“There’s a good chance Christian is on the field,” Schottenheimer said during his press conference. “Christian Parker is our defensive coordinator. All (defensive) decisions will go through him.”

The coach also addressed the possibility of Parker taking on a new role in the booth. “None of those decisions have been finalized.” To address their shortcomings, it is clear that certain changes need to be made within the Cowboys organization.

Defensive issues plague America’s Team

The Cowboys’ defense has been an absolute trainwreck through the first five weeks of the 2026 season, sitting near the absolute bottom of the league in both total yards yielded (31st) and points allowed (26th) while ranking dead last in EPA per play. Despite investing heavy capital during the offseason, the unit has looked completely lost—failing to generate consistent pressure, bleeding big plays, and forcing new defensive coordinator Christian Parker into a trial by fire.

Desperate to stop the bleeding before the season completely spirals, Jerry Jones and Brian Schottenheimer coaxed veteran defensive guru Mike Pettine out of retirement as a senior defensive assistant. The hope is that Pettine’s extensive experience—and his mastery of disguised pressures and mug fronts—can act as a steadying hand for Parker, help fix the scheme’s massive coverage gaps, and salvage America’s Team on that side of the ball.

A big opportunity to fix the problems

America’s Team face a massive Week 6 matchup this Sunday, October 18, against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field, giving their struggling defense the perfect stage to make a statement. Heading into Green Bay sitting at 2–3 after a tough loss to the Buccaneers, the Cowboys desperately need to clean up their schemes, tighten coverage gaps, and show immediate progress.

Going up against a solid Packers squad in a high-stakes primetime environment isn’t an easy task, but if Dallas can dial up pressure and hold its ground, it could be the exact turning point its defense needs to get the season back on track.

Key takeaways

• Brian Schottenheimer stated Christian Parker is our defensive coordinator.
• Jerry Jones announced Mike Pettine’s arrival to the Dallas Cowboys.
• Dallas Cowboys defense ranks dead last in EPA per play.

According to Giants reporter Dan Duggan, Harbaugh said Carter is doing well but confirmed that the young pass rusher will appear on the team’s injury report. The coach did not provide further details about the nature of the issue or explain why Carter was absent from practice. That leaves uncertainty surrounding the linebacker’s status as the Giants continue their preparations.

Carter’s situation is worth watching because of his importance to New York’s pass rush. Any limitation to his availability could force the coaching staff to adjust its plans against New Orleans, particularly when it comes to generating pressure on the quarterback.

Will Abdul Carter play for Giants against Saints?

For now, the Giants have not confirmed whether Abdul Carter will be available on game day. Harbaugh’s comments suggest that the situation is being monitored, but the absence of additional information makes it difficult to determine whether the linebacker is dealing with a minor issue or something that could keep him out. His official injury designation and participation in upcoming practices should provide a clearer picture.

Carter’s potential absence would also create an intriguing challenge for New York’s defensive line and outside linebacker rotation. The Giants rely on pressure from their front seven to disrupt opposing offenses, and Carter’s explosiveness gives them another option when attacking the pocket. If he cannot play or is limited, other pass rushers may need to take on additional snaps and responsibilities.

The Giants will have to wait for more information before making a final determination on Carter’s status. Harbaugh’s update offered some reassurance without resolving the central question, leaving his availability against the Saints uncertain.

With the game approaching, the next injury report and practice updates will be crucial in determining whether New York will have its young pass rusher available.

Key takeaways

• Outside linebacker Abdul Carter missed the New York Giants’ Wednesday practice session ahead of Week 6.
• Head coach John Harbaugh stated Carter is doing well but will appear on the injury report.
• The New York Giants rely on Carter’s explosive pass-rushing skills to create pressure on quarterbacks.

Although Rice’s availability for the game at Arrowhead remains uncertain, Reid said the wide receiver is feeling better. “It could be a week, it could be two,” the coach said regarding his hamstring injuries.

Andy Reid also addressed Omarr Norman-Lott’s current situation. “He is getting better. He’s working out with the trainers. He’s getting close.” The Chiefs are slowly beginning to get players back at a crucial point in the season.

