7 QBs Among Top 11 NFL Players Who Have The Most To Gain In 2026

Finding NFL players with something to prove this season — or in any season — is not difficult. But of those currently navigating contract years or looking to move past 2025 hiccups, who has the most to gain in 2026? Here's my top 11 in descending order, ranking players not only by financial compensation at stake but also their perception in the eyes of the league: Williams established himself as one of the league’s brightest young quarterbacks last season, delivering in the clutch and leading the Bears to their first playoff victory in 15 years. If he builds on what was an impressive second season, he sets himself up for what could be an extension that resets the quarterback market in the 2027 offseason. The 31-year-old Mayfield is entering a contract year after he and the Bucs failed to reach an extension agreement before training camp. A bounce-back campaign in 2026 — Mayfield’s numbers regressed across the board last season compared to his first two years in Tampa — should earn the former No. 1 overall pick a deal that ranks comfortably in the top 10 of quarterback contracts. Nix has been a good quarterback through two NFL seasons, helping lead the Broncos to back-to-back playoff appearances. If he makes the leap to elite in Year 3, it not only would mean a record-setting contract for the 2024 first-round pick next offseason, but would also make Denver a legitimate Super Bowl contender. If Pickens once again performs like a true WR1 in 2026, a top-end wide receiver contract awaits him from the Cowboys or someone else in the spring. The former second-round pick will play in Dallas this season on the franchise tag, which will pay him $27.3 million fully guaranteed. After an injury-riddled 2025, Daniels needs to show the Commanders that he can stay on the field. Doing that, and picking up from his historic rookie season two years ago, would all but guarantee him a deal that resets the benchmark for quarterback contracts. The talented Woolen is coming off a season in which he lost his starting job. After three years with the Seahawks, he’s now with the Eagles on a prove-it, one-year deal worth $12 million fully guaranteed. If he can recapture Pro Bowl form from his rookie season, he’ll be able to secure a contract that will rank among the richest cornerback deals. The 2023 No. 1 overall pick, Young’s career has been marked by inconsistency, including a benching in 2024. But he’s coming off his best season as a pro — he posted career-highs in completion rate, passing yards and touchdowns, and guided the Panthers to their first playoff appearance in eight years. Another step forward in 2026 will cement his place as Carolina’s long-term quarterback. After playing just 12 games over the past two seasons combined due to suspension and injury, Rice is now in the last year of his rookie deal. If he’s on his best behavior and produces like a WR1 this season, the former second-rounder is in line for a lucrative second contract. Texans general manager Nick Caserio has said the team has had "productive" extension talks with Stroud, but there’s a possibility that the QB plays this season without a new deal, given his playoff struggles last season and general regression since his rookie year in 2023. A bounce-back Year 4 would not only cement Stroud’s status as Houston's long-term quarterback, but also earn him a mega extension in 2027. Murray signed a league minimum, one-year contract with the Vikings after his release by Arizona. If he wins Minnesota’s starting quarterback job and regains Pro Bowl form, a top-end QB deal will be waiting for him in the spring. Football-wise, Nacua already deserves a second contract that would be the richest for a wideout in league history. He led the NFL with 129 catches last season and his 95.3 receiving yards-per-game career average is the most all time. But after a few off-field controversies dating back to last season, the All-Pro receiver must rebuild the Rams' trust in him to earn that mega extension. The former fifth-round pick is slated to make just over $5.6 million in base salary in 2026, while a new deal would be expected to start at over $42 million in average annual value.

