A few days ago, 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan stated that he “didn’t see any pro” in traveling to Australia for Week 1 of the 2026 NFL season. According to the coach, it is a “fact” that the Rams lobbied for the game to be held in Melbourne specifically to avoid a “Niners invasion” of SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.

Now, Roger Goodell has stepped in to defend the league’s decision. Speaking from Melbourne on Friday, the Commissioner emphasized that the game in Australia is a vital part of the NFL’s international growth strategy and noted that Shanahan’s primary focus should remain on winning the match.

“Coaches have a focus on winning, that’s their number one job,” Goodell said, via ESPN Australia. “Coach Shanahan is enthusiastic and a great football coach and also someone who truly understands the importance of expanding our game globally. But his job is to win. I always like to say that coaches like to play at [1 p.m.] and [4 p.m.] and don’t get in the way of that.”

Roger Goodell has key advice for Kyle Shanahan

The 49ers are clearly at odds with the league’s scheduling office. In addition to their trip to Australia, they are also slated to play in Mexico City later this season. Star tight end George Kittle expressed his frustration on social media with a simple “Woof,” highlighting the unprecedented travel demands of the 2026 schedule.

Despite the team’s concerns over grueling travel and jet lag, Roger Goodell believes NFL franchises are well-equipped to handle the logistics. The Commissioner even joked that he would advise Kyle Shanahan to download a specific jet-lag app he uses, claiming his own 15-hour flight to Melbourne was “relatively easy.”

“I have an app for [Shanahan], which I’m going to send to him,” Goodell added. “My wife hooked me up with an app, and I got to tell you, I feel great. I have not felt any jet lag at all. We’ve been here since Tuesday morning and I thought it was a relatively easy trip.”

Against the Rams in Australia, but who will the 49ers face in Mexico?

The Rams and 49ers will reignite their NFC West rivalry in Melbourne for a historic Week 1 opener on Thursday night, September 10 (Friday morning local time). However, San Francisco is also set to serve as the “home” team for a second international game at Estadio Banorte in Mexico City.

While the opponent has not been officially confirmed, rumors suggest the 49ers will face the Miami Dolphins on November 22. Although the Denver Broncos were initially considered, reports indicate the league opted against that matchup due to the similar high-altitude advantages both teams share, potentially favoring the Dolphins for a more “neutral” international spectacle.

Warren said he is “rocking with whoever’s at the quarterback position. But if he [Rodgers] comes back, great. If he doesn’t, then we’ll miss him.” This means, he is ready to be a weapon once again, but between lines, he wants Rodgers back with the Steelers.

Jaylen Warren also spoke on Mike Tomlin’s departure and the arrival of Mike McCarthy. With all these changes, Warren will take a step up as a leader on this roster as well. Hence, his role will be even more important than ever before.

Warren has shown love to Rodgers before

Warren sees Rodgers as a best friend. It’s been well documented that Warren is fond of Aaron Rodgers. Watching the numbers he had last year with A-Rod, maybe that’s a reason why. The 2025 NFL season was a career-year for Warren.

Warren had career-highs in attempts (211), yards (958 rushing, 1291 scrimmage), and also on touchdowns with eight total. The running back was one of the best offensive players on the Steelers roster last season. With a small-yet-powerful and explosive frame, Warren is a problem.

The Steelers got Warren help on the backfield

When Kenneth Gainwell left the team, it was a big worry for the Steelers. However, they arguably brought an even better running back to share snaps with Warren. With Rico Dowdle on the roster, the Steelers have one of the best running games in the NFL.

Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles has emerged as a legitimate option, signaling that New York could go defense. While offensive line remains a major need, the Giants appear increasingly open to selecting the best player available.

That idea was reinforced by ESPN analyst Jordan Reid, who shed light on how the NFL views the situation. “Talking to league sources, the Giants wouldn’t be shy about drafting an off-ball linebacker at No. 5, making Styles a real possibility at that spot. New coach John Harbaugh has always considered the middle linebacker spot to be important, and Styles fits the mold of what Harbaugh has loved in players such as Roquan Smith.”

Giants options in 2026 NFL Draft

Despite the growing buzz around Sonny Styles, the Giants still have several high-profile alternatives on the board. Running back Jeremiyah Love offers explosiveness and big-play potential on offense, while edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. could help reinforce the defensive front, especially amid uncertainty surrounding Dexter Lawrence.

Offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa remains another strong candidate, particularly if the Giants emphasize protecting quarterback Jaxson Dart and provide a boost to the running game if Cam Skattebo returns healthy.

There is also the possibility of adding elite secondary talent like safety Caleb Downs, widely regarded as one of the most complete defensive prospects in the class.

“Paulson wasn’t here,” the experienced head coach said to the press. “There’s no excused or unexcused. It’s voluntary. Guys come or not come according to their choosing. Voluntary-type time of year.”

Although the cornerback was one of the notable absences, it is known that he remains in constant contact with the staff. In a way, this comes as a relief for the team, and his situation does not appear to be in danger.

“He hasn’t been in attendance, but I’ve heard he has been in contact with the staff. Not sure the exact reason for his absence, but it’s not a contract issue or something like that,” the reporter Dan Duggan revealed on X.

When do the OTAs start?

Under new head coach John Harbaugh, the New York Giants‘ official OTA (Organized Team Activity) workouts are scheduled to begin on May 19, 2026. The team’s Phase 3 schedule includes three sets of OTA dates: May 19–21, May 27–29, and June 1–4.

While the overall voluntary offseason program officially kicked off on April 7 with strength and conditioning (Phase 1), the OTAs represent the first time the squad will engage in on-field, non-contact drills like 7-on-7 and 11-on-11. These sessions will lead directly into the mandatory veteran minicamp, which is set for June 8–10.

Giants look to the Draft

The Giants currently hold seven total picks for the 2026 NFL Draft, including a premium top-five selection. Their draft capital begins with the No. 5 overall pick in the first round, followed by No. 37 in the second.

While they do not own a third-round pick, they possess selections in the fourth (No. 105) and fifth (No. 145) rounds, and they have significant volume in the sixth round with three picks: No. 186, No. 192 (acquired from Miami), and No. 193 (acquired from Dallas).

Per Jordan Schultz, the Eagles, Rams, and Texans gave Douglas top-30 visits. He also reported that the Broncos had him for a private workout. Joining all of those teams in the Caleb Douglas sweepstakes, Schultz reported that the Vikings and Saints also had a workout with him, and the Cardinals scheduled a visit for next week.

While not a top-tier wideout prospect, Douglas has gathered attention as a possible Day 2 pick. After all, his size is huge and teams can see him as a vertical/end zone threat. Douglas stands at 6’4″, weighing 206 lbs.

Caleb Douglas is good, but with a glaring flaw

A star that led the Texas Tech Red Raiders in yards (846) and touchdowns (7), Douglas should have a higher draft projection, but he had one worrisome weakness during his college days: drops.

The Eagles, Rams, and Texans are teams that have talent in their WR rooms, so drops will really harm you in the pecking order. Douglas had seven drops in 2025. As for the Broncos, Sean Payton won’t give too much looks to an unreliable wideout.

Caleb Douglas’ NFL comp

Douglas’ frame and strengths line up with his weakness to make a really accurate comp. Whether he ends up being a Day 2 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft or not, he is very similar to Quentin Johnston.

Johnston is also a vertical, tall threat who struggles with drops, but also has quite some upside when able to actually catch the ball. If Douglas manages to correct that flaw, he could become an important piece on any offense he lands on.

The Giants could technically turn to Daniel Faalele or Evan Neal, but neither option inspires much confidence entering the season. That uncertainty has fueled speculation that New York might prioritize offensive line help earlier than expected, even if doing so at No. 5 overall would be considered a reach by traditional draft value standards.

Raanan highlighted the dilemma facing the front office, especially if the Giants decide not to force a pick based purely on need. “The Giants’ biggest need is right guard, where they’re without a starter unless they have full confidence in Daniel Faalele and/or Evan Neal, which seems nearly impossible right now. But would they really draft a right guard at No. 5, even if that player could later slide out to tackle?”

Who will Giants draft at No. 5?

If the Giants avoid reaching for a guard, the best-player-available strategy becomes increasingly likely according to Raanan. That approach would shift the focus toward elite defensive prospects.

“Instead, the Giants could go the best-player-available route, but who would be the best player at that spot, Ohio State safety Caleb Downs or Buckeyes linebacker Sonny Styles? If those are the choices, linebacker it is.”

