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Developing storyline

2026 NFL season ongoing developments

Teams navigate quarterback decisions, injuries, records and notable events during the 2026 NFL season.

55 stories2338 sourcesUpdated Oct 17, 2026

In this storyline:Jalen Hurts Mike Evans Mike Pettine Christian Parker Tyreek Hill Malik Willis Caleb Williams Micah Parsons

2026 NFL season ongoing developments — Photo: Unknown / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

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Oct 14, 6 AMdots mark key developments · hover for any hourOct 17, 6 AM

Key developments

Oct 12, 2026
Jahmyr Gibbs broke Barry Sanders’ under-25 career touchdown record with a fourth-quarter score against Arizona.
15 sources on this →
Oct 12, 2026
Patriots LT Will Campbell injured his right knee again in a win over the Raiders and is expected to miss time.
12 sources on this →
Oct 12, 2026
NFL legend Mike Ditka, who led the 15-1 Bears to a Super Bowl XX win, died at 86 on October 9, 2026.
288 sources on this →
Oct 13, 2026
Bears’ Montez Sweat suspended two games without pay for violating performance-enhancing substances policy.
58 sources on this →

Coverage across the spectrum

Claim check

What each side asserts, disputes — or leaves out entirely.

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Stories in this storyline

Sports

Jalen Hurts Sidelined by Movement in Leg Blood Clot

Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts said he was hurt during the Week 4 game against the Rams but offered few details about the calf issue that appeared on the injury report before the Jaguars game. He practiced fully ahead of Week 6 against Carolina and appeared on track to play, though questions remained about the injury and its effect on his mobility.

170 sources

Sports

Rams’ Jackson Punches Bills’ Chubb After Win

Rams LT Alaric Jackson punched Bills LB Bradley Chubb in the head after Buffalo's 37-34 OT win on Oct. 12, 2026, knocking off his hat during a jersey exchange.

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Cowboys Add Pettine to Aid Struggling Defense

Cowboys hire Mike Pettine as senior defensive assistant after 2-3 start allowing second-most NFL yards; he says "I think I can help a lot" after Parker called him in Italy.

9 sources

Sports

McCaffrey Open to Fewer Touches as 49ers Ease Workload

The 49ers are limiting Christian McCaffrey’s workload to reinvigorate their rushing attack, and McCaffrey says he is focused on making his touches count for the team. Another feature explores how Mike Evans’s basketball background and years of repetition shaped his physical, instinctive style as a receiver.

16 sources

Sports

NFL Removes Broncos’ Cooper From Exempt List

NFL removed Broncos OLB Jonathon Cooper from the exempt list Friday, Oct. 16, 2026; he missed six games after June domestic-violence arrests and may play Week 7.

12 sources

Sports

Texans Acquire Marvin Harrison Jr. in Trade

ESPN’s Adam Schefter faced criticism for reporting that the Cardinals were finalizing a trade of Marvin Harrison Jr. without initially naming a destination; Houston later emerged as a likely partner. Schefter defended his wording, saying he lacked confirmation of the team and did not want to report a destination prematurely in case the deal changed.

34 sources

Sports

Eagles Reportedly Sign Milton off Cowboys Practice Squad

Eagles signed Joe Milton III off the Cowboys practice squad after ruling Jalen Hurts out indefinitely with a superficial blood clot in his calf.

27 sources

Sports

49ers’ Mike Evans Misses Practice With Achilles Soreness

49ers wide receiver Mike Evans missed Thursday’s practice with rib and Achilles soreness after playing through injuries in recent games. Coach Kyle Shanahan said the Achilles issue is not a significant concern, but the team will monitor him ahead of Monday’s game against Washington.

20 sources

Sports

Seahawks Favored for Thursday Broncos Matchup

The 3-2 Seahawks are slight road favorites against the 3-2 Broncos on Thursday night, with analysts pointing to Seattle’s defense and Jaxon Smith-Njigba as matchup advantages. Seattle’s recent turnovers and struggling run game, however, could give Denver an opening after the Broncos’ win over the Chargers.