from Latest NFL News & Videos from FOX Sports https://ift.tt/HiO6eP5

Breakout Candidates: One Player From Each NFC Team Poised For A Star Turn

The hope for every NFL team ahead of each season always comes down to one truth: the belief that they have a player (or players) who will finally exceed their expectations. Someone, they think, is about to become a star. And they believe the whole team will be carried along for the ride. So who's primed to break out in 2026? Some are familiar names. Some have flown way under the radar. Here are 16 breakout candidates — one for each NFC team. NFC EAST His career has been a disaster of injuries, from a torn ACL keeping him out as a rookie to another one prematurely ending his second season and ruining his third. But in between, Overshown did have five sacks in 13 games in 2024, where he showed off his speed and explosive playmaking ability. Presumably healthy now, the 6-2, 220-pound linebacker could be a star on a Dallas defense that needs one with Micah Parsons now long gone, especially with a rebuilt defensive line playing in front of him. Overshown has the sideline-to-sideline skills the Cowboys have been lacking of late. There were huge expectations for the No. 3 overall pick of last year’s draft, but his headline numbers didn’t match them. He didn’t have his first full sack until Week 13 and finished with just four overall. But buried behind that disappointing total were 23 quarterback hits and, according to PFF, 66 quarterback pressures, which led all rookies. Those are huge numbers, which indicate there's a lot more to come. He still has fellow pass-rushers Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux to draw attention, and a new defensive coordinator in Dennard Wilson to presumably find better ways to use him. Double digits in sacks wouldn’t be a shock for Carter. When Howie Roseman traded fifth- and sixth-round picks for Wicks this offseason, it looked like a depth move for a team that was about to trade A.J. Brown. But it could end up being a lot more than that. Yes, DeVonta Smith is the Eagles’ No. 1 receiver, and first-rounder Makai Lemon is the favorite to be No. 2. But Wicks could put up a fight for that spot in the short term. He was underused in Green Bay, despite catching 60% of the balls thrown his way and averaging 12.3 yards per catch. He’s also only 25, so his best might still be in front of him. Lemon has more upside, but Wicks has the experience and played in the system new offensive coordinator Sean Mannion is bringing with him from Green Bay. Wicks will have a chance to help fill Brown’s shoes, especially early in the season. In Jayden Daniels’ spectacular 2024 rookie season, 19% of his passes went to tight end Zach Ertz, who was his second-leading receiver (66-654-7). Ertz is gone now, replaced by the 26-year-old Okonkwo. He averaged 54-522-1 over the past three seasons for some bad Titans offenses. The Commanders do have a new offensive coordinator (David Blough), but Daniels clearly loves to throw to his tight ends. And he doesn’t have a lot of other great weapons to choose from in Washington anyway. All of that should mean an increase in workload for Okonkwo, who potentially has huge upside with a better quarterback. NFC NORTH He went a long way toward establishing himself as an elite tight end last season when he caught 58 passes for 713 yards and six touchdowns. But it’s how he finished that truly showed off his potential. He exploded after catching just 11 passes for 116 yards over the first six games of his rookie campaign. In his final four games alone, including two in the playoffs, he had 28 catches for 378 yards and two touchdowns. If he even comes close to replicating that over a full season, he might be the NFL's top receiver at his position. The Bears do have Cole Kmet to take away a few catches, but Loveland is firmly established as Chicago’s No. 1 tight end. There aren’t many more electric than him in the entire league. The Lions looked like they had a budding star in the middle of their defense in 2023 when McNeil had five sacks through the first 13 games and was proving to be a tough run-stuffer. But then his season was derailed by a knee injury. The Lions still gave him a four-year, $97 million extension, but the next year he had 3.5 sacks in 14 games before tearing his ACL. He’s presumably healthier now than he has been in three seasons. And with a healthy Aidan Hutchinson and Tyleik Williams alongside him, the Lions' line could be more dangerous than ever. McNeill won’t get a lot of attention from blockers, which could give him the room for his pass rushing numbers to shoot back up. The Packers didn’t give the 2022 second-rounder a four-year, $110 million contract in the offseason for more of the same from a player who’s never topped 41 catches or 620 yards in any of his four NFL seasons. Nor would they have traded away Dontayvion Wicks or let Romeo Doubs leave in free agency for a middling player. What they did was clear the deck for the 27-year-old to finally fulfill his promise in what surely will be a larger role. Matt LaFleur’s offense has never been high volume for the passing game, and it has always encouraged spreading the ball around, save for some seasons involving Davante Adams. But there are fewer weapons for quarterback Jordan Love to target now, and Watson has the talent to be the best of the smaller bunch. The 23-year-old edge defender recorded eight sacks last season, but even more was expected when the Vikings traded up to get him in the first round in 2024. He didn’t do much as a rookie, or in the first half of last season. But the former SEC Defensive Player of the Year had 6.5 sacks over the final eight weeks of 2025, which could be a sign of things to