worked out for the Giants and passed a physical on Monday.