NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: April 24, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

NFL Draft Final Preparations & Insider Intel

With the NFL Draft hours away, the focus remains intensely fixed on potential first-round maneuvers and insider information security. Peter Schrager projected 32 first-round selections, forecasting four major trades that could drastically reshape Thursday night, including where prospects like Jeremiyah Love and Sonny Styles might land in the top five. Concurrently, Matt Miller released his final mock, incorporating the latest intelligence from Jeremy Fowler regarding top prospects, while reports indicated that former executives are increasingly concerned about the potential for insider betting capitalizing on confidential draft strategies among teams like the Jets, Cardinals, Titans, and Giants who hold key top-five positions. Furthermore, one of the draft’s promising defensive tackles, Florida’s Caleb Banks, is expected to receive full medical clearance from offseason foot surgery by early June, sources confirmed.

Team Strategy & Personnel Updates

Teams continue to finalize their non-draft needs, with the Dallas Cowboys signaling intentions to apply the franchise tag to George Pickens and avoid negotiating a long-term deal this offseason. Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Raiders must navigate the remainder of their nine picks after addressing their primary needs, while the New York Jets face a decision at Pick, likely leaning toward an offensive selection after shoring up their edge rusher position earlier. In non-draft personnel news, Saints Offensive Coordinator Doug Nussmeier received permission to spend draft night with his son, Garrett, calling it a "once in a lifetime opportunity" to share the experience.

Player Commentary & Offseason Readiness

Several high-profile players offered updates on their current status and aspirations ahead of the new league year. Quarterback Justin Fields stated his desire to join the Kansas City Chiefs specifically to learn directly from franchise icon Patrick Mahomes. In Los Angeles, Rams coach Sean McVay confirmed that star wide receiver Puka Nacua will be a "full participant" in the offseason program after intensive rehab, looking "great" heading into the summer. Separately, Shedeur Sanders praised the new energy implemented by new Browns coach Todd Monken, suggesting a significant cultural shift for the Cleveland roster.

Off-Field Buzz & Prospect Outlook

While the draft dominates headlines, tangential sports narratives continue to emerge; notably, rapper Drake appeared to mock quarterback Caleb Williams during his "Iceman" album rollout by posing in Green Bay Packers gear near blocks of ice. In terms of quarterback projections, reports suggest that Fernando Mendoza might be the sole quarterback projected to land in the first round, according to various team reporters’ mock drafts, setting the stage for potential volatility outside the top selections.