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Ty Simpson, Jeremiyah Love Among 16 Prospects Attending 2026 NFL Draft

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 20:44:28 -0400

Not every top prospect chooses to spend draft night at home. With two weeks until draft night, the NFL unveiled the list of players set to attend the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh. A total of 16 prospects are expected to walk the stage and embrace the moment. The most notable absence is presumed No. 1 overall pick, Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza. He informed the league on Tuesday that he plans to experience the moment with his family in Miami instead. Even without Mendoza, the event will feature plenty of star power. Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love headlines the group, joined by edge rushers David Bailey and Ohio State’s Arvell Reese, all projected to be top-10 selections. Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson will also be in attendance, potentially adding some fuel to the rising speculation that he'll be a first-round pick. As 16 prospects opt to celebrate their big night in Pittsburgh, though, it represents a decline in NFL draft attendees for the fourth straight year. The 2025 draft had 17 attendees, with the 21 prospects attending the 2022 draft in Las Vegas being the most in the last five years. The group still reflects a strong cross-section of the draft’s top talent, with several projected first-round picks set to take the stage. Their presence sets the stage for a draft night in Pittsburgh that will spotlight both elite prospects and notable absences. Which NFL prospects are expected to attend the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh? Alongside Love, Bailey, Reese and Simpson, the rest of the group in attendance is expected to be made up largely of potential first-round picks. Miami (Fla.) edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. and LSU cornerback Mansoor Delane are among the players projected to hear their names called early on Thursday night. Ohio State safety Caleb Downs and linebacker Sonny Styles are also expected to be in that mix. Even in a class that leans defensive, there’s no shortage of offensive talent in Pittsburgh. Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate, USC’s Makai Lemon and Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson are all projected to come off the board. Miami (Fla.) offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa, who has even been projected as high as No. 3 overall, is firmly in that conversation near the top of the draft. The fringe first-round group might be just as interesting. Simpson, offensive lineman Kadyn Proctor and Auburn edge rusher Keldric Faulk all carry first-round upside, even if they sit just outside the top tier of projections. Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald and Tennessee cornerback Colton Hood are also viewed as Day 1 possibilities who could sneak into the back half of the first round. Altogether, the group reflects both top-end star power and depth across the board. When the first round kicks off in Pittsburgh, the spotlight will quickly shift to which names come off early and how the board begins to break.

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Colin Cowherd Predicts Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson Get Big Help

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 19:54:14 -0400

Can Colin Cowherd correctly predict the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft? He isn't sure, but he's hopeful that he can guess five of the first 15 picks right based on what he's hearing in his discussions with people around the league. Cowherd unveiled how he thinks the top 15 picks will go in his most recent mock draft as we're two weeks away from Round 1. While his top-four picks might be what you've seen in other mock drafts, he has the New York Giants making a move that might not seem to be too popular. He also has Patrick Mahomes, Matthew Stafford and Lamar Jackson getting some reinforcements around them on offense. So, let's take a look at how Cowherd thinks the first 15 picks of the 2026 NFL Draft will go down, based on what he's hearing. This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. Odds via DraftKings Sportsbook. 1. Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana Cowherd's thoughts: "That's the easy one. I'm going to go one-for-one. He threw 49 touchdowns and no interceptions the last two years in the red zone. Hyper smart, ball placement and toughness [are good]. I wouldn't be surprised if the Raiders at the top of the second [round] go get [Indiana wide receiver] Omar Cooper, who might be available at the top of Round 2." Odds to be No. 1 pick: -20000 2. New York Jets: Arvell Reese, edge rusher, Ohio State Cowherd's thoughts: "I think the Jets take a big swing on Arvell Reese, who I think is the youngest prospect in the draft. He's only 20 and he doesn't have a clear, defined position yet. That's what the Jets do. I think they need six or seven good players before they take a swing. With the coaching staff and head coach they have, I just don't trust them. I would rather get a plug-and-play guy who has a defined, already-made position. Reese is a fascinating player. The Jets had the second-fewest sacks in the NFL, so it's a position of need, but that's why I like [David] Bailey [more for New York]. You can drop Reese into coverage. So, I think he's a great talent, but I worry about the Jets and Aaron Glenn being able to bake this and make it work quickly." Odds to be No. 2 pick: -105 3. Arizona Cardinals: David Bailey, edge rusher, Texas Tech Cowherd's thoughts: "They have a pass rush issue. The Cardinals ranked 28th in sacks last year. So, this will be a bit of a break, in my opinion, for the Arizona Cardinals. They'll get my favorite pass rusher in college football. I think Rueben Bain is very good as well, but [Bailey] led college football in sacks and pressure rate and he's getting better. He's a much better player now than he was at Stanford." Odds to be No. 3 pick: +235 4. Tennessee Titans: Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame Cowherd's thoughts: "First of all, Robert Saleh knows the value of a star running back for a young quarterback. He watched [Christian] McCaffrey with Brock Purdy. Saleh's got a better offensive feel than most defensive coaches. He actually does, I've texted with Robert on that. He likes offense, and he knows the value. [Love] is a home-run hitter. I'm telling you, the drop-off between Love and the second-best running back in this draft, it might be greater than Fernando Mendoza and the second-best quarterback. He's an absolute Jahmyr Gibbs[-type]." Odds to be No. 4 pick: +150 5. New York Giants: Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State Cowherd's thoughts: "I think the Giants get maybe the cleanest player in the draft, Sonny Styles. He's going to come in and play. Linebacker, freak athlete, 182 combined tackles over the last two years. John Harbaugh's been talking about toughness and attitude. That's Sonny Styles. People can say, ‘Linebacker? I don’t know.' The Giants have spent a lot of money at corner in the last couple of years. They could go corner, maybe. This kid's going to come in, play and get a lot of tackles." Odds to be No. 5 pick: +175 6. Cleveland Browns: Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State Cowherd's thoughts: "The best receiver in this draft is Carnell Tate, and Cleveland's gotten an egregiously bad wide receiver corps. The Browns had the fewest receiving yards and receiving touchdowns. [Tate] just walks in and stars. I think he's great. He's strong. He's got speed. I don't know if he has the route tree of [Jaxon Smith-Njigba], but I'll tell you this: catching radius, toughness and speed are really good." Odds to be No. 6 pick: +150 7. Washington Commanders: Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami (Fla.) Cowherd's thoughts: "Well, Jayden Daniels needs protection. Laremy Tunsil, meet Francis Mauigoa. Many people think he could interior and play guard. He's not a left tackle. he's more of a right tackle. I don't think he has elite foot quickness, so maybe you move him inside. But I've got Jayden Daniels. Daniels is getting banged up in this league." Odds to be No. 7 pick: +2200 8. New Orleans Saints: Rueben Bain Jr., edge rusher, Miami (Fla.) Cowherd's thoughts: "The Saints have a lot of needs, but this kid lives in the backfield. I care a little bit about arm length. He's a perfect replacement for Cam Jordan, who is a free agent and getting up there [in age]. So, you replace him with a dog — a guy that's going to come in and pressure the quarterback. Everybody I talk to in the league loves Bain. Because of the measurements, he's not going to be a No. 1 or No. 2 pick. But I haven't talked to anyone in the NFL that doesn't respect him as a player." Odds to be No. 8 pick: +350 9. Kansas City Chiefs: Spencer Fano, OT, Utah Cowherd's thoughts: "This seems obvious. … The Chiefs have struggled to protect Mahomes the last two years — eighth most sacked quarterback in two seasons and now Mahomes is coming off an ACL injury. They solved their running back in free agency, getting Kenneth Walker from Seattle. Do they need an edge rusher? They do, but Bailey will be gone, Reese will be gone and Rueben Bain will be gone. So this is an easy one. I think it's a smart one. "They got Josh Simmons at left tackle. When he played, he was excellent in terms of the frequency and scarcity of playing concerns. But by the way, you get Fano in. [If] Josh Simmons gets banged up or doesn't play, this is what they did with the Chargers in Joe Alt. Move him to the other side. I think he goes nine to Kansas City." Odds to be No. 9 pick: +700 10. Cincinnati Bengals: Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State Cowherd's thoughts: "I think he could be the steal of the draft. I think he walks in and starts Day 1. He's just a great football player, really smart, very instinctive. He's not huge. I don't get too caught up on that. People said Troy Polamalu wasn't huge. He's just a great player. He's in-state and Buckeye fans will love it. Just toughness, urgency, playmaking and the defense for now, that Trey Hendrickson is gone, you thought the defense was bad for Cincinnati last year? Could get worse." Odds to be No. 10 pick: +300 11. Miami Dolphins: Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU Cowherd's thoughts: "Did not allow a single touchdown or commit a single penalty last year at LSU. Number one cornerback in the draft and again, here comes Jeff Hafley, the defensive guy from Green Bay. So with one of his two first-round picks, he's taking a defensive player, either with one of the picks or two of the picks. Yes, they need a wide receiver. Yes, they need some offensive line. You can get that in the second, third or fifth round. You can't get the best corner in those rounds." Odds to be first cornerback drafted: -240 12. Dallas Cowboys: Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee Cowherd's thoughts: "You've got to cheapen up that defense because you're spending a lot of money on offense and now you're spending a lot of money on your defensive front. They get Jermod McCoy from Tennessee. He can play zone. He can play man-to-man. Opposing quarterbacks last year on the Dallas Cowboys 69% completion percentage and a passer rating at 109. So they have upgraded their defensive front. Now they've got to go get some dexterity and versatility on the back end. He's a great player." Odds to be second cornerback drafted: -195 13. Los Angeles Rams (via Atlanta Falcons): Makai Lemon, WR, USC Cowherd's thoughts: "Davante Adams is 34 and got banged up. Puka Nacua has just entered rehab and got some off-field stuff. Maturity issues. This kid does not let the ball hit the ground; 2.8% of balls thrown to him hit the ground. Tremendous kid. He's got a lot of Amon-Ra St. Brown and will be productive Day 1. … Matt Stafford doesn't want to teach somebody how to play football. Makai Lemon walks in Day 1. He'll figure the playbook out in three practices." Odds to be second wide receiver drafted: +155 14. Baltimore Ravens: Monroe Freeling, OT, Ravens Cowherd's thoughts: "Lamar Jackson last year pressured on 26% of his throws, a career high. They go get Monroe Freeling, Georgia tackle. He's a little raw, but has had, in 18 starts, one holding penalty. Listen, if you're going to pay Lamar Jackson, what you keep reading, they're going to pay him, you better protect him. This is another player that everybody thinks is going to be really good. Nobody's quite sure if he's going to be good as a rookie. Get him in [the] house." Odds Ravens use first pick on an offensive lineman: +140 15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo Cowherd's thoughts: "Local kid. Played [high school football] in Tampa. Bucs were 27th against the pass. They had the worst red zone defense. Now Mike Evans is gone. They need a receiver. There are some great receivers in the second, third and fourth round. He's a hometown kid. He is rangy. He runs good enough. Again, another one of these small school [defensive backs] that we don’t watch enough of. Remember when Sauce Gardner came out? Could have been the No. 1 player and defensive player in that draft." Odds to be second safety drafted: +290

How a 'Life-Giving' FaceTime with Tom Brady Helped Kirk Cousins Sign with Raiders

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 18:34:42 -0400

Kirk Cousins has followed the same playbook all three times he's been a free agent. However, before he signed with the Las Vegas Raiders, the veteran quarterback's free-agency game plan called for something different: a FaceTime call with Tom Brady. A few days after Cousins officially signed with Las Vegas, he shared that he spoke with Brady, a minority owner of the Raiders, in an unusual setting before making his free-agent decision. "You know me, I'm going to do my homework before I sign somewhere. So, I had a lot of conversations with people here and there with the Raiders' organization," Cousins told NFL Network's "Good Morning Football." "One of those conversations was with Tom. I texted him and asked him to call me when he could. He actually FaceTimed me. I was at youth baseball practice. So, I stepped away and just FaceTimed with Tom for a little bit, just to get on the same page and the vision for the organization and kind of what he saw ahead and if I would be a good fit for it or not." That call gave Cousins the clarification he needed on whether to sign with the Raiders. "I got off the call, and I called my wife and I said, ‘That was a really life-giving call with Tom,'" Cousins said. "He gets it. He's been where I've been, and then some. I think he understands what it needs to look like and what it will look like. I really felt a shot in the arm after talking with him and I felt that was a big nudge for me to come to Vegas. Cousins signed relatively late in the free agency process, picking Las Vegas as his new home nearly a month after he was released by the Atlanta Falcons. He reportedly agreed to a five-year deal worth up to $172 million in total money. However, only $20 million of the contract is guaranteed, giving the Raiders a potential out after the 2026 season. Putting the money aside, Cousins will likely serve as a mentor to quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who the Raiders are highly expected to take with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. In fact, Cousins seemed to spoil the Raiders' draft plans in the interview with "Good Morning Football," saying "Fernando is going to be a great addition to our team." Some also presumed that the 37-year-old Cousins might have received a guarantee to be the Raiders' Week 1 starter when he signed with Las Vegas. But he told "Good Morning Football" that "I honestly don’t want to start unless I’m the best option," adding that he's relayed that message to first-year Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak. While Cousins will be relied on to help mentor and develop Mendoza, he shared that he's looking forward to the opportunity to learn from Brady, who Cousins said was at the Raiders' facility for the first day of organized team activities. "Didn't expect that, but he stopped by the quarterback room and I was able to catch up with him in the cafeteria," Cousins said. "He just wants to be a resource. I don't know if he's going to be around all the time, but he's always a phone call or text away, and I think to have a guy who has won seven Super Bowls a phone call or text away that's embedded into your organization, that's gotta be a positive."

2026 NFL Draft Odds: Who Will Be First Receiver, Cornerback Selected?

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 13:24:16 -0400

Among NFL Draft betting markets are spots like No. 1 Draft pick, Mr. Irrelevant and the number of players to be drafted at each position in the first round. Another market that might interest bettors is which player will come off the board first at each position. Let's take a look at the players that could end up being the first wide receiver, offensive lineman and cornerback drafted. Here are the odds at DraftKings Sportsbook as of April 9. This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. First wide receiver selected Carnell Tate (Ohio State): -290 (bet $10 to win $13.45 total)Jordyn Tyson (Arizona State): +285 (bet $10 to win $38.50 total)Makai Lemon (USC): +450 (bet $10 to win $55 total)Omar Cooper Jr. (Indiana): +3500 (bet $10 to win $360 total)Denzel Boston (Washington): +4500 (bet $10 to win $460 total)KC Concepción (Texas A&M): +6000 (bet $10 to win $610 total)Chris Brazzell II (Tennessee): +8000 (bet $10 to win $810 total)Zachariah Branch (Georgia): +15000 (bet $10 to win $1,510 total) What to know: During the 2025 season, Carnell Tate had 51 receptions, 875 yards and nine touchdowns for the Buckeyes, making him one of the most impactful wide receivers in college football. Now, he's got the shortest odds to be the first wideout selected in the 2026 NFL Draft. In fact, FOX Sports "First Things First" co-host Nick Wright has Tate being the first WR selected in his most recent mock draft. "Malik Nabers is coming off the [ACL] injury," he wrote. "Even with Nabers, [the Giants] don't have a surefire No. 2 [wide receiver]." If the G-Men snag Tate at No. 5, based on Wright's projection, he'd be the first WR off the board. First OL selected: Francis Mauigoa (Miami): -285 (bet $10 to win $13.51 total)Monroe Freeling (Georgia): +400 (bet $10 to win $50 total)Spencer Fano (Utah): +500 (bet $10 to win $60 total)Kadyn Proctor (Alabama): +1600 (bet $10 to win $170 total)Olaivavega Ioane (Penn State): +3500 (bet $10 to win $360 total)Blake Miller (Clemson): +15000 (bet $10 to win $1,510 total)Caleb Lomu (Utah): +18000 (bet $10 to win $1,810 total)Max Iheanachor (Arizona State): +20000 (bet $10 to win $2,010 total) What to know: When it comes to offensive linemen, Wright predicts that Francis Mauigoa will be the first one selected, projecting the Browns to grab him with pick No. 6. "[Cleveland's] a team that, on offense, needs a bit of everything," he explained. "Maybe they go get the No. 1 tackle in the draft?" FOX Sports Betting Analyst Geoff Schwartz is on the same page, except he's got the 6-foot-6 Hurricane going fifth to the Giants. "Tough decision … but I think the Giants will take the player who can help Jaxson Dart immediately," Schwartz noted. "Mauigoa may end up inside at guard, but he’s going to be excellent wherever he plays." First cornerback drafted: Mansoor Delane (LSU): -240 (bet $10 to win $14.17 total)Jermod McCoy (Tennessee): +150 (bet $10 to win $25 total)Avieon Terrell (Clemson): +6000 (bet $10 to win $610 total)Brandon Cisse (South Carolina): +6500 (bet $10 to win $660 total)Colton Hood (Tennessee): +8000 (bet $10 to win $810 total)D'Angelo Ponds (Indiana): +10000 (bet $10 to win $1,010 total) What to know: Mansoor Delane is one of the top prospects in 2026 after making a name for himself at LSU. In 2025, he had 11 passes defended and two interceptions. However, he began his college career at Virginia Tech in 2022. In his last year with the Hokies in 2024, Delane had seven passes defended and four interceptions. "They have a glaring need at cornerback following the trade of Trent McDuffie and losing Jaylen Watson in free agency," FOX Sports lead college football analyst Joel Klatt wrote about the Chiefs drafting Delane with the ninth pick, which would make him the first corner to be called. "This is too obvious of a selection. I think Delane is the top corner in the draft as well."

