Cleveland named Joe Flacco the Week 1 starter, a veteran move meant to stabilize a crowded Browns QB room ahead of a Week 1 showdown with Cincinnati. Flacco, 40, beat out Kenny Pickett and rookies Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel, signaling a measured approach as the Browns gauge the rookie trio. In parallel, Xavien Howard signed with Indianapolis, a one-year deal that could bolster the Colts’ secondary as they kick off the season with injuries to key backs. Miami meanwhile added impact edge help, with Matthew Judon visiting the Dolphins, a potential hire that could shift defensive dynamics in Week 1 and beyond. Jordan Love’s thumb scare calm returns to Green Bay as he practices before the Lions opener, while Grayson Murphy and Chop Robinson stand out in preseason for Miami, underscoring how depth pieces could influence fantasy outcomes in the near term.

The report underscores high-leverage fantasy angles: Flacco’s Week 1 cost-benefit, Howard’s impact on Colts pass defense, Judon’s potential addition in Miami, and Love’s readiness to open 2025 with a strong showing. It also highlights rookie development in Cleveland’s QB room and notable preseason performers who could creep into deeper fantasy rosters as the season unfolds.

The Tennessee Titans are currently navigating the slowest phase of their offseason, a time ripe for hypothetical discussions and early mock drafts. In a recent exercise, ESPN's Ben Solak named the top players drafted at their respective positions throughout the NFL draft era. Among the Titans, Bruce Matthews, an offensive tackle selected in 1983, stood out as the best No. 9 pick of all-time, making 14 Pro Bowls during his storied 19-year career filled with versatility across the offensive line.

Other notable Titans mentioned include Kevin Mawae, a center who bolstered Chris Johnson's 2006-yard season, and Derrick Henry, whose unique combination of size and speed has led him to an Offensive Player of the Year accolade and the potential to eclipse the top ten in career rushing yards. The list also highlights Elvin Bethea and Charlie Joiner, both of whom made significant impacts during their time with the Titans and Oilers.

The Carolina Panthers have officially announced the new jersey numbers for nine players, primarily recent additions to the team. Running back Rico Dowdle will wear No. 5, previously held by wide receiver Diontae Johnson, while safety Tre'von Moehrig takes on No. 7, which was last worn by linebacker Jadeveon Clowney. Wide receiver Hunter Renfrow has opted for No. 13, a number most recently associated with Deven Thompkins. Linebacker Trevin Wallace will switch from No. 56 to No. 32, last donned by safety Lonnie Johnson Jr. Other notable number changes include kicker Matthew Wright (No. 37), linebacker Christian Rozeboom (No. 56), outside linebacker Pat Jones Jr. (No. 91), defensive lineman Tershawn Wharton (No. 92), and defensive lineman Bobby Brown III (No. 97).

Tyler Shough, the standout quarterback from Louisville, has officially begun his NFL journey after being selected 40th overall by the New Orleans Saints in the 2025 NFL Draft. His impactful college career included stints at Oregon and Texas Tech, marked by resilience through multiple injuries. Shough's crowning moment, however, was overshadowed by the presence of his beloved dog, Murphy, who joined the celebrations wearing a Saints bandana, symbolizing their new chapter together.

Shough's experience in college football culminated in an impressive 2024 season, leading his team to an 8-4 record. Now, as he prepares to compete for a spot with the Saints, he faces an uncertain QB environment with Derek Carr's health a concern. Shough's adaptability and experience could become pivotal as he transitions to the NFL stage alongside Murphy, highlighting the personal bonds that often accompany athlete narratives.

The UFL is back, featuring some familiar faces from the Arizona Cardinals. A total of 14 former Cardinals players, including four who were drafted by the team, will be seen in action across six of the eight UFL franchises. The St. Louis Battlehawks lead the way with four ex-Cardinals on their roster.

Among the notable former Cardinals are wide receiver JaVonta Payton, who spent time in training camp last year, and defensive end Myjai Sanders, drafted in 2022 but released before the season started. The D.C. Defenders have welcomed kicker Matt McCrane, who briefly filled in for the Cardinals in 2018 and made all three extra points in his one game appearance. The roster also includes players like Lamont Gaillard and Michael Ojemudia, both of whom had short stints with the Cardinals.