NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: April 23, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

NFL Draft Speculation & Insider Intel

As the league approaches draft night, the volume of insider information and final mock projections has intensified, fueling widespread betting speculation across the market. Peter Schrager's final projection 9 featured numerous blockbuster trades, including four major swaps, while Matt Miller's projection, incorporating intel from Jeremy Fowler, laid out anticipated landing spots for the top prospects, providing a roadmap for teams like the Jets, who are considering an offensive selection with their first-round pick at No. 16 after addressing edge rusher needs. Meanwhile, team reporters offered their own consensus landing spots, though the model suggested teams like the Seahawks 24 are actively looking to trade down, even if it means dealing within the division, while the Rams remain a potential wild card in Round 1 maneuvering.

Defensive prospects are also under the microscope ahead of potential selections, with Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks 3 reportedly targeting a full clearance for football activities in early June following offseason foot surgery, which is a positive sign for teams eyeing interior help. In the quarterback discussion, while the analytics model suggests caution regarding players like Ty Simpson, the consensus remains that Fernando Mendoza 14 might be the only quarterback projected to land in the first round. Separately, Caleb Williams, expected to go first overall, is eager to begin his professional career after enjoying downtime, including an appearance at Coachella.

Team Operations & Personnel Updates

Several teams are managing personnel decisions while balancing draft preparation, exemplified by the Saints granting Offensive Coordinator Doug Nussmeier permission to spend draft night alongside his son, Garrett, calling it a "once in a lifetime opportunity" 1. In Pittsburgh, the Steelers are affording Aaron Rodgers the necessary space as the draft looms, indicating they have no firm deadline to receive word on whether the quarterback will return or elect retirement this season. Across the league, the Cowboys confirmed they will not enter into long-term contract discussions with receiver George Pickens, intending instead for him to play the upcoming season under the franchise tag.

The Raiders are focused on maximizing their remaining nine picks after their initial selection, prioritizing positional needs across the board, while the Jets sought to quell speculation regarding a nixed predraft visit with defensive end David Bailey, with their GM suggesting fans should not overanalyze the cancellation. Finally, former Steelers coach Mike Tomlin 18 is transitioning to television, joining NBC's "Football Night in America" as a studio analyst, while his predecessor, Mike Vrabel, addressed recent media scrutiny by stating he will bring "the best version of me " following the publication of controversial photos.

Player Health & Contract Milestones

Offseason recovery and contract status occupied significant headlines this week, with key offensive players reporting positive health updates. Rams coach Sean McVay confirmed that star wide receiver Puka Nacua 12 will be a "full participant" in the offseason program after spending part of the previous offseason in rehab, adding that the receiver "looks great" 12. Similarly, 49ers linebacker Fred Warner confirmed he has "no restrictions" for the start of team activities after suffering a season-ending ankle injury in October 25. In Indianapolis, quarterback Daniel Jones, recovering from a ruptured Achilles tendon sustained in November, has progressed to dropping back and throwing again, although fellow wideout Alec Pierce 28 will miss initial workouts following ankle surgery.

On the financial front, the Cowboys secured kicker Brandon Aubrey on a new agreement that establishes him as the NFL's highest-paid kicker in history, according to his agents, as analysts review the current list of highest earners at every position league-wide. Meanwhile, Ravens defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike 20 underwent neck surgery last week, though doctors are optimistic he will be able to resume playing this season. Furthermore, free agent wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr. 27 visited the Giants, completing a workout and physical with the team on Monday.

Quarterback Movement & League Vibe

Quarterback activity saw several notable developments, including Justin Fields 13 explaining his desire to join the Chiefs was strongly influenced by the opportunity to learn from Patrick Mahomes. In Minnesota, Justin Jefferson 26 publicly expressed enthusiasm for the playmaking skills of new quarterback Kyler Murray while offering blunt commentary on rookie J.J. McCarthy's immediate outlook. Free agent Jimmy Garoppolo 29 is reportedly considering retirement, according to sources speaking Monday. Outside the NFL, Browns receiver Shedeur Sanders praised the "new vibe" and energy implemented by first-year coach Todd Monken and his staff. Furthermore, the highly anticipated arrival of the presumed top pick, Caleb Williams, was momentarily overshadowed by an apparent social media jab from musician Drake, who posted content referencing "Iceman" while wearing Packers gear during his album rollout.