How to Watch the 2026 NFL Draft: Schedule, TV Channel, Streaming Info

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 20:19:55 -0400

The 2026 NFL Draft is right around the corner, with Round 1 set for April 23rd. Here's everything you need to know about this year's NFL Draft. NFL Draft Schedule: The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled to take place from April 23 to April 25. Round 1: Thursday, April 23 at 8 p.m. ET Rounds 2-3: Friday, April 24 at 7 p.m. ET Rounds 4-7: Saturday, April 25 at 12 p.m. ET Where is the NFL Draft taking place? The NFL Draft will be hosted by Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The event will be held at both Point State Park and Acrisure Stadium, home of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Where can I watch the NFL Draft? ESPN, ABC and NFL Network will provide coverage. How can I stream the NFL Draft? The NFL Draft will have a couple of ways to stream the Draft, including YouTube TV, Hulu+ Live TV and Fubo TV. How can I watch the NFL Draft for free? If you have an over-the-air antenna that picks up your local ABC station, you can catch all three days of the NFL Draft on ABC. How can I watch 2026 Draft Highlights? NFL Draft highlights, live analysis and more can be found on the 2026 FOX Sports NFL Draft page. Who can I expect to be drafted this year? Our FOX Sports research team created an NFL Mock Draft, as well as a Big Board from FOX Sports' Rob Rang. 2026 NFL Draft Round 1 Order 1. Las Vegas Raiders (3-14) 2. New York Jets (3-14) 3. Arizona Cardinals (3-14) 4. Tennessee Titans (3-14) 5. New York Giants (4-13) 6. Cleveland Browns (5-12) 7. Washington Commanders (5-12) 8. New Orleans Saints (6-11) 9. Kansas City Chiefs (6-11) 10. Cincinnati Bengals (6-11) 11. Miami Dolphins (7-10) 12. Dallas Cowboys (7-9-1) 13 Los Angeles Rams (12-5) – from Falcons 14. Baltimore Ravens (8-9) 15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-9) 16. New York Jets (3-14) – from Colts 17. Detroit Lions (9-8) 18. Minnesota Vikings (9-8) 19. Carolina Panthers (8-9) 20. Dallas Cowboys (7-9-1) – from Jaguars 21. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7) 22. Los Angeles Chargers (11-6) 23. Philadelphia Eagles (11-6) 24. Cleveland Browns (5-12) – from Jaguars 25. Chicago Bears (11-6) 26. Buffalo Bills (12-5) 27. San Francisco 49ers (12-5) 28. Houston Texans (12-5) 29. Kansas City Chiefs (6-11) – from Rams 30. Miami Dolphins (7-10) – from Broncos 31. New England Patriots (14-3) 32. Seattle Seahawks (14-3) 2026 NFL Draft Round 2 Order 33. New York Jets (3-14) 34. Arizona Cardinals (3-14) 35. Tennessee Titans (3-14) 36. Las Vegas Raiders (3-14) 37. New York Giants (4-13) 38. Houston Texans (9-8) – from Commanders 38. Cleveland Browns (5-12) 40. Kansas City Chiefs (6-11) 41. Cincinnati Bengals (6-11) 42. New Orleans Saints (6-11) 43. Miami Dolphins (7-10) 44. New York Jets (3-14) – from Dolphins 45. Baltimore Ravens (8-9) 46. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-9) 47. Indianapolis Colts (8-9) 48. Atlanta Falcons (8-9) 49. Minnesota Vikings (9-8) 50. Detroit Lions (9-8) 51. Carolina Panthers (8-9) 52. Green Bay Packers (9-7-1) 53. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7) 54. Philadelphia Eagles (11-6) 55. Los Angeles Chargers (11-6) 56. Jacksonville Jaguars (13-4) 57. Chicago Bears (11-6) 58. San Francisco 49ers (12-5) 59. Houston Texans (12-5) 60. Chicago Bears (11-6) – from Bills 61. Los Angeles Rams (12-5) 62. Denver Broncos (14-3) 63. New England Patriots (14-3) 64. Seattle Seahawks (14-3) 2026 NFL Draft Round 3 Order 65. Arizona Cardinals (3-14) 66. Tennessee Titans (3-14) 67. Las Vegas Raiders (3-14) 68. Philadelphia Eagles (11-6) – from Jets 69. Houston Texans (12-5) – from Giants 70. Cleveland Browns (5-12) 71. Washington Commanders (5-12) 72. Cincinnati Bengals (6-11) 73. New Orleans Saints (6-11) 74. Kansas City Chiefs (6-11) 75. Miami Dolphins (7-10) 76. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7) – from Cowboys 77. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-9) 78. Indianapolis Colts (8-9) 79. Atlanta Falcons (8-9) 80. Baltimore Ravens (8-9) 81. Jacksonville Jaguars (13-4) – from Lions 82. Minnesota Vikings (9-8) 83. Carolina Panthers (8-9) 84. Green Bay Packers (9-7-1) 85. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7) 86. Los Angeles Chargers (11-6) 87. Miami Dolphins (7-10) – from Eagles 88. Jacksonville Jaguars (13-4) 89. Chicago Bears (11-6) 90. Miami Dolphins (7-10) – from Texans 91. Buffalo Bills (12-5) 92. Dallas Cowboys (7-9-1) – from 49ers 93. Los Angeles Rams (12-5) 94. Miami Dolphins (7-10) – from Broncos 95. New England Patriots (14-3) 96. Seattle Seahawks (14-3) 97. Minnesota Vikings (9-8) – Compensatory Selection 98. Philadelphia Eagles (11-6) – Compensatory Selection 99. Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7) – Compensatory 100. Jacksonville Jaguars (13-4) – from Lions; Special Compensatory Selection

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Jeremiyah Love Slips; Who Grabs Ty Simpson?

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 17:36:34 -0400

Notre Dame star running back Jeremiyah Love has seemingly become a top-five staple in the majority of mock drafts as of late, but should he go that high? Should the Pittsburgh Steelers add a quarterback in the first round of this year's draft, with Aaron Rodgers' future still in question? Do the Philadelphia Eagles have to add a wide receiver as rumors about A.J. Brown's future persist? FOX Sports Research aimed to answer those questions in our latest first-round mock draft. With most of the big dominoes in free agency already falling, those answers might define the rest of the NFL offseason as teams begin to report for their spring programs. But as we're still two-plus weeks away from the 2026 NFL Draft, let's take a closer look at how we think the first round will go, factoring in team needs, combine performances and production from this past college football season. This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. 1. Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana Despite a Pro Day performance that didn't meet expectations, Mendoza is still a lock to go to Las Vegas. He has exhibited all the tools you want to see in a top QB prospect: elite arm strength, the ability to throw into tight windows, and sneaky mobility for a 6-foot-5 signal caller. The Heisman winner led all of FBS with 41 passing touchdowns this season, which is also the Indiana single-season record. 2. New York Jets: Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State Here's another lock in this draft. Reese is the best player available and New York has multiple holes to fill. He's cemented himself as the clear-cut best linebacker in the country. Due to his elite speed for his size, he can drop back into coverage as an off-ball backer or line up on the edge and rush the passer. Reese had 6.5 sacks and two passes defended on the year, and 112 total tackles in two seasons for the Buckeyes. 3. Arizona Cardinals: Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State Despite needing an offensive tackle, Arizona needs to land a cemented star with this pick. Downs might be the smartest football player in this draft, having lined up all over the field during his time at Alabama and Ohio State. This past season, he played 44 snaps on the defensive line, 241 in the box, 146 at slot corner, nine at wide corner, and 240 at free safety. For his career, he's totaled 256 tackles, 163 solo tackles, 10 passes defended and six interceptions. There is nothing Downs can't do, and whatever team gets him is landing a perennial Pro Bowler. 4. Tennessee Titans: Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami (Fla.) Tennessee allowed 56 sacks this year and needs a tackle to pair alongside JC Latham. Mauigoa is a blue-chip prospect with freakish tools for an offensive lineman. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), he's given up just three sacks in 1,099 pass blocking snaps over the past two seasons — and in 2023, he was a freshman All-America selection. He can also move into the interior with his frame and agility, and has dominated throughout Miami's CFP run. 5. New York Giants: Spencer Fano, OT, Utah At 6-6 and 308 pounds, Fano is another new-era offensive tackle with incredible athleticism for his size. In three seasons, he's given up just three sacks and seven QB hits, highlighted by a 2025 campaign in which he didn't allow a single sack in 382 pass blocking snaps, according to PFF. New York needs to protect JaxsShoulon Dart and Fano is the perfect player to achieve that. 6. Cleveland Browns: Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State Arguably the best receiver in this draft, Tate is next in the long line of pro Buckeye receivers. At 6-3, 195 pounds, he's a big receiver who can dominate in the red zone while also serving as a deep threat. This year, he's one of 12 Power 4 receivers to have nine receiving touchdowns and over 800 receiving yards. He'll provide an instant offensive boost for a Cleveland offense that struggled all of last season. 7. Washington Commanders: Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame The Commanders' run game was strong last year, ranking fourth in the league at 134.7 rush yards per game. But much of those numbers were inflated due to the fact that Jayden Daniels missed 10 games. Love has 35 rushing touchdowns since 2024, which is the most of any player in that span, and has averaged 6.9 yards per carry over the last two seasons with a whopping 2,497 rushing yards. 8. New Orleans Saints: David Bailey, edge rusher, Texas Tech Bailey was tied for the FBS lead in sacks this past season at 14.5 and led all Power 4 players, as well. Even looking back at his three seasons at Stanford, he's had consistent production, totaling 28 sacks from 2022 to 2025, the third-most of any player in that span. He's a bit undersized at 6-3 and 250 pounds, but there's no denying his bend and burst off the edge. He is the perfect replacement for Cam Jordan. 9. Kansas City Chiefs: Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State Styles shot up draft boards after his combine performance, having run a 4.46 forty-yard dash with a 43.5-inch vertical jump at 6-5, 244 pounds. In his past two seasons at Ohio State, he's totaled 183 tackles, 95 solo tackles, eight passes defended, seven sacks, and two forced fumbles. He hits like a truck and can move well in space. Kansas City could go tackle here, but Styles is too good to pass up when considering his ceiling. 10. Cincinnati Bengals: Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU No cornerback in Power 4 had a higher pass coverage grade on PFF than Delane at 90.9. In 357 coverage snaps, he gave up just 13 receptions for 147 yards and no touchdowns with opposing QBs sporting a 26.7 passer rating when targeting him. He'd be a huge addition to Cincinnati's secondary, which is lacking a lockdown corner. 11. Miami Dolphins: Rueben Bain Jr., edge rusher, Miami (Fla.) Bain is a top-five player in this draft, but will likely fall a bit because of the conversation around his arm length. Jason Taylor, a first ballot Hall-of-Famer who spent 15 of his 17 seasons as a Dolphin, was Bain's position coach for the entirety of his Hurricane career and has been outspoken about arm length not mattering along with how highly he thinks of the 21-year-old. Bain might have the best film of any edge player in this draft, dominating teams like Notre Dame, Florida, Texas A&M, and Ohio State. In that first round CFP game, he had a whopping three sacks against an Aggies offensive line that had given up just 12 in 12 games. He's also an elite run stopper and can move inside when needed. According to PFF, he's the only edge player in FBS to have over 500 pass-rushing snaps with a pass-rush grade over 90. Welcome home, kid. 12. Dallas Cowboys: Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee If he didn't tear his ACL back in January and miss the entire 2025 season, McCoy might go even higher. He was a first-team All-American last season, finishing with four interceptions and seven passes defended while also holding opposing QBs to a 53.6 passer rating (per PFF). He should be a huge addition to a defense that gave up 30.1 points per game, the worst mark in the league. 13. Los Angeles Rams (from Atlanta Falcons): Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama Matthew Stafford is the reigning MVP with no signs of slowing down. At 38 years old, everything the Rams do from a roster construction standpoint should and will likely be with the intent of winning a Super Bowl immediately. Proctor is a specimen at 6-7, 366 pounds and has given up just five sacks in the last two seasons (according to PFF). Rob Havenstein is 33 years old and dealing with injuries, making this an ideal fit for Los Angeles. 14. Baltimore Ravens: Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State Tyson could easily be the first receiver taken in this draft. Regardless, Baltimore desperately needs to draft a weapon for Lamar Jackson. He's a big-bodied receiver at 6-2, 200 pounds, and he catches everything thrown at him. In two seasons with ASU, he's caught 136 balls for 1,812 yards and an impressive 18 touchdowns. 15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Keldric Faulk, edge rusher, Auburn Faulk is a monster at 6-6 and 288 pounds, and he displayed an incredible ability to blow past offensive tackles in the SEC over the past two seasons. He posted 11 tackles for loss, seven sacks and 45 total tackles for the Tigers in his true sophomore season in 2024. Despite less production in 2025, he'd be the perfect player to add to a Tampa Bay defensive line that already features extremely athletic defensive linemen like Vita Vea and Calijah Kancey. 16. New York Jets (from Indianapolis Colts): CJ Allen, LB, Georgia The Jets just signed 37-year-old Demario Davis and need a long-term replacement at inside linebacker after the 2026 season. Allen was the heartbeat of Georgia's defense this year, and is a tenacious tackler who thrives in the run game and can also cover receivers in the slot. In three seasons with the Bulldogs, Allen totaled 205 tackles, 117 solo tackles, 10 passes defended, 4.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles. 17. Detroit Lions: Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah Yup, Fano isn't the only stud offensive lineman for the Utes. Lomu gave up just two sacks in 807 pass-blocking snaps over the past two seasons and is a high-ceiling prospect, having just 28 collegiate games under his belt. Detroit needs another tackle to pair alongside All-Pro Penei Sewell, and Lomu is a great option to do so. 18. Minnesota Vikings: Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon Minnesota finally said goodbye to Harrison Smith this offseason, releasing the decorated safety after 14 seasons. A six-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro selection, they'll need a versatile player to replace his presence at safety. Thieneman is just that, having been named a first-team All-American this past season at Oregon and also a third-team selection as a true freshman in 2023 while at Purdue. In three collegiate seasons in the Big Ten, he totaled 302 tackles, 188 solo tackles, two sacks, two forced fumbles, and eight interceptions. 19. Carolina Panthers: Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon Sadiq is the best tight end in the draft, and it's not close. He can run, block well and has great hands. His eight receiving touchdowns were the most of any tight end in FBS, making him a big-time red zone threat, as well. Carolina could go with a defensive player here, but quarterback Bryce Young has taken a huge step this year. A lot of that progress has to do with the addition of wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan in last year's draft. Expect the Panthers to continue to give their young QB offensive weapons. 20. Dallas Cowboys (from Green Bay Packers): Akheem Mesidor, edge rusher, Miami Mesidor really bolstered his stock in his final year of eligibility, recording 10.5 sacks on the year and dominating offensive lines throughout Miami's CFP run. The only edge rusher that's played 400 pass rush snaps and has a higher PFF grade than him is Rueben Bain Jr., who we have going eleventh overall. Mesidor also played in the interior last year, making him a versatile option for a Cowboys defense that was one of the worst in the league. 21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama Simpson is the clear No. 2 QB in this draft. He's had a mix of incredible games along with some terrible ones, but his decisiveness and accuracy are tools teams can work with. He threw for over 3,500 yards, 28 touchdowns and just five interceptions. He also took down a vaunted Oklahoma defense on the road in the first round of the CFP, before sustaining an injury in the quarterfinals against Indiana. Regardless of whether the Steelers re-sign Aaron Rodgers, they'll need to draft a quarterback at some point in this draft. Simpson would be a good pick, and Pittsburgh would be a solid landing spot. 22. Los Angeles Chargers: Olaivavega Ioane, OG, Penn State Ioane might be the best guard in the draft and would provide immediate help to a Los Angeles line that needs improvement in the interior. This season, he was one of two Big Ten guards to play 300-plus pass blocking snaps, record a pass block grade over 87 and not give up a single sack or QB hit. 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Makai Lemon, WR, USC With A.J. Brown's status with the team uncertain, Philadelphia needs another go-to receiver. Lemon won this year's Biletnikoff Award, which is given to the best wide receiver in college football. He can also play in the slot and is tough to tackle, having also rushed for two scores on the year. In fact, he's the only player in all of FBS to have caught 10 touchdowns and have multiple rushing scores, as well. 24. Cleveland Browns (from Jacksonville Jaguars): Peter Woods, DL, Clemson While Clemson had a down year, Woods has too many tools for any team looking for a dominant defensive lineman to pass on. At 6-3 and 315 pounds, Woods is reported to have a lean muscle mass percentage of 77%. He's also another player who was a freshman All-American in 2023 and posted a dominant follow-up campaign in 2024 while playing both defensive end and tackle for the Tigers. Woods finished 2025 with a career-high 30 tackles along with two sacks. A defensive line featuring him, Mason Graham and Myles Garrett would be elite. 25. Chicago Bears: Caleb Banks, DL, Florida It's not often you see an interior lineman lead your team in pressures, but that's just what Banks did for Florida in 2024 with 29. He also added 4.5 sacks and two forced fumbles. He only played three games this season due to injury, but he has all the tools to dominate at the next level with his 6-6, 330-pound frame. This would be a steal for the Bears to add to a defensive line that was incredible this past season. It's also worth noting that Grady Jarrett is 32 years old, and would serve as the perfect mentor to Banks as a former All-Pro and Pro-Bowler. 26. Buffalo Bills: Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson The brother of All-Pro corner A.J. Terrell, Avieon has had a ton of production in three seasons at Clemson, recording 25 passes defended, 125 total tackles, eight forced fumbles, four sacks, and three interceptions in 1,860 defensive snaps played in that span. Having drafted Maxwell Hairston in the first round last year, taking Terrell would give them an extremely talented cornerback duo for years to come. 27. San Francisco 49ers: Cashius Howell, edge rusher, Texas A&M Howell ranks fourth in FBS in sacks since 2022 with 27 to his name in that span, but he's on the smaller side for an edge at 6-2, 248 pounds. Still, he has an incredible burst off the edge and would be a great addition to a Raheem Morris defensive line that already features Nick Bosa and Osa Odighizuwa. 28. Houston Texans: Kayden McDonald, DL, Ohio State McDonald was an absolute monster in the middle of Ohio State's defensive line, which held opponents to 9.3 points and 89.4 rushing yards per game. The 6-3, 326-pound defensive tackle has three sacks and two forced fumbles on the year, and also serves as a strong replacement to 32-year-old Sheldon Rankins. 29. Kansas City Chiefs (from Los Angeles Rams): Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina The Chiefs traded Trent McDuffie for this pick, and will likely use it to replace him. Cisse is a tough corner who isn't afraid to tackle and has 10 passes defended over the past two seasons, and he gave up just 18 receptions and one TD in 2025 (PFF). 30. Miami Dolphins (from Denver Broncos): Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana With 13 touchdown receptions this past season, the only Power 4 player who caught more scores than Cooper Jr. was his teammate — Elijah Sarratt. Miami just traded Jaylen Waddle to Denver for this pick and should draft a replacement to help out new quarterback Malik Willis. 31. New England Patriots: T.J. Parker, edge rusher, Clemson This is the type of player Mike Vrabel loves: an elite athlete with a high motor and lots of potential at the edge. Like most of Clemson's stars this season, Parker had a less productive 2025, only finishing with five sacks and 37 tackles. His 2024 tape is undeniable, though, with 11 sacks and six forced fumbles. He's showcased above-average bend during his time at Clemson and can also drop in coverage. Parker's 12.5 tackles for loss in 2023 were also a school record for a true freshman. 32. Seattle Seahawks: R Mason Thomas, edge rusher, Oklahoma Thomas is one of three SEC players to have recorded over 15 sacks and three forced fumbles in the last two seasons, and has demonstrated elite speed off the edge. While he's undersized at 6-2, he's an ideal fit for a Seahawks' defense that will need to think about life without DeMarcus Lawrence, who turns 34 this month.

