Raiders: Kirk Cousins Named Camp Starter

The Las Vegas Raiders have officially named Kirk Cousins as their starting quarterback for the start of training camp. Head coach Klint Kubiak confirmed the decision, stating that the veteran signal-caller has earned the top spot through his performance in offseason workouts. Cousins, who joined the Raiders in 2024 after a long tenure with the Minnesota Vikings, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record. Over his career, he has thrown for over 45,000 yards and 300 touchdowns, with multiple Pro Bowl selections. His leadership and consistency have been praised by teammates and coaches alike.

However, the competition is not completely over. Rookie first-round pick Fernando Mendoza will also receive snaps with the first-team offense. The rookie out of the University of California has shown flashes of brilliance during OTAs and minicamp, but the coaching staff wants to see how he handles the pressure of full-speed practices. Mendoza's development is a long-term priority for the Raiders, and if he performs well, he could push for more playing time later in the season. For now, Cousins remains the undisputed leader, but the door is slightly ajar for the young quarterback to make his case.

This quarterback situation reflects a broader trend in the NFL: teams balancing the immediate need to win with the future promise of a drafted QB. The Raiders, coming off a 9-8 season, believe Cousins gives them the best chance to contend in the AFC West, a division featuring Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert. Kubiak's offense, which emphasizes play-action and deep shots, suits Cousins' skill set. The offensive line, anchored by Kolton Miller, will be crucial in protecting the 37-year-old QB. Fans will be watching closely to see if this veteran-led approach can finally bring stability to the franchise.

Baker Mayfield Halts Negotiations, Eyes Free Agency

Baker Mayfield’s future with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers has taken a dramatic turn. According to ESPN, the quarterback and the team have failed to reach an agreement on a contract extension, leading Mayfield and his representatives to pause negotiations. The former No. 1 overall pick believes he deserves a salary that reflects his performance, which currently ranks him 16th among NFL quarterbacks. After revitalizing his career in Tampa Bay—throwing for 4,500 yards and 35 touchdowns in 2025—Mayfield feels he has outplayed his current deal.

The Buccaneers face a calculated risk. If Mayfield delivers another strong season in 2026, he could become one of the most sought-after free agents in 2027. Tampa Bay does hold the franchise tag as a potential safety net, but using it would commit a significant cap hit. The team also has to consider the development of backup Kyle Trask, who has shown improvement in training camp. General manager Jason Licht has stated that the organization hopes to retain Mayfield long-term, but the price tag must align with their salary cap roadmap.

Mayfield's journey has been tumultuous. After stints with the Cleveland Browns, Carolina Panthers, and Los Angeles Rams, he found a home in Tampa Bay under offensive coordinator Dave Canales. His resurgence has been one of the league's best stories, and he is determined not to let a contract dispute derail his momentum. The coming season will be a high-stakes showcase for both the player and the franchise. If Mayfield plays at an elite level, he could command a deal worth $40 million or more per year. The Bucs, meanwhile, must decide whether to pay him or start over with a cheaper option.

Broncos' Jonathon Cooper Returns After Legal Issues

Denver Broncos outside linebacker Jonathon Cooper reported to training camp on Tuesday, as confirmed by the Denver Gazette. Cooper had been absent from all offseason activities following two arrests in June. According to 9News in Denver, the linebacker recently completed a 40-day therapy program and is now cleared to participate in football activities. However, his legal troubles are far from over. Cooper faces a felony charge of domestic violence and two misdemeanor charges. His court appearance is scheduled for late August.

The Broncos released a statement saying they are aware of the situation and will respect the legal process. Cooper, a fifth-year pro out of Ohio State, has been a key rotational player on defense, recording 6 sacks in 2025. His return on the field could provide a boost to the pass rush, but the team is also preparing for the possibility of NFL discipline under the personal conduct policy. The league can impose suspensions even if Cooper is not convicted, as long as the evidence indicates a violation. Head coach Sean Payton has not commented on Cooper's status beyond noting that he will practice while the legal matter proceeds.