What happened to Rashee Rice?

Rashee Rice’s path with injuries has been a real rollercoaster for Kansas City. After missing most of 2024 following a freak knee collision with Patrick Mahomes, he spent a ton of time working his way back to full strength. Just as he was regaining his stride as Mahomes‘ go-to target in 2026, he suffered a right hamstring tweak early against the Raiders, forcing him to leave the field.

Luckily for the Chiefs, the timing worked out with an early bye week, giving Rice some much-needed breathing room to rest up and avoid any long-term setbacks as he works to lock back into the offense.

Awaiting Rice

While Andy Reid and the Chiefs wait to get Rashee Rice fully healthy and back into the flow, Kansas City has a solid stretch of games lined up:

• Week 6 (Oct 18): vs. Los Angeles Chargers at Arrowhead Stadium (4:25 PM ET)
• Week 7 (Oct 25): at Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field (8:20 PM ET)
• Week 8 (Nov 1): at Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High (4:25 PM ET)

With Patrick Mahomes holding down the fort alongside Travis Kelce and Xavier Worthy, Kansas City will look to keep their momentum rolling through these divisional and cross-conference matchups until Rice is cleared to light up the field again.

Key takeaways

• Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid stated “we’ll see” if Rashee Rice practices.
• Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice dealt with right hamstring injuries.
• Omarr Norman-Lott is getting better and working out with trainers for Kansas City.

“WR Braxton Berrios had successful surgery on Friday to repair a lisfranc injury, per sources. He is out for the season and was placed on injured reserve last week.”

The injury is a significant setback for Berrios, who joined the Giants hoping to contribute as both a wide receiver and a return specialist. He suffered the foot injury during New York’s Week 4 victory over the Arizona Cardinals, leaving the game after being hurt on a punt return. The diagnosis and subsequent surgery mean the veteran will now focus on rehabilitation rather than helping the Giants during the remainder of the season.

How will the Giants replace Braxton Berrios?

Berrios had served as New York’s primary kickoff and punt returner while also providing depth at wide receiver. Although his offensive role was limited, his experience on special teams gave the Giants another option in the return game. Losing him for the season forces the coaching staff to adjust its plans and find a reliable replacement for those responsibilities.

Charlie Jones is among the players positioned to take on a larger role after previously stepping in following Berrios’ injury. Jones returned kicks and punts against Arizona and Washington, giving the Giants an internal option as they evaluate their special teams personnel. New York could also consider other players already on the roster or practice squad rather than immediately pursuing an external addition.

For Berrios, the priority now shifts to recovering from the Lisfranc injury and preparing for his eventual return to football. The veteran has dealt with significant injuries in recent seasons, making another lengthy rehabilitation especially frustrating. Meanwhile, the Giants must move forward without one of their key return specialists as they prepare for the challenges ahead in the 2026 campaign.

Key takeaways

• Braxton Berrios underwent successful surgery to repair a Lisfranc injury in his foot.
• The return specialist suffered the foot injury during New York’s Week 4 victory.
• Charlie Jones is among the players positioned to take on a larger special teams role.

Harrison’s promotion comes after he used all three of his available practice squad elevations. The linebacker missed the Giants’ last two games because of an injury, but he has been rehabbing as he works toward returning to action. By signing him to the active roster, New York ensures that Harrison can be activated again once he is healthy enough to play.

The move also reunites Harrison with Harbaugh, who knows the linebacker well from their time together in Baltimore. Harrison played for the Ravens from 2020 through 2024 before joining the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025. His familiarity with Harbaugh’s coaching system could help him make a smooth transition into a more permanent role with the Giants, particularly on special teams.

Who did NY Giants just sign?

Malik Harrison is not the only player joining New York, as Raanan also reported that the Giants are signing offensive lineman Josh Gesky to their practice squad. The undrafted rookie out of Illinois previously spent time with the Green Bay Packers, giving the Giants another option to develop as they look to strengthen their offensive line depth.

Gesky played 48 games with 34 starts during his five seasons at Illinois, primarily lining up at left guard. He started all 26 games he played during his final two collegiate seasons, providing experience at a position where depth can become particularly important over the course of an NFL season. His addition gives New York another young offensive lineman to evaluate within its system.