2026 NFL Free Agency Tracker: Giants Reunite John Harbaugh With Former Raven

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 14:16:57 -0400

NFL free agency is officially open, and the deals have been fast and furious, so feel free to bookmark this page! Many players on Greg Auman's top 100 free agents list have found new homes, like running back Kenneth Walker and quarterback Malik Willis. Other notable names still have yet to sign, though, like quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Here's a closer look at some of the signings, trades and releases that have happened this offseason. [2026 NFL Free Agency: The Top 100 Players Available and Potential Fits] April 8 Giants sign OL Daniel Faalele Details: One-year April 3 Jaguars extend DE Travon Walker Details: Four years, $110 million ($77 million guaranteed) April 2 Bengals sign S Kyle Dugger Details: One year Chiefs sign CB Kaiir Elam Details: One year Raiders sign QB Kirk Cousins Details: One year March 24 Saints sign QB Zach Wilson Details: One year Eagles sign WR Elijah Moore Details: One year Bengals re-sign QB Joe Flacco Details: One year, $6 million Falcons sign RB Brian Robinson Jr. Details: One year Falcons sign QB Trevor Siemian Details: One year March 23 Seahawks extend WR Jaxon Smith Njigba Details: Four years, $168.6 million March 20 Eagles, Falcons make trade (source) Philadelphia receives: Picks No. 114 and 197 in the 2026 NFL DraftAtlanta receives: S Sydney Brown and picks No. 122 and 215 in the 2026 NFL Draft March 19 Eagles sign RB Dameon Pierce Details: One year Vikings re-sign QB Carson Wentz Details: One year March 18 Eagles trade for Panthers QB Andy Dalton Trade Details:Eagles receive: QB Andy DaltonPanthers receive: 2027 seventh-round pick Panthers sign RB A.J. Dillon Details: One year March 17 Texans sign G Wyatt Teller Details: Two years Eagles sign WR Marquise Brown Details: One year, up to $6.5 million March 16 49ers sign WR Christian Kirk Details: One year, $6 million March 15 Eagles re-sign TE Dallas Goedert Details: One year March 14 Chargers re-sign QB Trey Lance Details: One year, up to $6.75 million Bengals sign QB Josh Johnson Details: One year Commanders sign RB Jerome Ford Details: One year March 13 Dolphins sign LB David Ojabo Details: One year Jets re-sign S Andre Cisco Details: One year, up to $5.25 million Steelers sign DT Sebastian Joseph-Day Details: Two years, $11 million Lions sign TE Tyler Conklin Details: One year Panthers sign OT Rasheed Walker Details: One year, up to $10 million Commanders sign WR Van Jefferson Details: One year Commanders sign WR Dyami Brown Details: One year, up to $3 million Commanders sign WR Dyami Brown Details: One year, up to $3 million Bills sign DB Geno Stone Details: One year Cowboys sign CB Cobie Durant Details: One year, maximum $5.5 million March 12 49ers sign CB Nate Hobbs Details: One year Bengals sign DT Jonathan Allen Details: Two years, $28 million Eagles tweak G Landon Dickerson's contract Details: Two years, $36 million (contract ends after 2027) Bengals extend OT Orlando Brown Jr. Details: Two-year extension through 2028 (Brown was entering the final season of a four-year, $64.1 million deal) Chargers sign RB Keaton Mitchell Details: Two years, $9.25 million March 11 Packers sign DT Javon Hargrave Details: Two years, $23 million ($13 million guaranteed) Jaguars sign RB Chris Rodriguez Details: Two years, $10 million Giants re-sign OL Evan Neal Details: TBD Bills sign LB Bradley Chubb Details: Three years, $43.5 million (maximum $52.5 million) Cardinals release QB Kyler Murray (source) Vikings releasing S Harrison Smith (source) Jets sign G Dylan Parham Details: Two years, $20 million 49ers re-sign TE Jake Tonges Details: Two years, $8 million Commanders sign S Nick Cross Details: Two years, $14 million Ravens sign S Jaylinn Hawkins Details: Two years, $10 million Commanders sign TE Chig Okonkwo Details: Three years, $30 million Colts re-sign QB Daniel Jones Details: Two years, $88 million (maximum $100 million) Chiefs re-sign TE Travis Kelce Details: One year, $12 million Ravens sign DE Trey Hendrickson Details: Four years, $112 million Commanders sign LB K'Lavon Chaisson Details: One year, $12 million March 10 Commanders sign LB Leo Chenal Details: Three years, $24.75 million Lions sign QB Teddy Bridgewater Details: TBD Eagles sign CB Riq Woolen Details: One year, up to $15 million Saints sign LB Kaden Ellis Details: Three years, $33 million Browns sign IOL Elgton Jenkins Details: Two years, $24 million ($20 guaranteed) Jets sign CB Nahshon Wright Details: One year, up to $5.5 million Patriots sign WR Romeo Doubs Details: Four years, $70 million Jets acquire QB Geno Smith from Raiders (source) Jets receive: QB Geno Smith and a 2026 seventh-round pickRaiders receive: 2026 sixth-round pick Texans sign OT Braden Smith Details: Two years, $25 million Texans extend K Ka'imi Fairbairn Details: Two years, $13 million Giants re-sign LB Micah McFadden Details: One year Dolphins sign K Zane Gonzalez Details: One year Lions sign RB Isiah Pacheco Details: TBD Bears sign WR/PR Kalif Raymond Details: One year, $5.1 million Bills extend TE Dawson Knox Details: Three-year extension Giants sign CB Greg Newsome II Details: One year, up to $10 million Packers sign CB Benjamin St-Juste Details: Two years, $10 million ($10.5 million maximum) March 9 Patriots sign OL Alijah Vera-Tucker Details: Three years, $42 million Chiefs sign S Alohi Gilman Details: Three years, $24.75 million ($15 million guaranteed) Chiefs re-sign WR Tyquan Thornton Details: Two years, $11 million Steelers sign RB Rico Dowdle Details: Two years, $12.25 million Panthers sign LB Devin Lloyd Details: Three years, $45 million ($25 million guaranteed) Cardinals sign G Isaac Seumalo Details: Three years, $31.5 million ($19 million guaranteed) Texans sign S Reed Blankenship Details: Three years, $24 million ($16.5 million guaranteed) Seahawks re-sign WR Rashid Shaheed Details: Three years, $51 million ($34.7 million guaranteed) Raiders sign LB Nakobe Dean Details: Three years, $36 million ($20 million guaranteed) Raiders sign LB Quay Walker Details: Three years, $40 million ($28 million guaranteed) Commanders sign edge rusher Odafe Oweh Details: Four years, $100 million ($68 million guaranteed) Bengals sign edge rusher Boye Mafe Details: Three years, $60 million Cowboys sign S Jalen Thompson Details: Three years, $36 million 49ers sign WR Mike Evans Details: Three years, $60.4 million Commanders re-sign QB Marcus Mariota Details: One year, $7 million Bengals sign S Bryan Cook Details: Three years, $42.5 million Titans sign CB Alontae Taylor Details: Three years, $60 million Broncos re-sign RB J.K. Dobbins Details: Agreed to terms Titans sign CB Cor'Dae Flott Details: Three years, $45 million ($32 million guaranteed) Titans sign DL John Franklin-Myers Details: Three years, $63 million ($42 million guaranteed) Browns sign G Zion Johnson Details: Three years, $49.5 million ($32.4 million guaranteed) Bears sign LB Devin Bush Details: Three years, $30 million ($21 million guaranteed) Giants sign LB Tremaine Edmunds Details: Three years, $36 million Titans sign WR Wan'Dale Robinson Details: Four years, $70 million Saints sign RB Travis Etienne Details: Four years, $52 million Raiders sign C Tyler Linderbaum Details: Three years, $81 million ($60 million guaranteed) Cardinals sign RB Tyler Allgeier Details: Two years, $12.25 million Steelers land WR Michael Pittman Jr. Details: Pittsburgh, Indianapolis swap late-round picks in the trade. Pittman will also receive a three-year, $59 million extension. Giants sign TE Isaiah Likely Details: Three years, $40 million (worth up to $47.5 million) Bears sign S Coby Bryant Details: Three years, $40 million Lions sign C Cade Mays Details: Agreed to terms Rams sign CB Jaylen Watson Details: Three years, $51 million Patriots sign DT Dre'Mont Jones Details: Three years, $39.5 million Dolphins sign QB Malik Willis Details: Three years, $67 million Chiefs sign RB Kenneth Walker III Details: Three years, $45 million Colts re-sign WR Alec Pierce Details: Four years, $116 million Cowboys trade for Packers edge rusher Rashan Gary Details: Green Bay receives a fourth-round pick in the 2027 NFL Draft Jets trade for Dolphins S Minkah Fitzpatrick Details: Miami receives a seventh-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft Texans re-sign DT Sheldon Rankins Details: Two years, $12 million guaranteed Jaguars re-sign CB Montaric Brown Details: Three years, $33 million Dolphins release QB Tua Tagovailoa Details: Even with a post-June 1 release designation, Miami will take on a record $99 million in dead money March 8 Packers re-sign OL Sean Rhyan Details: Three years, $33 million March 7 Chargers re-sign edge rusher Khalil Mack Details: One year, $18 million (fully guaranteed) Ravens re-sign QB Tyler Huntley Details: Two years, $11 million 49ers re-sign K Eddie Pineiro Details: Four years, $17 million ($10 million guaranteed) Colts, Packers make trade Details: Packers receive LB Zaire Franklin, Colts receive DT Colby Wooden Eagles extend DT Jordan Davis Details: Three years, $78 million ($65 million guaranteed) Bills re-sign C Connor McGovern Details: Four years, $52 million ($32 million guaranteed) March 6 Ravens trade for Raiders edge rusher Maxx Crosby Details: Baltimore sends Las Vegas two first-round picks (2026, 2027) Bears trade for Patriots C Garrett Bradbury Details: New England receives 2027 fifth-round pick from Chicago Texans release RB Joe Mixon Details: Houston saves $8 million in cap space Lions release OT Taylor Decker Details: Lions save $11.6 million in cap space Raiders release QB Geno Smith Details: Las Vegas saves $8 million in cap space Rams re-sign S Kam Curl Details: Three years, $36 million March 5 Texans extend edge rusher Danielle Hunter Details: One year, $40.1 million Rams re-sign TE Tyler Higbee Details: Two years, $8 million Bills trade for Bears WR D.J. Moore Details: Chicago receives 2026 second-round pick, Buffalo receives Moore and 2026 fifth-round pick March 4 Rams trade for Chiefs CB Trent McDuffie Details: Kansas City receives a 2026 first-round pick (No. 29), fifth-round pick and sixth-round pick, plus a 2027 third-rounder for McDuffie. March 2 Texans trade for Lions RB David Montgomery Details: Lions receive offensive lineman Juice Scruggs, a 2026 fourth-round draft pick and a 2027 seventh-round selection. Browns trade for Texans OT Tytus Howard Details: Texans receive 2026 fifth-round pick. Feb. 26 Jets, Titans make a trade Details: Jets receive DT T'Vondre Sweat, Titans receive edge rusher Jermaine Johnson Feb. 21 Cowboys re-sign RB Javonte Williams Details: 3 years, $24 million

Why Jeremiyah Love's Talent Transcends Value of RB Position: 'Find Me the Flaws'

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 13:41:02 -0400

The running back position has become less and less valued in the NFL Draft in recent years. However, FOX Sports lead college football analyst Joel Klatt and NFL Draft analyst Todd McShay don't want the value of the running back position to skew how good Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love is. In the most recent episode of "The Joel Klatt Show," McShay shared that Love is the first running back he's ever had ranked No. 1 in his big board in his 26 years covering the draft. On top of that, teams in the NFL also have Love ranked as high or nearly as high on their draft big boards, according to McShay. "I've never had a running back No. 1 overall, and this year, it's going to be the exception," McShay said. "We’ve seen Saquon Barkley, Leonard Fournette and Christian McCaffrey that one year. We’ve had Ashton Jeanty. Forget my rankings, talking to NFL teams, the lowest I’ve heard they have him is three on their board. So, he's one of the best three, if not the best player in this draft." Klatt also has Love ranked pretty high on his big board, placing him as the second-best player in the 2026 NFL Draft in his recently revealed top 50 draft prospects ranking. Klatt previously said that he holds Love in high regard due to the number of things he does at an elite level, such as his ability to hit a home run when he runs between the tackles and on the outside. But even in a draft class that's perceived to be weaker than other ones in recent memory, there's still some debate over whether Love should be one of the first few players drafted. Klatt, though, thinks that Love's all-around talent should make him a top-five selection. "When you’ve got a guy that is not just a running back, and to me, he reminds me of or could potentially become McCaffrey — maybe not McCaffrey, he’s probably like a top-six wide receiver in the league — but certainly a guy who can be a threat out of the backfield, like Jahmyr Gibbs and so on," Klatt said. "Those are the guys where you think, OK, I’m not just paying him to be a running back. He’s really contributing. I think he could catch 40 passes in a season, and would be just fine. Then, maybe the economics [of drafting a running back with a top-five pick] work out in a particular way up at the top." Love showcased high-end ability as both a runner and a receiver at Notre Dame this past season. He rushed for 1,372 yards on 6.9 yards per carry and 18 touchdowns in 12 games, ranking in the top 10 in the nation in all of those stats. He also had 27 receptions for 280 yards and three touchdowns. That would've put Love on pace for roughly 38 receptions, 400 receiving yards and four receiving touchdowns over the course of a 17-game season. Klatt had Love going to the Tennessee Titans with the No. 4 overall pick in his most recent mock draft, believing he'll be a strong fit with second-year quarterback Cam Ward. McShay also thinks Love would be a strong choice for Tennessee, saying, "Wouldn't you love to see that?" But he also wonders if he still might fall come the day of the draft. "What do you want from a running back in order to value him there? Obviously, the running skills, but it’s the instincts, the ability to stop and start, the contact balance, having a sense of the cutback lanes and almost like a sixth sense with the vision," McShay said. "But I think it's why we're all looking and saying maybe he falls to seven and Washington because he is a running back and the economics of it." Still, McShay is a strong believer that Love should be one of the first few players taken in the 2026 draft. "Find me the flaws," McShay said. "You always worry about running backs and the durability, kind of managing that load, and that will be for the NFL team that drafts him to kind of figure out what's best for him. But I just think he is everything that you look for."

The NFL Player Each NFC Team Should Trade for During the 2026 Draft

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 11:49:36 -0400

The NFL Draft isn’t just about the draft. It’s often a catalyst for another round of trades. Sometimes it’s just general managers swapping draft picks. But it’s also the perfect time to move valuable or unwanted players, too. So, to help those GMs out, here’s a list of one trade we’d like to see every NFC team make — one player they should try to acquire for a bit of their draft capital this year, if they can. RELATED: The NFL Player Each AFC Team Should Trade for During the 2026 Draft Arizona Cardinals Acquire: QB Anthony Richardson from the Indianapolis ColtsCost: 2026 seventh-round pick (217th overall), 2027 conditional sixth-round pick Why not take a low-risk flier on the former first-round pick with a big body (6-4, 244), huge arm and untapped potential? The Cards have veterans Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew as place-holders at quarterback until the 2027 draft, but Richardson would give new coach Mike LaFleur, a Sean McVay and Kyle Shanahan disciple, a young player to try and develop. If it works out in the last year of his deal, maybe they re-sign him and keep him as a backup to (or competition for) next year’s rookie. Or maybe he becomes a future trade asset. If not, they let him go. But right now, the more options they have at quarterback, the better. Atlanta Falcons Acquire: WR Jerry Jeudy from the Cleveland BrownsCost: 2026 second-round pick (48th) New Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski knows the ups and downs of the 27-year-old Jeudy, and he knows he needs a No. 2 receiver (currently either Jahan Dotson or Olamide Zaccheaus will fill that role). Jeudy had a terrible season last year, but in 2024 he caught 90 passes for 1,229 yards with Jameis Winston, Deshaun Watson, Dorian Thompson-Robinson and Bailey Zappe throwing him the ball. He’d be a huge help for No. 1 WR Drake London with Tua Tagovailoa and/or Michael Penix Jr. behind center. Carolina Panthers Acquire TE Cole Kmet from the Chicago BearsCost: 2026 fourth-round pick (119th), 2027 conditional sixth-round pick It’s a make-or-break year for quarterback Bryce Young, and the Panthers have done a good job of surrounding him with receivers and running backs. But they don’t have a reliable target at tight end — often the best friend of an emerging quarterback. Kmet showed what he was capable in 2023 when he caught 73 passes for 719 yards and six touchdowns, but the emergence of Colston Loveland has made him an afterthought in Chicago. With two years and $20 million left on his contract, the Bears could be enticed to move on now. Chicago Bears Acquire: CB Denzel Ward from the Cleveland BrownsCost: 2026 third-round pick (89th), 2027 sixth-round pick They need help all over their defense, including at edge rusher. But upgrading at cornerback might be the Bears' biggest priority. Ward is a five-time Pro Bowler who is still only 29, and the Browns would be smart to dump the remaining two years of his contract to free up some salary cap space. Ward could either be Chicago's third corner or step in for the erratic Tyrique Stevenson. It would also free up the Bears to target a defensive lineman early in the draft. And with two second-round picks, they’ve got the Day 2 ammunition to get him. Dallas Cowboys Acquire: DE Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas RaidersCost: 2026 first-round pick (12th), 2026 third-round pick (92nd), 2027 third-round pick This is probably a very un-Jerry Jones-like move, but the Cowboys’ defense is a mess, and they desperately need help with their pass rush. It would be costly, though not as costly as the two first-round picks the Ravens initially agreed to send to Vegas for Crosby before that trade fell apart. The Cowboys have two first-rounders, so they could part with one and sweeten the deal with a couple of thirds. Assuming Crosby's knee isn't ravaged, it’s worth the risk for a team desperate to make a Super Bowl run, because adding Crosby would give the Cowboys one of the best defensive fronts in the league. Detroit Lions Acquire: DT Jeffery Simmons from the Tennessee TitansCost: 2026 first-round pick (17th), 2027 second-round pick The Titans didn’t trade Simmons at the deadline last year, and it’s hard to imagine new coach Robert Saleh would want to part with his best player now. But the clock is ticking on a contract that expires after next season, and will the Titans be any good by then? The Lions, meanwhile, have their own clock ticking on contention and desperately need help on the defensive line to avoid Aidan Hutchinson drawing constant double-teams. Add a DT like Simmons and their pass rush could be fierce again, making them an instant contender. That could be worth what should be a very hefty price. Green Bay Packers Acquire: WR Marvin Harrison Jr. from the Arizona CardinalsCost: 2026 second-round pick (52nd), 2027 third-round pick They have the same situation at WR as usual — good depth, decent players, but no apparent No. 1. And they let their best receiver (Romeo Doubs) go while only bringing in Skyy Moore. Harrison has been a disappointment with the Cardinals, but that could be all about their miserable quarterback situation. Pair him with Jordan Love, and his numbers should soar. It would be a big deal, and complicated by the fact that the Packers don’t have a first-rounder again until 2028. But Matt LaFleur could ask his old boss, Sean McVay, about why players are more important than those pesky high picks. Then he could call his brother Mike, the new coach in Arizona, and get this deal done. Los Angeles Rams Acquire: QB J.J. McCarthy from the Minnesota VikingsCost: 2026 second-round pick (61st) The Vikings sure look like they’ve moved on from the former 10th overall pick (2024) by signing Kyler Murray. Given Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell’s success rate with QBs, maybe that’s a red flag for the rest of the NFL. But McCarthy is still young and has only 10 games of experience. He could benefit from learning under McVay on a loaded offensive team. And not only do the Rams need to start thinking about who their quarterback will be after 38-year-old Matthew Stafford is done, they have to be prepared if he breaks down this season. Right now their backup is Stetson Bennett. McCarthy would at least be an upgrade over that. And that’s important for an expected Super Bowl contender. Minnesota Vikings Acquire: RB De’Von Achane from the Miami DolphinsCost: 2026 third-round pick (82nd), fifth-round pick (163rd) The Vikings brought back Aaron Jones, but he's 31 and constantly battling injuries. And while he’s a good receiver out of the backfield, Achane is a great one, a much faster and more dynamic player overall and seven years younger (24). The Dolphins say they want to keep him after he ran for 1,350 yards and caught 67 passes for 488 yards last season. But they have the look of a team undergoing a fire sale, so surely they have their price. Achane will need a contract extension, so maybe a third-round pick and change will do it. The Dolphins would be crazy to say no for a second-rounder. New Orleans Saints Acquire: WR Quentin Johnston from the Los Angeles ChargersCost: 2026 third-round pick (73rd), 2027 conditional sixth-round pick The 6-3, 208-pounder arrived with huge expectations after being the 21st overall pick in the 2023 draft, but he’s struggled to live up to them and has seemingly maxed out as a 50-catch, 700-yard, No. 2 receiver. Johnston was drafted by a different Chargers regime, so the current one should be willing to move on from an underperforming player. But the Saints could see value in adding a big target next to Chris Olave for their emerging quarterback. And their third-round pick could be enough to convince Jim Harbaugh to give up on him, since it would be relatively high in that round. New York Giants Acquire: CB Marlon Humphrey from the Baltimore RavensCost: 2026 fourth-round pick (105th), 2027 conditional seventh-round pick The thinnest position on the Giants’ roster might be corner, where veteran Paulson Adebo has battled injuries the past two seasons, Deonte Banks has been a bust, and they’re counting a lot on the flier they took on Greg Newsome. Humphrey, a four-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro, will be 30 and carries a $15.25 million salary, so he might not cost more than a Day 3 pick. The Ravens will be OK in the secondary without him. And they could make this a win-win trade if they can entice Baltimore with edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux in a blockbuster deal, too. Philadelphia Eagles Acquire: DE Myles Garrett from the Cleveland BrownsCost: 2026 first-round pick (23rd), 2026 third-round pick (68th), 2027 first-round pick It would be one of the biggest blockbusters in years, considering Garrett has won two of the past three Defensive Player of the Year awards, just set the single-season sack record and is one year into a four-year, $160 million contract. Cleveland might not want to trade him, but what if the Eagles offered Jalen Carter as part of the package in return? Not crazy, considering Philly just signed defensive tackle Jordan Davis to a huge contract. But if the Eagles prefer to keep Carter, then offering the Maxx Crosby package (two first-round picks) and a bit more should be valuable to a rebuilding team like the Browns who might not be good again soon. That’s a problem since Garrett is already 30. But he would instantly give Philly the pass rush it needs to return to the top of the NFC. San Francisco 49ers Acquire: OLB Nick Herbig from the Pittsburgh SteelersCost: 2026 second-round pick (58th), 2027 conditional fifth-round pick Their pass rush was completely punchless last season, with Bryce Huff leading the team with just four sacks. They are hopeful that both Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams will be healthy and back in their old form next season, but they could use another body in the rotation. Herbig, 24, is stuck in a rotation behind T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith in Pittsburgh and in the final year of his contract. He had 13 sacks in a limited role over the past two seasons and would be well worth the high pick it would probably cost for the Steelers to swap him. Seattle Seahawks Acquire: RB Breece Hall from the New York JetsCost: 2026 third-round pick (96th), 2027 fifth-round pick The Jets just placed the franchise tag on Hall and they want to sign him long term, though it’s not clear if Hall actually wants to stay in New York. The Seahawks, meanwhile, need a replacement for Kenneth Walker, whom they lost in free agency. The cost would be at least a third-round pick, which was reportedly what the Jets were asking for at the deadline last year. A running back like Hall is an unnecessary luxury for a team like the Jets headed for the bottom of the standings, but he could instantly make the Seahawks an even bigger threat to repeat as Super Bowl champs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Acquire: CB Riley Moss from the Denver BroncosCost: 2026 third-round pick (77th) After adding help up front in free agency, even coach Todd Bowles acknowledged the need for another corner amid Jamel Dean's departure. The Broncos are strong at that position and could be willing to deal the 26-year-old Moss ahead of the last year of his contract. He’s been good playing opposite Patrick Surtain, considering the amount of teams that would prefer to throw at him. His low cost could mean the Broncos wouldn’t part with him for less than a second-round pick, unless the Bucs dangled a player in the deal, like perhaps young running back Sean Tucker. Washington Commanders Acquire: WR DK Metcalf from the Pittsburgh SteelersCost: 2026 third-round pick (71st), 2027 fifth-round pick The idea of the Steelers trading him all depends on what happens with Aaron Rodgers, and whether Pittsburgh goes for it all in 2026 or goes into a rebuilding mode. They did just trade for Michael Pittman, so their cupboard wouldn’t be bare without Metcalf. And Metcalf was a bit of a disappointment last season with just 59 catches for 850 yards and six touchdowns as Rodgers struggled to find him downfield. He’d have better luck with the younger, stronger Jayden Daniels throwing him the ball. And the Commanders are desperate for a WR opposite Terry McLaurin. Metcalf cost the Steelers a second-round pick. But after a down year, and with three years and more than $100 million left on his contract, something less would do.

