NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: May 20, 2026, 2:43 PM ET

Quarterback Carousel Intensifies Across NFL

The Pittsburgh Steelers opened OTAs with Aaron Rodgers taking the practice field alongside teammates after signing his one-year contract, creating a crowded quarterback room that now includes Russell Wilson, Justin Fields, and rookie Will Howard. Meanwhile, Atlanta's Michael Penix Jr. participated in limited practice sessions as he targets Week 1 readiness following November ACL surgery, though his timeline remains uncertain. In Cleveland, the Browns are giving Deshaun Watson another opportunity to compete with rookie Shedeur Sanders for the 2026 starting role, despite Watson's injury history and inconsistent performance since joining the team. The Arizona Cardinals began organized team activities without Jacoby Brissett, as the veteran quarterback's holdout continues with contract negotiations remaining "the same as where we were a few weeks ago" according to new coach Mike LaFleur.

International Expansion and Schedule Reveals

NFL owners approved up to 10 international games per season starting in 2027, eliminating the previous practice of allowing teams to protect opponents from overseas scheduling assignments. This expansion comes as the league awarded the 2028 draft to Minneapolis, with U.S. Bank Stadium serving as a "foundational piece" of the three-day event that typically draws massive crowds and economic impact. All 32 teams unveiled their 2026 schedules through creative social media campaigns, ranging from memes to mini-movies as franchises embraced the annual tradition of revealing their upcoming opponents. The expanded international slate could benefit teams like the Lions and Eagles based on their scheduling advantages, according to ESPN analyst Mike Clay's breakdown of which franchises gained or lost from the new arrangement.

Legal Battles and Organizational Moves

Brian Flores' discrimination lawsuit against the NFL intensified this week after court filings revealed his legal team served subpoenas to 25 NFL teams and submitted more than 1,000 discovery requests in their effort to obtain league documents and communications. Former Jacksonville Jaguars coach Urban Meyer lost his grievance regarding the remaining balance of his contract following his 2021 firing, saving the franchise approximately $30 million in potential payouts. The NFL pushed back against criticism of its streaming strategy amid scrutiny from President Donald Trump and the U.S. Justice Department, defending the league's expanded digital distribution model as essential for reaching younger audiences and expanding viewership globally.

Player Updates and Contract Situations

Buffalo Bills wide receiver Keon Coleman called his third NFL season "make or break" as he looks to establish himself among the league's top receivers following two disappointing campaigns since being drafted in the second round. New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara's status with the organization remains unclear as both parties are "letting the offseason process play out" according to coach Kellen Moore, with the 30-year-old entering the final year of his contract. Carolina Panthers defensive lineman Tershawn Wharton underwent neck surgery, though coach Dave Canales did not provide a timeline for the veteran's return to action. Jaxon Smith-Njigba posted video to Instagram showing how his AP Offensive Player of the Year trophy was mislabeled, calling the error "disrespectful" in the social media post.

Rookie Outlook and Free Agent Market

ESPN analysts projected top rookie performances across 10 statistical categories for the 2026 season, identifying potential leaders in rushing yards, receiving touchdowns, and sacks among the incoming draft class. The league identified perfect team fits for 14 remaining free agents, including veteran receiver Stefon Diggs and pass rusher Jadeveon Clowney as teams continue building their rosters for training camp. In Denver, the Broncos are emphasizing pass protection as the key to rookie running back's development, with Coleman's rushing ability in college potentially complemented by improved blocking skills in the passing game.

Coaching Changes and Front Office Moves

Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh referenced his recent firing during a motivational speech, lightheartedly using the experience as an example of resilience and overcoming adversity. The NFL's revamped accelerator program included notable candidates like Chargers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, who is joined by other head coaching and general manager prospects in the league's initiative to develop future leaders. In Tampa Bay, new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson plans to use his top three receivers interchangeably, though rookie Ted Hurst's combination of size and speed makes him an intriguing option for the Buccaneers' passing game.

Tragedy and Personal Milestones

Former NFL defensive lineman Josh Mauro died from an accidental drug overdose according to Maricopa County medical examiner records, which indicated acute intoxication from a combination of fentanyl, cocaine, and ethanol. On a different note, former New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady made his modeling debut walking the runway at Gucci's Resort 2027 collection fashion show in New York, adding another chapter to his post-playing career ventures. Cleveland Browns coach Kevin Stefanski addressed the team's quarterback situation, acknowledging the competition between Watson and Sanders while emphasizing the importance of strong quarterback play for the franchise's success