NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: August 17, 2026, 3:20 AM ET

Injuries and Suspensions

The NFL preseason has already delivered its first wave of significant injuries, with several key players facing extended absences. Jamal Adams suffered a right knee injury during the Vikings' 13-10 preseason victory over the Giants and will miss the entire 2026 season, according to NFL Network. The veteran safety was carted off the field shortly after his preseason debut with Minnesota. Chase Bisontis, the Cardinals' second-round pick who was expected to compete for starting time, tore his left MCL in Thursday night's preseason game and is now considered doubtful for the season. Jeremiyah Love, the rookie running back, will miss the next week with a sore ankle he injured against the Raiders, though his high ankle sprain diagnosis means he is unlikely to play the rest of the preseason. Marcus Mariota of the Commanders suffered a sprained right knee and will miss the remainder of the preseason, though he is expected to be ready for the regular-season opener. Geno Smith of the Jets is day-to-day with an ankle injury sustained during practice. Tyson, a Saints rookie wide receiver, has a right hamstring issue and will miss time. Brian Mason, the Colts' special teams coordinator, tore multiple ligaments in his knee after a sideline collision on the final play of Thursday night's preseason game against the Patriots.

Suspensions have also reshaped team rosters ahead of the regular season. James Pearce Jr., the Falcons' edge rusher, will serve an eight-game suspension for violating the league's personal conduct policy. Phidarian Mathis, a Bills defensive tackle, received a three-game suspension for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. Dorance Armstrong, a Commanders defensive end/linebacker, will miss the season opener for violating the personal conduct policy. Terrion Arnold, facing felony charges, was signed by the Seahawks after the team received overwhelmingly positive reviews about his character during their evaluation process.

Retirement Updates and Contract Moves

Aaron Donald worked out for the Los Angeles Rams for the second time as he continues evaluating whether to come out of retirement. Rams coach Sean McVay stated there is no "invisible deadline" on Donald's decision but hopes the former star defensive tackle makes a choice sooner rather than later. DeMarcus Lawrence, the Seahawks' outside linebacker, confirmed that his 13th NFL season will be his final one. Von Miller, the future Hall of Fame pass rusher, agreed to a one-year deal with the Dallas Cowboys, returning to Texas where he began his legendary career. John Niland, a three-time All-Pro guard who helped the Cowboys win their first Super Bowl championship, passed away at the age of.

The Seahawks made a significant investment in their secondary, agreeing to a four-year, $132 million extension with three-time Pro Bowl cornerback Devon Witherspoon. Meanwhile, the Steelers and defensive tackle Keeanu Benton reached an agreement on a four-year, $72 million extension, making Benton the highest-paid defensive lineman in franchise history.

Quarterback Performances and Battles

Quarterback competitions intensified across training camps and preseason games, with several signal-callers making strong impressions. Ty Simpson, the Rams' rookie second-round pick, delivered a standout performance in his preseason debut against the Chiefs, completing 21-of-25 passes for 190 yards and two touchdowns. Deshaun Watson returned to game action for the first time since the 2024 season, completing 11-of-15 passes for 126 yards and leading two scoring drives in the Browns' preseason opener. Tua Tagovailoa expressed frustration after the Falcons' preseason loss to the Broncos, where he completed 3-of-5 passes for 22 yards across two series.

Rookie quarterbacks also showcased their potential. Fernando Mendoza, the Raiders' rookie QB, completed 10-of-16 passes for 97 yards and a touchdown on four drives against the Cardinals. Drew Allar and Will Howard both turned in solid performances during the Steelers' 28-9 preseason win over the Packers. Jaxson Dart, the Giants' rookie quarterback, was "puzzled" after being checked for a concussion during Saturday's preseason game against the Vikings.

The Colts' quarterback situation remains fluid, with assistant general manager Ed Dodds suggesting that Anthony Richardson will remain in Indianapolis as the team prioritizes quarterback depth. DJ Pickett has no plans to change out of the No. 5 jersey amid pushback from Jayden Daniels, though Daniels says the situation won't be a distraction.

