NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: May 22, 2026, 5:47 PM ET

Quarterback Developments

The NFL landscape saw significant quarterback news as Matthew Stafford secured a one-year, $55 million extension with the Rams, tying him to the team through the 2027 season with a total of $105 million guaranteed. Meanwhile, Aaron Rodgers announced his retirement plans, stating the 2026 season will be the final one of his Hall of Fame-worthy career with the Steelers. The Steelers' teammates expressed being "little shocked" by the development as Rodgers took the practice field with his new team at OTAs. This comes amid questions about Rodgers' remaining abilities and how the Steelers' offense might evolve from its 2025 configuration. In Cleveland, Browns coach Todd Monken praised Shedeur Sanders' development, noting the second-year quarterback has "come a long way" in his progression, while the team continues to evaluate Deshaun Watson who competes with Sanders for the starting role.

Contract Extensions & Roster Moves

Across the league, key contract moves continued to reshape team rosters. The Lions signed Jack Campbell to a four-year extension worth $81 million, including $51.5 million guaranteed, keeping the All-Pro linebacker with the franchise through the 2030 season. The Giants gave general manager Joe Schoen a multiyear extension, reinforcing stability in their front office leadership. In the NFC North, all four teams finished with winning records in 2025, with offseason moves impacting the division's competitive balance. The AFC saw mixed results in offseason evaluations, with analysts calling the Steelers' signing of Jamel Dean a "solid move" while questioning the Colts' decision to guarantee big money to Daniel Jones as part of the AFC's best and worst offseason moves.

Injury Concerns & Updates

Injury concerns emerged across the league as Roy Robertson-Harris tore his Achilles at Thursday's OTA workout and is expected to miss the entire 2026 season. The Giants also remain uncertain about star wide receiver Malik Nabers' return timeline, with coach John Harbaugh describing the injury as "not a simple knee" issue. In contrast, Derrick Henry's brief injury scare has actually provided stability to one of the most unsettled positions in recent Baltimore Ravens history. The Titans' Cam Ward reported losing close to 10 pounds this offseason by monitoring his diet, focusing on improved conditioning for the upcoming season. Falcons quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who underwent ACL surgery in November, has begun practicing on a limited basis with the goal of being ready for Week.

Offensive Strategy & Position Battles

Offensive strategies and position battles drew attention around the league. The 49ers face questions about their run game behind Christian McCaffrey, as Kyle Shanahan aims to use his star running back less while seeking unproven options to step up. The Buccaneers consider replacing Mike Evans with a versatile package, with new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson planning to use his top three receivers interchangeably, particularly intrigued by rookie Ted Hurst's size and speed. The Rams' offensive approach may evolve with Stafford's extension, while the Browns continue to evaluate Watson and Sanders for their starting quarterback position as part of their 2026 plans. Bengals quarterback 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.

Personnel Changes & Front Office Moves

Personnel changes continued to reshape team structures. The Titans hired Dave Gardi as executive vice president of football operations, bringing in the former Commanders executive to lead their football operations. The Raiders' rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza has made a strong impression in OTAs, with coach Klint Kubiak saying the No. 1 pick has been "as advertised" during his first month with the team. The Bears reiterated their plans to leave Chicago, stating that stadium options in the city are "exhausted" as they continue exploring suburban Illinois or Hammond, Indiana for a new facility. These moves come as teams finalize their offseason preparations ahead of training camp.

Legal Developments & Off-Field Issues

Legal and off-field issues made headlines across the league. Brian Flores' lawsuit against the NFL intensified as his lawyers subpoenaed 25 teams and served over 1,000 discovery requests in an attempt to obtain information. The NFL approved an increased international slate, allowing up to 10 international games per season starting in 2027, while eliminating the ability for teams to protect opponents from international scheduling. On a lighter note, Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown married over the weekend in an oceanfront ceremony at Montage Laguna Beach in California, while his teammate Nolan Smith Jr. was arrested in Georgia after being accused of speeding and reckless driving with his car clocked at 135 mph.

Rookie Development & Future Impact

Rookie development and future impact assessments continued as teams evaluate their 2026 draft classes. Analysts predicted which rookies will make the biggest impact across various statistical categories, including rushing yards, touchdowns, and sacks. The Falcons' Michael Penix Jr. aims to return for Week 1 after ACL surgery, with his progression closely monitored. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, the NFL's reigning AP Offensive Player of the Year, addressed a trophy mislabeling issue by posting a video to his Instagram showing how his award was incorrectly labeled. Bills wide receiver Keon Coleman described his third season as "make or break", indicating the pressure he feels to establish himself in the league.

International Expansion & Scheduling

The NFL's international expansion plans took shape with owners approving the ability to play up to 10 international games per season, beginning in 2027. This change eliminates the previous protections that prevented teams from being scheduled for international games against specific opponents. All 32 teams revealed their 2026 schedules with creative presentations ranging from memes to mini movies, each bringing their own unique approach to the annual tradition. The increased international presence marks a significant shift in the league's global strategy, potentially leading to more regular-season games played outside the United States Long-Term Planning & Franchise Decisions

Teams engaged in long-term planning and franchise decisions that will shape their futures. The Bears' continued stadium search exhausted Chicago options as they explore suburban Illinois or Hammond, Indiana locations. The Giants' front office stability was reinforced with Joe Schoen's multiyear extension, providing continuity in their leadership structure. The Lions secured their defensive cornerstone with Jack Campbell's four-year extension, worth $81 million with $51.5 million guaranteed through 2030. Meanwhile, Colts cornerback Charvarius Ward opted to return after two seasons of heartbreak and injury, saying he's in a better headspace and is "whole" again after contemplating retirement.

Quarterback Evaluation & Development

Quarterback evaluation and development remained a central focus across the league. Browns coach Todd Monken praised Shedeur Sanders' progress, highlighting the second-year player's development. The Titans' Cam Ward focused on improved conditioning by losing nearly 10 pounds this offseason through diet monitoring. In Atlanta, Michael Penix Jr. resumes his rehabilitation with the goal of being ready for Week 1 after November ACL surgery. The Steelers' acquisition of Aaron Rodgers adds a veteran presence to their quarterback room, with teammates adjusting to the new addition during OTAs. These developments reflect the NFL's ongoing emphasis on quarterback development and evaluation across all 32 teams.