NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: July 9, 2026, 2:31 PM ET

Franchise Landmarks and Player Honors

The Washington Commanders are retiring the No. 44 jersey in honor of Hall of Fame running back John Riggins. The number is significant for Riggins, who led the franchise in rushing and was part of a famous Super Bowl run over 40 years ago. In Indianapolis, kicker Adam Vinatieri, soon to be enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, will be inducted into the Colts' Ring of Honor on October 18.

Personnel Moves and Roster Analysis

The Commanders are also set to add depth to their secondary, with free agent cornerback Rasul Douglas reportedly agreeing to a one-year deal worth up to $3.8 million plans to sign. Meanwhile, former Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold, facing legal issues in Florida, has cleared waivers and is now available as a free agent cleared waivers. analysis of every NFL roster reveals how teams stack up before the season, detailing strengths, weaknesses, and x-factors.

Executive and Scout Rankings

League decision-makers, including executives, coaches, and scouts, have weighed in on positional rankings across the NFL. Interior defenders are evaluated, with an impact player from the Super Bowl champion Seahawks topping the list. Similarly, the top 10 edge rushers for the current season have been identified through this process. Cornerbacks also received a comprehensive ranking, with evaluators determining the league's best at the position. The top 10 running backs for the upcoming season have also been compiled with input from league personnel.

Offensive Line and Draft Potential

The Baltimore Ravens invested their 14th overall pick in guard Olaivavega Ioane, marking the second time the franchise has selected a guard in the first round. Looking towards future drafts, Ricky Pearsall is highlighted as a player with breakout potential in his third year, potentially available late in fantasy drafts. The 2026 Fantasy Football Draft Guide is available, providing rankings, projections, and analysis to help prepare for draft season.

Player and Coach Features

A deep dive into the Detroit Lions' offensive coordinator Ben Johnson reveals a different atmosphere in his second year, as success has brought heightened expectations for the team. Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown recently announced his engagement in a public manner. In Chicago, Bears quarterback Caleb Williams sent an autographed jersey to Pope Leo XIV, a Chicago native. The Patriots' quarterback Drake Maye was a surprise guest at a Noah Kahan concert in Boston.

Behind-the-Scenes Access and Team Runs

Senior writer Seth Wickersham spent two weeks with Denver Broncos coach Sean Payton leading up to the AFC Championship Game against the Patriots. During this time, Payton was noted for calling a fourth-down fake punt against the Bills as the Broncos made their playoff run. An examination of how Super Bowl rosters are constructed explores whether first-round quarterbacks are essential and the importance of investing in top receivers and edge rushers, analyzing rosters from the past 15 Super Bowls.

Emerging Talent and Fantasy Football Outlook

Predictions for potential breakout players in 2026 include Luther Burden III, Calen Bullock, and Ashton Jeanty, who is expected to deliver on his second-year potential. The backup quarterback competition for the Rams is shaping up to be a notable position battle during training camp, with Ty Simpson soaking in the experience within the quarterback room.

Player Conduct and Legal Matters

In a disturbing development, former Titans scout Blaise Taylor was found guilty of murdering his girlfriend and her unborn child in Nashville. Separately, the brother of Ravens defensive lineman Calais Campbell has been charged with murder after police discovered their 71-year-old mother deceased at a residence in Atlanta during a welfare check. Former Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold is also facing legal proceedings in Florida following an arrest on felony charges of armed robbery and kidnapping in Tampa.

Pop Culture and Athlete Personalities

Comedian Adam Sandler officiated the wedding of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce on Friday at Madison Square Garden.