NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: August 16, 2026, 3:44 AM ET

Preseason Football Continues Across the League

The NFL preseason is in full swing, with teams across the league wrapping up their opening-week slate of games and providing fans with early glimpses of what to expect in the regular season. Travis Kelce made his first public comments regarding his recent wedding to Taylor Swift, calling it the best night of his life during an appearance at Met Life Stadium. Meanwhile, the Mets joined the growing list of teams and personalities taking playful jabs at Jayden Daniels over his jersey number dispute with LSU, adding fuel to the ongoing off-field storyline.

On the field, Ja'Kobi Lane continued his impressive preseason run by scoring a touchdown in his latest appearance, showcasing the kind of playmaking ability that has made him a name to watch among rookie receivers. The Seahawks locked up star cornerback Devon Witherspoon with a massive four-year extension worth $132 million, cementing their secondary duo alongside Jamal Adams for the foreseeable future. In a game that defined momentum shifts, Antwaan Randle El took over playcalling duties for the second half of the Bears' 34-10 win over the Browns, sparking a 24-0 run that showcased Chicago's offensive potential.

Quarterbacks were front and center in this week's action, with Deshaun Watson making his first appearance since the 2024 season and delivering an "awesome" first half according to offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey, completing 11 of 15 passes for 126 yards and leading two scoring drives. Across the country, Ty Simpson, the Rams' rookie quarterback out of Texas, turned heads with a stellar preseason debut against the Chiefs, going 21-of-25 for 190 yards and two touchdowns. However, not all quarterback stories were positive, as Jaxson Dart expressed confusion after being checked for a concussion during the Giants' preseason matchup with the Vikings, raising questions about communication protocols on the field.

Injuries and Suspensions Impact Key Players

While preseason football brings excitement, it also brings concern as injuries and disciplinary issues begin to pile up across the league. Tua Tagovailoa voiced frustration after the Falcons suffered a preseason loss to the Broncos, where he played just two series and finished 3-of-5 for 22 yards. Injury concerns mounted further when Jeremiyah Love, the Cardinals' promising rookie running back, was ruled out for at least a week due to a sore ankle sustained in Thursday night's game against the Raiders. The situation worsened for Arizona when rookie offensive lineman Chase Bisontis suffered a torn MCL that could sideline him for the entire season, dealing a blow to their depth chart.

Defensive players weren't immune either, as veteran safety Jamal Adams was carted off the field shortly after his preseason debut with the Vikings, casting uncertainty over his availability The Colts faced a different kind of setback when special teams coordinator Brian Mason tore multiple ligaments in his knee following a sideline collision during Thursday night's game against the Patriots. Adding to the league-wide discipline issues, James Pearce Jr. received an eight-game suspension from the NFL for violating the league's personal conduct policy, while Phidarian Mathis of the Bills was handed a three-game ban for substance abuse violations. The Commanders also announced that Dorance Armstrong will miss the season opener due to a personal conduct policy violation, creating holes in their defensive rotation.

Rookie Performances and Emerging Storylines

The preseason has provided a platform for young players to make their mark, and several stood out in recent action. Steelers rookie quarterbacks Drew Allar and Will Howard both delivered promising performances during Pittsburgh's dominant 28-9 preseason victory over the Packers, signaling strong competition brewing at the quarterback position. Fernando Mendoza, the Raiders' rookie signal-caller, completed 10 of 16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown in his debut against the Cardinals, earning praise from coaches for his poise under pressure. Elsewhere, Solak's training camp superlatives highlighted standout performers across positions, including recognition for players transitioning into new roles within evolving offensive schemes.

Off the field, curiosity about how rookies manage their newfound wealth led to features like “What NFL rookies have spent their first paychecks on”, which revealed that players like Jeremiyah Love, Drew Allar, and Carnell Tate are investing wisely in real estate, family support, and charitable endeavors. The Panthers bolstered their tight end room by signing veteran Darren Waller to a one-year deal, bringing veteran leadership and reliable hands to their passing game. Meanwhile, 49ers receiver Ricky Pearsall underwent successful knee surgery and is targeting a nine-month recovery timeline, keeping hope alive for a mid-season return that could boost San Francisco's receiving corps.

