NFL Football 3 Days

Last updated: August 20, 2026, 4:30 PM ET

Injury Updates

The NFL preseason has been rocked by a wave of significant injuries across multiple teams, with several key starters now facing extended absences. Texans second-year wideout Jayden Higgins tore his ACL during a joint practice with the Raiders and will miss the entire season. The Chargers placed center Tyler Biadasz on injured reserve after he suffered ACL damage and additional left knee injuries in a joint practice collision with the 49ers. Vikings veteran defender Jamal Adams tore his right quadriceps tendon and is out for the season. Saints running back Alvin Kamara is expected to be sidelined for at least one month with a sprained MCL. The Jaguars activated offensive tackle Cole Van Lanen from the PUF list as he returns from a knee injury. Panthers linebacker Jer'Zhan Newton underwent surgery to repair a torn pectoral muscle. Jets running back Breece Hall will miss two to three weeks with a groin strain but is expected to be ready for the regular season opener. Bears running back Kyle Monangai is expected to miss multiple weeks with a knee injury. Colts tight end Tyler Warren sustained a groin injury in joint practice and did not return. Lions tight end Sam LaPorta has an unclear status for Week 1 after suffering a hip injury.

Joint Practice Drama

Joint practices have become a flashpoint in the preseason, with multiple teams dealing with fights, player ejections, and strong opinions about the format. Eagles star running back Saquon Barkley openly stated his dislike for back-to-back days of joint practices, saying "one day is good" to avoid skirmishes that regularly occur during sessions. Multiple players were ejected from the Dolphins-Giants joint practice after throwing punches or engaging in physical altercations during a fight-filled workout. The Cowboys-Saints joint practice erupted in multiple brawls, with coaches discussing whether they needed to cancel the session entirely. Patriots receiver A.J. Brown expressed nothing but "love" for the Eagles and former teammate Jalen Hurts following joint practices between the teams.

Roster Moves and Signings

Teams have been active on the transaction wire, with several notable additions and subtractions. The Jaguars are still planning to sign cornerback Terrion Arnold, though timing issues may delay the deal. The Giants traded guard Daniel Faalele to the Jaguars for a sixth-round draft pick in 2027. The Falcons signed pass rusher Za'Darius Smith to a one-year deal to help bolster their pass rush after key losses. Running back Najee Harris signed a one-year deal with the Giants. The Colts secured a one-year deal with veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen, reuniting him with head coach Shane Steichen. Former Cowboys Pro Bowl cornerback Trevon Diggs plans to sign a one-year deal with the Seahawks. Veteran linebacker Von Miller joined the Cowboys on a one-year contract, expressing his goal to win a Super Bowl with the storied franchise. The Dolphins activated rookie wide receiver Chris Bell from the active/non-football injury list, paving the way for his practice debut.

Quarterback Battles and Development

Quarterback competitions remain a major storyline heading into the regular season. With a decision at starting quarterback looming, Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders said he's not feeling pressure ahead of joint practice with the Bills and his start in the preseason. The Steelers will start second-year quarterback Will Howard against the Jets on Friday, with 2026 fourth-round pick Drew Allar following as backup. Rookie QB Fernando Mendoza is known for his studious approach, with his notebook habit fueling his rise as he prepares for his preseason game at Houston. The Patriots are entering a new era in 2026, with the team feeling like they're being hunted after an eventful offseason with significant roster turnover.

Coaching and Front Office Moves

Head coaches and front office executives have been making headlines with their strategic decisions and public statements. Kyle Shanahan dismissed speculation that Christian McCaffrey is sitting out practice due to contract demands, stating the team is merely being cautious with its star running back. New offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel praised Justin Herbert's work this summer in training camp, saying the quarterback has been "everything and more." Dallas owner and general manager Jerry Jones was thrilled to land Von Miller but remains open to further roster moves. Coach Sean McVay stated the Rams want Puka Nacua and Myles Garrett to be 100% healthy before returning from injuries. Jets coach Aaron Glenn wasn't concerned about Breece Hall's groin injury, believing it's likely minor despite the running back undergoing further testing.

Fantasy Football Insights

Fantasy football analysts continue to provide valuable insights as draft season heats up. Eric Karabell has released his running back tiers to help identify where value drops off throughout the draft, with his RB rankings breaking down positional depth. His wide receiver tiers provide similar guidance for fantasy managers targeting receiving corps depth. Fantasy analyst Liz Loza identifies six players generating excitement who could become league winners, with Justin Herbert, Trey Benson, and Blake Corum leading the "drumbeat" of rising fantasy assets. Injury news and potential suspensions have shaken up the latest mock draft, with Puka Nacua and Jeremiyah Love dropping due to recent developments.