116 sources

Sports

49ers Assess Injury Returns Ahead Commanders Game

The 5-0 San Francisco 49ers are managing a depleted receiving corps after Deebo Samuel’s hamstring injury, while Mike Evans is also dealing with rib and Achilles soreness. Christian Kirk has opened his practice window and could provide help, and Kyle Juszczyk, Nick Bosa and James Thompson Jr. are also potential returnees for Monday’s game against Washington, though none is guaranteed to play.

8 sources

Sports

Nix Passing Props and Smith-Njigba Receiving Lines Lead Week 6 Previews

For Seahawks-Broncos, betting analysis favors Bo Nix over 199.5 passing yards paired with fewer than 4.5 rush attempts, while recommending Jaxon Smith-Njigba under 6.5 catches, particularly given his ankle concern; his receiving-yards line is viewed as fairly priced. BetMGM lists Jaylen Waddle at 47.5 receiving yards, 4.5 catches and 19.5 yards for his longest reception.

42 sources

Sports

Broncos secondary starters miss practice before Seahawks game

The Broncos are preparing for Thursday’s game against Seattle with coach Sean Payton emphasizing better offensive execution after a sluggish start to the season. Denver’s secondary faces injury uncertainty, as Talanoa Hufanga and Pat Surtain II missed practice while Riley Moss returned to the field.

67 sources

Sports

Raiders Defense Faces Bills’ NFL-Leading Rushing Attack

The Raiders’ defense has generated pressure but struggled to contain explosive plays, a vulnerability that could be costly against Josh Allen and the Bills. Buffalo may counter Maxx Crosby’s pass rush by leaning on James Cook and its physical run blocking to keep Allen out of frequent passing situations.

9 sources

Sports

Buccaneers Reportedly Weigh Multiple Trade Candidates

With Tampa Bay struggling, trade speculation has centered on running back Kenny Gainwell, whom the Buccaneers could send to Philadelphia for draft capital, and veterans Chris Godwin and Antoine Winfield Jr. Godwin may command only a late-round pick amid declining production and a costly contract, while moving Winfield could bring a stronger offer and significant salary savings.

11 sources

Sports

BetMGM promotes up to $1,500 bonuses for Seahawks-Broncos matchup

Ahead of Thursday’s Seahawks-Broncos game, multiple promotions advertise BetMGM welcome offers for new users, generally refunding a first losing wager as bonus bets up to $1,500; some codes also include an extra $50, while eligibility and offers vary by state. One promotion instead offers $150 after a qualifying $10 win in Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

10 sources

Sports

Jalen Hurts’ Eagles Future Faces Offseason Questions

Jalen Hurts’ blood clot has sidelined him for at least one game and raised questions about his availability and long-term future with Philadelphia, where his contract offers diminishing guarantees after this season. With the Eagles struggling and Hurts’ performance drawing criticism, the team may face a major decision on whether to extend him or move on, though he has led the franchise to sustained success.

7 sources

Sports

Four Arrested in 49ers Player Shooting

Four men arrested in California and Georgia in 49ers’ Keion White nightclub shooting; 250-officer probe’s warrants found guns, cash and fentanyl.

27 sources

Sports

Bears coach says Caleb Williams making progress toward possible return

After a 31-7 Packers loss, Ben Johnson says Caleb Williams is on track from a Grade 2 hamstring; Atlanta return is close.

51 sources

Sports

Cowboys defense holds players-only meeting after allowing 419 yards

After a loss to Tampa Bay, the Cowboys’ struggling defense held a players-only meeting to assess its standards, address individual accountability and discuss how teammates can help each other improve. DeMarvion Overshown said the unit believes it can turn things around, though Dallas’ defensive struggles have persisted despite offseason changes.

30 sources

Sports

Steelers Beat Colts 34-22, Improve to 3-2

Pittsburgh improved to 3-2 with a 34-22 win over Indianapolis, a result that drew postgame grades and stock-report analysis. The victory also set up a matchup with Tampa Bay, which is seeking its first consecutive wins of the season.

