Franchise Developments
The Seattle Seahawks have begun formal preparations to initiate a sale process, marking a potential major shift in the franchise’s ownership structure. While no timeline has been publicly confirmed, this move indicates internal steps are underway to attract buyers and set the stage for a transition.
Quarterback News
The Arizona Cardinals are reportedly looking to trade Kyler Murray before the start of the 2026 league year. Murray, who has previously indicated interest in playing for the Vikings — his childhood favorite team — emerges as one of the most significant potential movers this offseason. This combination of team interest in a trade and player willingness could lead to robust market activity in the coming weeks.
Former Pro Bowl quarterback Derek Carr has confirmed on his “Home Grown” podcast that he is open to returning to the NFL. However, he laid out two strict conditions: he must be healthy, and the opportunity must be with a legitimate Super Bowl contender. Carr, who stepped away from football citing health and team fit, could draw interest from teams seeking veteran leadership at the QB position in 2026.
Coaching News
Significant coaching updates continued this week across the league. The Arizona Cardinals are expected to hire former NFL quarterback Matt Schaub as their quarterbacks coach, according to CBS Sports. In a related move, the team is also eyeing Karl Scott, the current passing game coordinator for the Seahawks, as a candidate for their defensive coordinator position.
The Las Vegas Raiders are adding experience to their coaching staff by hiring Mike McCoy as assistant head coach. McCoy brings head-coaching experience from his time with the Chargers and recently served as interim coach for the Titans, bolstering Klint Kubiak’s new regime.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers announced several changes to their coaching staff for 2026, notably adding Todd Bowles Jr., son of head coach Todd Bowles, as a defensive assistant. These staff changes underscore the team’s continued emphasis on defensive growth.
The New England Patriots are shaking up their defensive staff following Terrell Williams‘ transition to a high-ranking role within the team. Williams, now cancer-free, stepped aside as defensive coordinator. Inside linebackers coach Zak Kuhr, who took on play-calling duties during the team’s recent Super Bowl run, is a top internal candidate to fill the role.
Elsewhere, the Detroit Lions reportedly blocked the Miami Dolphins‘ request to interview Bruce Gradkowski for a coaching position, demonstrating the value they place on retaining their current quarterback development pipeline.
Transaction News
The Seattle Seahawks signed 15 players to future contracts, including running backs Velus Jones Jr. and Cam Akers. Both backs played key roles during Seattle’s recent Super Bowl victory, showing that the team aims to retain depth and continuity for another championship run.
Wide receiver Kendrick Bourne, who joined the San Francisco 49ers midseason, has expressed a desire to remain with the team for the 2026 campaign. His fit with the offense and potential value as a depth piece could influence the 49ers’ offseason planning.
Scheduling and International Expansion
A report indicates that the NFL’s inaugural regular season game in Australia—featuring the 49ers and Rams—will be played on either Wednesday, September 9, or Thursday, September 10, 2026, in Melbourne. This marks a significant step in the league’s international expansion strategy, as it continues to test global markets beyond Europe.
Policy and League Integrity
In light of recent NBA fines levied against the Utah Jazz and Indiana Pacers for tanking, discussions around anti-tanking policies have resurfaced in the NFL. Analysts including Mike Florio and Michael Holley argue that the NFL must consider more transparent or enforceable anti-tanking measures to maintain competitive integrity late in the season. While the league has taken some measures in the past, the conversation is gaining renewed importance.
Legal and Political News
Former President Donald Trump has issued pardons to five former NFL players convicted of crimes ranging from perjury to drug trafficking. While names were not specified in the immediate reporting, the move brings renewed focus to the intersection of politics and professional sports.