The Giants are continuing to adjust their roster as they prepare to face the Saints, with Harrison’s move addressing linebacker availability and Gesky’s arrival adding competition up front.

Harrison’s recovery will determine when he can return to the field, while Gesky will have an opportunity to work with the coaching staff and compete for a future role. Both moves reflect New York’s effort to maintain depth as the season progresses.

Key takeaways

• Malik Harrison signed with the New York Giants active roster ahead of Week 6.
• Linebacker Harrison spent five seasons playing under John Harbaugh with the Baltimore Ravens.
• The Giants signed undrafted rookie offensive lineman Josh Gesky to their practice squad.

“Browns QB Shedeur Sanders, who went through draft night and the early part of his NFL career without an agent, has signed with Adie von Gontard, CEO of Young Money APAA Sports, for representation. With the signing, YMAPAA now represents former Colorado teammates Travis Hunter and Sanders.”

The timing of Sanders’ decision is noteworthy because his path to a starting role in Cleveland remains uncertain. Sanders currently sits behind Deshaun Watson on the Browns’ quarterback depth chart, and Watson’s recent performances have strengthened his position under head coach Todd Monken. With no immediate opening expected, Shedeur could face a longer wait for a meaningful opportunity to take over the offense.

Will Browns trade Shedeur Sanders?

Shedeur Sanders’ decision to hire an agent has naturally raised questions about whether a trade could eventually become an option. Having professional representation could help facilitate conversations if Cleveland or another team explores a potential move. However, there is no confirmation that Sanders has requested a trade or that the Browns are actively shopping the former Colorado quarterback.

If Watson continues to convince Monken and the coaching staff, Cleveland could eventually consider its options with Sanders, particularly if the organization believes it can recover a draft pick in a trade.

The Browns would have to weigh that possibility against the value of keeping a young quarterback as a backup and continuing his development. For now, a trade remains speculation rather than an established plan.

Still, the hiring of von Gontard is a development worth monitoring as Sanders’ role with the Browns remains limited. His new representation could become relevant if his future in Cleveland changes, whether through a potential trade or another career decision.

For the moment, Sanders remains with the Browns, and the agency announcement alone does not establish that a move is coming. The team’s plans at quarterback and Watson’s performance will likely remain the most important factors in determining what happens next.

Key takeaways

• Shedeur Sanders signed with agent Adie von Gontard of Young Money APAA Sports.
• Young Money APAA Sports also represents former Colorado teammate Travis Hunter.
• Deshaun Watson currently holds the starting quarterback role ahead of Sanders.

“So many people wanted me to be back for that game to make the game bigger than what it was,” Parsons said on “The Edge with Micah Parsons” podcast. “It’s just another Sunday Night Football game against two good teams. It’s not about me.

“I think that probably let people down. ‘Oh, Micah, he’s gonna wanna be back for the Dallas game.’ No, I’m in that phase of life where I just wanna be healthy again. That’s it. I don’t care about the team I left or the team they think I want my revenge against. I don’t need revenge. I just need two healthy knees to do what I love to do.”

There is clearly still some bad blood between America’s Team and Parsons, although the player seems to have turned the page and is now focused solely on his recovery. Still, the return of one of the Packers’ biggest stars appears to be drawing closer.

Return at full strength

Recovering from a serious injury can take several months, and that was the case for Micah Parsons. The Packers’ star pass rusher has made it clear that he will return to the gridiron only when he is 100% healthy, as he does not want to rush the recovery process.

“What a lot of people don’t figure out is it’s not just the ACL,” he said. “It’s like, why did the ACL happen? What was weak? Because it all works together. It’s a chain, right? And throughout the history of ACL, they notice if you come back early, there tends to be an overcompensation injury on the other side.

“Throughout just this year, we’ve seen injuries across the league, coming off ACL or coming off injuries where it was like a soft tissue injury, a core muscle injury, ankle injury, so they were just like, ‘We’re just gonna make sure everything is right before [you return].’ Because everyone knows, it’s like, what’s the point of getting me back for four weeks, and then next thing you know, my groin bothering me, now I have a core muscle [injury], now I’m missing [time]?

