NFL Football 8 Hours

Last updated: August 20, 2026, 4:44 PM ET

Preseason Practice Drama

Saquon Barkley openly criticized the Eagles' back-to-back joint practices with the Patriots, stating he hates the format and believes one day suffices to avoid skirmishes that regularly erupt during these sessions. The running back's frustration mirrors broader concerns league-wide, as multiple players were ejected from Thursday's Dolphins-Giants joint practice after throwing punches and engaging in physical altercations during a fight-filled workout. Meanwhile, Patriots receiver A.J. Brown expressed nothing but love for his former team, the Eagles, and ex-teammate Jalen Hurts following New England's joint sessions with Philadelphia.

Injury Updates

The Texans suffered a devastating blow when second-year wideout Jayden Higgins tore his ACL during a joint practice with the Raiders, ending his season prematurely. Colts star tight end Tyler Warren also sustained a groin injury in Wednesday's joint practice and did not return to action. Adding to the injury concerns, Lions tight end Sam LaPorta's status for Detroit's regular-season opener remains unclear after suffering a hip injury, leaving his availability in serious doubt.

Quarterback Market Watch

Sixteen NFL teams face significant QB1 uncertainty heading into 2027, with each franchise projecting both likely and long-shot scenarios for their quarterback situations. The Steelers have already made their decision clear, naming second-year quarterback Will Howard as their starter against the Jets in Friday's preseason contest, with 2026 fourth-round pick Drew Allar scheduled to follow him into the game. Rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza continues to make his case with a notebook habit that fuels his preparation, positioning himself as ready for action in Thursday's preseason game at Houston.

Draft Value Analysis

Eric Karabell's running back rankings reveal where value drops off significantly throughout the draft, helping fantasy managers identify optimal drafting windows. His tiered approach provides clarity on which RBs maintain premium value versus those who represent later-round gambles. Similarly, Karabell's wide receiver breakdown shows similar tier-based value gaps, allowing drafters to pinpoint when quality options become scarce at the position.

Free Agency Moves

Former Cowboys Pro Bowl cornerback Trevon Diggs is set to sign a one-year deal with the Seahawks, reuniting with a new team after his departure from Dallas. The Jaguars provided positive news on the injury front by activating offensive tackle Cole Van Lanen from the PUP list as he continues his comeback from the knee injury that forced him to miss Jacksonville's playoff loss last season. Vita Vea reinforced his commitment to Tampa Bay, declaring his end goal was never a trade away from the Buccaneers and expressing his desire to be a Buc for life.

The Patriots enter 2026 facing a new reality as the team being hunted rather than the hunters, with major roster turnover and identity questions amid a more challenging schedule. Detroit's championship window remains open despite their 2025 slump, backed by $1 billion in contract extensions and a rebuilt offensive line that has Sean McVay and Matt LaFleur believing in the Lions' contender potential. The 49ers are welcoming back familiar faces in Deebo Samuel and Dre Greenlaw, with both veterans returning in key roles during their second stints with the franchise. Questions remain about how Greenlaw will slot in at linebacker and whether Samuel can recapture his rushing threat prowess.