Injuries
Nick Emmanwori, a safety for the Seahawks, suffered an ankle injury during Super Bowl practice earlier this week. While the severity of the injury has not yet been publicly disclosed, any potential absence could impact Seattle’s game plan heading into Sunday’s championship.
On a more positive note for New England, Drake Maye was listed as a full participant in practice despite a shoulder injury sustained in the AFC Championship game. According to Adam Schefter, the Patriots rookie quarterback appears to be on track to start in Super Bowl LX.
Coaching News
The Philadelphia Eagles are undergoing major changes on their coaching staff. Long-time offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland announced his departure from coaching duties after 13 seasons with the team. In a statement, Stoutland reflected on his deep ties to the city and its passionate fanbase. Though he will remain with the organization in a non-coaching capacity, a report from Ian Rapoport indicates incoming offensive coordinator Sean Mannion will bring in his own staff, marking a clear transition in offensive leadership.
ESPN reports suggest Stoutland chose to drop his title of run game coordinator after feeling sidelined in recent schematic decision-making. This internal tension, alongside the appointment of Mannion, likely played a role in his decision to step back.
Defensively, continuity remains as Vic Fangio has decided to continue as the Eagles’ defensive coordinator. Fangio, 67, had contemplated retirement, but ultimately chose to return for a third season, providing stability for a defense that has seen significant roster changes in recent years.
Elsewhere, the Chicago Bears have added veteran presence to their staff, hiring Eric Studesville as the team’s new running backs coach. Studesville brings decades of experience, including stints with the Dolphins and Broncos, and is expected to contribute to the development of Chicago’s young offensive core.
The Arizona Cardinals have brought in Nathaniel Hackett as their new offensive coordinator, per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. Hackett reunites with Mike LaFleur, forming a new offensive direction in Arizona. Hackett previously served as the Packers’ offensive coordinator under Matt LaFleur and will look to rejuvenate the Cardinals’ attack.
Team Branding
The Washington Commanders have teased a redesign of their team logo, introducing a new look that features a shield and crossed spears motif. While full imagery and details remain pending, the teaser suggests a move toward a more traditional, militaristic visual identity as part of the organization’s broader rebranding effort.
Front Office and Player Perspectives
Rams general manager Les Snead acknowledged in comments this week that quarterback Matthew Stafford may be nearing the end of his career. Snead emphasized that if Stafford returns, the team intends to fully capitalize on the time remaining with the veteran QB, citing his high level of play in 2025.
In New York, new Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart praised newly hired head coach John Harbaugh, calling him “the best” during media interviews this week. Dart spoke on Harbaugh’s leadership style and the culture change expected under his tenure.
Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye shared admiration for Aaron Rodgers, noting that he grew up idolizing the former MVP. Maye cited Rodgers’ throwing ability and leadership as attributes he’s tried to emulate, offering insight into the young passer’s mindset ahead of his Super Bowl debut.
Hall of Fame News
Reports confirm that former 49ers running back Roger Craig has been elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The formal announcement is scheduled for Thursday during the NFL Honors ceremony. Craig becomes a deserving inductee, having pioneered the dual-threat running back role with over 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in a single season.
Darren Woodson, a finalist and long-time Dallas Cowboys safety, spoke publicly about his aspirations for Hall of Fame enshrinement. In an interview, he reflected on his career accolades and the emotional significance of potentially receiving the call.
Player Media Appearances
Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott acknowledged the growing pressure of his team’s Super Bowl drought, saying the “monkey on the back” gets heavier each year. The comments come amid scrutiny over Dallas’ postseason performances during his tenure.
Former defensive back Adam “Pacman” Jones stirred debate during a media appearance by declaring that Myles Garrett should be the NFL MVP. Jones cited Garrett’s transformative impact on the Browns’ defense and his dominance up front.
Retired Patriots lineman Vince Wilfork voiced confidence in Mike Vrabel and the New England coaching staff ahead of Super Bowl LX. Wilfork praised Vrabel’s leadership and game-planning ability, highlighting continuity and accountability as key strengths.
Off-Field Stories
Former NFL quarterback Ryan Leaf reportedly confronted Dr. David Chao on Super Bowl Radio Row over past grievances related to medical treatment and public comments. According to witness accounts, the confrontation was verbal but escalated in intensity before ending without physical altercation. Chao later downplayed the incident, expressing confusion over why Leaf chose this moment to speak out after years of silence. The backstory involves a decade-old lawsuit and longstanding tension related to medical decisions during Leaf’s Chargers career.
In a show of empathy and community, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor and former offensive coordinator Brian Callahan helped pay for the funeral of reporter Jay Morrison’s wife, Nicki Morrison, who passed in late 2025. The gesture drew widespread praise for the coaches’ compassion and respect for the media community.
Looking Ahead
As the countdown to Super Bowl LX continues, all eyes remain on player availability and sideline dynamics. The return of Drake Maye and the potential impact of Nick Emmanwori’s injury could shape the outcome, while coaching transitions in Philadelphia and Arizona set the tone for new chapters in 2026.
Additional Pro Football Hall of Fame announcements Thursday will round out a week rich with storylines on and off the field.