come. The Vikings traded Jonathan Greenard to Philadelphia, clearing the way for the speedy Turner to be the top edge rusher in Brian Flores’ blitzing scheme. If the second half of last season was any indication, he could eventually be one of the best pass-rushers in the league. NFC SOUTH After picking off 13 passes in his final two seasons at Notre Dame, everyone knew Watts had ball-hawking instincts. The lone conern was whether he had the skills to do it in the pros. Well, there’s no question now, after the third-round pick had six picks in his rookie season and finished fourth in the Defensive Rookie of the Year voting. The only question now is, how high is his ceiling? Watts had 11 pass breakups, 96 tackles and a fumble recovery as a rookie, showing he’s got an all-around game. He has the potential to be a regular among NFL interception leaders and an anchor in the Atlanta secondary for a long time. He’s competing alongside the reigning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in front of him (Tetairoa McMillan) and another former first-rounder (Xavier Legette). But there is still room to grow with the Panthers for this former undrafted rookie (2024). The proof was in Coker's playoff outburst — a nine-catch, 134-yard, one-touchdown performance in a first-round loss to Rams. Coker was actually already beginning to emerge over the final five games of the regular season (19-244-3). And he's yet to drop a pass in his short career. The 6-3, 213-pounder likely opens the season as Carolina’s third receiver, but if quarterback Bryce Young continues to improve, Coker has a chance to put up sizable numbers in that role. That’s why the 24-year-old just got a new three-year, $55 million deal. He was the best rookie quarterback last season, even though the second-rounder started only nine games for a bad Saints team. He put up some impressive numbers in those starts, completing 69.2% of his passes for 2,256 yards, 10 touchdowns and five interceptions. He also led the Saints to a 5-4 record, including a 4-1 finish that nearly got them into the playoffs. This offseason, New Orleans beefed up its offensive line (with free agent guard David Edwards), drafted a first-round receiver (Jordyn Tyson), and added a top free-agent running back (Travis Etienne). In other words, the 26-year-old Shough is set up for even more success with offensive-minded head coach Kellen Moore again calling the plays. Playing in a bad division, Shough could quickly emerge into a star. He absolutely exploded onto the NFL scene as a rookie last year with 25 catches, 445 yards and five touchdowns over his first five games. But he seemingly hit a wall after that and played himself right out of Rookie of the Year contention. He still finished with a respectable 63-938-6 stat line, but he was on pace for so much more as the centerpiece of the Bucs' passing game for much of the season given the injuries to Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. No Buc had more targets (127), yet Egbuka caught only 49.6% of those passes. Assuming he improves at getting into the right spots and finishing plays, he will have a chance to put up elite numbers, especially with Evans no longer in the picture. NFC WEST He has 103 catches, 1,493 yards and 12 touchdowns since the Cardinals drafted him No. 4 overall. It's about what would be expected of him if that had come in one season instead of two. Harrison, however, has been hampered by injuries and a terrible quarterback situation in Arizona. Entering Year 3 … well, hopefully his health has at least improved. If so, expect new coach Mike LaFleur to add some creativity to an offense surely built around this potentially dominant receiver. His numbers should spike, even if the Cardinals’ QB situation remains a mess. He had 12 sacks last season, so maybe it could be argued that he already had his breakout season (and really, most of the powerful Rams already have). But last season, he was the big man on the edge of the L.A. defense. Now, opposing offenses will have to deal with Myles Garrett (and perhaps Aaron Donald again). With the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year on the other end, it’s safe to say Young won’t see many double teams this year. He was already a top-10 pass-rusher in most categories, and with Garrett drawing most of the attention now, Young’s pressure rate and sack totals should only increase. He came into the NFL in 2024 with a reputation for locking down college football’s best receivers, and late in his rookie season he began to flash that potential. But last season was a step back for the former second-rounder, who wilted at times under the pressure created by the 49ers’ lack of a pass rush. That rush should be better this season, and accordingly, the 25-year-old Green could be right back on track. He has the speed, physical style and elite instincts to develop into one of the NFL’s elite corners. He just has to put it all together. For three seasons, the 6-1, 214-pounder has been the perfect handcuff in Seattle for Kenneth Walker III and a bruising option at the goal line. With Walker now in Kansas City, the 25-year-old Charbonnet is in prime position to be a bell-cow back. The good news is, he has shown over the years he’s more than capable of handling that. The bad news is, he’s never really been asked to expand his role for more than a few games at a time. He’s been fairly durable while averaging 4.1 yards per carry and has caught 82% of the passes thrown his way. Considering that 2026 first-round pick Jadarian Price had a limited role at Notre Dame, he’s not really a threat to steal too many touches right off the bat. Don't be surprised if Charbonnet puts up Walker-like numbers as Seattle's unquestioned No. 1 back.

