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NFL News

Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.

Monday, August 24

DeVonta Smith Returns to Full Practice With Expanded Role

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Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeVonta Smith is a full participant in practice following a hamstring injury. Entering the 2026 season, Smith is projected for an expanded role in the passing attack, with analysts viewing him as a potential league winner due to increased target expectations. His return to full health ahead of the final preseason game solidifies his position as a top-tier fantasy option.

Cedrick Wilson Jr. Placed on Injured Reserve

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The Detroit Lions have officially placed veteran wide receiver Cedrick Wilson Jr. on the injured reserve list as of Monday, August 24, 2026. No specific details regarding the nature or expected duration of the injury were provided in the team's announcement.

Jelani Woods Contending for Jets Roster Spot

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Jelani Woods is making a compelling case for a roster spot with the New York Jets after beginning training camp as a longshot. Woods has faced significant adversity over the past two years, having his development hindered by recurring injuries. Despite these past physical setbacks, his recent performance in camp has put him in contention to secure a place on the team's final roster.

San Francisco 49ers Release Tight End Josiah Deguara

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The San Francisco 49ers have released tight end Josiah Deguara. The roster move coincides with the team adding local product Vilami Fehoko to the defensive unit as a pass rusher. Deguara is now a free agent.

Chuba Hubbard Returns to Practice; Poised for Backfield Split

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Chuba Hubbard was a full participant in Monday's practice following a hamstring injury. Hubbard noted his hamstring feels good and believes trainers are being cautious after a previous early return last season. Coach Dave Canales confirmed the Panthers plan to utilize a committee approach in Week 1, featuring both Hubbard and Jonathon Brooks. His return to full activity is a key development for the Panthers' offensive rotation.

Jonathon Brooks Set for Week 1 Backfield Committee Role

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Carolina Panthers running back Jonathon Brooks is expected to share backfield duties in a committee approach for Week 1. Coach Dave Canales confirmed a rotation between Brooks and Chuba Hubbard, provided Brooks is healthy. Following a strong preseason performance, analysts are monitoring his snap share. The team is finalizing offensive usage patterns, with Canales signaling a split backfield strategy for the upcoming season opener.

Shiyazh Pete Reflects on Viral Support from Navajo Fans

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Dallas Cowboys undrafted rookie offensive lineman Shiyazh Pete drew significant attention during the team's preseason game against the Cardinals. Pete, a member of the Navajo Nation, expressed that the overwhelming support from Navajo fans in attendance was a unique and emotional experience. Offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer and Pete have both reflected on the rookie's viral postgame speech regarding the outpouring of community support.

Ashton Jeanty Sidelined with Ankle Injury; Status Uncertain

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Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty is currently sidelined with an ankle injury, forcing him to miss Monday's practice. While reports indicate the injury is not considered major, his status for the start of the season remains uncertain. The team is monitoring his recovery while looking toward depth options, specifically Mike Washington Jr., to step up. Jeanty, the No. 6 overall pick from 2025, is focused on improving his pass-blocking and cementing his role as an all-around weapon.

Contract Impasse Keeps Joey Porter Jr. Sidelined on PUP List

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Cornerback Joey Porter Jr. remains on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list as he continues a hold-in due to a contract impasse with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Head coach Mike McCarthy confirmed there is no immediate resolution in sight, leaving Porter's status for the 2026 season opener uncertain. Teammate Jalen Ramsey has publicly urged the organization to resolve the situation. Reports suggest the Cowboys are among the potential landing spots should the impasse continue.

Texans Acquire Kayshon Boutte in Trade with Patriots

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The Houston Texans have acquired wide receiver Kayshon Boutte from the New England Patriots in exchange for safety Jaylen Reed and a 2028 seventh-round pick. Boutte, who recorded 33 catches for 551 yards and a career-high six touchdowns in 2025, joins a Texans receiving corps depleted by Jayden Higgins' ACL tear and absences from Tank Dell and Jaylin Noel. Boutte was deemed expendable in New England following the team's recent additions of AJ Brown and Romeo Doubs.

J.J. McCarthy Practices Monday Following Preseason Struggles

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Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy participated in Monday's practice after dealing with an undisclosed issue. This follows a challenging outing during the team's second preseason game, which analysts characterized as a regression. The performance has raised questions about the team's depth and the overall trajectory of the offense as the Vikings evaluate their roster heading toward the regular season.

Joe Milton III Shows Growth as Touch Passer

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Cowboys coach Brian Schottenheimer has praised Joe Milton III for his development during his second season with the team. Schottenheimer specifically highlighted Milton's growth as a touch passer, noting that the young quarterback is taking significant strides in his ability to command the offense.

Malik Nabers Cleared for Team Drills in Knee Injury Recovery

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New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers has made significant progress in his recovery from a knee injury. At Monday's practice, Nabers shed his non-contact red jersey and participated in 7-on-7 and 11-on-11 team drills. While the session was non-contact, his ability to execute intermediate routes and curls marks a major step toward his goal of being fully integrated into the offensive rotation for the Week 1 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys.

Dolphins Sign Tight End Ethan Conner

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The Miami Dolphins announced the signing of tight end Ethan Conner on Monday afternoon. The move is part of a series of roster adjustments for the Dolphins as they continue to refine their personnel ahead of the 2026 regular season. Conner joins the team alongside linebacker Jaheim Thomas as part of the club's effort to bolster their depth chart.

Jack Pyburn Targeted by LSU Despite NFL Ties

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Jack Pyburn is being courted by LSU despite his NFL ties. A recent court ruling that enables some players to return for a fifth college season has created a new recruiting landscape, allowing college programs to pursue players currently involved with NFL training camps.

Dae'Quan Wright Targeted by LSU Despite NFL Ties

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Dae'Quan Wright is being courted by LSU despite his NFL ties. A recent court ruling that enables some players to return for a fifth college season has created a new recruiting landscape, allowing college programs to pursue players currently involved with NFL training camps.

Cam Ward Shows Marginal Growth in Preseason Week 2

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Tennessee Titans quarterback Cam Ward displayed marginal growth during his performance in the second week of the NFL preseason against the Seattle Seahawks. Analysts noted that his play was an improvement over his Week 1 outing as he continues to develop within the team's system. Despite the progress, fan concern regarding his development remains a topic of discussion as the team evaluates its quarterback situation.

Colts Kicking Competition Remains Tight

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The Indianapolis Colts' kicking competition remains neck-and-neck between Blake Grupe and Spencer Shrader. Last year, the Colts started the season with Shrader before Grupe took over following an injury, and the team is currently evaluating both players to determine who will handle kicking duties for the 2026 season.

Colts Kicking Competition Remains Tight

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The Indianapolis Colts' kicking competition remains neck-and-neck between Blake Grupe and Spencer Shrader. Last year, the Colts started the season with Shrader before Grupe took over following an injury, and the team is currently evaluating both players to determine who will handle kicking duties for the 2026 season.

Bengals Release Veteran Offensive Lineman Cody Ford

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The Cincinnati Bengals have released veteran offensive lineman Cody Ford. The move comes after Ford spent three seasons with the organization and struggled during the preseason. The team is now searching for a replacement to serve as the primary swing tackle as they continue to make roster adjustments in preparation for the upcoming 2026 NFL season.