14 sources

Sports

Bears’ Montez Sweat Suspended Two Games

The NFL suspended Bears defensive end Montez Sweat for two games without pay for violating its performance-enhancing substances policy, sidelining him for matchups against the Falcons and Patriots. His absence further weakens Chicago’s pass rush, already strained by injury, though Austin Booker had two sacks in the team’s loss to Green Bay.

58 sources

Sports

Falcons QB Penix Says Rib Injury Isn't Long-Term

Penix said rib injury "not something that is going to be a long-term thing" after late sack in Falcons’ 23-30 OT loss; Stefanski set Monday imaging.

71 sources

Sports

Tyreek Hill Liable, Ordered to Pay $500,000

Miami jury finds Tyreek Hill liable for two battery incidents vs. estranged wife Lakeeta Vaccaro, awards $500,000 compensatory damages and no punitive damages.

39 sources

Sports

Rams Release Mevis After Overtime Loss to Bills

Rams cut Harrison Mevis after a 37-34 OT loss to the Bills—missed 50-yarder, blocked potential winner—and signed Blake Grupe (81.9% career FG) from the Jets’ practice squad.

84 sources

Sports

Colts Release Darius Slayton Four Weeks After Signing Him

The Colts released wide receiver Darius Slayton about four weeks after signing him to replace injured deep threat Alec Pierce; Slayton never played a snap for Indianapolis. The former Giant had 296 catches for 4,435 yards over seven seasons in New York.

15 sources

Sports

Rams Reportedly Replace Mevis With Grupe

The Rams are releasing Harrison Mevis and signing Blake Grupe after Mevis missed a 50-yarder and had an overtime kick blocked in a 37-34 loss to Buffalo.

45 sources

Entertainment

Selma Blair Reportedly Arrested After Midair Door Attempt

Selma Blair, 54, was detained at JFK around 11 p.m. Sunday after two Delta flight attendants reported injuries; the FBI issued a federal assault violation notice.

354 sources

Sports

Cowboys, Packers Set for Primetime Week 6

The Cowboys visit the Packers for a primetime Week 6 matchup after a lopsided loss to Tampa Bay, while Green Bay looks to build on consecutive wins. Dallas is making coaching and defensive adjustments, but Micah Parsons will miss the game as he continues recovering from an ACL injury.

22 sources

Sports

Jackson Day-to-Day, Not Ruled Out Against Browns

The Ravens beat the Falcons 30-23 without Lamar Jackson, relying on Tyler Huntley’s short passing game and a productive ground attack to remain efficient, though less explosive. Jackson was sidelined by an ankle injury, with a report indicating he could return for Baltimore’s Week 6 game against Cleveland.

43 sources

Sports

Five NFL Players Ruled Out With Injuries

Four players were ruled out for the rest of Sunday’s games with injuries: Lions receiver Tom Kennedy (knee), Titans cornerback Cordale Flott (chest), Bears linebacker T.J. Edwards (hamstring) and Raiders defensive tackle Tonka Hemingway (neck). Their teams turned to replacements, including Amon-Ra St. Brown on returns and D’Marco Jackson to call Chicago’s defensive plays.

18 sources

Sports

Saints Prepare for Giants After Owner’s Criticism

After three straight losses dropped New Orleans to 1-4, Saints owner Gayle Benson publicly demanded better results and held the coaching staff, front office and players accountable; coach Kellen Moore said the team is focused on improving together. The 3-1-1 Giants enter Sunday’s matchup with momentum, though coach John Harbaugh says they need more consistency in the running game and at the line of scrimmage.

14 sources

World

DNA Identifies Ex-Chicago Detective in 1960 Murder

Chicago police say DNA genealogy, fingerprint and ballistics evidence identified former homicide detective Thomas Francis McInerney as responsible for the 1960 killing of 8-year-old Gloria Kowalewicz, whose body was found in a suburban ravine after she disappeared on a walk to church. McInerney, then a 24-year-old officer, died in 2006; investigators’ conclusion closes a case that remained unsolved for more than six decades.

