NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: April 24, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

NFL Draft Intrigue & Insider Intel

As the league pivots toward the draft, speculation over top selections is reaching a fever pitch, with multiple analysts releasing final projections detailing trade scenarios and landing spots. Peter Schrager’s final mock draft projects four major trades, suggesting significant movement in Round 1 that could see prospects like Jeremiyah Love and Sonny Styles land in the top five. Complementing this, Matt Miller’s latest projection includes Jeremy Fowler's insider intel, providing a comprehensive look at 32 projected first-round picks. Meanwhile, team-specific reporters unveiled their own mock selections, raising questions about whether quarterback Fernando Mendoza is the only signal-caller expected to be taken in the opening round.

The New York Jets are expected to target an offensive player with their second first-round pick, likely at No. 16 overall, following any perceived need at edge rusher earlier in the round. General Manager Darren Mougey sought to downplay any internal significance regarding a nixed predraft visit with defensive end David Bailey, whom some believe could be a target early on. Elsewhere in the draft prep, Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks is setting targeted expectations for his return to full activity, with sources indicating he aims for a June clearance following offseason foot surgery, just as teams finalize their evaluations.

Coaching Movements & Player Updates

In personnel news outside the draft, the Pittsburgh Steelers are giving Aaron Rodgers space, as GM Omar Khan and Coach Mike McCarthy confirmed there is no set deadline for the quarterback to announce whether he intends to return or retire this season. Concurrently, former Steelers leader Mike Tomlin is securing a new role as an NBC analyst for "Football Night in America," following reports that he had "difficult" conversations regarding recent photos published by the New York Post addressing former coach Mike Vrabel. On the player front, Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay confirmed Tuesday that wide receiver Puka Nacua will be a full participant in the offseason program after spending time in rehab, stating the star receiver "looks great."

Several other key players are making progress from injury or discussing their recent team changes. Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones has resumed throwing again, dropping back and working on his arm four months after suffering a ruptured Achilles tendon. In Cleveland, quarterback Shedeur Sanders praised the new energy under Coach Todd Monken, suggesting a fresh atmosphere within the Browns organization. Meanwhile, Justin Fields explained his motivation for joining the Kansas City Chiefs, stating his desire to learn directly from Patrick Mahomes. Furthermore, the Saints organization granted Offensive Coordinator Doug Nussmeier permission to spend draft night with his son Garrett, calling it a "once in a lifetime opportunity."

Contract Stalemates & Franchise Futures

Contract negotiations are hitting roadblocks for some established players while teams assess their draft capital. The Dallas Cowboys stated they will not discuss a long-term deal with George Pickens, intending instead for him to play the upcoming season under the franchise tag, according to executive Stephen Jones. In Las Vegas, with draft picks still in hand, attention shifts to how the Raiders might address positional voids with their remaining nine selections after the anticipated first pick, such as quarterback prospect Fernando Mendoza. Beyond the on-field business, league executives are expressing concern over the potential for insider information to be exploited, believing it is only a matter of time before someone parlays confidential draft knowledge into a betting slip. Adding off-field flavor to the draft week, Canadian rapper Drake seemingly took a subtle jab at projected No. 1 pick Caleb Williams by posing with ice blocks while sporting Green Bay Packers gear during his recent album rollout.