The decision ultimately reflects a broader philosophical question for New York. Should the Giants prioritize immediate need at right guard, or select the best overall talent and address the offensive line later?

With uncertainty already surrounding other roster spots and ongoing discussions about adding playmakers like Jeremiyah Love or reinforcing the trenches, the No. 5 pick is shaping up to define the direction of the franchise.

“I think it’s OK to be skeptical and ask questions. I don’t think that means I have a tinfoil hat on. The fact that they did science, looked into it and found nothing,” Juszczyk said.

The full back also added, “I don’t stand next to the microwave while it’s on. If there’s any chance or inkling or thought process that maybe it has a 1 percent affect on you, I’m going to avoid it.” Skepticism at its purest form.

The 49ers investigation came out empty

At first, it was said that the electrical substation could soften tissues after prolonged time. Hence, it created plenty of buzz that the Niners trained literally a few feet away from an electrical substation. That paired with a plethora of 49ers injuries in recent years sparked the whole investigation.

After the investigation didn’t lead to anything, general manager John Lynch said about that the issue “basically was a big nothing burger.” However, he did say the investigation was necessary to ensure safety and wellness for the team’s players.

The 49ers will travel a lot in the 2026 season

Whether the substation affects the teams or not, the fact is the NFL is sending the 49ers to plenty of travels in the 2026 NFL season. The 49ers will open their season in Australia, playing against the Los Angeles Rams.

However, the 49ers will then also host a game in Mexico City. Hence, the team will travel over 38,000 miles in 2026. They are set to cross over 54 time zones. It will be a rough season for the 49ers and it could impact their recovery.

“If his priority was a new destination, it would have made more sense to push for a trade before free agency when teams’ budgets were full and they had all their draft picks available to deal.”

The comment highlights how leverage shifts once free agency passes, with fewer teams able to absorb a major contract or part with premium draft capital. That reality could limit potential offers and force the Giants to either hold firm or accept less-than-ideal compensation.

Giants draft plans could shift amid Dexter Lawrence trade buzz

The timing also intersects with a pivotal draft for New York. The organization is widely expected to address multiple roster holes, and moving Lawrence would reshape priorities on both sides of the ball. With uncertainty already surrounding key positions, any deal involving their defensive anchor would likely influence how aggressive the Giants become in the early rounds.

The Giants have been linked to several high-impact prospects, including running back Jeremiyah Love, offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa, and edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. Each player fills a different need, and the direction the Giants take may depend heavily on whether Lawrence remains on the roster. If he’s moved, reinforcing the defensive front becomes far more urgent.

Selecting Bain Jr. would represent the most direct response, giving New York a young pass-rusher to help offset the potential loss of interior dominance. On the other hand, targeting Mauigoa would signal a continued commitment to rebuilding the offensive line, while Love could add explosiveness to an offense searching for consistency. The flexibility of those options reflects just how open the Giants’ board currently appears.

Duggan’s point ultimately underscores the broader challenge. By requesting a trade now, Lawrence may have limited both his own market and the Giants’ negotiating leverage. With the draft approaching quickly, New York must decide whether to move forward with its original plans or adjust based on the possibility of a blockbuster deal. Either way, the situation has injected significant intrigue into what was already shaping up to be a defining draft for the franchise. It might all come down to salary.

“That’s not something we’ve gone into,” Gladstone told reporters , via the New York Post. “Obviously, he’s under contract with them, so not at liberty necessarily to even talk about it.”

A few days ago, the nose tackle requested a trade out of East Rutherford, even though Jim Harbaugh had shown interest in keeping him. What will ultimately be his destination this NFL season?

Current situation of Dexter Lawrence

The New York Giants and Dexter Lawrence have reached a breaking point following his recent trade request on April 6, 2026. Although he has two years remaining on the $90 million extension he signed in 2023, the market for elite interior defensive linemen has skyrocketed, with top salaries now exceeding $30 million annually.

Lawrence is currently seeking a contract adjustment to reflect his status as a premier player, as his current deal lacks guaranteed money for the final two seasons and ranks him outside the top 10 at his position. Despite his dip in statistical production last season, his high double-team rate remains vital to the defense, yet the Giants’ front office under GM Joe Schoen has shown little appetite for an immediate raise.

Several teams interested in Lawrence

While the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears have surfaced as the primary contenders looking to anchor their defensive fronts with Lawrence’s power, other early suitors have already pivoted. Specifically, the Jacksonville Jaguars were initially linked to the star, recently pulling out of the race.

