Training camps opened this week, and the NFL's annual July chaos is in full swing. The biggest story--a No. 1 overall pick who still hasn't signed his rookie contract--is the kind of holdout that can stall a rebuild before the first preseason snap. Elsewhere, the Carolina Panthers lost a promising young linebacker to a season-ending injury, and several other stories highlight the ongoing contract drama as the league heads into August.
Here's your July 24 NFL news roundup.
Rumor Mill
Fernando Mendoza, Raiders still negotiating over rookie contract
Fernando Mendoza, the 2026 NFL Draft's No. 1 overall pick, remains unsigned with the Las Vegas Raiders as training camp progresses. While most rookies have settled their deals, Mendoza and the Raiders appear deadlocked over the structure of his signing bonus, specifically how much is paid upfront versus deferred and how offsets are handled. The contract value is fully guaranteed around $57.27 million over four years, but the holdout centers on payment terms rather than total money.
This situation is uncommon for a rookie quarterback, especially the top pick, who is expected to be the franchise cornerstone. With veteran quarterbacks Kirk Cousins and Aidan O'Connell available as bridge options, the Raiders are approaching negotiations with leverage. However, letting Mendoza miss valuable camp reps under new head coach Klint Kubiak could cost the team early-season performance. The smart move for both parties is to finalize a deal before August 1 to ensure Mendoza can fully participate in training camp and preseason.
Brandon Aiyuk contract drama continues in San Francisco
Brandon Aiyuk's contract impasse with the San Francisco 49ers remains unresolved heading into training camp. Aiyuk is in his fifth-year option season, set to earn $14 million in 2026, but he and the 49ers have not agreed on an extension. The addition of receivers Mike Evans and Christian Kirk has altered the 49ers' wide receiver landscape, reducing Aiyuk's leverage.
The 49ers appear comfortable allowing this situation to stretch into the season, prioritizing cap flexibility to potentially extend other key players like Trent Williams or Fred Warner instead. Aiyuk faces a choice between playing on his option or risking lost earnings and production. Ultimately, the 49ers' decision to let this drag on could backfire if Aiyuk emerges as a key contributor this season.
Jadarian Price attracting significant Offensive Rookie of the Year betting action
Seattle Seahawks third-round running back Jadarian Price is drawing heavy betting action on Offensive Rookie of the Year odds at CBS Sports. Drafted No. 32 overall, Price is poised to carve out a significant role alongside fellow back Zach Charbonnet. Given Seattle's run-heavy offense and quarterback Sam Darnold's game management style, Price could see substantial volume, making him an intriguing value play in rookie awards betting markets. If he can capitalize on this opportunity, Price could become a household name by season's end.
Around the League
Nic Scourton suffers torn ACL, out for 2026 season
The Carolina Panthers suffered a major setback on the first day of training camp when second-year outside linebacker Nic Scourton was carted off with a right knee injury. Medical evaluation confirmed a torn ACL, ending his 2026 season.
Scourton, the Panthers' 2025 second-round pick, was expected to develop into a key part of Carolina's pass rush alongside Princely Umanmielen. His loss leaves the team thin on edge rushers heading into camp. The Panthers have signed Cam Gill as a quick replacement but face an uphill battle to field a deep pass-rush rotation. This injury delays Scourton's development arc by a full year, significantly impacting the Panthers' defensive plans.
Jacoby Brissett practicing amid ongoing contract talks with Cardinals
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett participated in the team's first training camp practice Thursday as contract extension discussions continue. Head coach Mike LaFleur described the talks as "still ongoing" and "productive." Brissett had skipped mandatory minicamp to seek a contract extension but now appears committed to helping the team under the new coaching regime.
Brissett serves as a reliable veteran presence managing an offense featuring rookie running back Jeremiyah Love, James Conner, and an explosive wide receiver group. A two-year deal with an out after 2027 seems likely before the preseason begins, which would solidify his role and provide stability for the Cardinals.
Browns place DT Maliek Collins on PUP list with lingering knee issue
The Cleveland Browns placed veteran defensive tackle Maliek Collins on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list due to a knee injury sustained in 2025. Collins, an 11-year NFL veteran, signed with Cleveland in the offseason and is currently a rotational player.
The move is precautionary as Collins recovers, but the Browns' defensive line depth behind Mason Graham and Mike Hall Jr. is thin. If Collins misses time, younger players will need to step up. The PUP designation allows the team flexibility to manage his rehab without rushing his return, but the Browns must hope this doesn't derail their defensive plans.
