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NFL News

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

Thursday, August 20

T.J. Edwards and Caleb Williams Sync Up After Bears Joint Practice

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Chicago Bears linebacker T.J. Edwards was seen conferring with rookie quarterback Caleb Williams following a challenging joint practice session against the Cincinnati Bengals. The veteran defender's interaction with the young signal-caller highlights the team's focus on communication and leadership during the preseason. Edwards, a key figure in the Bears' defense, participated in post-practice discussions as the team reviewed highlights and areas for improvement from the day's drills.

Ravens Center Danny Pinter Suffers Likely Season-Ending Knee Injury

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Baltimore Ravens center Danny Pinter has suffered a torn patellar tendon, a significant injury that is expected to end his 2026 season. This development is a major blow to the Ravens' offensive line as they were in the process of evaluating a competition to replace Tyler Linderbaum. Pinter's absence leaves a void in the middle of the line and complicates the team's depth chart. The Ravens will now need to accelerate their search for a reliable starter at the center position for the season.

Jaishawn Barham Expected to Make Cowboys Debut Against Cardinals

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Dallas Cowboys linebacker Jaishawn Barham is slated to make his team debut this Saturday night in a preseason matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. Barham's first appearance in a Cowboys uniform is highly anticipated as the coaching staff looks to evaluate his fit within the defensive scheme. This game provides a crucial platform for Barham to showcase his skills in a live-game environment. His performance will be closely watched as the team continues to finalize its roster for the season.

Sam LaPorta Sidelined by Hip Injury; Week 1 Availability Uncertain

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Lions tight end Sam LaPorta is managing a hip injury sustained during practice, as confirmed by head coach Dan Campbell. LaPorta has been ruled out for Saturday's preseason game against the Commanders, and his status for the Week 1 regular-season opener against the Saints remains uncertain. While the team is exercising caution and has not committed to a specific return timeline, the injury is not currently considered serious. The Lions continue to monitor his progress as the season nears.

Geno Smith Set to Start Preseason Game Friday After Ankle Injury

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Jets quarterback Geno Smith is scheduled to make his first start of the 2026 preseason this Friday night against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Smith previously missed the preseason opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers due to minor ankle soreness but has since returned to lead offensive preparations. His participation in this contest is viewed as a critical step in the team's evaluation process as they prepare for the regular season. The coaching staff is eager to see him command the first-team offense.

Raiders Center Tyler Linderbaum Subject of Ravens Replacement Search

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The Baltimore Ravens are actively seeking a replacement for center Tyler Linderbaum, a search that was recently complicated by a season-ending injury to Danny Pinter. While Linderbaum is currently associated with the Las Vegas Raiders, his departure from his previous role has left a significant gap in the Ravens' offensive line rotation. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges teams face in maintaining continuity at the center position during the high-stakes preseason evaluation period.

Ennis Rakestraw Jr. Suffers Leg Injury at Practice

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Lions cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. left Thursday's practice session after sustaining a leg injury. This latest setback adds to his history of health concerns, and the team has not yet provided a specific timeline for his recovery or confirmed the severity of the injury. His status for upcoming preseason activities remains in question as the team monitors his condition following his early departure from training camp.

Drake Maye Shows Growth During Joint Practices

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Patriots quarterback Drake Maye demonstrated significant growth during the team's joint practices against the Philadelphia Eagles. Reports indicate that Maye was overall sharp throughout the sessions, marking a positive development in his progression two years into his tenure with the organization. The coaching staff continues to monitor his performance as he competes and develops during the preseason period.

DJ Moore Returns to Team Drills

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Buffalo Bills receiver DJ Moore is participating in team drills as of Thursday, according to Matthew Bove of 7 News WKBW. Moore had been sidelined recently due to a lower-body injury. His return to practice is a positive sign for the Bills' offense as they continue their preseason preparations. Further analysis on his recovery and impact on the roster can be found via RotoWire.