A crucial matchup for the Packers

The Green Bay Packers are gearing up for a crucial Week 6 showdown against the Dallas Cowboys at Lambeau Field this Sunday, October 18, at 8:20 PM ET on Sunday Night Football. Coming off an impressive victory over the Chicago Bears, the Packers currently sit in second place in the NFC North with a 3–2 record as they look to build momentum and strengthen their position in a competitive divisional race.

Key takeaways

• Micah Parsons stated he will not rush his recovery to play the Dallas Cowboys.
• Pass rusher Micah Parsons is recovering from an ACL injury and wants full health.
• Green Bay Packers host Dallas Cowboys in Week 6 on Sunday Night Football.

Schefter shared the update on Wednesday, indicating that Jackson could be back on the field this weekend. The ESPN insider reported: “Ravens QB Lamar Jackson has a realistic chance to return for Sunday’s game at Cleveland, per league source.” Although the report does not guarantee Lamar will play, it suggests the former MVP could avoid an extended absence.

The star QB suffered the ankle injury during Baltimore’s Week 4 win over the Tennessee Titans and was unable to play against Atlanta. The Ravens nevertheless found a way to secure a dramatic overtime victory against the Falcons, showing they could remain competitive without their franchise quarterback. However, with the AFC North race tightening, having Jackson available against Cleveland could prove crucial to Baltimore’s hopes of maintaining its position in the division.

Who will Be Ravens QB vs Browns?

For now, Baltimore has not officially confirmed who will start at quarterback against Cleveland. Jackson’s availability will depend on how his ankle responds during the week and whether he can return to practice. Head coach Jesse Minter previously said Jackson was improving, but the team was still evaluating his progress before making a decision.

If Jackson is cleared to play, the Ravens would regain their most dynamic offensive weapon for a matchup with significant divisional implications. His dual-threat ability as a passer and runner changes the way opposing defenses must prepare, giving Baltimore more options in an offense built around his unique skill set. His return would also provide a significant lift after the team had to rely on its backup in Atlanta.

If Jackson cannot play, Tyler Huntley is expected to start for the second consecutive game. Huntley helped Baltimore earn the overtime win against the Falcons and would once again be tasked with leading the offense if Jackson remains sidelined. The Ravens will continue monitoring their quarterback’s recovery throughout the week, with his practice participation likely to offer the clearest indication of whether he will return against the Browns.

Key takeaways

• Lamar Jackson has a realistic chance to play for Baltimore against Cleveland in Week 6.
• The star quarterback suffered an ankle injury during the Ravens’ Week 4 win over Tennessee.
• Tyler Huntley will start at quarterback if Jackson remains sidelined due to his sprained left ankle.

“Well, you know, when you sign with a team midseason, he’d like to go to a winner,” Rosenhaus said while speaking to Josh Moser. “Number two is, as a wide receiver, you’d like to go to a team that needs a wide receiver.

“Number three, you’d like to go to a team that’s got a pretty good quarterback. And, number four, Tyreek’s gonna bring a lot of impact. We got to get a fair contract, and that’s always complex to negotiate in the middle of the season.”

With several teams meeting these conditions, many are beginning to wonder where Hill will ultimately land in the NFL. For now, Hill appears to be getting closer to putting his helmet back on.

Contenders to land Tyreek Hill

Will Tyreek Hill come back soon? That’s what many people are hoping for, including the wide receiver himself. Now, the big question is which team he will ultimately join to bolster its offense at this stage of the season.

Although many have linked Hill to a potential return to the Kansas City Chiefs, his agent’s demands could make the Pittsburgh Steelers another potential landing spot. Aaron Rodgers needs an impact weapon in the passing game due to the number of injuries in the receiving corps, and joining Mike McCarthy’s team doesn’t sound far-fetched.

Key takeaways

• Wide receiver Tyreek Hill remains a free agent while progressing in physical conditioning.
• Agent Drew Rosenhaus stated Tyreek Hill seeks a winner, team need, and good quarterback.
• Pittsburgh Steelers and Aaron Rodgers are potential landing spots linked to Tyreek Hill.

