Overview
- The 2026 preseason is underway this week with teams using game reps and joint practices as the main evaluation tool for starters, backups and rookies before the 53-man rosters are set.
- The Minnesota Vikings officially named Kyler Murray their starter on Monday following a competitive camp that split reps between Murray and J. J. McCarthy.
- Cleveland coach Todd Monken informed his team Wednesday that Deshaun Watson will start the Browns’ preseason opener while Shedeur Sanders is expected to start the second preseason game.
- Training-camp joint practices have produced physical scrums and a wave of injuries, including Chicago safety Coby Bryant’s knee surgery that will sideline him four to six months and 49ers edge rusher Nick Bosa’s week-to-week tendinitis update, with teams taking a cautious approach to veteran playing time.
- Preseason performance matters for under-the-radar players because strong showings can earn regular-season roles, and early injuries are already forcing teams to promote backups or consider veteran additions as they sort depth ahead of cuts.