Preseason Game Results and Standouts

The Bears opened their preseason with a dominant 34-10 victory over the Browns, sparked by a 24-0 second-half surge under new playcaller Antwaan Randle El. Chicago's assistant head coach took over playcalling duties for the second half and immediately ignited the offense. Ja'Kobi Lane scored a touchdown to continue his impressive preseason performance, while Kyle Williams and K.J. Britt were among the Patriots' standouts in their preseason opener against the Colts.

The Vikings' preseason debut ended in a 13-10 victory over the Giants, though the win came at a steep cost with Jamal Adams suffering a season-ending knee injury. Travis Kelce recently reflected on his wedding with Taylor Swift at Madison Square Garden, calling it the best night of his life. George Kittle, recovering from a torn Achilles suffered in January, indicated he might be able to return to practice soon with hopes of being ready for the 49ers' opener against the Rams in Australia.

Fantasy Football and Draft Preparation

Fantasy managers received crucial information as the 2026 season approaches. ESPN released comprehensive cheat sheets covering PPR and non-PPR formats along with updated depth charts. Eric Karabell identified several undervalued players worth targeting, including Derrick Henry and Patrick Mahomes. Matt Bowen provided detailed quarterback tiers to help fantasy players structure their draft strategy.

The Jonas Brothers will headline the entertainment for the NFL's first regular-season game in Australia, adding star power to the historic 49ers-Rams matchup. Tristan H. Cockcroft recapped the fantasy football risers and notable performances from Saturday's preseason action, highlighting Jaxson Dart's risk-and-reward profile.

Coaching and Front Office Moves

The Titans hired Brian Daboll to maximize Cam Ward's potential, hoping to replicate the success Daboll enjoyed with Josh Allen in Buffalo. Ozzy Trapilo returned to Bears practice after being activated off the physically unable to perform list, seven months after rupturing his patellar tendon in the postseason.

A California judge ruled against the Rams in a wrongful termination lawsuit, finding the team's arbitration rules constituted an "example of an employer's attempt to overreach." The decision could have broader implications for NFL labor practices. Former NFLPA lawyer Heather McPhee settled her federal lawsuit against the union, which accused league leadership of conspiring to prevent her from advancing within the organization.

Team News and Developments

The Chicago Bears confirmed they will not change their name if they relocate to Indiana, with chairman George H. McCaskey addressing speculation about a potential cross-state move. Troy Aikman, the ESPN analyst, will face some restrictions in the lead-up to "Monday Night Football" broadcasts, similar to those imposed on Fox's Tom Brady due to his consulting work with the Dolphins.

Training camp coverage highlighted the importance of team culture and preparation. ESPN distributed 10 training camp awards recognizing standout players, teams, and position battles that have defined the early stages of camp. The publication also provided an inside look at the Buffalo Bills' "Return of the Blue & Red night" at the new Highmark Stadium, capturing fan reactions and team atmosphere during the first public event at the facility.

College football programs continue to serve as pipelines for NFL talent, with 12 schools identified as particularly stacked with prospects for the 2027 NFL draft. Programs like Miami and Texas are drawing attention from NFL scouts for their depth of talent across multiple position groups.

Harbaugh Culture and Team Dynamics

An inside look at Jim Harbaugh's team meetings revealed the unique culture and communication style that defines his coaching approach. The sessions are filled with personal messages and quirky terminology, including phrases like "opportunity of fatigue," reflecting Harbaugh's philosophy of finding motivation in adversity. Players have noted the intensity and attention to detail that characterize every aspect of the program, from film study to practice drills.

The Eagles experienced their own intensity during training camp, with a testy scuffle between defensive tackle Moro Ojomo and offensive tackle Fred Johnson on the 11th day of camp. The fight highlighted the competitive nature of training camp battles and the thin line between productive intensity and dangerous altercations.

Depth Chart Battles and Position Competitions

Several position battles have emerged as critical storylines heading into the regular season. Keisean Nixon, the Packers' Pro Bowl cornerback, faces uncertainty about securing a starting role as training camp progresses. The competition for playing time has intensified, with younger players making strong cases for promotion to the first-team defense.

The Cowboys organization remains satisfied with their decision to trade Micah Parsons, with Jerry Jones comparing the move to the legendary 1989 Herschel Walker trade that helped establish the Cowboys' 1990s dynasty. The team's approach to rebuilding through strategic trades continues to draw comparisons to successful front office decisions of the past.