Discussing what it has been like to play without many of Philly’s top playmakers with reporters on Tuesday, Sean Mannion singled Barkley out in particular as a player he has been missing, as his “unique talent” makes him hard to replace.

“I think it all goes back to putting all of your players in what you feel is the best position for them to be successful. Saquon is a unique talent. That’s indisputable, right? So, there are things that he can do that there’s a very, very, very short list of people on the planet that can do. The beauty of it is I do feel really confident in our depth. [RB] Tank [Bigsby] going out due to injury, but he’s a really, really quality backup running back in this league,” Mannion said.

Confidence remains in roster depth

Despite an uneven 2-3 start to the campaign and missing a vital contributor in Barkley, the Eagles are expected to rebound in the coming weeks while awaiting the return of their star playmaker. In the meantime, the coaching staff continues to emphasize the deep faith it has in the group.

“So, there may be some things that change when Saquon goes out and Tank goes in, but the nice thing is with the depth that we have at that position, just as an example, it’s not as many as you might expect because of the depth of our roster, the confidence we have in those guys. So, there’s tweaks here and there that come up with different injuries, whether it be at the running back position, receiver position, O-line, but in large, the confidence that we have in our group makes it where that’s easier to manage than you may think,” Mannion said.

As things currently stand, Philly only has two healthy running backs on their active roster—Dameon Pierce and Carson Steele—alongside practice squad options including Jaydon Blue and recent signing Ja’Quinden Jackson.

However, if Barkley manages to return for NFL Week 6 against the Carolina Panthers, the Eagles could finally get their offense back on track, as Mannion’s evaluation of his impact is right on target.

Key takeaways

• Sean Mannion linked Philadelphia’s offensive struggles directly to Saquon Barkley’s absence.
• Dameon Pierce and Carson Steele are Philadelphia’s only healthy active running backs.
• Week 6 against Carolina could mark Saquon Barkley’s return to the Philadelphia Eagles.

Speaking on the latest episode of “The Edge with Micah Parsons,” the former Dallas Cowboys linebacker criticized Daniels for failing to manage the clock during Washington’s final offensive possession.

“Jayden Daniels probably cost my man Dan Quinn his job, to be honest with you. To be honest with you. And, like, I’m a big Jayden Daniels fan. But the reality is, he probably cost a lot of people their jobs this past weekend,” Parsons said.

How Daniels’ final play unfolded

The Commanders had possession at the Giants’ 24-yard line with 12 seconds remaining in the 10-minute overtime period. With neither team having a timeout, Washington had an opportunity to stop the clock and attempt a potential game-winning field goal.

However, Daniels attempted to escape the pocket before taking a sack. As the quarterback got back to his feet, the remaining seconds expired, preventing Washington from attempting the kick.

Parsons expressed frustration with Daniels‘ decision-making, particularly given his experience in high-pressure situations. “Respectfully, we get coached so much on these situations that, like, I’m a defensive player, and this shit’s programmed to me. I know what to do in those situations. There’s no way I’m taking a sack with 14 seconds left and no timeouts,” Parsons said.

“Mind you, it’d be different if Jayden Daniels was a rookie. This is your third year. This your third year. You’ve been to the NFC Championship game. You’ve been in big moments before. And to me, even after a sack, you’re casually getting up.”

Daniels’ mixed return

Sunday marked Daniels’ first NFL game back after missing two contests due to a dislocated left elbow suffered in a Week 2 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. He finished 17 of 25 passing for 199 yards and added nine carries for 103 yards and two touchdowns on the ground.

His 26-yard touchdown run and subsequent two-point conversion pass to receiver Terry McLaurin put Washington ahead 27-13 early in the fourth quarter before the Giants rallied to tie the game.

Key takeaways

• Micah Parsons stated that Jayden Daniels probably cost Dan Quinn his job.
• A sack on Jayden Daniels prevented Washington from attempting a winning field goal.
• 103 rushing yards and two touchdowns were recorded by Jayden Daniels in Week 5.