NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: July 9, 2026, 11:31 PM ET

Coaching and Roster Outlooks

Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson returns for his second year, and while his debut season was successful, expectations are now higher for the team's offense. established himself. Meanwhile, the Denver Broncos' Sean Payton granted ESPN's Seth Wickersham exclusive access for 15 days leading up to the AFC Championship Game, offering a deep dive into his coaching style and decision-making, including a fourth-down fake punt call against the Bills. Looking at team rosters, the analysis from ESPN's Bill Barnwell suggests that while spending big on top receivers and edge rushers is common, not all Super Bowl teams prioritize first-round quarterbacks. Barnwell went. ESPN's roster rankings ahead of the season provide a comprehensive look at every NFL team, detailing strengths, weaknesses, and key "X factors".

Player Rankings and Individual Accolades

Evaluators across the NFL have weighed in on the league's top talent, ranking the best interior defensive linemen, with an impact player from the Super Bowl champion Seahawks leading the list. The top edge rushers were also ranked, with decision-makers identifying the premier talents at that position. Similarly, a ranking of the league's best cornerbacks was compiled based on input from NFL executives, coaches, and scouts. For running backs, a consensus emerged among league personnel regarding the top 10 players heading into the season. Several players are poised for significant development in 2026, with potential breakout candidates like Luther Burden III and Nic Scourton highlighted, alongside Calen Bullock and Ashton Jeanty expected to build on previous successes.

League News and Personal Milestones

Kicker Adam Vinatieri, already a Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee, will be honored with a place in the Indianapolis Colts' Ring of Honor on October 18th. The Washington Commanders are set to retire the No. 44 jersey of Hall of Fame running back John Riggins, celebrating his legacy more than 40 years after his iconic Super Bowl run. Free agent cornerback Rasul Douglas is reportedly planning to sign a one-year deal with the Commanders, worth up to $3.8 million. In personal news, Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown announced his engagement in a romantic yacht proposal.

Notable Player and Team Updates

Bears quarterback Caleb Williams recently sent an autographed jersey to Pope Leo XIV, who is a native of Chicago. The New England Patriots' Drake Maye had an unexpected guest at one of his recent concerts in Boston, with singer Noah Kahan bringing him on stage. The Rams' backup quarterback competition is shaping up to be a key position battle during training camp, with Ty Simpson looking to absorb knowledge from the veteran quarterbacks in the room. The Baltimore Ravens made Olaivavega Ioane the second guard they have selected in the first round of the NFL Draft, potentially building a foundation with his physicality.

Study Findings and League Concerns

A recent study released on Wednesday indicates that NFL players face a significantly higher risk of dying from neurodegenerative diseases like dementia and Parkinson's, with the likelihood being four times greater than that of the general population.

Other League Happenings

Comedian Adam Sandler reportedly officiated the wedding of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce at Madison Square Garden. Former Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold, facing legal charges in Florida, has cleared waivers and is now a free agent.