NFL Football 7d

NFL Playoffs & Championship Games

The conference championship matchups are set after a dramatic divisional round. The Patriots activated WR Hollins for the AFC title game, while the Seahawks added Holani and Arroyo for the NFC championship. The Seahawks showcased their full arsenal, blowing out the 49ers to advance, while the Broncos pulled out an OT thriller to make the AFC title game.

Coaching Carousel

The coaching search continues across the league. The Steelers hired Mike McCarthy as their new head coach, a move that brings him back to his Pittsburgh roots. The Ravens hired Jesse Minter from the Chargers, and the Dolphins hired Jeff Hafley from the Packers. The Giants hired John Harbaugh with Tom Coughlin's assistance, and the Falcons hired Kevin Stefanski. The Titans hired Robert Saleh, and the Bears' offensive coordinator search is ongoing. Meanwhile, the Chiefs brought back Eric Bieniemy as OC, and the Cowboys agreed with Philadelphia's Parker as their new defensive coordinator.

Offseason Storylines

Teams are already planning for 2026. The Texans face a familiar feeling after another divisional loss, and their offensive coordinator is expected to return. The Broncos are confident in Jarrett Stidham and opened a window for J.K. Dobbins' return. The Packers released former Pro Bowl cornerback Diggs and are looking to replace DC Jeff Hafley. The Dolphins' GM admitted there's work to do at QB, and the Colts are wondering if they'll run it back with Daniel Jones. The 49ers' GM stated that Brandon Aiyuk has played his last snap for the team.

Draft & Prospect News

The 2026 draft class is taking shape. Quarterback Brock Mendoza, the likely No. 1 pick, entered the draft, and top OT prospect Mauigoa also declared. The Raiders currently hold the No. 1 pick in the draft order, and questions remain about whether they'll trade it. Bears QB Caleb Williams' development made the season a success, though he wasn't on the same page with DJ Moore. The first round draft order is mostly set with the Raiders at the top.

Player Performances & Injuries

The divisional round featured several key performances and injuries. The Patriots held off the Texans in a turnover-filled game, and the Broncos advanced despite Bo Nix being out. The Seahawks' Zach Charbonnet is out for the playoffs, putting more pressure on Kenneth Walker III. The 49ers' Christian Kittle suffered a "best-case" Achilles tear but is eyeing an early return. The Rams' Davante Adams is again at the doorstep of the Super Bowl, and the Broncos' C.J. Stroud's extension talks might be paused after the loss.

Front Office Moves & Controversies

Front office changes are happening league-wide. The Colts confirmed the FBI opened a probe into Jim Irsay's death, and the Giants' long-time executive Abrams left after 27 years. The Bills' owner explained that despair and the 'playoff wall' triggered the firing and that coaches pushed to draft Coleman. The Packers' J.J. Walker was arrested on a gun charge, and the Vikings' Jordan Addison had trespassing charges dropped. The league is also investigating a substation in relation to the 49ers' injury issues.

Free Agency & Market

The wide receiver market is being sorted out by Bill Barnwell, with 20 free agents, trade targets, and cut candidates. The league's best offensive and defensive coordinator openings have been ranked, with intel on top candidates. The Cowboys are looking for a new defensive coordinator, and the Patriots are addressing QB Drake Maye's turnovers. The Seahawks are hoping Kenneth Walker III can carry them after Charbonnet's injury.

NFL Honors & Media

The NFL MVP finalists are Christian McCaffrey and four quarterbacks, and the top 100 most valuable players have been stacked by ESPN. Green Day will honor the MVPs at the Super Bowl pregame. The divisional round ratings were up big, nearly a record. Former NFL sideline reporter Cindy Tafoya is running for Senate.