Topic: Depth Chart

NFL

Michael Penix Jr. Named Falcons Starter vs. Packers for First 2026 Start

The Falcons have officially named Michael Penix Jr. their Week 3 starter against Green Bay, marking his first start since last year’s season-ending ACL injury.

NFL

Shedeur Sanders Set to Back Up Deshaun Watson in Browns Week 1 Opener

Todd Monken says he expects Shedeur Sanders to serve as Cleveland’s No. 2 quarterback behind Deshaun Watson in Week 1, clarifying the Browns’ depth chart even as rookie Taylen Green remains a possible package player.

NFL

J.J. McCarthy’s Vikings Future Hits a Crossroads After Falling to QB3

J.J. McCarthy will open 2026 as Minnesota’s third quarterback behind Kyler Murray and Carson Wentz. The move does not end his Vikings story, but it makes this season a pivotal test of whether the former No. 10 pick can reclaim a franchise role.

NFL

Michael Penix Jr. Goes Full in Practice, but Falcons Are Right to Keep Week 1 Timeline Separate

Michael Penix Jr. was a full practice participant Wednesday even though Atlanta plans to keep him inactive in Week 1, a sign that physical progress and game readiness remain separate questions.

NFL

Brock Bowers to Miss Raiders Week 1 After Meniscus Procedure

Raiders star tight end Brock Bowers underwent a meniscus trim and is expected to miss the opener against Miami, forcing Las Vegas to pivot toward Michael Mayer and a reshaped passing game.

NFL

Buccaneers Turn to Rookie Starters Rueben Bain Jr. and Josiah Trotter for Week 1

Tampa Bay’s first regular-season depth chart lists Rueben Bain Jr. and Josiah Trotter as defensive starters, putting the Bucs’ top two 2026 draft picks immediately into the fire against Cincinnati.

NFL

Dolphins Hand Week 1 Starting Jobs to Rookie WRs Caleb Douglas and Chris Bell

Miami will start rookie receivers Caleb Douglas and Chris Bell in Week 1, a revealing early bet on the 2026 draft class and the Dolphins’ new offensive timeline under Jeff Hafley.