NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: June 17, 2026, 2:42 AM ET

Player Health & Legal Issues

A family of former defensive end Aldon Smith has sent his brain to Boston specialists to test for chronic traumatic encephalopathy, a move prompted by his untimely death at 36 and ongoing concerns about long‑term player safety. In a separate legal matter, Kansas City Chiefs wideout Rashee Rice walked out of a Dallas County jail after serving a 30‑day sentence for a probation violation, immediately avoiding media questions and resuming team duties. The Denver Broncos also dealt with disciplinary fallout, excusing OLB Jonathon Cooper from mandatory minicamp after he faced two domestic‑violence arrests, including a felony charge, highlighting the league’s stricter enforcement of personal‑conduct policies.

Quarterback Movements & Training Updates

Broncos rookie quarterback Bo Nix participated in a full‑speed offseason practice, confirming that a second surgery to remove bone spurs has not delayed his preparation for training camp slated for next month. Meanwhile, Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield dismissed criticisms about his durability, insisting his recent injury history does not warrant contract concessions and noting that negotiations with the club remain at an impasse. Atlanta Falcons signal‑caller Michael Penix Jr. said he expects to be at full practice speed by July’s training camp, despite still limiting himself to partial drills during the current OTAs. In Tennessee, rookie quarterback Cam Ward’s accuracy inconsistencies observed during OTAs have not alarmed coaches, who trust his developmental trajectory and plan to continue refining his mechanics in the upcoming minicamp schedule.

Defensive Personnel Decisions

New Orleans Saints announced a one‑year deal for veteran defensive end Cameron Jordan, signaling his intention to finish his career in the Crescent City after a minicamp meeting that solidified the agreement. The franchise also continues to grapple with roster questions at linebacker and edge positions, as reports indicate lingering uncertainty around Alvin Kamara’s role and the status of other key defenders ahead of mandatory minicamp. In Minnesota, the Vikings have added former Bears general manager Ryan Pace as a senior adviser, bringing his experience from a previous front‑office tenure to assist in evaluating defensive acquisitions and overall roster construction. Across the league, the Raiders gathered player impressions of rookie No. 1 pick quarterback Fernando Rodriguez during OTAs, with several defensive backs noting his poise and quick decision‑making as promising signs for the unit’s future cohesion.

Contract Extensions & Draft Outlook

The New York Jets secured right guard Joe Tippmann on a four‑year, $62 million extension that guarantees $31 million, a deal that reflects the team’s commitment to protecting quarterback Aaron Rodgers and stabilizing the offensive line amid a push for postseason relevance. Dallas wide receiver George Pickens, after skipping the voluntary portion of the Cowboys’ offseason program, reported to mandatory minicamp and completed a physical at The Star, indicating his readiness to compete for a larger role despite lingering speculation about his franchise‑tag status. Meanwhile, the NFL’s supplemental draft spotlight turned to Texas Tech transfer quarterback Brendan Sorsby, whose eligibility dispute and prior gambling violations have generated debate over his market value and potential team fits as the supplemental window approaches. Finally, the league’s executives highlighted their favorite offseason moves, ranging from high‑profile trades to surprise draft selections, underscoring a broader trend of aggressive roster reshaping as teams vie for competitive edges ahead of the 2026 season.