Player Personal Stories

Beyond the statistics and injuries, several players have compelling personal stories worth following. Ravens defensive end Calais Campbell broke his silence on a family tragedy, asking for continued prayers and support after addressing the death of his mother and his brother's murder charge for the first time publicly. Bears second-year tight end Colston Loveland is emerging as a fantasy star while making a name for himself on and off the field. Panthers linebacker Devin Lloyd wears the green dot as a badge of honor, serving as a vital communicator for the defense. Rookie wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, the No. 8 overall pick from Arizona State, could miss the next two months with a hamstring injury.

Offensive Line and Positional Battles

Positional battles continue throughout training camps, with several competitions drawing attention. The Cowboys are seeking consistency from right tackle Terence Steele during training camp, with coach updates highlighting key position battles and potential breakouts. Panthers quarterbacks Young and McMillan put on a show during practices in Jacksonville, demonstrating their developing chemistry. The Chargers center position faces uncertainty after Tyler Biadasz was carted off with a left leg injury during joint practice. Bills updates show DJ Moore returning to practice, providing a boost to the receiving corps. The Patriots are focusing on identity to combat a harder schedule this season, with much roster turnover defining their approach.

Running Back Developments

Running back situations have seen significant movement and development across the league. After three years of being "Knuckles" in Detroit, David Montgomery is ready to be featured in Houston, where he'll complement quarterback C.J. Stroud. Running back Najee Harris signed with the Giants, bringing experience to the backfield. Breece Hall of the Jets will miss two to three weeks with a groin strain but is expected to return for the regular season opener. Bears running back Kyle Monangai is expected to miss multiple weeks with a knee injury. The Rams are taking a cautious approach with their running game, ensuring players are fully healthy before returning to practice.

Wide Receiver Spotlight

Wide receiver developments have included strong performances and concerning injuries. Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers participated in full-speed live drills for the first time since tearing his ACL and meniscus in his right knee during Week 4 of last season. Saints rookie wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, the No. 8 overall pick, faces a potential two-month absence with a hamstring injury. The Dolphins activated rookie wide receiver Chris Bell for his practice debut, adding depth to the receiving corps. Wide receiver Cooper Kupp has expanded his brand beyond football, opening a coffee shop in Fayetteville, Arkansas for his Dodo Coffee brand.

Defensive Standouts

Defensive players have been making headlines both on and off the field. Panthers linebacker Devin Lloyd continues to lead the defense with the green dot, demonstrating his communication skills and leadership. Former Cowboys Pro Bowl cornerback Trevon Diggs has signed a one-year deal with the Seahawks, citing former teammates as part of his decision-making process. The Falcons have bolstered their pass rush by signing Za'Darius Smith after key losses to injury. Defensive lineman Jer'Zhan Newton underwent surgery for a torn pectoral muscle, sidelining him indefinitely.

Special Teams and Legacy

The NFL community recently mourned the loss of a beloved figure, as O.J. Brigance, a former Ravens linebacker and longtime player engagement adviser, passed away at age 56 after a 19-year battle with ALS. His legacy extends far beyond his playing career, impacting countless players through his community work and advocacy. Meanwhile, Commissioner Roger Goodell stated that having an NFL team permanently based outside the United States is inevitable, signaling continued international expansion efforts.

Preseason Outlook

As teams prepare for the upcoming season, several storylines emerge from recent developments. The Lions remain confident in their championship window despite a 2025 slump, with $1 billion in contract extensions and a rebuilt offensive line positioning them as contenders. Quarterback Baker Mayfield has vowed to "shock a lot of people" as the Buccaneers' quarterback, brushing aside critics as he prepares for the season. The Bears offense under Ben Johnson is showing it's much more than just Caleb Williams, with the offensive system revealing its depth and complexity. Running back Travis Hunter has impressed at Jaguars camp, with observers noting he "just came out of nowhere" in his second NFL training camp. The Bengals have seen rookie running back Ceyair Wright leave football to pursue acting, bringing new meaning to the term "dual threat." The Bills opened their new Highmark Stadium with a preseason win over the Panthers, though the field showed signs of wear that officials are monitoring closely.