NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: July 9, 2026, 5:31 PM ET

League Health and Player Recognition

A recent study released Wednesday indicates that NFL players are four times more likely than the general population to die from neurodegenerative diseases like dementia and Parkinson's. In other news, kicker Adam Vinatieri, who is set to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame next month, will have his No. 4 honored in the Colts' Ring of Honor during a ceremony scheduled for October 18. The Commanders also announced they are retiring No. 44, worn by Hall of Famer and franchise rushing leader John Riggins, more than 40 years after his iconic Super Bowl run.

Roster and Player Rankings

Evaluators across the NFL have ranked the top 10 defensive tackles, with an impact player from the Super Bowl champion Chiefs leading the list. Similarly, decision-makers around the league have compiled a top 10 ranking of cornerbacks, identifying the league's best at the position. In the backfield, league executives, coaches, and scouts have also ranked their top 10 running backs for the upcoming season. On the offensive line, the Baltimore Ravens used their No. 14 overall pick on guard Olaiuvea Ioane, marking only the second time they've selected a guard in the first round.

Team and Player Outlooks

The Denver Broncos' journey to the AFC Championship game earlier this year was chronicled by ESPN's Seth Wickersham, who spent two weeks with coach Sean Payton during the playoffs. For the Chicago Bears, Year 2 under offensive coordinator Ben Johnson brings new expectations after a successful debut. Quarterback Caleb Williams of the Bears recently sent an autographed jersey to Pope Leo XIV, who is a Chicago native. In free agency, cornerback Rasul Douglas is reportedly planning to sign a one-year deal with the Washington Commanders worth up to $3.8 million, according to sources.

Player Breakouts and Roster Assessments

several players are being eyed for potential breakout seasons in 2026, including Luther Burden III, Calen Bullock, Nic Scourton, and Ashton Jeanty. The depth and quality of every NFL roster are being assessed ahead of the season, with an analysis of strengths, weaknesses, and X factors for each team. The backup quarterback competition for the Los Angeles Rams is expected to be one of the more compelling position battles during training camp, featuring Ty Simpson.

Player Personal Lives and League Insights

Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown recently announced his engagement, proposing to his girlfriend on a yacht with flowers. New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye made a surprise appearance as a guest of singer Noah Kahan during a concert stop in Boston. Separately, actor Adam Sandler officiated the wedding of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce on Friday at Madison Square Garden. A study also explored how Super Bowl rosters are constructed, examining whether teams need first-round quarterbacks or significant investments in top receivers and edge rushers to reach the championship game, based on rosters from the past 15 Super Bowls.