from Latest NFL News & Videos from FOX Sports https://ift.tt/KBpUEvC

NFL Catchup: Another Donald Update; Diggs Finds New Home; Texans Welcome Back A WR

The pads are on at training camp for all 32 teams across the NFL, but transactions continue to dominate the headlines early on in practice season. Wednesday gave us another update in Aaron Donald's potential return to football, with the most recent bit of news suggesting that he might be on the precipice of rejoining the Los Angeles Rams. Elsewhere, Stefon Diggs found his next professional home after being a free agent for the last few months, and the Detroit Lions general manager provided some insight on extension negotiations with star running back Jahmyr Gibbs. Here are all the headlines you need to know from Wednesday around the NFL. Two years after walking away from the game, Aaron Donald might be ready to put the pads back on. The former All-Pro defensive tackle officially worked out with the Los Angeles Rams Wednesday, per the NFL Wire. Donald wanted to do a workout in a football helmet, even though he did not wear pads during it, according to ESPN. He ended up using the Rams’ team equipment at their facility during training camp, requiring them to report his activity to the NFL. A league source recently told our Erc D. Williams that Donald was leaning toward returning. However, Los Angeles hasn't given Donald a date he has to make a decision. If Donald unretires, he'll join arguably the most talented defense in the NFL. The defensive line already features two-time Defensive Player of the Year winner Myles Garrett, Byron Young, Kobie Turner, Braden Fiske and Poona Ford to go with a secondary that has cornerbacks Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson. Wide receiver Stefon Diggs reportedly agreed to a one-year contract worth up to $12 million with the Washington Commanders. Diggs spent last season with the New England Patriots, recording 85 receptions for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns across 17 games during their Super Bowl run. The four-time Pro Bowl wide receiver, who was a key contributor during New England's run to the Super Bowl last season, provides Daniels and the Commanders with another target out wide along with Terry McLaurin. Prior to the signing, Washington needed another receiver following the departure of Deebo Samuel, who recently rejoined the San Francisco 49ers. There was some speculation that the team could go after 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk if he became available. Now, Washington has some stability after McLaurin in a wide receiver room that includes Dyami Brown, Luke McCaffrey, Treylon Burks and third-round rookie Antonio Williams. Houston Texans wide receiver Tank Dell returned to the practice field in a limited capacity Wednesday, participating in padded practice drills for the first time since December 2024. Dell missed the entire 2025 season after sustaining multiple torn knee ligaments and a dislocated kneecap in late 2024. He ran routes and caught passes from quarterback C.J. Stroud during individual work Wednesday. Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans said his recovery plan is unchanged and he expects Dell to continue his program as scheduled. Dell has totals of 1,376 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns over 25 career games as he formed a strong connection with Stroud in their rookie seasons back in 2023. When Atlanta Falcons star Bijan Robinson reset the running back market with his historic extension, he didn't just secure his own future, but he started a ticking clock in Detroit. Now, all eyes turn to Jahmyr Gibbs and his potential extension with the Lions. Speaking with SiriusXM NFL Radio on Wednesday, Lions general manager Brad Holmes gave an update on where negotiations stand with Gibbs. "We love Jahmyr," Holmes said. "Me and Dan [Quinn] have always been believers in that one-two punch. I just think that’s kind of how the league is going now and we’re having dialogue. We’ll see where it goes." Gibbs has been one of the NFL’s premier playmakers since coming into the league. Despite sharing a workload in Detroit's backfield, he has compiled 3,580 rushing yards and 39 touchdowns, while adding 181 receptions for 1,449 yards and another 10 scores through the air. Robinson’s three-year, $75 million deal gives both sides a baseline for negotiations. That contract made Robinson the highest-paid running back in NFL history, a title Gibbs could soon claim. Whether Gibbs receives a similar payout remains to be seen, but as long as his camp hold-in continues, all pressure rests on the Lions front office. The San Francisco 49ers' injury bug continues to bite during training camp this year. On Wednesday, the team was missing over 20% of its roster, with plenty of key faces not suiting up for practice, per The Athletic. Several key players have been added to the injury report, according to ESPN. Nick Bosa and Dre Greenlaw are dealing with soreness, Kyle Juszczyk has a broken finger, Jacob Cowing is managing a hip flexor strain and Carver Willis is in concussion protocol. Brett Toth is dealing with an undisclosed injury, while head coach Kyle Shanahan remains limited as he works his way back to the sidelines full-time.

from Latest NFL News & Videos from FOX Sports https://ift.tt/oHvmhld

Comeback On The Horizon? Aaron Donald Reportedly Worked Out For Rams

Two years after walking away from the game, Aaron Donald might be ready to put the pads back on. The former Los Angeles Rams All-Pro defensive tackle officially worked out with the team on Wednesday, per the NFL Wire. Aaron Donald wanted to do a workout in a football helmet, even though he did not wear pads during it, according to ESPN. He ended up using the Rams’ team equipment at their facility during training camp, requiring them to report his activity to the NFL. It's the latest development in Donald's long-rumored comeback. His workout came less than a week after Rams head coach Sean McVay told reporters that Donald was trending toward a return to the team. A league source recently told our Erc D. Williams that Donald was leaning toward returning. However, Los Angeles hasn't given Donald a date he has to make a decision. When McVay told reporters last week that Donald could be returning to the Rams, he indicated that the star defensive tackle likely wouldn't rejoin the team until later in August. If the 32-year-old Donald opts to return, he'll join arguably the league's top defense. The Rams acquired reigning Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett in June after adding former Kansas City Chiefs standouts Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson at cornerback. Those names join a talented Los Angeles defensive line that includes Byron Young, Kobie Turner, Braden Fiske and Poona Ford. Donald retired from the Rams following their wild-card loss against the Detroit Lions in the 2023 season. At the time of his retirement, Donald was already one of the most decorated defensive players in NFL history. The Super Bowl champion has won Defensive Player of the Year three times, recording 542 tackles, 111 sacks and 24 forced fumbles in three seasons.

from Latest NFL News & Videos from FOX Sports https://ift.tt/XTc5qiZ

James Cook Looks To Become Just Third Player Since 2001 To Repeat As Rushing Champion

