NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: May 23, 2026, 11:45 AM ET

NFC North Division Developments

The Bears, Packers, Lions, and Vikings all finished with winning records in 2025, setting up a competitive division for the upcoming season. In Detroit, the Lions have secured their defensive core by signing Jack Campbell to a four-year extension worth $81 million, including $51.5 million guaranteed, keeping the All-Pro linebacker under contract through the 2030 season. Meanwhile, Chicago's situation remains uncertain as the Bears reiterated their plans to leave the city, continuing to explore stadium options in suburban Illinois or Hammond, Indiana, claiming their current Chicago stadium options are "exhausted."

Quarterback Contract Updates

The Rams have secured Matthew Stafford through 2027 with a one-year, $55 million extension, tying him to Los Angeles while compensating for his reigning NFL MVP performance. In Miami, the Dolphins have invested in Malik Willis with a three-year, $67.5 million contract, betting he can develop into their franchise quarterback after he "signed a three-year, $67.5 million contract this offseason because the Dolphins believe he can be their franchise quarterback." Across the league, questions persist about whether the Steelers can compete with a 42-year-old quarterback, while Joe Burrow expressed confidence in Cincinnati, stating the 2026 Bengals roster is the "most talented" he's played with since joining the franchise.

Injury Concerns and Recovery Updates

The Giants face significant uncertainty regarding star wide receiver Malik Nabers, with coach John Harbaugh indicating the team is "unsure when Nabers will return" from what was described as "not a simple knee" injury. Adding to New York's challenges, defensive lineman Roy Robertson-Harris suffered a torn Achilles during Thursday's OTA workout and is expected to miss the entire 2026 season. In Baltimore, Derrick Henry's brief injury scare underscored the importance of continuity at running back, a position that has seen significant instability in recent years for the Ravens.

Front Office and Organizational Changes

The Giants have extended general manager Joe Schoen with a multiyear contract, providing stability to their front office leadership. In Tennessee, the organization has hired Dave Gardi as executive vice president of football operations, bringing in the former Commanders executive to reshape their football operations. Across the league, team owners are being evaluated for their ability to secure franchise quarterbacks, with some landing successful QBs while others like Jimmy Haslam have been less fortunate in their quarterback acquisitions.

Draft and Rookie Developments

As the NFL approaches the draft, analysts have conducted 10 mock drafts to identify trends and insights, particularly regarding when teams should select their quarterback and tight end prospects. to 2026, experts are predicting which rookies will make the biggest impact across various statistical categories, from rushing yards to touchdowns and sacks. Meanwhile, rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza has impressed Raiders coaching staff in his first month with the team, with coach Klint Kubiak noting the No. 1 pick has been "as advertised" during his development.

Offseason Moves and Free Agency Analysis

In the AFC, the Steelers' signing of Jamel Dean has been considered a solid move, while the Colts' decision to guarantee significant money to Daniel Jones has drawn more skepticism. For teams still seeking talent, analysts have identified perfect team fits for 14 remaining free agents, including potential destinations for wide receiver Stefon Diggs and defensive end Jadeveon Clowney. In Indianapolis, cornerback Charvarius Ward has returned to the Colts after two seasons of heartbreak and injury, opting to continue his career after he said he's in a "better headspace" following his challenges.

Player Personal News and Development

Titans quarterback Cam Ward has transformed his physique this offseason, losing close to 10 pounds through careful diet monitoring as he prepares for the upcoming season. In Cleveland, Browns coach Todd Monken praised Shedeur Sanders' progress, noting the second-year quarterback has "come a long way" in his development. On a more concerning note, Eagles linebacker Nolan Smith Jr. was arrested Friday in Georgia after being accused of speeding and reckless driving when his car was clocked at 135 mph. Elsewhere, Giants defensive veteran Brian Burns has leveraged his success to raise awareness for autism, using his platform to support his nephew and the cause, while Eagles star wide receiver A.J. Brown exchanged vows over the weekend at Montage Laguna Beach in California, marking a personal milestone in his NFL career.