: Key Dates and Developments

As teams finalize rosters and prepare for the regular season, several key developments continue to shape narratives heading into opening weekend. Josh Allen and the Bills' starters are set to play in Saturday's preseason finale at their new stadium, offering fans a chance to see the revamped coaching staff's vision come to life. However, Carson Beck will miss Thursday night's preseason game against the Raiders due to a rib injury sustained in the Hall of Fame Game, derailing what was expected to be a compelling rematch with Mendoza. The Bears officially confirmed they will retain their name even if they relocate to Indiana, with chairman George H. McCaskey emphasizing continuity in brand identity despite geographic changes.

On the broadcasting side, Troy Aikman will operate under restrictions similar to those imposed on Tom Brady as he prepares for upcoming Monday Night Football broadcasts, reflecting the league's efforts to maintain competitive balance among networks. In a nod to nostalgia and pop culture crossover, the Jonas Brothers have been tapped to perform at the NFL's inaugural regular-season game in Australia, scheduled between the 49ers and Rams later this year. Adding historical significance, Joe Montana's game-worn Super Bowl XXIV jersey sold at auction for a record-breaking $1.5 million, surpassing the previous mark set by Tom Brady's final-game jersey.

Looking toward the future, Bo Nix enters a pivotal 2026 season that many believe will define whether he becomes the Broncos' long-term franchise quarterback or opens the door for another rebuild. The Packers are evaluating whether second-rounder Brandon Cisse can challenge Keisean Nixon for the starting left cornerback role, highlighting the competitive nature of Green Bay's defensive backfield. Meanwhile, Klint Kubiak continues instilling his high-energy culture on the Raiders, with players describing him as "like a machine" in his first training camp as head coach.

Fantasy Football and Draft Preparation Heat Up

With the regular season approaching, fantasy football preparation has entered its final stretch, with analysts offering insights and strategies to help managers build championship-caliber rosters. Eric Karabell released his "Do Draft" list, identifying undervalued players like Derrick Henry and Patrick Mahomes who are being selected later than they should be in most leagues. Complementing that advice, Matt Bowen broke down his quarterback tiers for the upcoming season, providing a framework for managers to navigate the increasingly complex landscape of QB evaluations. For those participating in non-traditional formats, Mike Clay offered strategic guidance tailored to specific league types and scoring systems, ensuring every manager has tools to compete regardless of format.

Front Office Moves and Contract News

Front offices remain active as teams adjust rosters and lock up core contributors ahead of the regular season. The Steelers agreed to a four-year, $72 million extension with defensive tackle Keeanu Benton, making him the highest-paid defensive lineman in franchise history. Elandon Roberts returned to Pittsburgh on a one-year deal, bringing veteran experience to the linebacking corps. The Rams faced a legal setback when a California judge ruled against their arbitration rules in a wrongful termination lawsuit, though the decision primarily affects internal employment disputes rather than player contracts.

Coaching Culture and Team Dynamics

Team culture continues to evolve under new leadership, with coaches implementing systems designed to maximize performance and accountability. Mike Macdonald defended the Seahawks' decision to offer a contract to Terrion Arnold despite pending felony charges, citing "overwhelmingly positive" character references gathered during the recruitment process. The Harbaugh family's unique approach to team meetings was spotlighted, revealing a blend of personal messaging and quirky terminology that reflects Jim Harbaugh's distinctive coaching philosophy. These cultural elements often translate directly into on-field execution, as teams strive to balance individual talent with collective cohesion.

College Pipeline and Future Talent Watch

Scouts and analysts continue tracking college programs rich with NFL draft talent, with Miami and Texas among the programs generating significant buzz for the 2027 draft class. Identifying early-round talent remains crucial for rebuilding franchises seeking quick turnaround opportunities, and these programs consistently produce prospects ready to contribute immediately at the professional level.

Looking Forward: Regular Season Countdown Begins

As the final week of preseason concludes, attention turns decisively toward the regular season opener. Teams will trim rosters to 53 players by the deadline, setting the stage for what promises to be another thrilling year of NFL football. With storylines ranging from rookie emergence to veteran farewells, the league enters its next chapter with momentum building across markets nationwide.