26 sources

Sports

Trump reportedly plans Buccaneers-Steelers game visit

Trump's planned Buccaneers-Steelers visit was pulled hours after CNN reported it, after Carmen Vitali questioned millions to see 'the ghost of Aaron Rodgers.'

21 sources

Sports

49ers Could Pursue Reunion With Jauan Jennings

The Vikings may consider trading wide receiver Jauan Jennings after he managed just two catches for nine yards in a disappointing start. NFL insider Ian Rapoport expects trade interest to grow, with a reunion with the 49ers a possibility as they cope with Deebo Samuel’s injury.

36 sources

Sports

Broncos’ Hufanga uncertain for Thursday vs. Seahawks

Broncos safety Talanoa Hufanga, who injured his ankle Sunday, missed Tuesday’s practice and is trending toward sitting out Thursday’s game against Seattle. Denver could also be without cornerbacks Pat Surtain II and Riley Moss, leaving the team potentially short-handed in the secondary.

14 sources

Sports

NFL Overturns Fines for Williams, Chase

The NFL rescinded Detroit Lions receiver Jameson Williams’ two fines, totaling nearly $27,000, for celebrations during a game against the Buffalo Bills. Williams argued one gesture was not offensive, and the appeals officer urged him to celebrate professionally; Bengals receiver Ja’Marr Chase also won an appeal over a celebration mimicking a wrestling move.

19 sources

Sports

Cowboys plan moving Parker to coaching booth

After a 2-3 start and a loss to Tampa Bay exposed major defensive problems, the Cowboys hired veteran coach Mike Pettine as a senior adviser and are moving first-year coordinator Christian Parker from the sideline to the coaching booth. Owner Jerry Jones framed the moves as efforts to improve the defense, while defending Parker amid a major overhaul.

17 sources

Sports

Parsons Unlikely to Play Against Cowboys

Packers do not anticipate Micah Parsons practicing this week before Sunday Night Football vs. Dallas; hope remains for a return this month, per Schefter.

52 sources

Sports

Eagles Face Panthers, Monitor Key Injuries

Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio says Bryce Young has improved as a quick, anticipatory passer who can also escape pressure, making Philadelphia’s upcoming matchup with Carolina more challenging than past meetings suggest. Coming off a bye and a win over Detroit, the Panthers bring a balanced offense led by Young and receiver Tetairoa McMillan as the Eagles look to end a three-game losing streak amid defensive personnel concerns.

9 sources

Sports

Teams Assess Defensive Strengths, Struggles

Notre Dame’s defense has been a national strength, while Detroit has seen promising pass-rush production despite broader defensive concerns. Clemson and Michigan State are contending with uneven results, depth and injury issues, and Mississippi State is looking to improve after allowing Alabama 56 points.

15 sources

Sports

Dolphins Sign Cook, Release Hunter

The Dolphins re-signed quarterback Brady Cook to their practice squad and released running back Jarquez Hunter, whose brief stint with the team did not earn him playing time. The team also opened applications for its Nat Moore Scholarship Endowment, which supports South Florida high school seniors pursuing college or vocational training.

12 sources

Sports

Eagles Open Return Windows for Four Players

The Eagles opened practice windows for defensive back Jakorian Bennett, tight ends Grant Calcaterra and Eli Stowers, and guard Landon Dickerson as they seek reinforcements amid injuries and offensive struggles. Receiver Hollywood Brown also returned to practice.

9 sources

Sports

Chargers fall to 0-5, raising trade deadline questions

The Chargers fell to 0-5 after losing to Denver, intensifying questions about potential trades as the deadline approaches; running back Kimani Vidal and rookie pass rusher Akheem Mesidor stood out despite the loss. Elsewhere, the 1-4 Saints’ offense struggled in a loss to Minnesota, the Jets beat Cleveland 17-12, and San Francisco edged Seattle 32-29 in a turnover-filled game.

22 sources

Sports

Purdy Tops MVP Odds, 49ers Reach 5-0

Brock Purdy moved ahead of Josh Allen as the betting favorite for NFL MVP after leading the 49ers to a 32-29 comeback win over Seattle and a 5-0 start. Though Purdy had a relatively modest game by his early-season standards, his overall production and San Francisco’s unbeaten record have strengthened his candidacy, while Allen still has a chance to respond.