James Cook treats carrying the football the same way he answers questions about his past accomplishments. The Buffalo Bills running back does both by solely looking forward. So there was no point in asking Cook to reflect on last year, when he used a brief training camp hold-in as leverage to get a new contract, and then proved his worth by leading the NFL with 1,621 yards rushing. "I don’t like to talk about last year, because last year is in the past. This year is a new year," Cook said last week. "Put last year behind me, and just come out here to do it again." That would be difficult for anyone, given that only two players since 2001 have won consecutive NFL rushing titles — Derrick Henry (2019-20) and LaDainian Tomlinson (2006-07). Propelling the 26-year-old Cook’s belief entering his fifth season are a healthy dose of self-confidence, an offensive line that remains mostly intact and newly promoted head coach Joe Brady’s offensive scheme. Despite Josh Allen’s strong arm and improvisational skills, the Bills split rushing and passing attempts evenly during Brady’s two-plus seasons as offensive coordinator. Brady sees no reason to change course or to reduce Cook’s workload this year. "I expect James Cook to take another step this year in different elements of his game and continue to be the workhorse as a runner," Brady said. "And he wants it, right?" he added. "He had such an incredible season last year. And without diving into exactly what, this is what I told him: He has got to get better. We can’t take steps backwards." Cook’s power and elusiveness were on display in practice Tuesday, Buffalo's first full day in pads. On the first team drill, Cook took a handoff and burst through a hole on the left side for what would have been a 5-yard gain, and then sprung back up off the ground and kept running. A few minutes later, on a sweep to the right, Cook turned the corner and lowered his shoulder pad directly into the midsection of safety Cole Bishop. "It’s a new year, and he going to do the same thing that he did last year, having that intensity," Bishop said. Cook led the NFL last season with nine games of 100 yards rushing or more, and his 12 rushing TDs were fourth in the league. He had a career-high 309 carries and averaged a career-best 5.2 yards per attempt, which tied for second in the NFL. His only blemish has been ball security. He lost four of seven fumbles, including one at the Denver 30 in a 33-30 overtime loss in a divisional-round playoff game. Brady made a point to remind Cook about protecting the ball after the running back lost a fumble early in camp. "I fumbled. So I just got to fix it," Cook said. "The ball is everybody’s job, and that’s my job. I’m willing to protect it." Make no mistake, Cook thrives on challenges. He did so last year by withholding his services before eventually landing a four-year, $48 million contract. "I wouldn’t say stress. I wasn’t stressing," Cook said. His calm approach to the contract dispute, and how he performed after signing the deal, impressed his teammates. "I learned that he is very explosive, and he's the man, and he takes care of business on the field and off the field," running back Ray Davis said. "He's going to continue to excel in that way and prove that he earned every dollar." Cook has his sights set higher this year, for himself and the Bills. "I'm looking forward to doing even bigger things. So whatever that is, I'm willing to do it," he said. Buffalo has underperformed in the playoffs. The Bills are the NFL's first team to win a playoff game in six straight postseason appearances without reaching a Super Bowl. "It’s on us. The ball is in our hands," Cook said. "We control our own destiny. So whatever we do is on us. Eventually, it’s going to happen." Reporting by the Associated Press.

from Latest NFL News & Videos from FOX Sports https://ift.tt/R8pgFGP

NFL Catchup: More Record Extensions; Shedeur Embracing QB Comp; Lamb's Unusual Routine

