NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: August 15, 2026, 11:39 AM ET

Preseason Action and Player News

Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa expressed frustration after a preseason loss to the Broncos, completing 3 of 5 passes for 22 yards over two series. Despite Tagovailoa's performance, other players shined in Week 1 of the NFL preseason, offering a glimpse into the potential of rookies and players in new environments. The NFL training camps are winding down, with some players, teams, and position battles already earning made-up awards. Meanwhile, the Steelers secured a significant extension for defensive tackle Keeanu Benton, agreeing to a four-year, $72 million deal, making him the highest-paid defensive lineman in franchise history.

Fantasy Football Preparations and Player Valuations

As the 2026 fantasy football season approaches, ESPN has released a comprehensive set of downloadable cheat sheets for both PPR and non-PPR formats, alongside updated depth charts. Fantasy analysts are also highlighting undervalued players, with Eric Karabell pointing to talents like Derrick Henry and Patrick Mahomes as potential draft steals. For those looking to gain an edge, the 2026 Fantasy Draft Guide offers rankings, projections, and expert analysis. Additionally, Matt Bowen has provided his QB tiers, a crucial tool for fantasy managers to organize their draft boards.

Injury Updates and Roster Moves

The Jets will be without quarterback Geno Smith for their preseason opener against the Buccaneers due to an ankle injury he sustained, and he is considered day-to-day. In other injury news, Cardinals rookie offensive lineman Chase Bisontis suffered a torn MCL and his season is in doubt. The Panthers have bolstered their tight end room by signing veteran Darren Waller to a one-year deal. For the 49ers, wide receiver Ricky Pearsall underwent knee surgery and faces an approximately nine-month recovery period. The Buccaneers also reported a minor toe injury for wide receiver Emeka Egbuka after a joint practice with the Jets.

League Suspensions and Off-Field Matters

Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. has been suspended for eight games by the NFL for violating the league's personal conduct policy. Bills defensive tackle Phidarian Mathis will miss the first three games of the season due to a suspension for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. Commanders defensive end/linebacker Dorance Armstrong will also be suspended for the season opener for violating the personal conduct policy. A former NFLPA lawyer has settled a federal lawsuit against the union, alleging conspiracy to prevent cooperation.

Player Milestones and Career Decisions

Seahawks outside linebacker DeMarcus Lawrence confirmed that his upcoming 13th NFL season will be his last. In a significant development for college football, a list of 12 colleges has been identified as being stacked with NFL draft talent for the 2027 draft, with Miami and Texas highlighted as particularly promising programs. The Chicago Bears have stated they will not change their name, even if the team relocates to Indiana. The jersey worn by Joe Montana during Super Bowl XXIV has set a new record, selling for $1.5 million.

Quarterback Performances and Team Culture

Steelers rookie quarterbacks Drew Allar and Will Howard impressed in a 28-9 preseason victory over the Packers, with both showing poise. Raiders rookie QB Fernando Mendoza showcased promise in his preseason debut, throwing for 97 yards and a touchdown. The Browns have named Deshaun Watson as their starting quarterback for the preseason opener, while Shedeur Sanders will start the second preseason game. Aaron Rodgers expressed that a return to Lambeau Field would require an invitation, and he hopes for a future honor at the stadium.

Coaching Developments and Team Philosophies

The Ravens' head coach, Jim Harbaugh, has a distinctive approach to team meetings, incorporating personal messages and unique terminology. Klint Kubiak is instilling a sense of urgency and culture within the Raiders organization, with players and coaches appreciating his direct style. Dan Quinn is revitalizing the Commanders by fostering competition and a renewed sense of edge within the team. The Bills will have Josh Allen and other healthy starters play in their preseason game at their new stadium, a decision influenced by the new coaching staff and the desire to acclimate to the venue.

League Expansion and Special Events

The NFL is set to hold its first regular-season game in Australia, with the Jonas Brothers scheduled to perform as part of the entertainment lineup.

Player Reflections and Personal Lives

Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce reflected on his wedding to Taylor Swift, calling it the "best night of my life." Kelce also stated his belief that he can still "play at a high level" and intends to be a more accountable leader this season. Former NFL quarterback Matt Hasselbeck is participating in research aimed at detecting CTE in living individuals, undergoing various scans and tests.

Contract News and Player Valuations

The Steelers have re-signed linebacker Elandon Roberts to a one-year deal, bringing him back to Pittsburgh. The Broncos' decision regarding quarterback Bo Nix's playing time in the preseason opener is part of a larger evaluation of his future with the team, with the upcoming season being critical for his status as the potential franchise quarterback.

Fantasy Football Strategy and League Insights

Mike Clay's playbook offers strategy tips for ten different league types and scoring setups, providing guidance for fantasy managers in various league formats.

College Talent and Future NFL Prospects

A recent analysis highlights 12 colleges with significant NFL draft talent for the upcoming drafts, with scouts expected to closely watch players from Miami and Texas.

Player Injury and Recovery Updates

Saints rookie wide receiver Jordyn Tyson is sidelined with a hamstring injury.

Draft Strategy and Player Rankings

ESPN's fantasy football rankings for quarterbacks are being released, with Matt Bowen providing his tier-based analysis to assist with draft preparation.

Team Performance Goals

Bears head coach Ben Johnson has set an ambitious goal for his team: to become the "highest-scoring offense ever" in the NFL.

Player Transfers and Roster Additions

The Panthers have added veteran tight end Darren Waller to their roster on a one-year deal.

Player Injury and Outlook

Cardinals quarterback Carson Beck will miss Thursday night's preseason game against the Raiders due to a rib injury.

Player Performance and Team Dynamics

The performance of rookie cornerback Brandon Cisse has been notable in training camp, potentially challenging for a starting position with the Packers.

Player Comments and Season Outlook

Travis Kelce, the Chiefs' star tight end, expressed confidence in his ability to perform at a high level in the upcoming season.

Player Injury and Team Practice

Buccaneers wide receiver Emeka Egbuka sustained a minor toe injury during a joint practice session.

Player Performance and Team Updates

Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is reportedly "coming on strong" during training camp, according to ongoing updates.

Training Camp Insights

An NFL training camp buzz notebook provides updates on various players, including Downs, Boston, and Hurts, from multiple teams.

Player Availability and Team Strategy

Panthers coach Dave Canales confirmed that running back Jonathon Brooks is ready to play in the team's preseason game against the Bills.

Off-Field Political News

Former NFL sideline reporter Michele Tafoya has won the Republican Senate primary in Minnesota.

Player Health and Research Efforts

Former NFL quarterback Matt Hasselbeck is participating in research focused on identifying CTE in living individuals.