NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: May 22, 2026, 11:50 AM ET

Quarterback Developments

The NFL quarterback landscape saw significant movement this week, with Matthew Stafford securing a one-year, $55 million extension that ties him to the Rams through the 2027 season, bringing his total contract value to $105 million. Meanwhile, Aaron Rodgers announced his retirement plans after the 2026 season, declaring "This is it" while Steelers teammates expressed being "little shocked" by his career decision. In Cleveland, Browns coach Todd Monken praised second-year quarterback Shedeur Sanders' development, noting he has "come a long way" as the team considers giving Deshaun Watson another chance to compete for the starting role. Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr., meanwhile, returned to practice following ACL surgery in November, maintaining his goal to be ready for Week.

Contract Extensions & Roster Moves

The Lions signed All-Pro linebacker Jack Campbell to a four-year, $81 million extension through 2030, including $51.5 million guaranteed, solidifying their defensive core. In New York, the Giants extended general manager Joe Schoen on a multiyear deal, though the team received unfortunate news as defensive lineman Roy Robertson-Harris tore his Achilles during OTAs and is expected to miss the entire 2026 season. The Titans hired Dave Gardi as their executive vice president of football operations after his time with the Commanders, while the Raiders' quarterback Fernando Mendoza has made a strong impression during OTAs, with coach Klint Kubiak noting he's been "as advertised" since being selected as the No. 1 pick.

Injury Updates & Health Concerns

Multiple teams dealt with injury concerns this week, as the Giants remain uncertain about when star wide receiver Malik Nabers will return from what coach John Harbaugh described as "not a simple knee" injury. In Baltimore, Derrick Henry's brief injury scare underscored the importance of continuity for a running back position that has been unsettled in recent team history. Colts cornerback Charvarius Ward, after two seasons of heartbreak and injury, said he opted to return to the team because he's in a better headspace following personal tragedy and physical setbacks. Titans quarterback Cam Ward reported losing close to 10 pounds this offseason through diet monitoring, showing his commitment to physical improvement for the upcoming season.

Division Analysis & Team Strategies

The NFC North teams finished with winning records in 2025, and their offseasons have significantly impacted the division's competitive landscape. The Bears reiterated their plans to leave Chicago as they explore stadium options in suburban Illinois or Hammond, Indiana, stating that Chicago stadium options are "exhausted." In the AFC, analysts weighed the offseason moves, praising the Steelers' signing of Jamel Dean while questioning the Colts' decision to guarantee big money to Daniel Jones. The 49ers face questions about their run game behind star Christian McCaffrey, with Kyle Shanahan wanting to use him less while the options behind him remain unproven.

NFL Business & Rule Changes

NFL owners approved a significant expansion of the international slate, allowing for up to 10 games per season starting in 2027, with the elimination of protections against teams playing opponents internationally. Meanwhile, Brian Flores' lawsuit against the intensified with subpoenas served to 25 NFL teams and over 1,000 discovery requests, as the legal battle against the league continues to unfold. All 32 teams brought their creativity to schedule reveal posts this week, with memes and mini movies showcasing the personality and marketing efforts around the 2026 season release.

Player News & Personal Updates

Eagles wide receiver A.J. celebrated his marriage with an oceanfront wedding at Montage Laguna Beach in California over the weekend, while his teammate Nolan Smith Jr. was arrested Friday and accused of speeding and reckless driving in Georgia after being clocked at 135 mph. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, the NFL's reigning AP Offensive Player of the Year, posted a video to his Instagram showing how his trophy was mislabeled, calling the situation "disrespectful." Bills wide receiver Keon Coleman described his third NFL season as "make or break," indicating the pressure he feels to perform. In Cincinnati, Kid Cudi made an unexpected appearance at Bengals practice after performing a concert in the city, showing his support for Joe Burrow and the team. Ravens coach John Harbaugh referenced his firing from Baltimore in a speech, using it as an example of resilience in a lighthearted manner.

Offseason Moves & Predictions

The Bengals' Joe Burrow expressed confidence in his team's talent, calling this year's squad "the most talented" roster he's played with since joining the franchise. The Buccaneers consider replacing Mike Evans with versatile personnel, as new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson plans to use his top three receivers interchangeably, with rookie Ted Hurst's size and speed generating intrigue. Analysts predicted rookie impacts for various statistical categories in 2026, while also matching remaining free agents with potential team fits, including Stefon Diggs and Jadeveon Clowney. The Browns' decision to give Deshaun Watson another chance remains a talking point as the team evaluates both Watson and Shedeur Sanders for the starting quarterback position. The ownership approaches to landing franchise quarterbacks varied significantly, with some like Jeffrey Lurie and Clark Hunt finding success while others like Jimmy Haslam faced challenges.