This case highlights the NFL's ongoing challenge in dealing with off-field conduct. The Broncos have a history of supporting players facing legal issues, but they also emphasize accountability. Cooper's teammates have expressed support for his return, while advocacy groups are watching closely. The outcome of the court case and any league discipline will determine whether Cooper remains a Bronco for the entire season.

Micah Parsons Set to Return vs. Cowboys in Week 6

Green Bay Packers star edge rusher Micah Parsons has been placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list to start training camp, as expected. However, The Athletic reports that Parsons is expected to be activated in time for Week 6 of the regular season—a game that carries extra significance. The Packers are scheduled to face the Dallas Cowboys, Parsons' former team, in that week. Parsons suffered a torn ACL in Week 15 of the 2025 season while playing for the Cowboys. He was traded to Green Bay in the offseason as part of a rebuild in Dallas.

The timeline for ACL recovery is typically 9-12 months, and Week 6 would mark roughly 10 months since surgery. Parsons has been rehabbing diligently and has been seen running and cutting in recent weeks. His return would be a massive boost to a Packers defense that struggled in 2025. General manager Brian Gutekunst acquired Parsons in a blockbuster trade, giving up two first-round picks and a player. The move was seen as a win-now gambit, and having Parsons healthy is crucial.

The matchup against the Cowboys adds a layer of emotion. Parsons was a fan favorite in Dallas, earning three Pro Bowl nods and winning Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2021. His departure was controversial, as Cowboys owner Jerry Jones claimed the team could not afford his contract extension. Now, Parsons has a chance to show Dallas what they gave up, on a national stage. The Packers' coaching staff will likely manage his snaps carefully in his first game back, but his presence alone changes how offenses plan against Green Bay.

Brian O'Neill Signs Four-Year, $96 Million Extension

The Minnesota Vikings have locked up a cornerstone of their offensive line. Right tackle Brian O'Neill agreed to a four-year, $96 million contract extension, according to NFL Media. The deal keeps O'Neill in Minnesota through the 2030 season. Selected in the second round of the 2018 draft, O'Neill has started 108 games for the Vikings and earned two Pro Bowl selections. At 30 years old, he is the longest-tenured player on the roster and a key protector for quarterback J.J. McCarthy.

This extension continues the Vikings' commitment to building a dominant offensive line. Left tackle Christian Darrisaw is also under contract for several more years, giving the team two bookend tackles who are both in their prime. Offensive line coach Chris Kuper has praised O'Neill's consistency and leadership. The Vikings' offense, now led by head coach Kevin O'Connell, relies on a strong pocket for McCarthy to execute play-action passes. O'Neill's pass-blocking grade has been among the top 10 at his position for three straight years.

The financial structure of the deal includes $55 million guaranteed, a reflection of the premium placed on elite tackles. The Vikings have been aggressive in retaining their own talent, with extensions for Justin Jefferson and Christian Darrisaw in recent years. O'Neill's contract sets a market for right tackles, potentially influencing negotiations for players like Tristan Wirfs and Penei Sewell. For Minnesota, the message is clear: protect the young quarterback and compete in the NFC North.

Steelers' Joey Porter Jr. on PUP List Amid Contract Talks

The Pittsburgh Steelers placed cornerback Joey Porter Jr. on the physically unable to perform list to start training camp, a move that raised eyebrows. Neither general manager Omar Khan nor head coach Mike McCarthy had mentioned any injury before camp. ESPN reported that Porter had been seen riding a stationary bike during OTAs, but no specifics of the injury were disclosed. The timing coincides with ongoing contract extension negotiations between the team and Porter's representatives.

Porter, a second-round pick in 2023, has developed into a shutdown corner, recording 4 interceptions and 14 passes defended in 2025. He is entering the final year of his rookie contract, and the Steelers have expressed a strong desire to keep him long-term. However, no agreement has been reached. Porter's agent may be using the PUP list as leverage to pressure the team into a deal, or the injury could be a minor issue the team wants to be cautious about. The Steelers have a history of using the PUP list to manage contract disputes, such as with Le'Veon Bell in 2018.

