NFL Football 8 Hours

Last updated: September 4, 2026, 10:39 PM ET

Quarterback Contracts & Contracts Watch

Tampa Bay's Baker Mayfield has let his self-imposed contract deadline pass, and his high school coach believes betting on himself into the season is the right move. In a broader league outlook, Bill Barnwell identifies 22 figures with the most at stake this year, including Mayfield and Houston's C.J. Stroud chasing big paydays, while Jets head coach Aaron Glenn faces a make-or-break campaign.

Gambling & the Business of the NFL

In Las Vegas, the "Meatball Brothers" and other bettors are chasing the unthinkable in high-stakes survivor pools — a $1,000 entry fee could balloon into a $20 million prize if they pick winners all season. But the sportsbook boom is fading: NFL betting has climbed to roughly $30 billion over the years, yet growth is stalling at U.S. sportsbooks as prediction markets siphon action. For those preparing to wager, ESPN's full 2026 betting guide includes odds, tips and best bets for the upcoming season.

Team News & Health

The Rams "plan" to fly their entire roster to Melbourne for the season opener against the 49ers, Sean McVay confirmed Friday. New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo admitted on "Up & Adams" that he briefly considered retirement after a broken ankle he suffered during his rookie season. The football world also mourns Alphonso Smith, a two-time All-America cornerback from Wake Forest who played four NFL seasons and has died at age 40.

Legal & Disciplinary Notes

Former Jets and Eagles quarterback Mark Sanchez, now a Fox broadcaster, has agreed to plead guilty in the alleged assault of a truck driver in Indianapolis last year. Packers running back Josh Jacobs' initial court date on misdemeanor charges has been moved up to Sept. 10. The Athletic's internal review found that former reporter Dianna Russini's relationship with Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel violated newsroom standards, though no clear bias emerged.

Hall of Fame & Jersey Notes

The Pro Football Hall of Fame is overhauling its selection process, slashing the number of selectors and eliminating the separate Semiors category. The changes take effect immediately.

Draft & Fantasy Preview

Mel Kiper has 10 preseason takes for the 2027 draft, including five first-round quarterbacks, and predicts Georgia's Jadan Baugh will be the RB1 class headliner. For fantasy managers, how many of the 30-plus player notes have you read before your draft? Then, check out Mike Clay's post-draft management playbook to be a savvy, title-winning manager all season long.