NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: August 8, 2026, 9:18 AM ET

Hall of Fame Buzz

The Pro Football Hall of Fame induction is imminent, and the debate over future gold jackets is in full swing. Bill Barnwell projects future NFL Hall of Famers by going roster by roster, identifying players on track for Canton. A particularly interesting case is Russell Wilson, whose career arc has become more complicated after a rough final stretch. ESPN examines Wilson’s Hall of Fame candidacy and whether he still deserves a gold jacket. Meanwhile, Larry Fitzgerald prepares for his own induction, and a feature looks back at how his college career redefined the WR position at Pitt. Fitzgerald himself explained why he’ll never officially retire — he has no formal plans to step away from football or the Cardinals. On the fringes, one fan makes an impassioned case for Super Bowl MVP Ottis Anderson to enter the Hall, exploring history and psychology.

Contract Extensions & Signings

The NFL’s offseason spending spree continued with several massive extensions. The Titans made Peter Skoronski the highest-paid guard in league history, signing him to a four-year, $100 million extension. The Bills locked up right guard O’Cyrus Torrence with a four-year, $78.4 million deal including $46 million guaranteed. Chicago gave star right tackle Darnell Wright a historic four-year, $116 million extension with $93 million guaranteed. The Colts secured running back Jonathan Taylor with a two-year, $44 million extension, a move that reflects optimism about recapturing their 2025 success. The Texans extended linebacker Henry To’oTo’o on a two-year, $16 million deal. The Saints signed veteran linebacker Deion Jones to a one-year contract. The Commanders added Stefon Diggs on a one-year deal worth up to $12 million, and the Falcons extended Bijan Robinson, Drake London, Kyle Pitts, and Matthew Bergeron — but still lack a QB1. Matthew McConaughey was the first to congratulate Bijan Robinson on his new contract. Zay Flowers, after signing his own four-year extension, said he hopes Lamar Jackson stays with the Ravens for the long haul. Meanwhile, running backs Bijan and Jahmyr Gibbs have talked about contract hold-ins, with both “holding in” at camp.

Training Camp News

Training camp hasn’t been short of drama. Raiders quarterback Kirk Cousins and star pass rusher Maxx Crosby scuffled late in practice, with teammates quickly separating them. Titans defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons threw a punch at a teammate during a drill and was sent to a side field. Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart sparked a dustup by tossing the ball at cornerback Greg Newsome after scoring, drawing the ire of coach John Harbaugh. On a calmer note, Odell Beckham Jr. impressed at Giants camp, citing LeBron James as inspiration. Jerry Jeudy clarified a viral video, saying his gesture was about his daughter, not the Browns’ QB competition. The Browns are evaluating Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders, with a focus on pre-snap and post-snap techniques. The Vikings have a QB battle between Kyler Murray and J.J. McCarthy — Murray is currently favored. Texans coach DeMeco Ryans delivered a passionate speech using NASA’s moon mission as inspiration to set high expectations. Meanwhile, Falcons UDFA QB Jack Strand worked with the first-team offense, earning praise for his arm strength.

Injury Returns & Status Updates

Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is unlikely to play in the preseason opener, as coach Andy Reid acknowledged the QB is likely out despite full participation in camp. Texans receiver Tank Dell is confident in his return after nearly two years away. Bucs running back Bucky Irving sent a message to doubters entering Year, saying he’s been doubted his whole life. Seahawks linebacker DeMarcus Lawrence confirmed he nearly retired after winning the Super Bowl but returned for the “hard part” — a title defense. Rams coach Sean McVay said Aaron Donald looked outstanding in a workout but has no answer on whether the former All-Pro will return. Colts wide receiver Josh Downs understands his time is now, as the team believes guys need to step up after his production downturn in 2025. The Colts also hope to recapture early-season success, investing in the offense behind Jonathan Taylor’s extension. Finally, Quinnen Williams aims to make a bigger impact for the Cowboys, acquired last season, and is eyeing an extension for the long haul.

Suspensions & Discipline

The NFL handed down several suspensions. Colts cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt will serve a one-game suspension without pay in the season opener for a conduct policy violation. Saints rookie wide receiver Brock Rechsteiner was suspended for six games by the NFL.

Preseason Games & Highlights

The Hall of Fame Game kicked off preseason action. Cardinals rookie quarterback Carson Beck made his NFL starting debut and played efficiently, completing 15 of 19 passes for 188 yards and a touchdown (125.4 rating) in a 33-30 loss to the Panthers. The game was decided late on Kedon Slovis’ TD pass to Bryson Green. Beck called it a "good first steppingstone". The Chiefs’ home stadium dropped GEHA Field from its name and returns to simply Arrowhead. Bills safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson said he can’t wait to play the Texans in Week 1 after parting ways. The new Eagles DE AJ Epenesa said he is happy he’s not a Brown, after a Browns deal fell through. Micah Parsons said playing against the Cowboys in Week 6 is realistic as a Packer.

Front Office & Trade Rumors

The Lions named Pistons executive Richard Haddad as their president and CEO. Bucs GM Jason Licht said there are no plans to trade Vita Vea and that Baker Mayfield remains the franchise QB. Several trade candidates were floated in a piece outlining five deals that make too much sense before Week.

Fantasy Football & Rankings

Fantasy analysts highlighted insurance running backs and sleepers. Eric Moody lists must-draft backup RBs for the 2026 season. Matt Bowen and Tristan Cockcroft identify 10 fantasy sleepers who need opportunity, including players with skills but limited chances.