NFL Football 3h Briefing
×Last updated: July 28, 2026, 8:30 PM ET
Coaching Carousel and Player News
The Washington Commanders have appointed former All-Pro receiver Wes Welker as their new tight ends coach, replacing the recently fired position coach appointed espn.com. In other personnel news, Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert is reportedly engaged to singer Madison Beer engaged espn.com. San Francisco 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan has taken responsibility for a car accident that resulted in serious injuries two weeks prior, stating that a recent report regarding the incident was inaccurate fault espn.com.
Contract Extensions and Free Agency
Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter is set to become the highest-paid defensive tackle in NFL history after agreeing to a four-year extension worth up to $160 million, with a guaranteed $152 million signing espn.com. Meanwhile, Cleveland Browns cornerback Denzel Ward has also secured a significant deal, agreeing to a two-year, $62.2 million contract that guarantees $52.3 million, making him the league's top-paid defensive back reached espn.com. Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield will play out the final year of his contract and enter free agency, as he has not yet agreed to an extension play espn.com.
Veteran Quarterback Developments
Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins has been named the starting signal-caller for the Raiders as training camp opens, ahead of top draft pick Fernando Mendoza nod espn.com. In a somber announcement, New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith expressed regret for allowing an off-field dispute to become a distraction for the team rues espn.com. Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, has definitively stated that the 2026 season will be his final in the NFL affirmed espn.com.
Team Outlooks and Offseason Impact
Dallas Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones conveyed strong optimism about his team's championship aspirations heading into training camp, believing the roster is built for contention competing espn.com. A new ranking has emerged identifying the top 50 most impactful NFL offseason moves for the upcoming 2026 season, assessing free agent signings, trades, and draft picks stacking espn.com.