International Expansion
The NFL has announced a major global footprint expansion, officially confirming that regular-season games will be played in Madrid, Spain beginning in 2026. This adds another European market to the league’s international push, with Spain joining the UK and Germany as recurring hosts. Meanwhile, the league has finalized details for its first-ever game in Paris, France, scheduled for October 25, 2026, at Stade de France. The matchup will feature the New Orleans Saints versus the Cleveland Browns, marking a milestone in French NFL engagement.
To further promote international growth and Olympic sport development, the NFL announced that the U.S. and Mexico national flag football teams will play an exhibition match during Super Bowl week. This event serves as a preview for flag football’s debut in the 2028 Olympics and reflects increasing coordination between the league and the International Olympic Committee.
Coaching News
The NFL coaching carousel remains in full swing just days before Super Bowl LX. The San Francisco 49ers are set to hire Raheem Morris as their next defensive coordinator, replacing Steve Wilks. Morris rejoins Kyle Shanahan in what will be their fourth coaching stop together, having previously worked side-by-side in Tampa Bay, Washington, and Atlanta. Morris most recently served as the Falcons’ head coach.
The Arizona Cardinals are reportedly finalizing a deal to hire Mike LaFleur, the current Rams offensive coordinator, as their next head coach. This would fill the NFL’s final head coaching vacancy. Meanwhile, the Las Vegas Raiders appear close to making Klint Kubiak their next head coach, pending finalization after the Super Bowl. Kubiak has served as the 49ers passing game coordinator and is viewed as an innovative offensive mind rising through the ranks.
In Pittsburgh, the Steelers have hired Scott Tolzien as offensive coordinator. Tolzien, previously on the Cowboys’ staff, now takes on his first coordinator role as Pittsburgh looks to revamp its offensive identity. The Denver Broncos interviewed Davis Webb for their offensive coordinator spot. Webb, currently on the Broncos’ staff, is reportedly considered a favorite to take over the role full-time.
The New York Jets have scheduled a second interview with Darrell Bevell for their offensive coordinator vacancy, signaling serious interest in the experienced play-caller. Bevell has held multiple OC roles across the league and would bring veteran leadership to New York’s offensive staff.
Also of note, Ejiro Evero, currently the Panthers defensive coordinator, was reportedly the runner-up for the Raiders’ head coaching job. While he didn’t land the role, the recognition continues to build his profile for future head coaching opportunities.
On the defensive side, Vic Fangio is reportedly weighing retirement. Fangio has long been considered one of the league’s most respected defensive minds, currently serving as the Eagles’ DC. His potential departure would be a significant loss for one of the NFL’s top-ranked units.
The Buffalo Bills have added Bobby April III as their new outside linebackers coach. April returns to Buffalo, where he previously worked over a decade ago, following a stint as Stanford’s defensive coordinator.
Team & Ownership News
The NFL clarified that the Seattle Seahawks were not fined in connection to their ongoing ownership transition. The league issued the statement in response to public speculation, emphasizing that no penalties have been levied against the team related to internal ownership matters. The Seahawks continue to navigate the post-Paul Allen estate planning phase and have not committed publicly to any ownership timeline.
Player Recognition
Joe Burrow has been named to the 2026 Pro Bowl Games in Orlando, joining a star-studded AFC quarterback roster. The honor comes despite Burrow missing time earlier this season due to injury. He replaces Lamar Jackson, who is unavailable due to Super Bowl participation.
Quarterback Developments
The Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly expecting Aaron Rodgers to return to action for the 2026 season. Although Rodgers is currently part of the New York Jets roster, the report comes amid wider speculation about the veteran quarterback’s long-term plans. There is, however, no indication of a roster move at this time.