Without Porter, the Steelers' secondary will rely on veterans like Jalen Ramsey and Donte Kent, who were also placed on the PUP list. The depth at corner is thin, making Porter's return vital. The team has a tough schedule to open the season, facing three high-powered passing attacks in the first four weeks. If Porter misses extended time, it could hurt Pittsburgh's playoff chances. Both sides likely want a resolution before Week 1, but the standoff may continue.

Aaron Rodgers Confirms 2026 Is His Last Season

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers has emphatically stated that the 2026 season will be his last in the NFL. Speaking at training camp, Rodgers told reporters, "No debate. Zero. Last year, I felt a much more dramatic atmosphere. I felt it was my last training camp. This year, I feel nothing like that. Really not. I'm just happy to be here with the guys." Rodgers, 42, signed a one-year contract with the Steelers in April 2026 after a brief retirement following his 2025 season with the New York Jets.

Rodgers' decision brings closure to speculation about his future. He is one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in history, with four MVP awards, a Super Bowl title, and numerous passing records. His legacy is secure, but he has said he wants to end his career on his own terms. The Steelers are hoping for one final playoff push with Rodgers under center. The offense features a talented receiving corps led by George Pickens and Roman Wilson, along with a solid offensive line. Defensively, Pittsburgh remains strong under coordinator Teryl Austin, though injuries in the secondary are a concern.

Rodgers' arrival in Pittsburgh was met with mixed reactions. Some fans were skeptical of a quarterback who had been in decline with the Jets, while others embraced the veteran leadership. In OTAs, Rodgers showed flashes of his old self, connecting on deep passes and reading defenses with precision. He has also mentored young backup Kenny Pickett, who was drafted by the Steelers in 2022. Rodgers' presence could accelerate Pickett's development, though the veteran will take all the snaps this season. After 2026, Rodgers plans to transition into broadcasting or coaching, but for now, his focus is on winning a second Super Bowl.

Injury Updates from Across the League

Bears

Chicago Bears placed defensive end Montez Sweat on the non-football injury list, but the team expects him back soon. The situation is less clear for cornerback Kyler Gordon, who has a calf injury and landed on the PUP list. General manager Ryan Poles described the uncertainty as "frustrating."

Steelers

Besides Porter, cornerbacks Jalen Ramsey and Donte Kent are also on the PUP list. However, tackle Broderick Jones was cleared for football activities. His workload in camp will be monitored.

Lions

Detroit placed guard Christian Mahogany on the non-football injury list without explanation. Cornerback Christian Izen joined the PUP list, continuing a trend of injuries in the Lions' secondary.

Texans

Wide receiver Tank Dell is fully cleared for practice after recovering from a knee injury. However, linebacker EJ Speed (quadriceps tear) may miss the entire season. Safety MJ Stewart and wide receiver Jaylin Noel are also on various injury lists.

Saints

New Orleans opened camp with wide receivers Chris Olave and Jordyn Tyson both fully cleared after offseason surgeries. Their return is crucial for quarterback Derek Carr's downfield attack.

Dolphins

Running back De'Von Achane received medical clearance to return after a 2025 season cut short by an ankle injury. His speed and versatility will be key for the Dolphins' offense.

Colts

Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner passed his physical and will not go on any injury list. This comes after the Colts announced the return of quarterback Daniel Jones from injury.

Panthers

Tight end Mitchell Evans was carted off the practice field with what appears to be a serious knee injury, adding to Carolina's injury woes. However, cornerback Jaycee Horn was activated, providing a boost to the secondary.

Jets

Wide receiver Tim Patrick came off the PUP list and will compete for a roster spot. Meanwhile, defensive end Joseph Ossai landed on the PUP list, further depleting the Jets' pass rush.

Source:TDActu.com - Actu NFL News