NFL Training Camp Updates: Record Extensions, Aaron Rodgers’ Retirement Plan and More

Record-Setting Extensions for Carter and Ward

The Philadelphia Eagles finalized a contract extension for defensive tackle Jalen Carter on July 29. According to ESPN, the deal is a four-year agreement worth $152 million, with the potential to reach $160 million in total value. The contract includes $106 million in guaranteed money.

This agreement marks the richest contract for a defensive tackle in NFL history. Carter’s average annual value of $35.3 million surpasses the previous record held by Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons.

In Cleveland, the Browns agreed to a two-year, $62.2 million extension with cornerback Denzel Ward, per NFL Network. The deal includes $52.3 million guaranteed, placing Ward as the highest-paid cornerback in the league for the second time in his career. The guaranteed portion of the contract currently ranks just outside the top 10 for the position.

The Minnesota Vikings also secured their offensive line by signing tackle Brian O’Neill to a four-year, $96 million extension, according to ESPN. O’Neill is a two-time Pro Bowler entering his ninth season with the franchise after being drafted out of Pittsburgh in 2018.

Aaron Rodgers Sets 2026 Retirement Date

Reporting from the Pittsburgh Steelers’ training camp on July 29, Aaron Rodgers confirmed that the 2026 season will be his final year in the NFL. Rodgers stated there is "zero debate" regarding the possibility of playing beyond that season.

Rodgers disclosed that he considered retiring after last season, but the hiring of head coach Mike McCarthy influenced his decision to return. He noted that after discussing the move with his wife, the decision to play one more year "kind of all came together."

Kirk Cousins Named Las Vegas Raiders Starter

Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak announced July 29 that veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins will begin training camp as the starter. Kubiak stated that Cousins "is the guy" and deserves the role because of the quality of football he has played.

Cousins enters his 14th NFL season with a career record of 44,700 passing yards, 298 touchdowns, and 131 interceptions across 174 games. This designation leaves first-overall draft pick Fernando Mendoza in a developmental role, aligning with the team’s long-term blueprint for the rookie.

New England Patriots’ Offensive Struggles

Early reports from New England Patriots camp indicate a slow start to the connection between quarterback Drake Maye and receiver A.J. Brown. According to the Boston Herald, Maye has completed one of seven targets to Brown with one interception during team drills over the first four days of practice.

The two players are reportedly struggling specifically with deeper routes. Brown joined the Patriots in April following a trade that sent a 2028 first-round pick and a 2027 fifth-round pick to his previous team.

Micah Parsons Placed on PUP List

The Green Bay Packers have officially placed edge rusher Micah Parsons on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. Parsons is recovering from surgery for a torn ACL and meniscus damage sustained during a non-contact play against the Denver Broncos last December.

Under NFL regulations, if Parsons remains on the reserve PUP list for the start of the regular season, he must miss a minimum of four games before he is eligible to return to practice or game play.