NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: May 16, 2026, 2:48 AM ET

Schedule Release & Opening Week

The NFL officially unveiled its 2026 schedule Thursday, with the Seahawks hosting the Patriots in a Super Bowl LX rematch to kick off the season at Lumen Field. The league announced 272 games across the full slate, including the Packers visiting the Rams in the NFL's first-ever Thanksgiving Eve matchup. Teams rolled out their schedules with creative social media presentations — from memes to mini movies — transforming what was once a mundane announcement into a springtime spectacle of one-upmanship.

From a betting perspective, the full schedule release opened early Week 1 wagering opportunities, with oddsmakers posting spreads, moneylines and totals for every opening weekend contest. The Chiefs landed a Week 1 primetime slot despite Patrick Mahomes' injury concerns, with the league betting on his availability for the marquee matchup. Fantasy analysts identified winners and losers from the schedule release, while others examined potential pitfalls including when "Bye-maggedon" might strike this season.

International Expansion

The NFL revealed its most ambitious international slate Wednesday, featuring nine games outside the United States — a record for the league. The Steelers-Saints matchup in Paris highlights the global push, with betting odds now available for each international contest.

Contract Extensions & Roster Moves

In a significant deal, the Dolphins agreed to a four-year, $64 million extension with running back De'Von Achane, making him the third-highest-paid RB in the league. The Jets added veteran receiver Tim Patrick to their wide receivers room, addressing a need for experience at the position. Meanwhile, Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers underwent a second procedure on his right knee earlier this offseason, though the team remains hopeful he'll be ready for Week.

Coaching & Front Office

The 49ers hired Raheem Morris as defensive coordinator, with head coach Kyle Shanahan citing his past experience working with Morris. In Pittsburgh, the staff is focusing on Drew Allar's footwork and getting the rookie more comfortable under center. The Texans' new coaching staff welcomed their 2026 draft class with an emphasis on acclimating to the culture already established by the organization. Longtime NFL assistant Tom Moore, who turns 88 this year, joined Iowa's staff as a senior consultant to the head coach and offensive adviser.

League Policy & Legal Matters

The NFL -defended its expanded streaming partnership amid criticism from President Donald Trump and scrutiny from the U.S. Justice Department. The league also ended a mandate requiring all 32 teams to hire a minority offensive assistant ahead of the 2025 season — a decision predating recent pressure from Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, who continued his push against the Rooney Rule by issuing an investigative subpoena to the league Wednesday.

Player Development & Rookies

Among key rookie storylines, analysts debated Travis Hunter's potential防守-only role, whether running backs Ashton Jeanty and Emeka Egbuka can break out, and for safety Nick Emmanwori. For quarterbacks entering the league, coaches at Oneida showed positive impressions with how Buffalo rookie Bell handled his first practice and the new coaching staff. Meanwhile, evaluators continue examining how quarterback Carson Beck developed under two different NFL-style college systems, giving him an edge in calling play cadence and taking snaps under center compared to other rookie signal-callers.

The Commanders continue sorting through their receiver depth opposite Terry McLaurin, weighing options between Brandon Aiyuk, Stefon Diggs and their rookie additions. The Broncos are counting on tight end improvements after years of lagging production at the position, hoping new faces can address their biggest weakness. The Netflix series "Quarterback" returns for its third season showcasing quarterbacks from the Titans, Bengals, Commanders and Buccaneers.

Off-Field

Former NFL defensive lineman Josh Mauro died from an acute combination of fentanyl, cocaine and ethanol intoxication according to Maricopa County medical examiner records. Patriots rookie defender Quintayvious Hutchins, a seventh-round draft pick from Boston College, was arraigned Wednesday on a charge of assault and battery against a family/household member. Deion Sanders said his son Shedeur endured "hell" during his draft process and rookie season with the Browns, but added that the experience helped him mature spiritually.

The Saints made an unconventional roster addition signing WWE legend Scott Steiner, who spent a brief time with the Titans before joining New Orleans. In a heartwarming story, Saquon Barkley ensured a young Eagles fan with a rare genetic disorder got the chance to score a touchdown at his youth camp. The NFLPA, citing FIFA's "green carpet" approach for the World Cup, renewed calls for grass fields with executive JC Tretter saying players want the same high-quality playing surfaces.