The NFL Player Each AFC Team Should Trade for During the 2026 Draft

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 11:49:32 -0400

The NFL Draft isn’t just about the draft. It’s often a catalyst for another round of trades. Sometimes it’s just general managers swapping draft picks. But it’s also the perfect time to move valuable or unwanted players, too. So, to help those GMs out, here’s a list of one trade we’d like to see every NFC team make — one player they should try to acquire for a bit of their draft capital this year, if they can. RELATED: The NFL Player Each NFC Team Should Trade for During the 2026 Draft Baltimore Ravens Acquire: OLB Kayvon Thibodeaux from the New York GiantsCost: 2026 third-round pick (80th overall), 2027 conditional fifth-round pick Jesse Minter is taking over a team ready for a Super Bowl run, but still too dangerously thin on the edge. The Ravens could fix that by adding Thibodeaux, who is an expensive luxury for the Giants. With Brian Burns and Abdul Carter there, they’re unlikely to re-sign Thibodeaux after this season, so they could be willing to deal him now, especially if they could get a third-round pick, which the Giants don’t currently have. Another possibility? Baltimore could offer veteran CB Marlon Humphrey, who would solidify the secondary for his old coach, John Harbaugh. Buffalo Bills Acquire: WR Brian Thomas Jr. from the Jacksonville JaguarsCost: 2026 first-round pick (26th) Yes, the Bills already got WR D.J. Moore from Chicago for a second-round pick. But they need to do better for QB Josh Allen, so why not go all-in on their biggest need and turn it into a strength? The Jags say they won’t trade Thomas, even after a terrible season, but they don’t have a first-round pick, so if the Bills dangle their first-rounder, maybe Jacksonville will change its mind. With Allen, two top receivers and RB James Cook, the Bills' offense might be impossible to stop. And if they can finally end their Super Bowl drought, it would be well worth the price. Cincinnati Bengals Acquire: LB Jordyn Brooks from the Miami DolphinsCost: 2026 third-round pick (72nd), 2026 seventh-round pick (221st) It remains to be seen if they’ve done enough to boost their defensive line in the wake of Trey Hendrickson’s departure, but there’s no doubt the Bengals need help at linebacker regardless. The 28-year-old Brooks is a tackle machine, coming off an All-Pro season and heading into the last year of his contract. That last part is reason enough for the rebuilding Dolphins to trade him, especially if they could get the Bengals’ third-round pick, and a little more, in return. Cleveland Browns Acquire: OT Walker Little from the Jacksonville JaguarsCost: 2027 conditional sixth-round pick Trading for a quality tackle isn’t easy, because they’re hard to find. But the 6-7, 325-pound Little lost his job in Jacksonville last season, and then the Jags signed his replacement, Cole Van Lanen, to a three-year, $51 million deal. Little is a valuable, versatile backup for Jacksonville, but he’s also got two years, $25 million left on his own contract. The Browns’ line is a mess, and they need better protection for whichever quarterback they go with. Given Little's contract and the fact he's coming off a down season, he won’t cost more than a Day 3 pick, even though his talent exceeds that. Denver Broncos Acquire: RB Alvin Kamara from the New Orleans SaintsCost: 2026 seventh-round pick (246th), 2027 seventh-round pick Kamara is 31, coming off the worst season of his career, and coming back from knee and ankle injuries. He also doesn’t want to leave New Orleans. But a reunion with Sean Payton and a chance to chase another championship in what could be his final NFL season might be enough to convince him to change his mind. The Broncos have J.K. Dobbins and R.J. Harvey in the backfield, and Harvey is a decent receiver. But Kamara could give the offense an added passing threat, and he could thrive in a reduced role. Given his age and injuries, he also wouldn’t cost Denver more than a sixth- or seventh-round pick. Houston Texans Acquire: DT Dexter Lawrence from the New York GiantsCost: 2026 first-round pick (28th), 2026 second-round pick (59th) The 28-year-old Lawrence wants out of New York as well as a new contract, but his leverage is low after a lackluster season in 2025. He’s only one year removed from a nine-sack Pro Bowl campaign, though, and the Texans need reinforcements inside to complement their dynamic duo on the edge (Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter). They’d be counting on the 6-2, 345-pound Lawrence to regain his old form in a better environment and would likely have to extend his contract. But he could make one of the NFL’s best defenses impenetrable. Of course, that’s if the Giants decide to trade him, rather than pay him more. Indianapolis Colts Acquire: S Budda Baker from the Arizona CardinalsCost: 2026 third-round pick (78th), 2027 sixth-round pick They lost Nick Cross in free agency, a huge hit to their defense that they have yet to adequately address. Enter Baker, who's 30 years old and signed through 2027? Surely, the rebuilding Cardinals would make him available and be happy to rid themselves of the remaining two years and $33 million left on his deal. The Colts think they can contend if QB Daniel Jones is healthy, so adding a safety who has gone to seven straight Pro Bowls to play behind CB Sauce Gardner would be exactly the anchor their defense needs, even if it costs them a Day 2 pick. Jacksonville Jaguars Acquire: DT Daron Payne from the Washington CommandersCost: 2026 third-round pick (88th), 2026 fourth-round pick (124th) Payne had 11.5 sacks in 2022 and looked like one of the best defensive tackles in the league. Since then, on some bad Washington defenses, he’s had just 11 sacks in three seasons. But he’s only 29 and his ceiling remains high, making him worth the gamble for the Jags. He’d give them the interior pass rush they were so obviously lacking last season. With Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen on the edge, Payne could make a big difference playing next to Arik Armstead in the middle. He’s in the final year of his contract, and due about $21 million, which could keep his trade price out of the first two rounds. Kansas City Chiefs Acquire: TE Sam LaPorta from the Detroit LionsCost: Swap first-round picks (Lions move up to No. 9, Chiefs drop to No. 17), 2027 conditional fourth-round pick Yes, they just re-signed Travis Kelce, who is still an effective player and one of Patrick Mahomes’ favorite receivers. But Kelce is 36, not what he once was, and could be in the last season of his Hall of Fame career. LaPorta is coming off back surgery, heading into the last year of his contract and may get squeezed out in Detroit, where the Lions have a lot of young players to sign. It would probably cost the Chiefs a second-round pick. As an alternative, they could consider a package that involves swapping first-rounders instead. Las Vegas Raiders Acquire: CB Deonte Banks from the New York GiantsCost: 2026 sixth-round pick (185th) Their instincts were right when they tried to trade Maxx Crosby to Baltimore for two first-round picks. They are likely multiple years away from being competitive again, so their focus should be on acquiring assets. But they are also thin at corner and are the type of team that can and should take a flier on a player like Banks — talented enough to be a first-round pick (2023), but a bust so far in the NFL. For basically nothing, they can spend a year seeing if new defensive coordinator Rob Leonard can turn him into a serviceable player. If not, the cost would be negligible. If Leonard can, though, the Raiders can re-sign Banks and will have gotten him for a steal. Los Angeles Chargers Acquire: C Aaron Brewer from the Miami DolphinsCost: 2026 second-round pick (55th), 2026 fourth-round pick (No. 123) Even a sell-happy team like the Dolphins isn’t going to be eager to trade a 28-year-old center who ranks near the top of the league at his position and has an affordable salary. But he is going to be a free agent next year and could cost a small fortune. So it wouldn’t be crazy for the Dolphins to get something for him now and find his replacement in the draft. As for the Chargers, their top priority has to be keeping QB Justin Hebert upright, and all they did was add center Tyler Biadasz and guard Cole Strange in free agency. Brewer would be an upgrade, though the Dolphins surely would want a high pick since they’d prefer to keep him around. Miami Dolphins Acquire: TE Luke Musgrave from the Green Bay PackersCost: 2026 fifth-round pick (151st) First, the Dolphins should be in fire sale mode, getting rid of every valuable asset they have for draft picks. But while they’re doing that, they can’t leave new QB Malik Willis without help on offense, especially if they’re trying to see if he can be their quarterback of the future. So it makes sense to bring at least one familiar weapon from Green Bay with him. Musgrave didn’t exactly light it up for the Pack after Tucker Kraft tore his ACL last year, but he’s still a 6-foot-6 target with good receiving skills who has been battered by injuries in the first three years of his career. There’s an upside and the cost could be low, since Kraft is coming back to the Pack. New England Patriots Acquire: WR A.J. Brown from the Philadelphia EaglesCost: 2026 first-round pick (31st), 2026 second-round pick (63rd) This one feels like the trade everyone has been waiting for all offseason long, and it’s past time to pull the trigger. Brown, 28, is clearly unhappy in the Philly offense, but he’s incredibly productive and could thrive in a new system. In New England, he’d get to be the main man for one of the best young quarterbacks in the NFL in Drake Maye. And the Patriots get a true No. 1 receiver, still near his prime, whose numbers could dwarf what Stefon Diggs did for them last season (85-1,1013-4). Yes, it would cost their first-round pick and more. But coming off a Super Bowl, it’s more than worth it. New York Jets Acquire: WR Dontayvion Wicks from the Green Bay PackersCost: 2026 fourth-round pick (103rd) The Jets have a black hole at receiver opposite Garrett Wilson, but they also have time to fill it since their franchise quarterback won’t arrive until the 2027 draft. In Wicks, they’d get a 25-year-old with plenty of promise and limited production (108,1,328-11 in three seasons in Green Bay). He’s buried on the Packers’ depth chart and unlikely to be re-signed after 2026, so a Day 3 pick might be enough. Wicks would give New York a competent second receiver for this season and could be a contributor beyond that. Pittsburgh Steelers Acquire: QB Mac Jones from the San Francisco 49ersCost: 2026 second-round pick (53rd), 2026 sixth-round pick (216th) They have to find their quarterback of the future because they can’t roll with Aaron Rodgers forever. But this isn’t a good draft to find one, and they’re not likely to be high enough in next year’s draft to get an elite prospect then, either. So why not trade a second-round pick to get one now? Jones showed his value in his eight starts in San Francisco last season, and the former first-rounder is still only 27. He’s not as mobile as Steelers coach Mike McCarthy prefers, but he has all the other tools. And even if Pittsburgh still decides to draft a quarterback next year, he’d be great insurance for Rodgers this year on a team that has postseason goals. Tennessee Titans Acquire: TE Kyle Pitts from the Atlanta FalconsCost: 2026 second-round pick (35th), 2026 fourth-round pick (101st) The Titans are all about the development of QB Cam Ward, but they’re still a bit thin on players for him to throw to. Calvin Ridley is 31 and coming off a broken leg. Tennessee's No. 1 receiver will probably be Wan’Dale Robinson, who is 5-foot-8. And TE Chig Okonkwo left in free agency. The Falcons placed the franchise tag on Pitts but haven’t ruled out trading him if they can’t sign him to a long-term deal. Pitts finally broke out last season, catching 88 passes for 928 yards while earning second-team All-Pro honors. He’s 6-foot-6, 250 pounds and still only 25 years old. A second- or third-round pick is reasonable, especially since the Titans can absorb a big deal for him much better than the Falcons can.

New York Giants OC Matt Nagy on QB Jaxson Dart: 'This Kid is Different'

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 11:45:40 -0400

Jaxson Dart's new offensive coordinator thinks the world of him. "When I got here to New York and got to meet him and started talking to him, you could tell right away that everything was true. This kid is different that way," New York Giants offensive coordinator Matt Nagy said about Dart at a press conference on Tuesday, per the Giants' team website. "My initial conversation with Coach Harbs was, hey, excited, really looking forward to being able to help out in many ways and building that relationship and that trust. I know he had a great year last year, but we want to make it even better and continue to have him grow, and I want to be there to help him." Dart, whom the Giants traded up to select with the No. 25 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, started 12 games in his 2025 rookie season, taking over as the team's primary starter in Week 4. Across the 14 combined games that he appeared in, Dart totaled 2,272 passing yards, 15 passing touchdowns, five interceptions and a 91.7 passer rating, while completing 63.7% of his passes. He also rushed for 487 yards and nine touchdowns. Dart missed two starts due to a concussion. "Every year I will watch just to kind of see the top guys that are there. I remember coming away really impressed with Jaxson and his accuracy," Nagy said about scouting Dart in the 2025 NFL Draft process when he was the offensive coordinator of the Kansas City Chiefs. "Back then, I didn't know how tough he was and how good of a runner he was. He was a really good, sneaky good runner, tough, physical, played the quarterback position well, accurate. You could see he was a competitor. "I remember then at the [NFL Scouting Combine], us not really being in the quarterback market, watching him, just kind of observing how he handled himself in that group of guys at the combine. You could see this moxie that he had, and he had this 'it' factor." Nagy and the Chiefs parted ways after three seasons with him as their offensive coordinator (2023-25) and four seasons on head coach Andy Reid's staff altogether. He was previously the head coach of the Chicago Bears from 2018-21, preceded by being the Chiefs' offensive coordinator for two seasons (2016-17), among other assistant coaching stints. Regarding Dart, after spending the 2021 college football season with the USC Trojans, he spent three seasons as the starting quarterback for the Ole Miss Rebels (2022-24), with whom he led the SEC in passing yards (4,279), passer rating (180.7) and completion percentage (69.3%) in 2024. After a 2-8 start to the 2025 NFL season, the Giants fired head coach Brian Daboll and later hired former Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh as their new head coach in the wake of a 4-13 season. Among the new faces for Dart to target, the Giants have signed former Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely (three-year, $40 million deal) and former Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Darnell Mooney (one-year deal worth up to $10 million) this offseason.

Why Joel Klatt, Todd McShay Would Take Fernando Mendoza Over Other Young QBs

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 20:36:00 -0400

Not long after Fernando Mendoza quarterbacked Indiana to a perfect season and a national title, FOX Sports lead college football analyst Joel Klatt floated the idea that he would take the Hoosiers star over any young quarterback in the NFL to lead his team to a game-winning drive. Now, with the 2026 NFL Draft fast approaching, Klatt not only has bought into that idea, but he might also have another top draft analyst agreeing with him. In the latest episode of "The Joel Klatt Show," Klatt and NFL Draft analyst Todd McShay agreed that they would trust Mendoza to lead a team to a game-winning drive in the final moments more than nearly any other young quarterback. "I think I would take Mendoza," Klatt said, as he listed Caleb Williams, Cam Ward and others. McShay, meanwhile, believes that the debate is between Mendoza and just one other quarterback. "It would come down to Mendoza and Drake Maye, maybe," McShay said. "I'm armed with what I've seen in the NFL, which isn't fair. But if we're talking about college careers, absolutely, 1,000%. "But even knowing what I know in the NFL, I still may [pick Mendoza]. He's different. While Indiana won all 16 of its games this past season, not all of those wins were pretty. Mendoza needed to lead the Hoosiers to fourth-quarter comebacks in tough road environments at Iowa and Penn State. He had to make big throws and take Indiana on a game-winning drive in the fourth quarter of its win at Oregon. He also needed to make some clutch throws and plays to help seal the win over Ohio State in the Big Ten Championship before doing the same thing in Indiana's victory over Miami (Fla.) in the title game. Of course, the NFL is a different level of competition than the college game, and some of the league's top young quarterbacks proved they can handle clutch moments this past season. Williams, 24, helped the Chicago Bears get six fourth-quarter comeback wins in 2025, which was the most in the league. Bo Nix, 26, had five fourth-quarter comeback wins and led the league in game-winning drives (seven) for the Denver Broncos. Mendoza arguably had the best college career of any quarterback since the turn of the decade; he's the first signal-caller to win the Heisman Trophy and national title since Joe Burrow in 2019. That's why Klatt thought it was an easy choice to pick Mendoza as the quarterback he'd turn to with the game on the line over the other young quarterbacks. "You take him over Cam Ward," Klatt said in a previous episode. "Williams? Possibly. Jayden Daniels? Possibly? Maye? Certainly after the Super Bowl. [Michael] Penix [Jr.] and [J.J.] McCarthy? Absolutely. Nix? Questionable with the way Nix played in crunch time and in some of those [big] games, particularly in the fourth quarter. "Mendoza in crunch time is unbelievable. He anticipates, is accurate, smart and a great teammate. He checks every single box." As Klatt marveled at Mendoza's ability to perform in the clutch, McShay believes that the Indiana product's best traits are how he's able to manage adversity and his leadership. "I don't think he [has] been around [Tom] Brady much, but you just get that same vibe where he's focusing on things that if you're in a classroom in high school and this kid's talking, with his arm raised, he's annoying," McShay said. "But armed with these 26 years of doing this and listening to the things he's focused on as a young man, I'm like, ‘Man, he gets it.'" "I value adversity and not necessarily the chip [on your shoulder] and the stuff we like to talk about on TV, but I think as human beings, we've all been through different levels of adversity," McShay added. "Only one human being in the world can live through that failure, insult or embarrassment and tell you what it was like to have to manage that internally and tell yourself, ‘I’m still who I think I am. I'm still that guy, and now I'm in a tougher spot to go prove it.' … Those moments, they make us and they define us. For Fernando, it was ‘stars don’t matter. Stars don't define Fernando Mendoza.' I like the fact that he's coming into the league and he's already had some of that." Klatt agreed with that assessment of Mendoza, who seems all but certain to be taken by the Las Vegas Raiders with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. "He kept saying to me this last year, ‘Every day I’m just trying to be the best Fernando Mendoza I can possibly be,' which sounds nerdy," Klatt said. "Like you said, if you're in a high school classroom, you roll your eyes and you're like, ‘Oh, OK.’ "But when it's real, then there's something to it and can clearly drive you toward being a great player in the future."

