NFL teams finalize preseason evaluations before 2026 regular season kickoff

NFL teams are transitioning from preseason exhibitions to final roster preparations as the 2026 regular season approaches. The Buffalo Bills finished their exhibition schedule undefeated under head coach Joe Brady, while the Cincinnati Bengals defensive unit demonstrated improvement by holding all three opponents to 14 points or fewer. Conversely, the Miami Dolphins concluded a winless preseason with significant offensive struggles, scoring only one touchdown across three games. The New England Patriots face depth concerns on defense, and the New York Jets are managing multiple injuries to key contributors including Breece Hall and Kenyon Sadiq. Across the league, coaching staffs are now trimming rosters to reach final squad limits with one week remaining before the regular season games begin.

• 4:23 PMCBS NFL — Grading every NFL team's 2026 preseason: Rams ace the summer, Falcons fail amid quarterback uncertainty