NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: August 15, 2026, 5:42 PM ET

NFL Training Camp Awards and Superlatives

As NFL training camps draw to a close and the preseason kicks off, ESPN has handed out 10 made-up awards to highlight standout players, teams, and position battles. These accolades cover a range of achievements and storylines emerging from camps across the league. One notable award recipient is Jamal Adams, who, despite a promising start to his preseason debut with the Vikings, was unfortunately carted off the field with an injury. In other injury news, Cardinals rookie running back Jeremiyah Love will miss about a week with a sore ankle sustained during a recent game. The Seahawks have secured a significant contract extension for Pro Bowl cornerback Devon Witherspoon, agreeing to a four-year, $132 million deal. Meanwhile, veteran Seahawks outside linebacker DeMarcus Lawrence confirmed that his upcoming 13th NFL season will be his last. The Seahawks also added Terrion Arnold to their roster, with coach Mike Macdonald citing "overwhelmingly positive" reviews as a key factor in the decision, despite Arnold facing felony charges.

Player News and Contract Updates

Several significant player transactions and contract developments have occurred across the league. The Steelers have agreed to a four-year, $72 million extension with defensive tackle Keeanu Benton, making him the highest-paid defensive lineman in franchise history. In other contract news, the Seahawks have also reached a deal with Pro Bowl cornerback Devon Witherspoon on a four-year, $132 million extension. Veteran tight end Darren Waller has signed a one-year deal with the Panthers, bolstering their tight end room. On the injury front, Jets quarterback Geno Smith is considered day-to-day with an ankle injury that caused him to miss the preseason opener.

Suspensions and Roster Moves

The league has handed down several suspensions impacting teams heading into the season. Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. will miss the first eight games of the season due to a violation of the NFL's personal conduct policy. Similarly, Commanders defensive end/linebacker Dorance Armstrong has been suspended without pay for the season opener for personal conduct policy violations. Bills defensive tackle Phidarian Mathis received a three-game suspension for violating the league's substance abuse policy. In a significant development for the Cardinals, rookie offensive lineman Chase Bisontis may miss the entire season after tearing his left MCL during a preseason game. The Colts' special teams coordinator, Brian Mason, also suffered a serious injury, tearing multiple knee ligaments in a sideline collision during a preseason game.

Fantasy Football Preparations and Player Projections

As fantasy football draft season approaches, ESPN is providing extensive resources for managers. The 2026 Fantasy Draft Guide offers rankings, projections, and analysis to help prepare for drafts. Complementing this are downloadable and printable cheat sheets for various league formats, including PPR and non-PPR. Fantasy analyst Eric Karabell has identified several undervalued players who could provide significant return on investment, including notable names like Derrick Henry and Patrick Mahomes. For those focusing on the quarterback position, Matt Bowen has released his QB tiers, offering a tiered ranking system to aid in draft strategy. Additionally, Mike Clay's Playbook offers strategy tips for a variety of league types and scoring setups, ensuring managers are equipped for any format.

Preseason Action and Quarterback Performances

The NFL preseason has begun, offering the first glimpse of teams and players in action. In a preseason loss to the Broncos, Falcons quarterback Tua Tagovailoa expressed frustration with his team's performance, noting his own limited output of 22 yards on 3-of-5 passing over two series. Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza showed promise in his preseason debut against the Cardinals, completing 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown. Steelers rookie quarterbacks Drew Allar and Will Howard delivered solid performances in a 28-9 preseason victory over the Packers. Broncos quarterback Bo Nix will not play in the team's preseason opener as he continues to recover from ankle surgeries, with the team targeting the final two preseason games for his debut. The Browns have named Deshaun Watson their starting quarterback for the preseason opener against Chicago.

Team Culture and Offseason Developments

New coaching philosophies and offseason moves are shaping teams for the upcoming season. The Raiders are experiencing a culture shift under coach Klint Kubiak, who has instilled a sense of urgency and a "no nonsense" approach. In Washington, coach Dan Quinn is working to re-energize the Commanders by emphasizing competition and a sharper edge. Bears chairman George H. McCaskey has confirmed that the team will not change its name, even if they relocate to Indiana. The Eagles training camp saw a scuffle between defensive tackle Moro Ojomo and offensive tackle Fred Johnson, highlighting the intensity of camp competition.

College Talent and Draft Outlook

to future NFL drafts, specific college programs are noted for their abundance of talent. Miami and Texas are highlighted as two of a dozen schools with significant NFL draft prospects for the 2027 draft. These rosters are expected to be heavily scouted for potential early-round selections.

Notable Transactions and Player Milestones

The Seahawks have signed Terrion Arnold, with coach Mike Macdonald citing positive reviews as a factor in the decision. Former Pro Bowl tight end Darren Waller has agreed to a one-year deal with the Panthers. The Steelers have re-signed linebacker Elandon Roberts to a one-year contract. The 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall is facing a roughly nine-month recovery after undergoing knee surgery.

Broadcasting and League Events

ESPN analyst Troy Aikman will have some limitations in his "Monday Night Football" broadcast preparations, similar to those previously applied to Tom Brady. The Jonas Brothers are scheduled to perform at the NFL's first regular-season game in Australia between the 49ers and Rams.

Historical Memorabilia and Player Anecdotes

A jersey worn by Joe Montana during Super Bowl XXIV has sold for a record $1.5 million, surpassing the previous record held by a Tom Brady jersey. Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce described his wedding night as the "best night of my life." Former NFLPA lawyer Heather McPhee has settled a federal lawsuit against the union, alleging conspiracy.

Draft Picks and Future Outlook

The 2026 NFL Draft is a significant focus for several college programs, with Miami and Texas being identified as schools with a high concentration of potential early-round talent. The Broncos' future with quarterback Bo Nix could be significantly shaped by his performance in the upcoming seasons. The Steelers' decision to trade Micah Parsons is still viewed positively by Jerry Jones, who compares it to the Herschel Walker trade that fueled a Cowboys dynasty.

Player Contract Negotiations and Team Dynamics

The Seahawks have reached a significant contract extension with Pro Bowl cornerback Devon Witherspoon, securing him for four more years at $132 million. Defensive tackle Keeanu Benton and the Steelers have agreed to a four-year, $72 million extension. In a unique situation, LSU's DJ Pickett stated he will not change his jersey number from No. 5, despite Jayden Daniels' desire to wear it, asserting it won't be a distraction.

Team Culture and Coaching Philosophies

Coach Jim Harbaugh is known for his unique approach to team meetings, which include personal messages and distinctive terminology. The Raiders are embracing coach Klint Kubiak's demanding culture and sense of urgency. In Washington, Dan Quinn is implementing a competitive environment to revitalize the Commanders. Bears coach Ben Johnson has an ambitious goal for his offense this season: to become the highest-scoring offense in NFL history.

Injuries and Roster Updates

Saints rookie wide receiver Jordyn Tyson is sidelined with a hamstring injury. The Cardinals will be without quarterback Carson Beck for their preseason game against the Raiders due to a rib injury. The 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall underwent knee surgery and faces a nine-month recovery period.

Preseason Matchups and Player Introductions

The Bills will have Josh Allen and other healthy starters play in their new stadium on Saturday, marking a significant moment for the Bills and their new stadium. Aaron Rodgers expressed his desire for a return to Lambeau Field for a potential honor, but acknowledged it would require an invitation. The Packers' cornerback battle features rookie Brandon Cisse, who has impressed and could challenge for a starting spot.