Best Super Bowl Betting Sites & Sportsbook Promos

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 19:41:14 -0400

This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. Football is here! Super Bowl LX will take place at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California — home of the San Francisco 49ers — on Feb. 8, 2026. The Super Bowl is a prime opportunity for sports betting, so it is time to look at the best Super Bowl betting sites. Sports betting is legal in several states via licensed sportsbook. In this guide, we'll cover top Super Bowl betting sites and apps, as well as top sportsbook promos. Best Super Bowl Betting Sites 2026 When it comes to betting on the Super Bowl, there are numerous opportunities available across various sportsbooks, as it is arguably the biggest betting event of the year. Between DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Fanatics, bet365 and Caesars, there’s a betting opportunity for all. New users can also stack promotions across multiple books before deciding which sportsbook best fits their betting style. Don’t settle on just one — claim as many offers as possible to maximize your bonus value, then stick with the book that feels right for you. Here are the best Super Bowl betting sites you can use for 2026. DraftKings Overview Welcome Bonus Why It’s Great for Super Bowl Betting Standout Features Verdict FanDuel Overview Welcome Bonus Why It’s Great for Super Bowl Betting Standout Features Verdict BetMGM Overview Welcome Bonus Why It’s Great for Super Bowl Betting Standout Features Verdict Fanatics Sportsbook Overview Welcome Bonus Why It’s Great for Super Bowl Betting Standout Features Verdict bet365 Overview Welcome Bonus Minimum $10 deposit required. Minimum odds -500 of greater. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns. New customers only. T&CS, time limits and exclusions apply. Why It’s Great for Super Bowl Betting Standout Features Verdict Caesars Overview Welcome Bonus Why It’s Great for Super Bowl Betting Standout Features Verdict Best Super Bowl Betting Promos & Welcome Offers Like with many websites in general, there are incentives just for signing up. If you create accounts at these popular sports gambling sites, usually you will get some form of welcome offer. Let's check out the options. DraftKings: Bet $5, Get $300 If Your Bet Wins New DraftKings customers can bet $5 and get $300 if your bet wins. The instant credit gives you immediate flexibility, and adds strong football-season value. Deposit at least $10, place a $5 qualifying wager (minimum odds often -150 or longer), and the bonus bets arrive right away. This is a Bet & Get offer; bonus bets typically expire in 7 days and only winnings are withdrawable. FanDuel: Bet $5, Win, Get $250 in Bonus Bets Place a $5 first cash wager and, if it wins, you’ll receive $250 in Bonus Bets if Your Bet Wins. No promo code is needed. This suits bettors who already like a favorite and want extra upside on a small first play. Deposit $5 or more, place your first $5+ cash bet, and if it wins FanDuel credits the bonus (usually within about 72 hours). This is a Bet & Get (win-triggered) offer; bonus bets generally expire in 7 days, and only bonus winnings can be withdrawn. BetMGM: First Bet Offer up to $1,500 paid back in Bonus Bets if your first wager loses With BetMGM, your first wager is protected up to $1,500 with promo code FOXSPORTS. If it loses, BetMGM refunds you in bonus bets. No promo code is required in-app. This "safety net" is ideal if you want to take a bigger first swing with less downside. Deposit at least $10, place your first cash bet of $10+, and if it loses you’ll get a refund in bonus bets (bets $50+ are typically split into five equal tokens; <$50 returns as one token). This is a First-Bet Safety Net; bonus bets usually expire in 7 days and only winnings are withdrawable. bet365: Bet $10, Get $365 in Bonus Bets (win or lose) Bet365’s welcome is simple: wager $10 and get $365 in Bonus Bets, win or lose with promo code FOX365. The low qualifier and outcome-independent credit make this one of the easiest ways to get started. Deposit $10+ and place a $5+ qualifying bet to unlock the bonus after settlement. This is a Bet & Get offer; bonus bets typically expire in 7 days, only the winnings can be withdrawn, and a minimum-odds requirement applies (often -500 or longer). Fanatics: Get a 100% bet match up to $100 in FanCash for 10 days. Fanatics often runs Bet & Get structured promotions, such as a daily match on bets (e.g. Get a 100% bet match up to $100 in FanCash for 10 days.)— though the specific Indiana offer must be confirmed. Sign up today. Caesars: $250 First Bet Match Caesars often offers First bet matched up to $250 as a bonus bet with code FOX250BM, win or lose, for new users. The exact structure can vary by state and promotion period. Check it out here. Popular Super Bowl Betting Markets There are multiple ways to bet on the Super Bowl that involve the score of the game, player statistics and even Gatorade bath color. Let's take a look at a few major betting markets. Moneyline & Point Spread A moneyline bet is the simplest form of wagering — you’re just picking which side will win the game outright, disregarding the score. The odds determine how much money you will make. Heading into the Super Bowl, there will be a favorite and an underdog. A heavy favorite might only return a small profit, while backing the underdog can lead to more money if they pull off the upset. The point spread is the expected final score difference between two teams. If the spread is 3 points, you'll see that as both -3 and +3. The team that is favored to win the Super Bowl gets the minus-number (-3); the underdog gets the plus-number (+3). If the favorite is -3, that means it must win by more than three points to cover the spread. If the underdog is +3, that means it must lose by fewer than three points or win outright to cover the spread. Totals (Over/Under) An Over/Under bet, also called a total, is a wager on the combined number of points, runs, or goals scored in a game. So for the Super Bowl, the sportsbook sets a line, and bettors choose whether the final score will go over (more than the posted total) or under (less than the posted total). Player Props A player prop bet is a wager on an outcome other than the final score, like player stats in the Super Bowl. Examples include: Same-Game Parlays (SGPs) A same-game parlay (SGP) is a wager in which you bet on multiple outcomes occurring from one specific game. Unlike a traditional parlay, SGPs focus solely on events within this one specific game, such as the Super Bowl. A bettor could wager on the moneyline, spread and how many passing TDs for a quarterback in the Super Bowl on a single betting slip. Novelty Props Novelty props are wagers that don't always relate directly to the outcome of the game. Examples include: Super Bowl Live Betting Sites Live betting (also called in-play betting) is just that: instead of betting before the game, you are actually gambling as the game is going on. This kind of gambling is prominent in the Super Bowl because of the high viewership, frequent stoppages, and dynamic odds changes. Examples of live betting include wagering on the next scoring play, updated point spreads, or quarter/half totals. The benefits of live betting include reacting to game flow, hedging and capitalizing on momentum shifts, and potential drawbacks include fast-moving odds and risk of impulsive bets. Gambling disclaimer: Only individuals aged 21 and over are permitted to gamble. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER. Gambling is subject to local state regulation and is illegal in some states. Please gamble responsibly – information relating to responsible gambling can be found here. Want great stories delivered right to your inbox? Create or log in to your FOX Sports account, and follow leagues, teams and players to receive a personalized newsletter daily!

Best NFL Betting Sites: Top Sportsbook Apps (2026)

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:41:51 -0400

This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. We’ve assembled a list of the seven best NFL betting sites to target during the offseason and ahead of the upcoming draft. This guide is built to help you find the right NFL sportsbook for your approach — whether you prioritize early draft odds, competitive futures pricing, strong promotional incentives, deep prop menus or a streamlined mobile app. Compare our top picks and choose the platform that aligns with how you like to bet. With offseason storylines driving movement across draft position markets, win totals and long-term futures, sportsbook selection matters more than ever. Having the right NFL betting app can give you an edge year-round, from early offseason betting through kickoff and the Super Bowl. Best NFL Betting Sites & Mobile Apps - Sportsbook Reviews Here’s a quick overview of our top picks for NFL betting sites and apps and what each platform does best: BetMGM Sportsbook - Best Overall NFL Betting Site Overview:BetMGM is nicknamed "King of Sportsbooks" and backs it up by offering one of the widest selections of NFL betting markets. One area where BetMGM stands out is its unmatched range of player props, offering bets on niche season-wide and single-game player stats. Pros: Cons: BetMGM NFL Betting Features & Promotions: BetMGM NFL Sign-up Bonus: Get a $50 BetMGM Reward Points Bonus + $1500 Back in Bonus Bets, If Your First Bet Doesn't Win with Code ‘FOXSPORTS’ Available States:AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, ME, MI, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, WY Why We Recommend it:BetMGM is our top recommended NFL sportsbook app thanks to its deep market selection, innovative features like the Edit My Bet tool, and boosted odds for big games. The variety of props lets you play exactly how you want to. FanDuel Sportsbook – Best NFL Betting Mobile App Overview: The FanDuel app is one of the easiest-to-use platforms. It is optimized for NFL betting and has easy navigation between game lines, props, and parlay options. It is the gold standard for U.S. Sportsbooks. Fast, reliable, well-designed. Biometric login (Face ID / Touch ID), dark mode and geolocation tools for legal state access. Pros: Cons: FanDuel NFL Betting Features & Promotions: Current FanDuel Promo Offer for New Users: Bet $5 and Get $250 If Your Bet Wins Available States:AZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, WY + DC & PR Why We Recommend it:This is the easiest app to use as a new bettor. It couldn't be simpler to use its interface, including learning how to place bets directly from your phone. The access to same-game parlays on the app is quick, and everything you would need is easy to find. bet365 – Best NFL Odds & Early Payout Overview: bet365 is a global heavyweight known for sharp pricing and outstanding in-play options. For NFL bettors, its Early Payout stands out: straight moneyline bets are settled as winners if your team goes 17 points ahead at any time. Pros: Cons: bet365 NFL Betting Features & Promotions: bet365 NFL Sign-up Bonus: Bet $10, Get $365 in Bonus Bets (win or lose) Minimum $10 deposit required. Minimum odds -500 of greater. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns. New customers only. T&CS, time limits and exclusions apply. Available States:AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, KS, KA, KY, LA, MD, MO, NJ, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA Why We Recommend it:If you value sharp NFL odds and a safety buffer against blown leads, bet365’s pricing and Early Payout are hard to beat. DraftKings – Best NFL Sportsbook Promotions Overview:DraftKings pairs a deep NFL menu with fast pricing and one of the most aggressive new-user packages during football season. For 2026, new customers get $200 in bonus bets instantly after a $5 wager. Pros: Cons: DraftKings NFL Betting Features & Promotions: DraftKings NFL Sign-up Bonus: Bet $5, Get $300 in Bonus Bets If Your Bet Wins Available States:AZ, CO, CT, DC, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, MO, NH, NJ, NY, NC, OH, OR, PA, TN, VT, VA, WV, WY Why We Recommend it:If you want quick bonus value and football-centric perks, DraftKings’ NFL promo stack is one of the strongest this season. Caesars – Best NFL Betting Rewards Program Overview:Caesars combines a clean NFL menu with Caesars Rewards tier credits on eligible wagers. The current welcome focuses on profit boosts that double your winnings on many small tickets right after you join. Pros: Cons: Caesars NFL Betting Features & Promotions: Caesars NFL Sign-up Bonus: Bet $1, Double Your Winnings Your Next 10 Wagers with Code 'FOXDYW' Available States:AZ, CO, DC, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MO, NV, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY Why We Recommend it:If you like spreading value across multiple NFL bets and earning hotel/entertainment rewards, Caesars delivers on both. Fanatics Sportsbook – Most Unique Loyalty Rewards Overview:Fanatics leans into FanCash, letting you convert rewards into bonus bets or merchandise. During football season, the book features repeated no-sweat style protections that refund losses in FanCash. Pros: Cons: Fanatics NFL Betting Features & Promotions: Fanatics NFL Sign-up Bonus: Get a 100% bet match up to $100 in FanCash for 10 days Available States:AZ, CO, CT, IN, IL, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, MO, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VT, VA, WV, WY Why We Recommend it:If you want repeated protection and flexible rewards you can recycle into bets or gear, Fanatics’ FanCash model is uniquely valuable. theScore Bet – Best New NFL Betting Site Overview:theScore Bet offers a clean, content-driven sportsbook experience built directly into theScore app, making it especially appealing for users who already follow live scores, stats, and news. Its streamlined interface and integrated media experience create a seamless transition from consuming sports content to placing NFL bets. Pros: Cons: theScore Bet NFL Betting Features & Promotions: theScore Bet NFL Welcome Bonus: Bet & Get $1,000 Bet Reset Available States:AZ, CO, DC, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, MO, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV Why We Recommend it:theScore Bet stands out for its seamless integration with sports content, making it one of the easiest platforms to use for NFL betting. If you already use theScore app to follow games, it offers one of the most natural and frictionless betting experiences available. NFL Betting App User Reviews NFL Live-Betting Apps Live betting lets you place wagers after kickoff, with odds that update in real time based on the score, clock, drives, and injuries. You’ll see changing lines for moneylines, spreads, totals, player props, and drive or quarter markets. Football’s stop-start rhythm creates frequent pricing pauses, so sportsbooks can refresh odds between plays, drives, and quarters. That gives bettors many decision points throughout the game. Live-betting essentially allows you to double down, hedge bets and capitalize on slow starts. Best Sportsbooks for Live Betting NFL Sportsbook Welcome Bonuses A welcome bonus is a new-customer offer that gives you extra value when you open an account and place an initial wager. Sportsbooks use these bonuses to attract first-time users, help you try the app with lower risk, and encourage you to explore more markets. Below we'll go into the two most common types: "Bet & Get" and "First-Bet Safety Net" bonuses. NFL Bet & Get Bonus In this offer, you make a low-bar qualifying bet, then receive bonus bets regardless of outcome. It’s great if you want instant value without risking a big first wager. Use a quick-settling market to unlock the offer fast, then deploy the bonus bets on lines you actually like—totals, player props, or a small underdog flyer. Remember, a bonus-bet stake usually isn’t returned, only the winnings. For example, let's say you place a $5 qualifying wager on the Eagles moneyline for Week 1. Win or lose, you’re credited $200 in bonus bets (often split into four $50 tokens). If you then use one $50 bonus bet on the Cowboys +120 and it wins, you profit $60 (the $50 bonus stake isn’t returned). Repeat with the remaining tokens before they expire to maximize value. FanDuel, DraftKings, and bet365 all offer this type bonus. NFL First-Bet Safety Net Bonus In this offer, you take one swing. If it wins, great—you keep the profit and the promo is done. If it loses, you get bonus bets back. This can be useful for a plus-money side or a bigger confidence play. Let's say you place your first cash wager for $250 on the 49ers -2.5 (-110). If it loses, you’re refunded $250 in bonus bets (often split into five $50 tokens) that expire in about a week; if it wins, there’s no refund and the promo ends. Say you then use one $50 bonus bet on the Ravens +120 and it wins—you profit $60 (the $50 bonus stake isn’t returned). BetMGM, Caesars, Fanatics, and bet365 all offer this bonus. Popular NFL Betting Markets Here are the most popular NFL betting markets you’ll see every week, from simple picks to deeper player angles. Use this quick overview to decide when to play spreads, moneylines, totals, props, same-game parlays, and futures. Moneyline & Point Spreads A moneyline is a bet on which team wins the game outright. Favorites show negative odds (e.g., -170 means risk $170 to win $100), while underdogs show positive odds (e.g., +150 means risk $100 to win $150). A point spread adds a margin the favorite must cover. The favorite is listed with a minus number (e.g., -3.5), and the underdog with a plus number (e.g., +3.5). If the Dolphins are -3.5 vs. the Jets, Miami must win by 4 or more to cover; the Jets cover by winning outright or losing by 3 or fewer. These are the two most popular NFL bets, and odds are shown in American format (like -110 on spreads and totals). Prices move throughout the week based on injuries, weather, lineup news, and betting trends, so timing your wager can matter. Totals (Over/Under) A total (Over/Under) is a bet on the combined points scored by both teams. Sportsbooks set a number, and you choose Over (more than that total) or Under (less than that total). Example: "Over/Under 47.5" means Over wins at 48+ points, Under wins at 47 or fewer. Totals move with factors like offensive and defensive form, pace of play, quarterback and key injuries, weather for outdoor games (wind, rain, extreme cold), matchups in the trenches, and coaching tendencies. Player Props Player props are bets on individual player outcomes rather than the final score. In the NFL, common examples include anytime touchdown scorer (will a player score a TD), quarterback passing yards Over/Under (e.g., Over 259.5), and receptions for a receiver or tight end (e.g., Over 5.5 catches). Same-Game Parlays (SGPs) A same-game parlay (SGP) lets you combine multiple bets from one NFL matchup into a single ticket. They’re appealing because you can personalize a game script and chase higher payouts than a single bet. For example, an Eagles vs. Cowboys SGP might include Eagles moneyline + Jalen Hurts Over 1.5 passing TDs + A.J. Brown 70+ receiving yards; the parlay wins only if all legs hit. Odds are calculated by combining each leg’s price, so payouts climb quickly. Risk also rises with every added leg, since the probability of winning drops as you stack more outcomes. Futures Futures are bets placed on long-term outcomes that settle later in the season. Popular NFL futures include Super Bowl winner, AFC/NFC champions, and season awards like MVP, Offensive/Defensive Player of the Year, and Rookie of the Year. Odds move all year as teams perform, injuries occur, and markets react. Payouts are made only when the market concludes (for example, after the Super Bowl or when an award is officially announced). NFL Betting Sites & Apps FAQ (2026) What is the best NFL betting site in 2026? The best NFL betting site depends on how you like to bet. BetMGM stands out for overall market depth and player props, FanDuel is the easiest app to use, bet365 offers some of the sharpest odds with Early Payouts, and DraftKings delivers the most aggressive NFL promotions. Which sportsbook has the best Super Bowl betting odds? Sportsbooks like bet365, FanDuel, and DraftKings are known for competitive Super Bowl odds, especially on spreads, totals, and alternate lines. Odds can vary by sportsbook, so comparing lines before placing your bet can help you get the best price. Are NFL betting apps legal in the United States? Yes, NFL betting apps are legal in many U.S. states where online sports betting has been regulated. Availability depends on your location, and you must be physically present in a legal state and meet the minimum age requirement (usually 21). What is the best NFL betting app for beginners? FanDuel is often the best choice for beginners thanks to its clean layout, simple betslip, and easy access to spreads, totals, props, and same-game parlays. Caesars is another good option for new bettors who want a straightforward app with fewer distractions. Which sportsbook is best for NFL same-game parlays? DraftKings and FanDuel are the leaders for NFL same-game parlays. DraftKings’ SGP+ allows you to combine bets across multiple games, while FanDuel offers fast, intuitive SGP building directly from game pages. What is an NFL Bet & Get bonus? An NFL Bet & Get bonus lets you place a small qualifying wager (often $5 or $10), then receive bonus bets regardless of whether that bet wins or loses. The bonus bets can be used on future wagers, but typically only the winnings are withdrawable. What is a first-bet safety net or bet insurance? A first-bet safety net refunds your wager with bonus bets if your first bet loses. If the bet wins, you keep the profit and the promotion ends. This type of bonus is common at BetMGM, Caesars, and Fanatics. Which sportsbook is best for live NFL betting? bet365 is widely considered the best sportsbook for live NFL betting due to fast odds updates, deep in-play markets, and Early Payouts. FanDuel and DraftKings also offer strong live betting hubs with frequent cash-out options. Can I bet on Super Bowl player props and novelty bets? Yes. Major sportsbooks offer extensive Super Bowl player props, including passing yards, touchdowns, receptions, and anytime TD scorers. Many also post novelty bets closer to kickoff, such as halftime performance or game-related specials, depending on state rules. Gambling disclaimer: Only individuals aged 21 and over are permitted to gamble. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER. Gambling is subject to local state regulation and is illegal in some states. Please gamble responsibly – information relating to responsible gambling can be found here.

