NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: August 4, 2026, 11:30 AM ET

Running Back Market and Team Negotiations

The Atlanta Falcons have secured a monumental deal for running back Bijan Robinson, agreeing to a three-year extension worth up to $75 million, making him the highest-paid running back in NFL history. This record-setting contract is not expected to negatively impact the Detroit Lions' ongoing negotiations with their own running back, Jahmyr Gibbs, according to coach Dan Campbell. Lions running Jahmyr Gibbs indicated that the resolution of his contract situation is uncertain, stating that "Player Transactions and Roster Moves

Commanders cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon has been placed on the reserve/retired list, following a season where he spent time on injured reserve with the Rams. Saints wide Ja'Lynn Polk has also been placed on the reserve/retired list, marking his surprising exit from the NFL at the age of. Three-time Pro guard Andrus Peat has announced his retirement from the NFL after an 11-season career. The Detroit Lions are bringing in former All-Pro linebacker Devin White on a one-year contract, the team announced Saturday. Jadeveon Clowney returning to the Houston Texans, the franchise that originally selected him as the first overall pick in the 2014 NFL draft.

Player Statements and Personal Updates

Eagles outside Nolan Smith Jr. has issued an apology for his arrest in May on charges of speeding and reckless driving, acknowledging his actions were "unacceptable." Packers right tackle Zach Tom revealed Sunday that he has officially changed his last name to Zach Bako-Bewele to honor his heritage. Broncos quarterback Bo Nix stated that he will not hesitate to scramble when plays break down, even after ankle surgery, as he feels his most effective when he is on the move. Browns quarterback Watson views the upcoming preseason as a crucial "showcase" opportunity to demonstrate his readiness after nearly two years sidelined by a pair of Achilles surgeries.

Training Camp Intel and Team Culture

New Steelers coach Mike McCarthy is implementing a "tempered" approach to training camp, integrating sports science with the city's industrial heritage to foster a unique camp culture. Texans safety Jalen Pitre is the first designated signature athlete for Guardian Caps, having worn the protective helmet in eight games last season. The anniversary of Korey Stringer's death marks a period of reconciliation and growth for his family and the Minnesota Vikings, highlighting the positive impact of the Korey Stringer Institute. Ted Karras has introduced a chessboard into the Cincinnati Bengals' locker room, and the game has quickly become a popular team activity.

Player Injuries and Health Status

Saints defensive Bryan Bresee is set to undergo season-ending surgery to repair a torn ACL, as confirmed by coach Kellen Moore. San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall is expected to miss the entire season following surgery for a persistent PCL injury that dates back to last year. Chiefs wide Cyrus Allen suffered a shin bruise during a special teams drill, while fellow receiver Xavier Worthy also left practice early due to a shoulder injury. Los Angeles Rams defensive end Myles Garrett has been sidelined for the third consecutive day due to "a little soreness in his lower half," according to coach Sean McVay. Patriots wide A.J. Brown reported dislocating his thumb during practice on Monday but did not miss any further time due to the injury.

Contractual Futures and Player Outlooks

The Carolina Panthers are maintaining silence regarding a potential contract extension for quarterback Bryce Young as he approaches his fourth NFL season. Bears cornerback Johnson views the 2026 season as a definitive "contract year" as he looks towards his next significant payday. Broncos coach Sean Payton plans to speak with free agent Taysom Hill, age, to assess his interest in continuing his career, potentially with Denver. Titans quarterback Levis remains confident in his abilities, stating he believes he is "a dang good quarterback" and that there aren't 32 signal-callers better than him in the league.

Receivers and Roster Depth

Deebo Samuel expressed that his return to the San Francisco 49ers feels like a natural reunion, stating it was "just a matter of time" before he was back with the team. Questions remain the future of 49ers receivers Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel, including Aiyuk's potential contract status and Samuel's role following his return to San Francisco. The New England Patriots are facing a crowded wide receiver room with seven players competing for playing time, prompting speculation about potential roster moves. Five-time All-Pro receiver DeAndre Hopkins has joined Georgia Tech as an assistant wide receivers coach, though he has not yet announced his retirement as a player.

Coaching Philosophies and Strategy

Jets coach Robert Saleh is focusing on improvement in his second season rather than immediate Super Bowl aspirations, adopting a different approach and set of expectations for the team. Sean Payton entering a new phase as Broncos head coach, having relinquished playcalling duties for the first time in two decades, which will alter his game-day persona. The strategy for winning "Knockout leagues" differs significantly due to the depth of these leagues and the specific tactics required for success. ESPN's training reports highlight key observations from practices across twelve different NFL teams, offering insights into various team developments.

NCAA Eligibility and League News

A judge has issued a clarification regarding an NCAA eligibility order, specifying that the ruling granting an extra year of college sports eligibility does not extend to all athletes whose eligibility expired last school year. The Bills' safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson demonstrated generosity during a Twitch stream by paying off $20,000 of student loan debt for a graduate student working with the team's training staff. The debut of HBO's "Hard Knocks," featuring the Seattle Seahawks, is scheduled for Tuesday.

Offensive Line and Contract Extensions

The Atlanta Falcons have signed starting left guard Matthew Bergeron to a four-year contract extension valued at $96 million, including $60 million in guaranteed money.