Vita Vea Signs $30M Extension, Ending Trade Speculation

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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have secured defensive standout Vita Vea with a $30 million contract extension. This deal resolves the trade request Vea made just weeks ago, ensuring the veteran remains a cornerstone of the defense. Vea expressed his commitment to the franchise, stating that his goal was never to leave Tampa Bay and that he wants to be a Buc for life, effectively ending the recent uncertainty surrounding his future.

Bills Bolster Defensive Line with Greg Gaines

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The Buffalo Bills have addressed a key roster need by signing veteran defensive tackle Greg Gaines. The addition is intended to strengthen the interior of the team's defensive line. Analysts have noted the move as a strategic effort to improve the team's defensive front, providing depth and experience as the Bills continue to shape their roster for the upcoming 2026 season.

Commanders Evaluate Options to Replace Laremy Tunsil

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Following the absence of Laremy Tunsil, the Washington Commanders are currently evaluating internal options to fill the vacancy on the offensive line. Advanced statistical analysis suggests that the team possesses viable depth to mitigate the impact of his absence. The coaching staff is focused on maintaining offensive stability as they prepare for the regular season without Tunsil in the immediate lineup.

Trey McBride Named to NFL Top 100 Players List

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Arizona Cardinals tight end Trey McBride has been recognized as one of the league's elite, earning the 13th spot on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2026 list. This ranking is determined by votes from his peers across the league, highlighting his significant impact and performance on the field. The honor reflects McBride's rising status as a premier playmaker in the NFL.

Patrick Mahomes Ruled Out for Preseason; Super Bowl Odds Shift

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Head coach Andy Reid has confirmed Patrick Mahomes will sit out Saturday's preseason game against the Buccaneers due to a knee injury, a precautionary measure to ensure recovery. Separately, the Chiefs face unfamiliar territory with 16-1 Super Bowl odds, the longest since Mahomes' first year as a starter. Analysts continue to monitor his career trajectory and potential red flags for AFC quarterbacks as he navigates the midway point of his career.

Abdul Carter Involved in Practice Altercation

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Giants edge rusher Abdul Carter was involved in an on-field altercation during Thursday's joint practice with the Dolphins, where he threw a punch at Patrick Paul. Amidst the heated practice environment, Carter has also made headlines for his ambitious career goals, recently telling The Athletic that he aspires to be the greatest of all time. The team continues to evaluate his development as he pursues these lofty career milestones.

Pat Surtain II Ranked Among Top NFL Cornerbacks

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Pat Surtain II continues to be recognized as one of the league's premier defensive backs. Ahead of the 2026 season, he has been featured in top-10 cornerback rankings, sparking discussions about his status as the best cornerback in the NFL. His performance and consistency remain central to the Broncos' defensive strategy as they head into the new year.

Dalton Schultz Highlighted as Fantasy Football Sleeper

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Texans tight end Dalton Schultz has been identified by fantasy football analyst Justin Boone as a top sleeper pick for the 2026 season. As part of a series focusing on tight end value, Schultz is being positioned as a player to watch for fantasy managers looking for potential breakout production or reliable depth in their lineups.

Khalil Shakir Managing Undisclosed Injury

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Bills wide receiver Khalil Shakir did not participate in Tuesday's practice session due to an undisclosed injury. The team is currently managing his status, and further information regarding his availability for upcoming preseason games has not been released. His progress will be monitored as the Bills continue their training camp schedule.

Kyler Murray Unlikely to Play in Preseason Game vs. Ravens

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Vikings quarterback Kyler Murray is not expected to suit up for Saturday's preseason contest against the Baltimore Ravens. The team is likely exercising caution with their star signal-caller as they manage his workload during the preseason. Further updates on his status for subsequent games will be provided as the team continues its preparations.

Jaxson Dart Shows Promise in Joint Practice vs. Dolphins

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Jaxson Dart had a notable performance during the Giants' joint practice session against the Miami Dolphins. Coaches and teammates offered positive feedback on his work during the drills, highlighting his development and ability to execute against a different defensive scheme. The practice session served as a significant evaluation point for the young quarterback.