The pads are on and players are getting paid across the league as NFL training camp rolls on and teams near their preseason openers. Tuesday saw several contract extensions across the NFL, with three members of the 2023 draft class setting new benchmarks at their respective positions. And with the first bit of preseason action right around the corner, the Arizona Cardinals and Carolina Panthers have each named their starting quarterbacks for Thursday's Hall of Fame Game. Here's all the news you need to know from Tuesday around the NFL. Bijan Robinson's hold-in is over. The star running back agreed to a three-year contract extension with the Atlanta Falcons worth up to $75 million on Tuesday, with $51 million guaranteed. Robinson's average annual salary of $22.25 million makes him the highest-paid running back in NFL history, moving past Philadelphia Eagles star Saquon Barkley ($20.6 million). Robinson becomes the second running back in NFL history guaranteed over $40 million, following rookie Jeremiyah Love's fully guaranteed $53 million deal. Robinson's $51 million guaranteed leads all veteran running back contracts, topping Barkley ($36 million) and Ashton Jeanty ($35.9 million). The agreement establishes a new standard for top-tier running backs as Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs continues his own hold-in while seeking an extension. As Gibbs has arguably been better than Robinson for most of their respective careers, the Falcons running back might not hold the record for the highest-paid player in the history of the position for long. The Baltimore Ravens will sign wide receiver Zay Flowers to a four-year, $140 million contract extension with $108 million guaranteed. The agreement replaces Flowers' 2027 fifth-year rookie option, which Baltimore exercised in April. The $35 million average annual value ties Flowers with Minnesota's Justin Jefferson for the fourth-highest-paid wide receiver in the NFL. Only Jaxon Smith-Njigba ($42.15 million), Ja'Marr Chase ($40.25 million), and Drake London ($35.26 million) hold higher average annual salaries. Flowers' contract places his annual salary ahead of CeeDee Lamb, DK Metcalf, Garrett Wilson, and A.J. Brown. With Flowers and New Orleans Saints star Chris Olave each getting extensions over the last week, that only sets the bar for Los Angeles Rams All-Pro Puka Nacua to receive an extremely rich deal over the offseason. Nacua is entering the final year of his rookie contract, but isn't expected to be extended before the start of the season. The extension for Flowers could also set the bar for what George Pickens might get next offseason after the Dallas Cowboys franchise tagged him this offseason. Flowers set a Ravens single-season record for a wide receiver with 1,211 receiving yards in 2025. His receiving output represented 36.9% of Baltimore's total receiving yards, trailing only Jaxon Smith-Njigba (44.1%) for the highest share in the league. Since entering the NFL in 2023, Flowers ranks third in receiving yards among his draft class with 3,128 yards, behind Nacua (4,191) and Smith-Njigba (3,551). The Chicago Bears agreed to terms with All-Pro right tackle Darnell Wright on a four-year, $116 million contract extension that includes $93 million guaranteed. The deal includes the most guaranteed money for an offensive lineman in NFL history, per NFL Network. The former first-round selection locks in his long-term future in Chicago as the highest-paid right tackle in the league. The Bears drafted Wright with the No. 10 overall pick in the 2023 draft and has started 49 out of 51 games the past three seasons. Wright earned second-team All-Pro honors in 2025. Quarterback Shedeur Sanders reportedly took all first-team reps for the Cleveland Browns during training camp Tuesday. Sanders completed 21 of 25 passes with zero touchdowns and zero interceptions, per ESPN Cleveland. Deshaun Watson reportedly completed 5 of 11 passes with no touchdowns or interceptions. Dillon Gabriel finished 4 of 7 with one interception. As the Browns' quarterback competition heats up, Sanders gave a quote that instantly went viral when he was asked if he's ever been in a quarterback competition. "Yeah, I have, me vs. myself," Sanders replied. Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb was seen catching passes in an unconventional fashion at Tuesday's practice. Lamb wore a net covering his helmet and facemask while catching passes from the Jugs machine during training camp. As Lamb is using unconventional ways to practice catching the ball, he's also prioritizing his health ahead of the 2026 season. "For one, for me, it’s all about being healthy, being available for my team, because the last two years, that wasn’t the case," Lamb told reporters on Sunday. "So, just overall health and being able to lead, and teach the younger guys and, overall, I gotta go be me – going out there, making plays, helping the guys, and scoring." Lamb missed three games last season due to an ankle injury. Third-round rookie Carson Beck will start at quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals in Thursday's Pro Football Hall of Fame Game against the Carolina Panthers in Canton, Ohio, the team announced Monday Jacoby Brissett and backup Gardner Minshew II are reportedly unlikely to play. Carolina head coach Dave Canales confirmed Kenny Pickett will start the Hall of Fame Game for the Panthers. Pickett is reportedly expected to play a few series, with the rest of the work to be handled by undrafted rookie Haynes King.