Despite this, the Giants’ front office remains under pressure, as league insiders suggest they could still be swayed by a too good offer from Bengals if Cincinnati decides to outbid the NFC North rivals with a superior package of draft capital.

“Me personally, I never thought he was the problem or whatever, but it sucks,” he said about Tomlin’s dismissal on Good Morning Football. “I was — I wouldn’t say traumatized — but it hurt, because he was the one who took me in as an undrafted [player], he gave me a shot, and that’s who I was playing under for my first four years. To hear him resign, it sucked, but he had to do what he had to do.”

Warren arrived in Steel City in 2022 as an undrafted free agent after his final stint at Oklahoma State Cowboys football. This year, he will have a new coaching staff, which is also awaiting a final decision from Aaron Rodgers.

Warren’s 2025 in the Steelers

During the 2025 NFL season, Jaylen Warren continued to be a vital dual-threat weapon for Mike Tomlin’s offense, appearing in 16 regular-season games. On the ground, Warren recorded 211 carries for 958 rushing yards, averaging a solid 4.5 yards per attempt and finding the end zone 6 times.

His impact extended to the passing game, where he served as a reliable safety valve, hauling in 40 receptions for 333 yards and 2 additional touchdowns. One of his standout performances came in Week 16 against the Detroit Lions, where he exploded for a season-high 143 rushing yards and two scores, helping solidify his role as a key playmaker in Pittsburgh’s backfield.

The arrival of Mike McCarthy

Mike McCarthy joined the Pittsburgh Steelers after the franchise was left without a head coach heading into what lies ahead. Jaylen Warren, a key piece of the offense, is optimistic about this shift in energy.

“He’s been energetic,” Warren said regarding his new head coach. “Obviously, it’s an NFL week, so he’s been doing his thing as far as preparing us for what he wants and is expecting us to expect from him. It’s been great. I just love the energy he brings, and I just love what he’s about.“

Looking ahead to the Draft

McCarthy and Pittsburgh are in a strong position heading into the next draft. With 12 picks at their disposal, the hope of landing players such as wide receiver Makai Lemon is very much alive. These are the spots where the Steelers will have to make their selections.

• Round 1: Pick 21
• Round 2: Pick 53
• Round 3: Pick 76
• Round 3: Pick 85
• Round 3: Pick 99
• Round 4: Pick 121
• Round 4: Pick 135
• Round 5: Pick 161
• Round 6: Pick 216
• Round 7: Pick 224
• Round 7: Pick 230
• Round 7: Pick 237

Ian Rapoport of NFL Media confirmed that Denzel Boston met with the Ravens on Friday. He visited Baltimore after meeting with the Carolina Panthers earlier this week, who are also reportedly interested in acquiring his services. The Ravens also received news on WR Jordyn Tyson’s scouting, so Boston’s visit makes a lot of sense.

Boston is generating substantial interest across the league. The Steelers, Raiders, Browns, and Dolphins are among the clubs that have already met with the former Washington standout during the pre-draft process.

Can the Ravens land Denzel Boston?

It appears that Denzel Boston will be a highly sought-after prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft. His red-zone production is particularly attractive to teams, as he recorded 11 receiving touchdowns during the 2025 season with Washington, tying for ninth in the FBS.

With a “big-bodied” archetype (6’4″, 212 lbs), Boston could be the perfect complement to Zay Flowers’ elite speed. According to scouts, he is a “pro-ready” target whose elite ball skills and contested-catch ability could be a crucial addition to any offense.

Baltimore currently holds the No. 14 overall pick in the draft. While Boston is widely considered a top-30 prospect, he could be available when the Ravens are on the clock, though they face stiff competition from other wide receiver-needy teams picking late in the first round.

An offense that may need a new top wide receiver

With Zay Flowers established as a cornerstone, the Ravens are looking to add depth to create a more formidable wide receiver duo. As of today, the future of Rashod Bateman remains uncertain, with trade rumors linking him to the New York Giants and New York Jets as potential landing spots.

The Ravens have remained focused on bolstering Lamar Jackson’s offense in recent years. With a veteran presence in Derrick Henry and an outstanding tight end in Mark Andrews, a dominant boundary receiver like Boston could be the final piece required to achieve a championship.