NFL Football 8 Hours

Last updated: March 31, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

AFC Quarterback Confidence & Roster Moves

Coaching staffs across the AFC expressed firm backing for their incumbent or incoming quarterbacks despite ongoing offseason uncertainties. Jets coach Aaron Glenn declared that Geno Smith is unequivocally "the guy that's going to lead us to the promised land," offering definitive support for the signal-caller. In contrast, Ravens coach Jesse Minter admitted uncertainty regarding Lamar Jackson’s engagement level, stating he is unsure about participation in next week’s voluntary workouts. Meanwhile, speculation surrounding the Patriots’ receiving corps intensified as coach Mike Vrabel refused to dismiss trade chatter involving acquiring A.J. Brown from the Eagles, a move that would certainly impact division rivalries.

Team Management & Draft Outlook

Front office decisions regarding player tenure and draft strategy occupied the attention of several organizations. Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones confirmed the team has "long-term plans in mind" for receiver George Pickens, but stressed that no contract negotiations have begun, meaning the franchise will utilize the tag mechanism for now. Out in Las Vegas, Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak offered glowing reviews for Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, whom the team might select first overall, emphatically stating the QB is a winner during his press availability Tuesday. Furthermore, Denver coach Sean Payton, having recently experienced flag football, indicated he would be "surprised" if any current NFL players feature on the U.S. team in the upcoming international competition, suggesting current players won't participate yet.

Offseason Battles & Coaching Relations

Intra-squad competitions are already taking shape, though not always with perfectly balanced metrics. Cleveland Browns offensive coordinator Ken Monken clarified that the reps during the quarterback competition involving Shedeur Sanders, Deshaun Watson, and Dillon Gabriel will not be evenly divided throughout the early stages of the offseason program. Separately, any lingering tension between coaches seemed to dissipate, as Liam Coen and Robert Saleh confirmed there is no lingering animosity stemming from the sign-stealing disagreement that occurred last September. For fantasy football enthusiasts, Mike Clay released his 2026 rankings, providing detailed profiles on the top 35 quarterbacks projected for that season.

League Operations & Legal Matters

Off the field, league governance moved forward while simultaneously facing internal disputes. NFL owners formally approved a contingency plan designed to centralize officiating duties should a work stoppage impact negotiations with the NFL Referees Association currently underway. However, the league is facing litigation from a former employee; Robin DeLorenzo, one of the NFL's first female officials, has filed a lawsuit alleging gender-based scrutiny and open hostility following her 2025 dismissal, citing unfair treatment. On a positive note for player health, Chiefs coach Andy Reid continued to boost confidence in Patrick Mahomes’ recovery, advising the public not to bet against him playing in Week 1 following his recent injury scare.