Fernando Mendoza Reportedly Visiting Raiders in Only Visit Before NFL Draft

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 14:47:03 -0400

The Las Vegas Raiders haven't shied away from the prevailing thought that they will be selecting Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick in this year’s NFL Draft. Mendoza is set to visit the Raiders’ facility on Tuesday, NFL Network reported. It will mark the former Heisman Trophy winner and national champion’s only scheduled visit as the buildup to him going No. 1 overall continues. Mendoza will be at the Raiders’ facility in Las Vegas, where he’ll meet with coaches and potentially ownership, while also working out in front of team brass. Not only will Mendoza be entering a situation with a first-year head coach in Klint Kubiak, but he’ll also potentially join a quarterback room led by veteran Kirk Cousins. The Raiders made the signing of Cousins official on Monday afternoon. Mendoza is coming off a historic season at Indiana, leading the Hoosiers to a 16-0 record and its first national championship. He also won the Heisman Trophy, becoming the second player of Latin American descent and the first Cuban-American to claim the award. Beyond the accolades, Mendoza posted one of the strongest statistical seasons in recent memory. He completed 72% of his passes for 3,535 yards and 48 total touchdowns with just six interceptions, with his toughness and ability to perform in the clutch being lauded as a pair of his top traits. "He has poise in the pocket to stand and deliver, plus the mental aspect," an NFL scout told our Eric D. Williams during the combine. "He’s got all the NFL traits, none really that elite, but all together a very formidable package." "His best trait is his mind," an NFL personnel executive told Williams. "He’s a pocket QB with quick eyes and a quick release. He processes coverage and pressure at a high rate. Good arm strength and excellent accuracy. He’s tough and shows poise in high-stress situations. Excellent make-up. NFL starter." At last week’s NFL owners meeting, Kubiak talked about young quarterbacks in general, saying it’s ideal for them to learn behind a veteran, though they’re sometimes forced into action right away. "Ideally, you don't want him to start from Day 1," Kubiak told reporters. "You'd love him to be able to learn behind somebody. That's in a perfect world. It doesn't always work out that way. Sometimes they have to play from Day 1, and it's our job as coaches to get them ready to go. I think it does help the player if they can sit behind a mature adult and watch how they run the show." Even with Mendoza all but certain to go No. 1 overall, it’s unclear if he’ll start immediately. Cousins’ arrival adds another layer of speculation about how the Raiders might slowly ease Mendoza into the NFL. Mendoza has also informed the NFL that he will skip the draft in Pittsburgh later this month, according to ESPN. He plans to celebrate the milestone with his family in Miami, taking in the experience from home. All eyes will be on Mendoza’s visit on Tuesday, when team executives, coaches, and ownership get their first in-person look at him. His meetings and workouts could give the clearest picture yet of how quickly he might be ready to take the reins in Las Vegas.

Coachspeak: Jim Harbaugh is 'Fired Up' by Mike McDaniel, who is 'Perfect' for Justin Herbert

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 13:21:57 -0400

PHOENIX — Jim Harbaugh is experiencing a change in thinking from his old-school approach to football with the addition of blingy Mike McDaniel as the Los Angeles Chargers' new offensive coordinator. But as their styles might clash, there's one thing that has helped bridge whatever gap might have existed between the two: their love of football. Nearly three months into Harbaugh's new partnership with McDaniel, the Chargers' head coach said that working with the former Miami Dolphins' head coach has been "awesome with a capital A." "He’s fun, energetic and likeable — prepared," Harbaugh told me when I met up with him at the NFL owners meeting this past week as we discussed his relationship with McDaniel. "When he talks, he earns your attention by being so good and so prepared. He’s a listener. And you go in there fired up because you know you’re going to get something good." McDaniel, who was fired as the head coach of the Dolphins after four seasons in January, cut his teeth learning the game under innovative head coaches and offensive gurus Mike and Kyle Shanahan. After years of success in the NFL designing his own offense, McDaniel is now considered one of the best offensive minds in the game, with the Dolphins' offense being one of the best in the league during his first two seasons as head coach. That's why McDaniel remained a hot commodity in the coaching market this offseason, even interviewing for multiple head coach vacancies despite a 15-19 record in his final two seasons in Miami. But as McDaniel had several options on where to go next in his coaching career, he chose Los Angeles, bringing a new and fresh approach for Harbaugh and quarterback Justin Herbert. Harbaugh and McDaniel spent time out of the office together shortly after the Chargers' new offensive coordinator was hired. They hit up a Los Angeles Lakers game together, as the unlikely pairing between the 62-year-old Harbaugh, known for wearing team-issued gear and khakis, and the 43-year-old McDaniel, who prefers designer sneakers and $1,000 gold-rimmed sunglasses, has gotten off to a good start. The move, though, will mark a change from Harbaugh's typical offensive approach. Harbaugh moved on from good friend and former Chargers offensive coordinator Greg Roman at the end of the 2025 season, which ended with Los Angeles scoring just three points in an opening-round playoff loss to the New England Patriots. Harbaugh opted to hire McDaniel because he believes he'll design an offense that better protects Herbert, giving him more of an opportunity to succeed. Expect fewer straight drop-backs and more screens and play-action passes to keep Herbert out of harm’s way. The Oregon product was sacked 54 times last season, which was one fewer than the league high, and suffered the most hits of any signal caller in the NFL last season. It’s a Harbaugh offense, so of course the Bolts will run the football. Harbaugh called the McDaniel-Herbert duo a "perfect combination." "I’m just excited about the ability of Justin and the ability of Mike McDaniel," Harbaugh told me. "The way those two think. The way they see football. It’s just such a good fit. And I’m excited to see that." So, they see the game the same way, coach? "They do," Harbaugh told me. "And they’re both kind of like that, football-wise and intellectually." Along with a change in who’s leading the offense, Chargers general manager Joe Hortiz focused on upgrading the talent along the offensive line. The Bolts are expected to get a healthy return of bookend offensive tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt from season-ending leg injuries. "We’re always going to try and help Justin," Hortiz said at the NFL Scouting Combine in February. "And that’s throwing players at all positions to help the team. So, we’re going to attack the O-line. We’re going to attack the defense, the backs and tight ends — everything — even the wide outs. "The more weapons and more players we can put around Justin, the better we protect Justin." Hortiz signed former Washington Commanders center Tyler Biadasz to a three-year, $30 million deal to serve as a veteran anchor of the offensive line. The Bolts also added interior offensive lineman Cole Strange in free agency. Strange played for McDaniel and will replace Mekhi Becton at right guard, who was released at the end of the season. On top of that, the Chargers re-signed versatile offensive lineman Trevor Penning. The Chargers traded with New Orleans for the former first-round pick at the trade deadline last season. He’s penciled in at left guard. The Bolts also brought back swing tackle Trey Pipkins. They let starting left guard Zion Johnson walk in free agency. "Biadasz coming in and Penning re-signed are run-game guys that fit more of what Harbaugh believes in up front and are plug-and-play starters," a longtime NFL scout told me. "Holdovers are mostly gone from the previous regime, except for Slater and Pipkins. "It remains to be seen what influence McDaniel gets to have, but he brought Strange in. Also, adding a tight end [Charlie Kolar] means more running game and a fullback-oriented offense. Their cap space looks good. They’ll need a solid draft." With the No. 22 overall pick, don’t be surprised if the Chargers draft another starting-caliber offensive lineman to help keep Herbert upright. "Whatever system they’re in, they’ve got to be athletic," Harbaugh told me about his approach to adding offensive linemen. "They’ve got to be able to anchor on drop-backs in pass protection. There’s not a dramatic difference in body type. We’re just looking for tough guys who are athletic." Harbaugh said McDaniel will be the straw that stirs the drink for the Bolts on offense. He continued to laud McDaniel’s football mind in our conversation, particularly his ability to dissect defenses and what they are trying to do to his offense. He also added that McDaniel sees Herbert the same way he sees the Chargers' star: a quarterback who can execute at the position better than anyone who has played the game. Now, it’s up to McDaniel to get the most out of Herbert’s otherworldly ability. "You don’t make a better candle – you make a light bulb," Harbaugh said. "And that kind of analogy makes sense to me when I think of the many meetings that we’ve had with Mike talking about offensive football."

2026 NFL Draft: After Fernando Mendoza, Where Will the Top QB Prospects Land?

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 13:19:02 -0400

Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza has long been the projected No. 1 overall pick, which is owned by the Las Vegas Raiders. But where will the other top quarterback prospects land in the 2026 NFL Draft? Here are my predictions for five of the top passers not named Mendoza: Ty Simpson (Alabama): New York Jets 2025 stats (15 games): 64.5% completion rate for 3,567 yards and 28 TDs with 5 INTsMeasurables: 6-foot-1, 211 pounds Jets coach Aaron Glenn has already committed to veteran Geno Smith as his 2026 starter. That would allow Simpson to take somewhat of a redshirt year as a rookie, even if he's a first-round pick, to develop and grasp an NFL offense (barring injury or significant struggles by Smith). It's the best-case scenario for the former Alabama standout, who started just 15 games in college. With Smith under contract for just a year, that would enable a smooth transition to Simpson in 2027. Garrett Nussmeier (LSU): Arizona Cardinals 2025 stats (9 games): 67.4% completion rate for 1,927 yards and 12 TDs with 5 INTsMeasurables: 6-foot-2, 203 pounds Let’s assume the Cardinals stay at No. 3 overall. They’d have to accept the possibility that Ty Simpson won’t be around at the top of the second round, where they have the 34th overall pick. In that case, Nussmeier makes sense for Arizona in the third or fourth round. The investment there isn’t so big that you couldn’t pivot off him quickly if he doesn’t pan out as a challenger to journeymen quarterbacks Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew in 2026. Nussmeier’s tape in 2024, when he played a full season and ranked fifth in the FBS in passing yards, would give the Cardinals reason to be hopeful. Carson Beck (Miami): Green Bay Packers 2025 stats (16 games): 72.4% completion rate for 3,813 yards and 30 TDs with 12 INTs Measurables: 6-foot-5, 233 pounds After losing Malik Willis in free agency, the Packers need a No. 2 quarterback they can trust in case something were to happen to starter Jordan Love, who hasn't played a full 17-game season since 2023. Cue Beck, who turns 24 in November, was a three-year college starter (two seasons at Georgia, one at Miami) and could be a Day 3 pick. He played in an SEC Championship Game and four College Football Playoff games over the past two years, making him as seasoned of a rookie quarterback as you can ask for. The Packers’ current backups are veteran Desmond Ridder and 2025 draft pick Kyle McCord, neither of whom appeared in a game last season. Drew Allar (Penn State): Los Angeles Rams 2025 stats (6 games): 64.8% completion rate for 1,100 yards and 8 TDs with 3 INTsMeasurables: 6-foot-5, 228 pounds The Rams are essentially going year-by-year with reigning MVP Matthew Stafford and would like a veteran No. 2 behind him, but they’d benefit from having a young quarterback they can develop too. Stetson Bennett, a former fourth-round pick, hasn’t made a regular season appearance in three NFL seasons, so that boat may have sailed. Allar was inconsistent in his three years as Penn State’s starter, but he possesses great size and can make every throw, which could allow Sean McVay to see a long-term vision with him. [2026 NFL Draft Confidential: Unfiltered Scouting Takes On Top 5 QBs] Taylen Green (Arkansas): Washington Commanders 2025 stats (12 games): 60.7% completion rate for 2,714 yards and 19 TDs with 11 INTs; 139 carries for 777 yards and 8 TDsMeasurables: 6-foot-6, 227 pounds The Commanders have their young franchise quarterback in Jayden Daniels and one of the league’s best backups in Marcus Mariota, but the long and rangy Green makes sense as a potential QB3. He was a dual-threat quarterback at the college level with his incredible athleticism (4.37-second 40-yard dash, 43½-inch vertical), a skill set that fits the offense that Washington has built around Daniels.

Jaguars HC Liam Coen on QB Trevor Lawrence: 'So Much Room' To Keep Improving

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 10:51:55 -0400

One year into the job, Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Liam Coen thinks that the sky is the limit for quarterback Trevor Lawrence. "Going into the process — from watching tape — I was like, ‘Alright, this dude is tough,’" Coen said about Lawrence in an interview on SiriusXM NFL Radio on Monday. "I do think he's tough. He takes shots, gets up, doesn't say a word, has played hurt, has missed time. [He previously had] four new systems, multiple different head coach situations, [offensive coordinators], whatever it is. You go throughout the season, he doesn't miss a single practice, doesn't miss a single throw in practice, played the whole season. "Obviously, [as] an MVP finalist [and] Comeback Player of the Year finalist, [he] did some great things. There's so much room to continue to improve, and I think that's what we're excited about attacking." Last season, Lawrence totaled 4,007 passing yards, a career-high 29 passing touchdowns — good for fifth in the NFL — 12 interceptions and a 91.0 passer rating, while completing 60.9% of his passes. He also rushed for 359 yards and nine touchdowns, which were each career highs. Moreover, Lawrence ranked fourth among quarterbacks with 29 "big-time throws," according to Pro Football Focus. After owning a mere 79.4 passer rating and completing just 59.8% of his passes through Jacksonville's first 11 games, Lawrence finished the regular season in style, totaling 1,600 passing yards, 15 passing touchdowns, one interception and a 113.2 passer rating across the ensuing six contests, while completing 63.0% of his passes. In all, Jacksonville's offense was sixth in the NFL in points (27.9 per game), 11th in total yards (337.4 per game), 12th in passing yards (222.3 per game) and 20th in rushing yards (115.1 per game) in its first season with Coen as head coach. Lawrence and the Jaguars won the AFC South at 13-4, making the playoffs for the first time since 2022, before losing at home to the Buffalo Bills in the AFC divisional round. "When you start with A) humility and B) toughness, mentally and physically, I think you can do a lot with a quarterback," Coen said. "We spent a lot of time in San Francisco at the Super Bowl going through that week, and I got to see a different side of him, hang out with him in a different lens, and I'm really excited about working with Trevor again this year." Coen is the fourth head coach that Lawrence, a 2022 Pro Bowler who was the No. 1 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, has had in his five-year NFL career (Urban Meyer, Darrell Bevell, Doug Pederson and Coen).

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Nick Wright Predicts Jets Pick a QB; Eagles, Rams Get WR Help

