NFL Football 8 Hours

Last updated: April 22, 2026, 5:30 PM ET

NFL Draft Preparations & Personnel Moves

With the draft commencing Thursday, insider reports are solidifying projections, as Matt Miller released his final mock draft incorporating the latest intel from Jeremy Fowler regarding top prospects. Meanwhile, the New Orleans Saints granted offensive coordinator Doug Nussmeier permission to spend draft night with his son, Garrett, framing the experience as a "once in a lifetime opportunity" for the family before the team's critical selections begin. Positional needs remain central to team planning; the New York Jets are expected to target an offensive player with their second first-round pick, potentially at wide receiver if they stay put at Pick 16 after addressing edge rusher needs earlier.

Prospect Health & Contract Statuses

The medical status of key defensive prospects is coming into focus, with sources indicating that Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks aims for full clearance by early June following offseason foot surgery, which is essential before he can fully integrate into an NFL training camp. Separately, contract negotiations are stalled for certain established players; the Dallas Cowboys confirmed they will not discuss a long-term deal with George Pickens, intending for him to play the upcoming season under the franchise tag while the team evaluates his performance. In Las Vegas, the Raiders are dissecting their remaining nine draft slots following their initial picks, needing to efficiently address numerous positional gaps across the roster as they finalize their strategy beyond the first round.