from Latest NFL News & Videos from FOX Sports https://ift.tt/TH9FmwX

Ranking 15 NFL Players Under the Most Pressure in 2026

After an eventful offseason in the NFL, the real drama is about to resume. Pressure is everywhere, as star players are trying to get their respective teams over the hump, get their careers back on track, reach their potential, live up to big contracts, earn new ones and everything in between. So, with all of that considered, who's under the most pressure ahead of the 2026 NFL season? We ranked 15 players who must deliver big this year. Bucky Brooks: The departure of Micah Parsons left a huge hole in the middle of the Cowboys’ defense. Despite the team’s commitment to replace Parsons' production, the unit misses the All-Pro's sideline-to-sideline playmaking prowess. Overshown has shown flashes as a disruptive defender (see: five sacks, an interception, forced fumble, and a fumble recovery in 2024 as a 12-game starter), but he has missed more games (32) than he has played (19) due to multiple knee injuries. As he enters the final year of his rookie deal, Overshown is trying to carve out a long-term role and ideally earn a contract extension by season’s end. Meanwhile, the Cowboys need all they can get from the fourth-year linebacker. They've missed the postseason two years in a row, and their beleaguered defense is the primary reason for it. A healthy and productive Overshown could change their fortunes. Brooks: The 2024 Defensive Rookie of the Year has the unenviable task of replacing a future gold jacket playmaker with a pair of Defensive Player of the Year awards and the single-season sack record. Verse not only steps into the role previously occupied by Myles Garrett, but he must anchor a defense that is transitioning under a new defensive coordinator. Given the lofty standards and expectations within the "Dawg Pound," the third-year pro must provide a disruptive presence on the frontline to enable the defense to continue suffocating opponents. Moreover, Verse must deliver massive sack production to help compensate for the loss of a destructive force who posted eight straight seasons with at least 10 sacks. Considering the stellar performance and production of his predecessor, the Browns’ trade acquisition is on the hot seat to put up blockbuster numbers to justify the surprising trade. It's a huge challenge for a player who has earned two Pro Bowl selections in his two seasons yet recorded just 12 career sacks. Eric D. Williams: The fifth-year running back recently earned Super Bowl MVP honors with the Seahawks. Now he's the potential X factor for his new team to get back to the big game. After signing a three-year, $45 million deal with the Chiefs, he will be counted on to serve as the bell-cow running back for an offense that has become a bit stale and whose all-world quarterback is coming back from a torn ACL. For years, Patrick Mahomes has compensated for Kansas City's mediocre running game. In fact, the Chiefs haven't had a single back eclipse 1,000 rushing yards in Mahomes' eight seasons as a starter. The 31-year-old version of Mahomes will need more help, and Walker is more than capable of providing it. The bigger question is whether he can stay healthy. He struggled to stay on the field in Seattle, despite often sharing lead back duties. Brooks: The big-play specialist averaged 20-plus yards per catch in back-to-back seasons as the secondary option in the Indianapolis Colts’ passing game. With a promotion to the No. 1 role after Michael Pittman’s departure, Pierce must show that he can win against elite corners and double coverage tactics. Just as important, Pierce must validate the Colts’ $114 million commitment to a former WR2 transitioning to the featured playmaker spot. Although his position coach (Reggie Wayne) successfully made the transition when his Hall of Fame teammate (Marvin Harrison) retired, the student must apply his mentor's lessons to handle his new role and responsibilities as a go-to guy with the Colts desperate to get back to the playoffs. Williams: Pickens has taken the high road in terms of his contract negotiations with the Cowboys, signing his franchise tender. So, he'll make $27.3 million on a one-year deal for the upcoming season. But another strong season from Pickens could lead to an even greater payday, as evidenced by the recent extensions for Zay Flowers and Chris Olave. If Pickens matches the numbers he put up in a career year in 2025 (93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns), he should be looking at a long-term deal that pays him over $30 million annually while also potentially serving as the catalyst to a deep Cowboys playoff run. If Pickens falls well short of that, though, he could miss out on a major payday and might have to prove his worth again in 2027. Brooks: If the former Pro Bowler cannot win a quarterback competition against a young, inexperienced passer with an extensive injury history, his days as a QB1 are over. Tagovailoa steps into a situation where he is surrounded by blue-chip talent on the perimeter, with a solid offensive line in front of him that will enable him to wheel and deal from the pocket. As a quick-rhythm thrower who perfectly matches Kevin Stefanski’s quarterback profile, the seventh-year pro has the requisite "3Ps" (play caller, playmakers and protectors) needed to play at a high level. Considering he has led the league in completion percentage (72.9% in 2024) and passing yards (4,624 in 2023) at various points of his career, Tagovailoa enters the "no-excuse" zone in Atlanta. Williams: Garrett finally got his wish in the blockbuster trade of this offseason, with Browns general manager Andrew Barry moving the reigning Defensive Player of the Year to a team built to win now in the Rams. Now, the expectation is the NFL’s all-time single-season sack leader will elevate a Rams defense that underperformed in the bright spotlight of the postseason. Specifically, the Rams had trouble closing out offenses at the end of games. It was a surprise given that they finished the regular season tied for sixth in the league in sacks (47) and fifth in pressure rate (38%). But they finished with just one sack in three postseason games. Enter Garrett (and perhaps Aaron Donald?), who was brought in as the final piece for L.A.'s Super Bowl puzzle. Brooks: The two-time Pro Bowl selection has been lauded as a fringe top-five quarterback, but a résumé still void of a postseason win (and big moments in general) has critics questioning whether Herbert is a clutch performer capable of sparking a Super Bowl run. Despite his record-breaking success as a gunslinger during the regular season, including the most passing yards and completions in NFL history through the first five seasons of