19 sources

Sports

Lions rout Cardinals 45-21, score 31 unanswered

The Detroit Lions scored 31 unanswered points to beat the Arizona Cardinals 45-21, with Jared Goff throwing three touchdown passes and Jahmyr Gibbs rushing for 151 yards and two scores. Gibbs also set an NFL record for most touchdowns before age 25, while Arizona’s defense continued to struggle and the team finalized a trade sending receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. to Houston during the game.

26 sources

Sports

Tyreek Hill Reportedly in Contract Talks With Teams

Tyreek Hill is rehabilitating a season-ending knee injury while his agent says he is talking with multiple teams and seeking a contender, a receiver opening, a strong quarterback and a fair contract; one report suggests the Kansas City Chiefs may be his only realistic option. Hill’s free agency is also clouded by a civil verdict finding him liable for two battery claims and an ongoing NFL conduct-policy review that could result in discipline.

7 sources

Sports

Dolphins fall to 0-5 after Bengals loss

The Miami Dolphins fell to 0-5 with a 31-24 loss to Cincinnati, as quarterback Malik Willis committed three turnovers and Miami’s passing attack again struggled. Coach Jeff Hafley called for greater consistency through the air, while the team heads into its bye week seeking answers despite a productive rushing performance.

30 sources

Sports

Vikings reportedly work out JuJu Smith-Schuster

The Minnesota Vikings worked out free-agent wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster as they assess veteran depth amid injuries at receiver, after recently adding Odell Beckham Jr. to their practice squad. No signing has been announced.

16 sources

Sports

Cynthia Miller, wife of Detroit Lions broadcaster Dan Miller, dies at 63

Cynthia "Cindy" Miller, wife of Lions broadcaster Dan Miller, died Oct. 10, 2026. She sat fifth row at every home game; they wed in a 20-inch DMV snowstorm.

32 sources

Sports

Ravens Rally Past Falcons for Overtime Win

The Baltimore Ravens beat the Atlanta Falcons 30-23 in overtime, overcoming Atlanta’s defensive pressure and a Jessie Bates III fumble-return touchdown. The Falcons entered the matchup on a two-game winning streak, while Baltimore was without injured quarterback Lamar Jackson.

25 sources

Sports

NFL legend Mike Ditka dies at 86

Mike Ditka, who led the 15-1 Bears to a 46-10 Super Bowl XX win and was the first tight end in the Hall of Fame, died at 86 on October 9, 2026.

288 sources

Sports

Bears' Caleb Williams Misses Third Straight Game

The Bears will be without hamstring-injured quarterback Caleb Williams for their Week 5 game against the Packers, with Tyson Bagent starting as Williams remains week-to-week. Running back Kyle Monangai, who sustained a thumb injury (and was later listed with a toe issue), is considered day-to-day and is expected to be okay.

75 sources

Sports

NFL Teams Weigh Quarterback Plans Amid Uneven Starts

NFL teams are weighing major quarterback questions: Seattle faces pressure to curb Sam Darnold’s turnovers or consider Drew Lock, while Miami may need to give Kyle McCord a chance if Malik Willis’ poor play continues. Atlanta, by contrast, is encouraged by Michael Penix Jr.’s rapid progress, though upcoming tests will show whether he can lead the team against top competition.

9 sources

Sports

Patriots left tackle Campbell injures same knee again

Patriots LT Will Campbell injured his right knee again in a 45-17 win over the Raiders and was ruled out; MRI Monday on a believed sprain, expected to miss time.

12 sources

Sports

Jahmyr Gibbs Breaks Sanders’ Under-25 TD Record

Detroit Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs first tied Barry Sanders’ record of 57 career touchdowns before age 25, then broke it with a fourth-quarter score against Arizona, reaching 58. Gibbs turns 25 in March 2027, giving him the rest of the season and more time to extend the record.

15 sources