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 19:40:38 -0400

Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson has seemed to pick up so much buzz in the weeks leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft that most mock drafts now have him going in the first round. "First Things First's" Nick Wright believes that'll be the case as well. However, does Wright agree with the idea that Simpson should be a first-round pick? In his first mock draft, Wright projects that the team that will select Simpson will massively overdraft him. But there's also a pick in the top 10 that Wright projects will happen that he said would be a move he couldn't support. Let's take a closer look at Wright's first mock draft. This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. All odds via DraftKings Sportsbook. 1. Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana Wright's thoughts: "No shocker at all. We all know where [Mendoza] is going." Odds to be selected No. 1: -20000 2. New York Jets: Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State Wright's thoughts: "You'll see a lot of Ohio State kids in the top 10. [Reese] is maybe the best defensive player in this draft. I feel Aaron Glenn looks at him and says, ‘Is there a little Micah Parsons there?’" Odds to be No. 2 overall pick: -270 3. Arizona Cardinals: Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State Wright's thoughts: "You guys like spider graphs and athleticism? His is 99 percentile everywhere. Maybe the sickest athlete in the draft." Odds to be No. 3 overall pick: +700 4. Tennessee Titans: Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame Wright's thoughts: "The pick that everyone now seems to think is happening. … Is it smart to draft a running back that high before your offensive line has been fully built? Maybe ask the Raiders that." Odds to be No. 4 overall pick: +160 5. New York Giants: Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State Wright's thoughts: "Malik Nabers is coming off the [ACL] injury. Even with Nabers, [the Giants] don't have a surefire No. 2 [wide receiver]." Odds to be No. 5 overall pick: +1200 6. Cleveland Browns: Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami (Fla.) Wright's thoughts: "A team that, on offense, needs. a bit of everything. Maybe they go get the No. 1 tackle in the draft?" Odds to be No. 6 overall pick: +500 7. Washington Commanders: Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State Wright's thoughts: "He was, according to a lot of people, the best player in college football going into the year. The only reason he would be available at No. 7, and might be available outside of the top 10, is the positional [value]." Odds to be No. 7 overall pick: +750 8. New Orleans Saints: David Bailey, edge rusher, Texas Tech Wright's thoughts: "I think the best pure pass rusher in the draft is David Bailey. I don't know if he's a three-down player or if he'll be great against the run, but he's a monster against the pass." Odds to be No. 8 overall pick: +550 9. Kansas City Chiefs: Rueben Bain Jr., edge rusher, Miami (Fla.) Wright's thoughts: "If it were to fall like this, I think the Chiefs would run to the podium to draft Rueben Bain. They have not had a blue-chip edge rusher, you could argue, in [Patrick] Mahomes' whole career." Odds that Chiefs use first pick on edge rusher or defensive lineman: +275 10. Cincinnati Bengals: Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon Wright's thoughts: "A move that I would not support, which is why I think the Bengals might do it. Most of the things they do, I don't support. You know what would be fun? More offense. The no. 1 tight end and a guy who has, in a good way, gotten some Kyle Pitts comps." Odds that Sadiq is drafted by the Bengals: +2500 11. Miami Dolphins: Spencer Fano, OT, Utah Wright's thoughts: "The Dolphins are in a full-on teardown. However, you did sign Malik Willis. You traded away his weapons. You at least want to give him a little bit of protection." Odds that Fano is a top-10 pick: +160 12. Dallas Cowboys: Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU Wright's thoughts: "Cowboys, I think, would run to the board to hand this pick in. The top corner, whom I think a lot of people incorrectly believe the Chiefs will take at No. 9. Delane is everyone's top corner in this draft. The Cowboys need help in every aspect in the secondary." Odds that Delane is the first cornerback drafted: -320 13. Los Angeles Rams (from Atlanta Falcons): Makai Lemon, WR, USC Wright's thoughts: "I like this fit a lot, not just because he would be able to stay home. … Lemon can play the slot or the outside [and] Davante Adams is, obviously, getting older and all of a sudden, Puka Nacua's availability is a question mark. They're an ultimate win-now team that might have short and longterm questions at wide receiver." Odds that Rams use first pick on a wide receiver: +120 14. Baltimore Ravens: Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State Wright's thoughts: "I got the Ravens going with the best available interior offensive lineman. He hasn't played much center at all, I think 20 snaps total, but he's played both guard spots. They need help on the interior of the offensive line." Odds that Ravens use first pick on an offensive lineman: +140 15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Keldric Faulk, edge rusher, Auburn Wright's thoughts: "The Bucs have been trying to address edge rusher in the draft for years. They have hit in some capacity, but no real stars." Odds that Buccaneers use first pick on an edge rusher or a defensive lineman: +125 16. New York Jets (from Indianapolis Colts): Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama Wright's thoughts: "What I think would be a massive overdraft, but the Jets are kind of known to massively overdraft [players]. The Jets are one of the top picks for, ‘Team Most Likely To Have Their Owner Completely Reshuffle Their Board The Day Before The Draft.’" Odds that Simpson is drafted by the Jets: +145 17. Detroit Lions: Akheem Mesidor, edge rusher, Miami (Fla.) Wright's thoughts: "The Lions still need an edge rusher opposite of Aidan Hutchinson." Odds that Lions use first pick on an edge rusher or defensive lineman: +200 18. Minnesota Vikings: Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State Wright's thoughts: "I feel like Jordan Addison's star has dimmed over the last couple of years for lack of on-field production and off-field [stuff]. It feels like the defense has people everywhere already." Odds that Vikings use first pick on a wide receiver: +1800 19. Carolina Panthers: Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia Wright's thoughts: "Get Bryce Young some offensive line help." Odds that Panthers use first pick on an offensive lineman: +400 20. Dallas Cowboys (from Green Bay Packers): CJ Allen, LB, Georgia Wright's thoughts: "The Cowboys, remember, they thought Logan Wilson was going to transform the defense. That didn't work out." Odds that Allen is a first-round pick: +110 21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Kayden McDonald, DL, Ohio State Wright's thoughts: "Cameron Hayward's the oldest every-down defensive player in the league and T.J. Watt’s getting older. So I think Kayden McDonald is to try to add right now depth and then eventually heir apparent makes sense there." Odds that Steelers use first pick on an edge rusher or a defensive lineman: +600 22. Los Angeles Chargers: Emmanuel Pregnon, G, Oregon Wright's thoughts: "Yeah, they got the tackles back, but the interior of that offensive line, no one could win with that. Those excuses, I already see them being brewed up in Danny's [Parkins] workshop. So they take one of the top interior offensive linemen." Odds that Chargers use first pick on an offensive lineman: +155 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana Wright's thoughts: "The Eagles, I believe, anticipating an AJ Brown trade, end up drafting Omar Cooper." Odds that Eagles use first pick on a wide receiver: +400 24. Cleveland Browns (from Jacksonville Jaguars): Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee Wright's thoughts: "McCoy probably would have been a top 12 pick, but he totally blew out his knee prior to last year. Didn't play last year. Now, he might not be a first-round pick. Those are the types of guys, if you're Cleveland with your second first round pick, I think you should look at like the super high upside, even if he takes a minute to get acclimated." Over/under on number of cornerbacks drafted in first round: 4.5 25. Chicago Bears: Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama Wright's thoughts: "He's the tackle from Alabama that we saw, catching the passes and rumbling and running down like the most athletic 380-pounder I've ever seen in my life. I feel like the Bears all of a sudden have to address left tackle because of that, and so we have him going there." Odds that Bears use first pick on an offensive lineman: +700 26. Buffalo Bills: Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson Wright's thoughts: "The Bills have been trying to get corner correct in the draft for a couple of years. I know they just drafted Maxwell Hairston. They take another shot at it with Terrell out of Clemson." Odds that Bills use first pick on a cornerback: +275 27. San Francisco 49ers: Blake Miller, OT, Clemson Wright's thoughts: "I think the Niners need to start looking at a post-Trent Williams world, especially at his age." Odds that 49ers use first pick on an offensive lineman: +115 28. Houston Texans: Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State Wright's thoughts: "The Texans always need to address the offensive line." Odds that Texans use first pick on an offensive lineman: -140 29. Kansas City Chiefs (from Los Angeles Rams): Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon Wright's thoughts: "The Chiefs go with secondary help after losing Jaylen Watson, Trent McDuffie, and Bryan Cook this offseason with Thieneman out of Oregon." Odds that Thieneman is a first-round pick: -4000 30. Miami Dolphins (from Denver Broncos): Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo Wright's thoughts: "Dolphins also take a safety, McNeil-Warren, out of Toledo." Odds that McNeil-Warren is a first-round pick: -260 31. New England Patriots: Denzel Boston, WR, Washington Wright's thoughts: "Then the Patriots lost Stefon Diggs, having not necessarily traded for A.J. Brown. They take Denzel Boston out of Washington." Odds that Patriots use first pick on a wide receiver: +370 32. Seattle Seahawks: Cashius Howell, edge rusher, Texas A&M Wright's thoughts: "The Seahawks, after losing a few of the defenders in free agency, add to their defensive depth with Cassius Howell, the edge rusher out of Texas A&M." Odds that Seahawks use first pick on an edge rusher: +400

2026 NFL Draft: How Max Iheanachor Went From Soccer Pitch to Potential 1st-Round Pick in 4 Years

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 17:00:51 -0400

Few NFL draft prospects have helped themselves more in the last three months than Arizona State offensive tackle Max Iheanachor, who went viral in March when New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel personally ran him through a few drills at his pro day. To have an NFL head coach fresh off a Super Bowl appearance flying across the country to work him out is a far cry from where he was four years ago, when he wasn't even the prospect that college coaches came to recruit at East Los Angeles College. In fairness, he'd never played football at that point. Just how far has Iheanachor come? There is the geography of being born in Nigeria and moving to California with his family when he was 13. Then there is a more incredible journey, from not playing — and not knowing — football to now being a top-50 draft prospect in just a few years. He's learned the game deeply enough that he recently added an NFL shield tattoo. "It's definitely something that means a lot to me," Iheanachor recently told reporters at his pro day. "I love football, love the game, so why not?" This wasn't always the case. Iheanachor — pronounced ee-ha-nah-chore — played soccer and basketball in high school, but Drew/King Magnet High School didn't have football. He was 6-foot-6 and 245 pounds, and an AAU basketball coach recommended him to Bobby Godinez, the head football coach at ELAC. "You saw everything you needed to see — his ability to move, his height and weight, his frame," Godinez told me. "I knew he would be something special, so it just took a little convincing, and the rest is history. Once he stepped foot on that field, there wasn't a hesitation to work on what he needed to work on. He was all business." Iheanachor got into the weight room and added strength, redshirting his first year, getting up to 315 pounds and slowly learning the sport. Saga Tuitele, then the offensive line coach at Fresno State, was visiting ELAC to recruit another tackle when he noticed him. "I said, 'Who's that other kid?'" Tuitele recalled in our conversation. "His coach didn't pull punches, said he was not ready. But you saw he had a lot of potential, a big athlete who's hardly played any football. They said he doesn't know what he's doing yet, but he's not scared. He's not scared of contact or competition. I told him: 'You are nowhere close to a finished product.' He likes to be challenged." Iheanachor's first year playing football in 2022 saw him constantly learning on the job, and Godinez prioritized his development, even if his early inconsistency had assistants wondering if he should be starting. "I looked at them and said, 'That kid is going to make millions of dollars and will be a first-round draft pick. We're playing him and we're figuring this out with him,'" Godinez told me. "We need to adjust what we're doing. I'll never forget those talks with Max, just to make sure he was persistent enough throughout the whole process." Iheanachor was learning football at its most basic levels. Why is the team punting? What is a turnover? That awareness had to be built before you could get to inside-zone blocking schemes and higher-level technique. But Godinez said if he needed reminders of what Iheanachor was capable of physically, he would see that every day at the end of practice, when the team ran gassers across the field and the offensive lineman was running faster than his running backs and defensive backs. "There were times he was doubting the process, doubting himself," Godinez said. "Naturally, you look to your right and left and see people who have played football their whole life, and you're thinking 'God, I'm so far away.' I told him and his mom: Just stick with it. He's going to get it. You guys are going to be very happy with the results." Iheanachor started picking up college offers, and when Tuitele took a job at Arizona State, he reached back to the recruit, getting him to sign with the Sun Devils. Injuries pressed him into a starting role at the end of 2023, and he became a full-time starter the next year, helping clear holes for Cam Skattebo as he rushed for 1,711 yards and 21 touchdowns. He started at right tackle again throughout the 2025 season, showing steady progress once he got familiar with his new sport. He did not give up a sack in 2025, and helped his stock with a strong week at the Senior Bowl, lining up against a high first-round pick in Texas Tech's David Bailey and holding his own. Initially seen as a mid-round pick, he has slowly worked his way to being seen as a consensus top-50 pick, and potentially a late first-rounder. Iheanachor's background in soccer and basketball gave him a more athletic background than most offensive linemen, and that showed up when he ran the 40-yard dash at the NFL combine in 4.91 seconds, just a hundredth of a second off the fastest time for any offensive lineman this year. Tuitele said that helps an offensive lineman in two areas when engaging with opposing pass-rushers: footwork and balance. "The main thing is his footwork, his ability to move his feet suddenly, twitchy," Tuitele said. "He's a very sudden kid, where his movements are sudden. The second thing that basketball kids, and in particular Max, has is balance. You can have good foot speed, but if you don't have balance, you're just going to fall over. He has that part of it, and it sets him apart. And naturally, he just has tree trunks for legs, big calves, big thighs, big behind, all of that for power. He can generate power faster than a lot of people." Iheanachor's interaction with Vrabel at his pro day, with real hands-on instruction about hand placement, put a larger spotlight on the emerging offensive tackle prospect. It's impressive for a head coach to attend a pro day, but it's another thing to see him care enough to get a first-hand evaluation. New England has the No. 31 overall pick in the draft, and could see Iheanachor as an eventual answer at right tackle. At his pro day, he said he has personal visits lined up with the Arizona Cardinals, Chicago Bears, Philadelphia Eagles and Baltimore Ravens, among other teams. Los Angeles is still home for him, and he's come back to ELAC's campus to talk to current coaches and players. The school has a few basketball converts on the team, and Godinez said it was a full-circle moment to see him his old project now explaining the nuances of blocking and football with players trying to learn the game the way he once did there. There's football in his family now, as his younger brother Mark is now a linebacker at UNLV. The draft process is nearly complete, and Max goes into the event itself with no expectations — he knew he can only control what he does in the key moments of evaluation, and the actual decision of when his name is called is something out of his control. "Be where your feet are at, control what you can control," Iheanachor said at his pro day. "Everything else will play out. We'll see on draft day, and whatever happens, happens, but I'm grateful for the opportunity."

2026 NFL Draft Odds: How Many of Each Position Will Be Selected in First Round?

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 16:02:49 -0400

Based on the odds, Indiana's Fernando Mendoza will be the first player whose name comes off the board later this month in the NFL Draft. But how many quarterbacks will join Mendoza as first-round picks? For that matter, how many running backs, wide receivers and other positions will have the distinction of being selected in Round 1? Here are the latest odds at DraftKings Sportsbook as of April 6. This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports. 2026 NFL Draft Total Quarterbacks Drafted in First Round Over 1.5: -205 (bet $10 to win $14.88 total)Under 1.5: +155 (bet $10 to win $25.50 total) What to know: According to FOX Sports Betting Analyst Geoff Schwartz, one more quarterback will accompany Mendoza as a first-round pick, especially now that the Cardinals have moved off of Kyler Murray. "[Ty] Simpson showed flashes this season of being that guy," he wrote, "and the Cardinals should be comfortable taking him at the later stages of the first round." Total Cornerbacks Drafted in First Round Over 4.5: +330 (bet $10 to win $43 total)Under 4.5: -500 (bet $10 to win $12 total) Total Offensive Linemen Drafted in First Round Over 7.5: -155 (bet $10 to win $16.45 total)Under 7.5: +120 (bet $10 to win $22 total) Total Running Backs Drafted in First Round Over 1.5: +550 (bet $10 to win $65 total)Under 1.5: -1000 (bet $10 to win $11 total) What to know: Could there be only one running back drafted in the first round in 2026? The Over/Under suggests that could be the case, with Under 1.5 having the shortest odds in this spot. And lead college football analyst Joel Klatt agrees, as he has Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love as the lone RB coming off the board in Round 1. "We’ve seen Saquon Barkley, Christian McCaffrey, Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs shine in the NFL after being taken early in the first round of the draft. That said, the Titans should be thrilled to pick Love," Klatt explained about the Titans selecting Jeremiyah with the No. 4 pick. "He should be a great fit in offensive coordinator Brian Daboll’s offense and a good piece to put next to quarterback Cam Ward … Love is a home run. Total Safeties Drafted in First Round Over 2.5: -215 (bet $10 to win $14.65 total)Under 2.5: +160 (bet $10 to win $26 total) Total Tight Ends Drafted in First Round Over 1.5: +850 (bet $10 to win $95 total)Under 1.5: -2000 (bet $10 to win $10.50 total) Total Wide Receivers Drafted in First Round Over 5.5: +160 (bet $10 to win $26 total)Under 5.5: -210 (bet $10 to win $14.76 total) What to know: Several NFL squads will look to fill the WR position in 2026, and for some, the search for their next great wide out begins in April. But exactly how many receivers will come off the board in the first round? In his most recent mock draft, Klatt has five — Carnell Tate (Ohio State), Makai Lemon (USC), Omar Cooper (Indiana), Jordyn Tyson (Arizona State) and KC Concepcion (Texas A&M). Schwartz, on the other hand, has six. His include Tate, Lemon, Tyson, Cooper, Concepcion and Denzel Boston (Washington).

Giants Star DT Dexter Lawrence Reportedly Asks for Trade Amid Team's Busy Offseason

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 15:15:16 -0400

Monday morning brought another major development in the New York Giants’ offseason overhaul. All-Pro nose tackle Dexter Lawrence has officially requested a trade, per ESPN, adding to the potential changes following John Harbaugh’s hiring. Lawrence will reportedly participate in the organization’s offseason workout program beginning Tuesday. Contract talks between Lawrence and the organization have stalled over the past two offseasons regarding a long-term deal. Many teams would presumably be interested in making a trade for Lawrence. The 28-year-old is a two-time All-Pro and made the Pro Bowl in three straight seasons from 2022-24. However, Lawrence is coming off one of the least productive seasons in his seven-year career. He finished with half a sack, 31 total tackles, and an interception. That marks a significant drop from his 2024 season, when he recorded a career-high nine sacks. Still, Lawrence has been a strong presence in New York's defensive interior as a pass rusher in the not-so-distant past. During his run of three straight Pro Bowls, Lawrence recorded 21 sacks and had two seasons in which he ranked in the top five among defensive tackles in pass rush win rate. But he hasn't recorded a full sack in his last 22 games with the organization, which is coming off back-to-back four-win seasons. The drop in production has come alongside stalled contract talks, leaving questions about Lawrence’s long-term future with the organization. Lawrence is under contract through the end of the 2027 season, as he has two seasons remaining on a four-year, $87.5 million deal. That contract currently makes Lawrence the 11th-highest-paid defensive tackle on an annual basis at $22.5 million. While the Giants were one of the more active teams in free agency, they didn't make any notable moves along the defensive line this offseason. Of course, they also have the likes of Abdul Carter, Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux at edge rusher.