a career, the seventh-year pro has plenty to prove with a new offensive coordinator at the helm. Mike McDaniel not only brings a wealth of knowledge and experience as a playcaller, but a quarterback-friendly scheme that transforms a simple game of "pitch-and-catch" into a pinball session that lights up the scoreboard. If Herbert is unable to lead the Chargers on an extended playoff run, the football world will continue to view him as a talented underachiever who gives off Cinderella vibes in the postseason. Williams: After getting traded to the team he preferred and a coach he respects in Mike Vrabel, there should be no need for Brown to partake in the theatrics that defined the end of his tenure in Philadelphia (see: reading a book in-game on the sidelines). It’s time for Brown to let his play do the talking in New England. Brown’s playing with perhaps the best young quarterback in the game in Drake Maye. Moreover, the Patriots need Brown to play like a No. 1 receiver, particularly in the red zone where he should receive plenty of 1-on-1 matchups. New England has a much tougher schedule after a surprising run to the Super Bowl last season, and the addition of Brown should help add more explosive plays to this offense. Williams: The lightbulb seemed to turn on for Young in 2025 after struggles in his first two seasons, when he was benched for Andy Dalton after the Panthers took him with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 draft. He led Carolina to the playoffs last season, helping the Panthers win the NFC South. Specifically, Young played clutch in critical moments of the game, as evidenced by leading the Panthers to six game-winning drives last season and pushing the Rams to the limit in a close playoff loss. But Young has to continue improving if he's going to command a long-term deal. The Panthers exercised the fifth-year option on his rookie deal for the 2027 season, but he's not getting a big extension until he can prove he can play at a high level on a consistent basis. This year is the ultimate test. Brooks: After making a blockbuster trade to acquire Hunter in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Jaguars are counting on their prized acquisition to make his mark in 2026 as a full-time cover corner and part-time offensive playmaker. Although Hunter flashed big-play potential as an offensive weapon as a rookie prior to his season-ending injury, the 6-foot-1, 185-pound dynamo is expected to step into the CB1 role this season to upgrade a turnover-obsessed defense with his ball-hawking presence. While questions persist about his athleticism and explosiveness after his ACL injury, the second-year pro must play like an elite defender and pass-catcher from Day 1 to silence the critics doubting his impact potential as a two-way pro. Williams: Just three years ago, Stroud posted one of the better rookie QB seasons en route to leading the Texans to a surprising postseason appearance (and victory). But the former No. 2 overall pick has failed to play to that level since, throwing just 39 touchdowns compared to 20 interceptions while taking 75 sacks (tied for sixth-most in the league). That regression is why Houston didn't sign him to an extension this offseason, something that seemed like a lock two years ago. During that charmed rookie season, Stroud threw for over 4,000 yards with 23 touchdown passes and just five interceptions, posting a 100.8 passer rating. The Texans have a championship-level defense but need Stroud to return to form to make a legitimate run at a title. Williams: Nacua would be wise to let his play do the talking as he heads into a contract year. The BYU product has been one of the best receivers in the league since entering the NFL as a fifth-round selection in the 2023 draft. However, immaturity and off-field issues led to Nacua checking himself into a holistic care facility this offseason. McVay said Nacua’s situation has not risen to the level where he's no longer in the Rams' long-term plans. But the extension that seemed inevitable when last season concluded still has to be earned. On the field, Nacua deserves to be paid among the top receivers in the league. But given the natural concerns surrounding his behavior coupled with how the Rams traditionally handle contract extensions, he will have to not only wait for a new contract but prove he's good for it. Williams: After a disappointing 2025, the Ravens opted to move on from longtime head coach John Harbaugh, and Jackson had a say in who replaced him. Baltimore ultimately hired Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter to replace Harbaugh, and he brought in 29-year-old Declan Doyle from the Chicago Bears to be the team's offensive coordinator, which will undoubtedly bring a new approach to the Ravens. Now, it's up to Jackson to make it work. The 29-year-old, two-time NFL MVP had an underwhelming season himself last year, in which he struggled to stay healthy and didn't play to his elite potential when he was on the field. That led to the Ravens missing the playoffs for the first time since 2021, as questions about Jackson's ability to perform in big moments continue to linger. And, oh yeah, Jackson is seeking a new deal that would make him the highest-paid player in the league. How's that for pressure? Williams: A.J. Brown has been traded to New England, so there’s no excuse for bad vibes in Philadelphia. And although Hurts has his sixth offensive coordinator in seven seasons in Philadelphia with Sean Mannion, he must prove to doubters that he is an elite signal-caller in the league. Armed with one of the best offensive lines, one of the best runners in Saquon Barkley and a talented receiver room led by DeVonta Smith, along with some intriguing newcomers, Hurts has the weapons and system in place to create an explosive offense. Now he must go out and make it happen. Brooks: The rhetoric around the former Super Bowl MVP is alarming, given his individual success and the Eagles’ status as a perennial contender. Despite leading the franchise to a pair of Super Bowl appearances where he outplayed Patrick Mahomes in each contest, the Eagles’ sagging passing game with Brown as the featured playmaker has raised concerns about Hurts’ long-term effectiveness as a pocket passer. With his sixth playcaller in place since arriving in Philadelphia, Hurts must adapt to another system while dealing with outsized expectations from a fan base growing increasingly frustrated by the Eagles’ inconsistent offense. Hurts needs a strong 2026 campaign to silence the boo birds and naysayers — and perhaps save his head coach's job, if not his own. Hurts has seen firsthand in Philly how this could all play out.

from Latest NFL News & Videos from FOX Sports https://ift.tt/yXu1KFk