Justice Department Opens Antitrust Probe Into NFL’s TV and Streaming Deals

The Department of Justice has opened a federal antitrust investigation into the NFL, examining whether the league’s television and streaming contracts create unfair barriers for consumers. The probe centers on whether fans are forced to pay for subscriptions to watch games that were historically available on free broadcast TV. The NFL’s antitrust exemption, established under the 1961 Sports Broadcasting Act, is limited to broadcast television — courts have ruled it does not extend to cable, satellite, or streaming. The leagu TRADE

All-Pro DT Dexter Lawrence Formally Requests Trade From New York Giants

New York Giants All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence has formally requested a trade and will not participate in the team’s voluntary offseason program, per multiple reports. Contract negotiations have stalled, with Lawrence seeking a deal worth $30 to $35 million annually — significantly more than the $20 million he is scheduled to earn in 2026. The Giants have two years remaining on Lawrence’s current contract and are willing to listen to trade offers, with a late first-round or second-round pick considered fair return. The Houston Texans have emerged as a potential suitor, with the Chicago Bears also identified as an interested party.

Kyle Pitts Signs Franchise Tag, Reports for Falcons Offseason Workouts

Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts has signed his franchise tag, locking in a fully guaranteed one-year deal worth $15.045 million. Pitts reported for voluntary offseason workouts, and the Falcons have until July to negotiate a long-term extension. The 24-year-old earned his first All-Pro selection in 2025 after totaling 928 receiving yards and five touchdowns — a breakout performance boosted in part by a Drake London injury. Atlanta general manager Ian Cunningham acknowledged the team would consider trade offers if extension talks stall. Pitts is regarded as one of the premier tight ends in the game heading into the 2026 season.

Expected No. 1 Overall Pick Fernando Mendoza Will Skip 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh

Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the consensus choice to go first overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, will not attend the event in Pittsburgh on April 23–25. Mendoza — a 2025 Heisman Trophy winner who stands 6-foot-5 and weighs 236 pounds — led his team to the national championship and posted a 72 percent completion rate with 3,535 yards, 41 touchdowns, and six interceptions. His size and arm strength have drawn comparisons to Josh Allen and Andrew Luck. The Las Vegas Raiders hold the top selection and are widely expected to call Mendoza’s name when the 2026 draft gets underway.

Falcons Edge Rusher James Pearce Jr. Skips Workouts Following February Arrest

Atlanta Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. was absent from the team’s voluntary offseason workouts this week following his February 2026 arrest on multiple felony charges near Miami. Pearce faces three felonies — aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, fleeing and eluding police, and resisting an officer — stemming from an alleged incident involving ex-girlfriend and WNBA player Rickea Jackson. A fourth charge of aggravated stalking was subsequently reduced to a misdemeanor. Pearce, who finished third in NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year voting after leading Atlanta in sacks last season, maintains his innocence through counsel. His trial is scheduled for May 4.

Free Agency Tracker: Seahawks Land Geno Smith, Jets Sign Fitzpatrick, Browns Upgrade Line

The 2026 NFL offseason transaction market remains active heading into draft week. The Seattle Seahawks acquired quarterback Geno Smith from Las Vegas in a low-round swap, reuniting Smith with his former team. The New York Jets landed safety Minkah Fitzpatrick from Miami for a seventh-round pick and quickly signed him to a three-year, $40 million extension. Cleveland upgraded its offensive line by trading for Tytus Howard from Houston on a three-year, $63 million deal. Quarterback movement continued elsewhere: Malik Willis signed with Miami, Kyler Murray joined Minnesota, and Tua Tagovailoa landed in Atlanta.

Aaron Rodgers Remains Unsigned as Pittsburgh Awaits Decision Before Draft

Future Hall of Famer Aaron Rodgers remains unsigned as the 2026 NFL offseason progresses, with no formal contract offer on the table and no set timeline on his decision. The 41-year-old recently told Pat McAfee he is in no rush, noting there is no deadline and that he is enjoying time with his wife. The Pittsburgh Steelers, who signed Rodgers ahead of the 2025 season and hired new head coach Mike McCarthy this winter, remain publicly hopeful about a return. Owner Art Rooney II said the organization expects to hear a decision by the April 23 draft. Rodgers’ retirement would leave Pittsburgh with a significant quarterback void.

Ten Teams With New Head Coaches Launch Voluntary Offseason Programs This Week

Ten NFL franchises with new head coaches launched voluntary offseason workouts this week, marking a significant start to the rebuilding process across much of the league. The group includes the Arizona Cardinals, Atlanta Falcons, Buffalo Bills, Cleveland Browns, Baltimore Ravens, Pittsburgh Steelers, Miami Dolphins, New York Giants, Las Vegas Raiders, and Tennessee Titans. These early sessions give new coaching staffs their first opportunity to install systems and evaluate rosters before the April 23–25 draft. Organized team activities and mandatory minicamps follow in May and June, providing franchises their clearest pre-season roster view before the 2026 campaign opens.

2025 NFL Final Standings

🏆 = Clinched Division   ✅ = Wild Card   Source: ESPN