Sound Smart: 6 Observations from the NFL Annual League Meeting

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 09:48:44 -0400

PHOENIX — We all know Sean McVay’s memory is sticky, with the Los Angeles Rams coach demonstrating an archival and categorical knowledge of football during his weekly press conferences. But it doesn’t stop there. At the Biltmore Hotel, site of the 2026 Annual NFL League Meeting, McVay and Eagles coach Nick Sirianni were talking about what Duke’s Cayden Boozer could’ve done differently in the team’s crushing loss to UConn. McVay wanted Boozer to hold the ball and take the foul in the final seconds, but the point guard instead tried to pass the ball and turned it over, leading to The Shot 2.0. Sirianni nodded along in approval, which led McVay to start referencing March Madness plays from last year. Yes, this is still college hoops time, but you probably need your NFL fix. That’s what I’ve got — six observations from my four days at the owners meeting in Arizona last week. This is "Sound Smart," where I try to spin forward, dive deeper and think outside the box. If I do my job, you’ll have a better understanding of what's happening this NFL offseason. 1. WHAT IF? Chicago Bears coach Ben Johnson sets forth "the challenge" for Caleb Williams There is no more obvious statistic for Bears quarterback Caleb Williams to improve than his completion percentage, which landed at 58.1% in 2025. Speaking to multiple Bears staffers at the owners meeting — including a one-on-one with coach Ben Johnson — there is clear optimism that Williams can improve that number sizably in his third NFL season. That confidence comes from a self-scout that the Chicago coaching staff recently did. The coaches examined every play, and in the case of the passing plays, they saw opportunities for improvement. From that self-scout, Johnson is going to identify the top three items for Williams to focus on improving. And by now, you surely know one of the items on that list. "We need to get the completion percentage up," Johnson told me. "And so we'll look at that as we go through the cut-ups of where we can best do that. There were probably 80 or 90 throws on tape that we felt like could have been completions. "You're always going to have some drops by the route-runners. … We need to find a way to complete some of those other ones, though. That's really the challenge for Caleb. If we do that, then we'll be 65%, 70% completion, which is closer to where we want to be." Another Bears source picked the high end of that range: 70%. It speaks to how bullish the Bears are on Williams that they think he can get that number up almost 12 percentage points this year. In 2025, his completion percentage over expected was -6.9%, and his time to throw was a full 3.2 seconds, per Next Gen Stats. Those shortcomings are, in part, why his expected points per dropback landed at 14th in the NFL (.05). Williams should be able to get the ball out more quickly by trusting the system — and his receivers, who do a good job getting open. What makes Williams so impressive — and has the Bears trusting him so immensely — isn’t just that he can make big plays. It’s that he took just 24 sacks last season (after taking a league-high 68 as a rookie) and threw just seven interceptions. He kept the team on schedule, which played a major role in the Bears sticking around in (and winning) close games last year. A gulf stands between Williams’ 2025 season and his goal for the 2026 season. But given the way Williams improved from Year 1 to Year 2, in Year 3 the QB may just get the most out of his young core and achieve the high standard his coach is setting. 2. IF THERE’S ONE THING YOU SHOULD KNOW… An 18-game schedule may not be what’s best for the NFL in the long term. Adding one more game to the NFL schedule is much more complicated when measuring the value of the league’s product over the long haul instead of the clear short-term profit. It could be argued that the more games are added to the league's schedule, the less importance each week has. The beauty of the NFL schedule is how precious its games are. Since the NFL made the regular season 17 games in 2021, the quality of the game has been diluted. There are weeks when the stakes don’t feel high enough. The NFL schedule is already 27 weeks long, starting with the Hall of Fame Game and ending with the Super Bowl. That's already more than half the calendar year. The frequency is also increasing, as the NFL will have a game on every day of the week except Tuesday next season with the addition of a Wednesday game the day before Thanksgiving. It was interesting to hear what Cowboys owner Jerry Jones thought about the issue — given how much he has grown the league’s brand since buying the team in 1989. He was asked if this might be a case of pigs getting fat and hogs getting slaughtered. Jones countered with an animal-related pearl of wisdom of his own. "When the duck quacks, feed it," he said in Phoenix. "We have that demand for our games because of the hard work, great players that we have. … We should address it, respond to it and feed it." Feeding the beast has always worked for the NFL, but at what point is it overfeeding? 3. BEHIND THE SCENES Sights and sounds from the owners meeting The league encourages the highest level of competition, which is why any time you put two coaches in a room or on a field, they view each other as adversaries. Even joint practices — an opportunity for a brotherly rivalry — is still an open competition by nature. That’s what makes the owners meeting unique. It’s the friendliest NFL event of the year. Everyone is working — and often working together — but there’s time to play 18 holes, sit at the bar and chat and think aloud by the pool. So here are a few unfiltered moments that I found fun from my time at the Biltmore Hotel. 4. PEELING BACK THE CURTAIN Here’s why DJ Moore was so important to the Bills and Joe Brady. As new Bills coach Joe Brady worked to build a new identity for his team — a unique challenge, given how many of Sean McDermott’s staffers Brady will retain — the young coach looked to his past to find touchstone points for Buffalo’s culture. Brady, for example, told me his "biggest hire" was Pete Carmichael, the Bills' new offensive coordinator. Carmichael and Brady worked together under Sean Payton for two years in New Orleans. And the team’s biggest offseason move? That was Buffalo's trade for receiver DJ Moore, whom Brady worked with during their days with the Carolina Panthers. Interestingly enough, Brady once called that era of his career "my downfall." But he decided to draw from that time, because of what he and Moore went through together. "I wouldn't be talking to you right now if I didn't go through the Carolina days. I learned a lot from that," Brady told me. "DJ was a guy, through the ups and downs in the Carolina days, who was consistent — his work ethic, his approach, his ability to go out there and make plays, being able to move him around. "He has a skill set that I thought would be a great addition to us both in the locker room and on the field and, man, I'm excited to work with him again." That enthusiasm, in part, led Bills GM Brandon Beane to trade a second-round pick to Chicago for Moore and a fifth-rounder. Now, Moore is the WR1 that the Bills have so badly needed since Stefon Diggs’ departure. The goal isn’t just to build culture. It’s also to make star QB Josh Allen happy. 5. WHAT’S NEXT? Mike Vrabel’s comments about TreVeyon Henderson on Jaden Ivey were a good start, but I hope they’re just that — the start. New England Patriots running back TreVeyon Henderson tweeted a Bible verse that aligned himself with NBA player Jaden Ivey, whom the Chicago Bulls waived last week following anti-LGBTQ comments. Ivey said that Pride Month is a celebration of "unrighteousness." When news of Ivey's release broke, Henderson responded on X with a Bible verse, Matthew 5:10. "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven," Henderson wrote. The day after Henderson's post, Patriots coach Mike Vrabel fielded a question about it at the league meeting. "I think there is a fine line," Vrabel said. "I want to tell you — I love TreVeyon. I love the person. He cares deeply about our team. He cares deeply about his faith. He cares deeply about his family, his wife, the people in our building. And so I want them to be able to express what they believe in their heart and in their mind, but also want to make sure that they’re educated. And we want to be inclusive. Everything we want to do [is] to provide an environment for people to want to feel comfortable, but also to share their personal beliefs. And then also, we represent the team. And we represent the organization." It’s a nice place to start. I understand where Vrabel was coming from: Empathy and understanding might be the remedy to this situation. That’s Vrabel’s philosophy on how he coaches his players — by showing them love while also telling them the harsh truth. 6. OFFSEASON ODDITY The Lions are considering moving Penei Sewell from right tackle to left, according to coach Dan Campbell. You don’t often hear about an NFL team switching the position of its best player. That’s what Campbell is interested in doing with Sewell, whom the Lions might move from right tackle to left. "If you're asking me, I'd like to move him," Campbell said at the owners meeting. "We are ready to do that, if need be. I don't want to say right now I'm going to commit to that, but we are ready to do that." It reminds me of when the Chiefs moved Trent McDuffie — another one of the league’s elite players — from the slot cornerback spot to the perimeter in 2024. The moves are comparable, with different techniques and duties — and a heightened sense of competition. It went well for McDuffie. It should go just fine for Sewell, who played left tackle at Oregon before the Lions drafted him in 2021 and moved him to the right side. "All he wants is a couple of days to work his left-handed stance a little bit," Campbell said of Sewell. "It's a little bit like riding a bike for him. He'll be fine. He'll bank some reps and be able to do it. He gives us that flexibility." There are inherent risks, of course. Sewell could hit unforeseen adversity in the transition, simply because the two positions are more different than people realize. Every offensive lineman will tell you that. And then the position change for Sewell would open up the right tackle spot for an open competition — likely involving a rookie. The Lions pick at No. 17 in the first round, and while it appears to be a tough draft to find a left tackle, there should be a handful of right tackles who go in Round 1. We’ve seen teams have success with this type of move in the past. Buccaneers tackle Tristan Wirfs and Bengals tackle Orlando Brown made the move across the line to the blindside without a hitch. There’s basically no reason why Sewell won’t be dominant on the left. But the stakes will be extremely high — and there will be no margin for error. And if the Lions have a rookie at right tackle and Sewell at left, how long will it take for everyone to get acclimated? Given Detroit’s inconsistencies on offense last year (and their decision to make changes at offensive coordinator), the move would be one of the most scrutinized personnel decisions of the offseason. The Lions can’t waste any time in arguably the NFL’s best division, the NFC North.

A.J. Brown Trade Rumors: Latest News Concerning Eagles' Star Wide Receiver

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 13:54:04 -0400

"Hello, A.J. … what's happening?" Star wide receiver A.J. Brown remains a member of the Philadelphia Eagles. Nonetheless, Brown's four-year stint with the Eagles (2022-25) has come against the backdrop of the three-time Pro Bowler publicly complaining about his role in the team's offense and rampant speculation about his relationship (or lack thereof) with quarterback Jalen Hurts. Just last season, Brown told fans to "get rid" of him if they have him on their fantasy football team and that playing "Madden NFL 26" is the only way to find "highlights" of him. Meanwhile, former Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson said in November of last season that he knew "something else" was "going on" between Brown and Hurts. Earlier this week, reports circulated that the Eagles were discussing a potential Brown trade with multiple teams. Here's what's going on with Brown and an explainer on the situation. [Amid the Continuing Eagles-A.J. Brown Trade Speculation, No One Is Closing the Door] What do teams around the league think will happen with Brown? As trade talks surrounding Brown haven't subsided, there seems to be a growing belief that the star wide receiver will eventually get moved. In fact, executives around the league think that the New England Patriots will land Brown after June 1, The Athletic reported. The Patriots have been frequently linked to Brown as trade rumors have progressed this offseason. Their head coach hasn't been shy in discussing Brown, either. "We're gonna try to do everything we can to strengthen our roster, through the draft, through free agency, multiple ways of player acquisition," Mike Vrabel told reporters when asked about the Patriots possibly trading for Brown at the NFL owners meeting. "So anything that we can continue to do to strengthen the roster, we're going to try to do." Vrabel, who coached Brown for three seasons with the Tennessee Titans (2019-21), also expressed confidence that he could handle coaching Brown if they were reunited. "We understand that in professional sports, players are talented and have some sort of ego to them," Vrabel told reporters. "And there’s a balance. They have to have that edge. As a coaching staff — whatever that is — you have to balance that edge. "Everyone wants to excel. What receiver doesn’t want to catch the ball?" The Patriots have a pretty clear need for a wide receiver this offseason. While they signed former Green Bay Packers standout Romeo Doubs, they released their leading receiver from this past season (Stefon Diggs) as they continue to look to improve the offense around quarterback Drake Maye. What were the Eagles' latest comments on Brown? Eagles general manager Howie Roseman continued to downplay any possibility that Brown could be traded when he met with Philadelphia reporters at the NFL's annual meeting. "I understand that there's interest in the A.J. Brown story. I, unfortunately, don't have a home under a rock," Roseman said, via ESPN. "But my answer to any question on A.J. Brown is A.J. Brown is a member of the Eagles. From my perspective, anything you ask me about A.J. Brown, I'm going to go right back to that answer. But I understand the interest. I put on the TV and I see that there's interest, but my answer is A.J. Brown is a member of the Philadelphia Eagles." The comment is similar to one Roseman made at the start of the season, when he told reporters in January that it's "hard to find great players in the NFL, and A.J. is a great player." Still, trade speculation surrounding the receiver has persisted following some of his public frustration last season. Eagles coach Nick Sirianni, meanwhile, sidestepped a question about whether Philadelphia wide receiver DeVonta Smith can be a bona fide No. 1. "Let’s keep A.J. in there. Both those players are phenomenal players that contributed to a lot of wins over the past four years here," the Eagles coach said. "It’s not like we have a 1a and 1b. We have two ones there." Who's interested in trading for Brown? Along with the Patriots, the Los Angeles Rams also discussed a trade for Brown during the opening week of NFL free agency, according to The Athletic. Brown has also given the Eagles a list of preferred destinations for a potential trade, which includes the Patriots, Los Angeles Chargers, Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs, Sports Illustrated reported. What are the Eagles asking for in a potential Brown trade? At least one first-round pick and a top-100 draft pick in any trade for Brown, according to Sports Illustrated. What is Brown's current contract? Brown, who will be 29 at the start of the 2026 season, signed a three-year, $96 million extension with the Eagles in April 2024, a contract that includes $84 million guaranteed and one that doesn't begin until 2027. Why is a Brown trade more likely after June 1? If the Eagles trade Brown before June 1, they would incur a $43 million dead cap hit, whereas if they trade the receiver after June 1, the dead cap hit would be just $16.4 million. Beginning on June 1 of every NFL year, teams can spread out a dead cap hit for a player in a trade or release over two years, whereas it directly impacts their payroll for the upcoming season if a player is released before June 1. What have the Eagles done this offseason? On Mar. 7, Philadelphia extended defensive tackle Jordan Davis to a three-year, $78 million deal. On the free-agent front, the Eagles have signed cornerback and 2022 Pro Bowler Riq Woolen (one-year, $12 million deal) and linebacker Arnold Ebiketie (one-year, $7.3 million deal), among other deals. How well did Brown play last season? Coming off the Eagles' Super Bowl LIX triumph, Brown totaled 78 receptions for 1,003 yards (career-low 12.9 yards per reception) and seven touchdowns through 15 regular-season games in 2025. It marked the sixth time that Brown reached 1,000 receiving yards in a single season in his seven-year NFL career (2019-25). At the same time, Brown had four games where he logged two or fewer receptions, and he had just three receptions on seven targets in Philadelphia's NFC wild-card round loss at home to the San Francisco 49ers.

NFL Confidential: Why 18-Game Regular Season Remains a Hard Sell for Players and Coaches

Sun, 05 Apr 2026 13:07:08 -0400

PHOENIX — An 18-game,regular-season schedule seems like an inevitability after listening to NFL owners discuss the topic during the league’s owners meeting at the Arizona Biltmore Hotel in Phoenix this past week. In fact, owners of multiple teams flat-out said they want to add another regular-season game to the ever-growing NFL slate. "Growing the number of international games, that’s something we’re very supportive of," Kansas City Chiefs owner Clark Hunt told reporters. "From a schedule dynamic, having 18 games would facilitate that." Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said expanding to 18 games is just a matter of giving fans what they want – more football. "When the ducks quack, feed them," Jones told reporters in Arizona this week. "And we have that demand for our game because of the hard work of our great players that we have. We have that demand. We should address it, respond to it and feed it." The NFL transitioned to 17 games and three preseason games in 2021. But with the league engaging in talks to renegotiate the NFL’s TV package with networks and streaming services, having more games to add to that inventory creates more revenue and opportunities to make more money. More football is great for everybody, right? Well, not so fast. Here's what I've learned after hearing other people speak in Arizona and talking to other people around the league about the possibility of adding an 18th regular-season game. NFL coaches say 18 games ‘will water down the product’ If the NFL added another game to the regular season, it would be just its latest move to expand the product over the last decade. Since 2020, the league has expanded its postseason from 12 to 14 teams, added annual games on Christmas Day and continues to increase the number of games played internationally. Of course, that's also on top of adding a 17th regular-season game. [4 Takeaways From the NFL Owners Meeting in Phoenix] With all the expansion, particularly the two teams added to the postseason field, NFL players are already being pushed to the brink of what their bodies can handle physically, according to two former players-turned-coaches I spoke with. As a result, more games could lead to more load management and tanking, like we’ve seen in the NBA and other professional sports. "Eighteen games will water down the product," a longtime NFL coach and former player told me. "What made the NFL different from the rest of the competition is every game matters. You had 16 intense weeks, and there’s nothing like it. "Now we have 17 games, and with one extra game some players are looking to take a game off. Eighteen games will definitely get players thinking about taking games off. It will only work if the players get rewarded handsomely. They will sell their souls for money." As the NFL ponders adding an 18th regular-season game, the league is slated to play a record nine games internationally, including for the first time in Australia and France in 2026. The NFL might also have two games on Wednesday for the first time in league history this upcoming season. The defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks are opening the season at home on Wednesday, Sept. 9, in order to help accommodate the game being played in Australia, and the league could schedule a Thanksgiving Day eve game in November. There will also be a handful of games played on a Friday this year. The annual Black Friday game will continue, while the league is expected to play a three-game slate on Christmas Day, which will be on a Friday in 2026. That means the only day of the week there won't be an NFL regular-season game in 2026 is Tuesday, but it will also mean many more games will be played with shorter rest than usual. With the NFL stretching out the schedule further and further, another coach nostalgically reminisced about the efficiency of a 16-game schedule, which included the top two playoff seeds receiving a bye week. "The writing has been on the wall for years now [for expanding to 18 games]," the position coach told me. "It’s inevitable. Don’t make it two bye weeks, though. The season already is long enough." NFLPA still not on board with 18-game season Former NFL Players Association interim executive director David White stated during Super Bowl week back in February that his members had "no appetite" for an 18th regular season game. "The 18th game is not casual for us," White said. "It’s a very serious issue. It is something that comes out of negotiations." The current collective bargaining agreement between the league and its players runs through 2030, but could be reopened to negotiate an 18th game. For now, the players aren’t interested in expanding the regular season. It’s one of the reasons the NFL has not announced a date for Super Bowl LXII in Atlanta in two years, leaving open the possibility of expanding to an 18-game schedule before the 2027 season if negotiations take place in the next year to expand the league’s schedule. The NFLPA has been in flux as it changes leadership, with disgraced former NFL Players Association executive director Lloyd Howell permanently replaced by former NFL player JC Tretter. Tretter recently echoed White’s comments in an interview with The Athletic. "There are things that are not good for our players that we need to make sure we’re protecting them from," Tretter said. "And as of right now, those are all subjects of bargaining. The league can’t expand past 10 international games. The league is at 17 games in the CBA. That is where we’re at, and we’re going to make sure we defend our players and their health and safety, because our guys feel they know what this feels like." NFL Scout says expanded rosters needed for 18-game slate A longtime NFL scout told me the NFL would need to expand rosters by at least five more active players on game day and consider the possibility of bringing 100 players to training camp with the expansion to an 18-game season. Currently, NFL teams are allowed to go to camp with 90 players, and 48 players are active on game day. "The game product at some point suffers if the league and owners’ greed outweigh the development of players, along with paying the officials, staff, coaches and scouts their fair share, too," the scout told me. The scout noted that the USFL had a grueling 18-game season that included fully padded, two-a-day practices for six weeks and the postseason. The scout wondered if today’s players would be up to the physical toll on the body of an 18-game season. "Today’s players are bigger and stronger — but not as mentally and physically as tough or instinctive collectively [as they were in earlier years]," the scout said. "So, the owners may want to be careful what they wish for." NFL agent says staying at 17 games is ‘definitely possible’ The push by NFL owners for 18 games makes sense financially, generating more revenue for the league and its players. However, the current players will have to weigh the risk to their careers and the injuries they could sustain in the chase for more of a financial reward that will be with them for life after football. "I think there are enough regular-season games," an NFL agent told me. "The league will need to pay a massive price to get the players to do it. Most players who actually play would not be in favor of it. Most can’t make it through 17 games. The league has zero ability to do it unilaterally." Asked if the NFL is at risk of oversaturating the product, the NFL agent had this to say: "I think it is there now, just about," the NFL agent said. "Staying at 17/3 (17 regular-season games, three preseason games) is definitely possible."

Ravens QB Lamar Jackson 'Definitely' Wants Jadeveon Clowney Back In Baltimore

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 13:15:58 -0400

Would superstar quarterback Lamar Jackson want defensive end Jadeveon Clowney back with the Baltimore Ravens? "Definitely," Jackson responded to a fan question on X on Thursday. Clowney, a three-time Pro Bowler and the No. 1 pick in the 2014 NFL Draft, spent the 2023 season with the Ravens, tying his career-high with 9.5 sacks in said year. He then spent the 2024 season with the Carolina Panthers and later played for the Dallas Cowboys in 2025. Last year in Dallas (2025), Clowney recorded 8.5 sacks, one forced fumble, two fumble recoveries and 41 combined tackles across 13 games. He also finished fourth among edge defenders with four batted passes, according to Pro Football Focus. Should the 33-year-old Clowney reunite with the Ravens, he'd join a defense that was tied for 30th in the NFL in opponent passing yards (247.9 per game) last season, while being 24th in opponent total yards (354.5 per game), 18th in opponent points (23.4 per game) and 10th in opponent rushing yards (106.6 per game). Former Ravens defensive assistant and Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver is Baltimore's new defensive coordinator under new head coach Jesse Minter. As for defensive additions, the Ravens signed former Cincinnati Bengals defensive end and four-time Pro Bowler Trey Hendrickson to a four-year, $112 million deal after a blockbuster trade for Las Vegas Raiders star defensive end Maxx Crosby fell through due to long-term medical concerns. Baltimore also signed former New England Patriots defensive back Jaylinn Hawkins (two-year, $10 million deal), among other moves. As for Jackson, the two-time NFL MVP is coming off a 2025 campaign that was sidetracked by hamstring and back injuries, respectively. Across 13 games, Jackson totaled 2,549 passing yards, 21 passing touchdowns, seven interceptions and a 103.8 passer rating, while completing 63.6% of his passes. He also rushed for 349 yards and two touchdowns. Baltimore missed the playoffs at 8-9.

Cowherd on Fernando Mendoza: 'He's Peyton Manning. He's Exactly What I Want.'

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 16:43:34 -0400

Fernando Mendoza had his Pro Day Wednesday at the University of Indiana, and FOX Sports' Colin Cowherd came away impressed, calling the performance "literally perfect." Mendoza completed 53 of his 56 pass attempts, per NFL.com, in front of a crowd of NFL front office members that included 10 members from the Las Vegas Raiders, who own the No. 1 pick. But it wasn't just his poise and the throws Mendoza made that proved something to Cowherd. It was his wherewithal and selflessness. He highlighted each route his receivers ran, ensuring the NFL scouts in attendance weren't just focused on him, but had their attention on Indiana's wide receivers. To Cowherd, Mendoza's character mimicked that of a certain NFL Hall of Fame quarterback. "Folks, you're looking at Peyton Manning," Cowherd said on Thursday's episode of "The Herd." "Peyton Manning was big, smart, self-aware, and understood the NFL game." After winning the Heisman Trophy and leading Indiana to a college football national championship this past season, Mendoza will likely be the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL Draft on April 23. Cowherd is all for that pick, and believes he's the consummate quarterback prospect because he understands what matters to play that position well. "A lot of people want to be quarterback," Cowherd said. "They love being quarterback. But do you love being quarterback because it's about winning and doing everything it takes to be a winner, which is giving teammates credibility, which is telling scouts — 'I want to watch the guys, and the routes they're running?'" "Leadership is not cool," Cowherd added. "It's not cool. Leadership is hard." Mendoza clearly prioritizes external results and his impact on his teammates over his self-image. "A lot of people are saying this guy is a little cringey, and he's not cool," Cowherd said. "He's Peyton Manning. He's exactly what I want."