Bengals induct Bob Trumpy into Ring of Honor
The Cincinnati Bengals honored Hall of Fame tight end Bob Trumpy with induction into their Ring of Honor. Known as a dynamic receiving tight end who helped pioneer the position in the 1970s, Trumpy was celebrated for his impact on the game. Former Bengals quarterback Ken Anderson described him as "Gronk before Gronk," highlighting Trumpy's elite pass-catching ability at a time when the position was not traditionally offensive-focused.
The Bengals' Ring of Honor has few pre-2000s players, making Trumpy's selection a well-deserved and long-overdue tribute that acknowledges the legacy of a true game-changer.
Panthers confident in rookie Monroe Freeling at right tackle
General Manager Dan Morgan affirmed confidence in first-round rookie offensive tackle Monroe Freeling, who will likely start the 2026 season at right tackle. Carolina faces uncertainty with both 2025 starting tackles out for the year.
Freeling, the 19th overall pick in the 2026 draft, has impressive size and athleticism. Despite no NFL snap experience, his impressive pass-blocking tape at Georgia--allowing zero sacks in his final 300 snaps--gives hope for an early impact. The Panthers will need his solid play to protect quarterback Bryce Young and help the offense thrive, making his development crucial for the team's success.
Patriots add linebacker and tight end ahead of camp
New England bolstered its roster by signing a linebacker and a tight end shortly before camp began. Neither is a star but addresses depth concerns behind key players Hunter Henry and Eli Raridon at tight end and a thinner linebacker group following offseason departures.
Head coach Mike Vrabel is taking a common approach to late July, increasing competition and providing practice depth. These moves aim to keep starters healthy and spark competition for roster spots, which could pay dividends as the season progresses.
Bucky Irving on track to start Buccaneers training camp
Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving is expected to be ready for the start of camp after an offseason injury, per head coach Todd Bowles. Irving, who missed early camp weeks last season, is apparently healthy and set to take a significant role in Tampa Bay's backfield.
With the Bucs lacking a proven bell cow and Baker Mayfield's offense needing a solid run game, Irving is likely to see 12-15 touches per game in a committee approach with Kenny Gainwell. His performance could be pivotal in establishing a reliable ground game for the Buccaneers.
Cardinals place four players on PUP list to start camp
Arizona started training camp cautiously by placing four players on the physically unable to perform list, including starters edge rusher Josh Sweat and franchise left tackle Paris Johnson Jr. Johnson's absence is a concern given his role, though both players are expected back by Week 1. The move is standard practice to protect player health early in camp, but it underscores the importance of depth as the season approaches.
Jaguars RB competition "truly wide open," says Liam Coen
Jacksonville head coach Liam Coen called the running back competition "truly wide open." Chris Rodriguez Jr., Bhayshul Tuten, and LeQuint Allen are competing for the lead role, none having proven themselves as a feature back.
Tuten, a 2025 fourth-round pick known for his speed, fits Coen's zone-running scheme, while Rodriguez offers steadiness. Coen's open-door approach leaves room for any player to emerge this camp, making it a critical period for the Jaguars' backfield.
Tyreek Hill posts workout video, says "no power" in left leg
Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill shared an update on his recovery from multiple knee ligament injuries, noting he still has "no power" in his left leg. This is a troubling sign for a player whose game relies on elite speed and explosiveness.
At age 32, Hill's recovery timeline remains uncertain, and Miami's offense may need to prepare without its vertical threat into the regular season's second half. The Dolphins must consider contingency plans if Hill's condition does not improve, as his absence would significantly impact their offensive strategy.
Final Thoughts
Here are the top stories from this roundup ranked by impact:
Fernando Mendoza holdout -- The top overall pick remains unsigned as camp progresses, an unusual and risky holdout. The Raiders' negotiating leverage is strong, but the cost of lost rookie development time is high. Resolution before August 1 is essential.
Nic Scourton's torn ACL -- Losing a promising second-year edge rusher for the season is a significant blow for Carolina. The Panthers' thin pass-rush depth magnifies the impact.
Jadarian Price's Offensive Rookie of the Year odds -- Heavy betting on the Seahawks' third-round back signals belief that Price has a strong chance to take over the backfield.
Tyreek Hill's ongoing recovery -- A loss of power in his injured leg clouds his expected return, impacting Miami's offensive outlook.
The NFL's 2026 training camp is just seven days old, and the drama is already heating up.