5 Key Stories: 6/28/26 – 7/5/26

With the calendar having flipped to July, training camps around the NFL are not far away. This past week fell within the relatively quiet period of the year but still saw a number of important developments. In case you missed any of the league’s top stories over the last few days, here is a quick recap:

• Lions Move On From Arnold: The criminal case involving Terrion Arnold is far from over. The third-year cornerback’s arrest has resulted in the Lions waiving him, however. Arnold will be on the wire until tomorrow afternoon. He is facing several felony charges stemming from an alleged revenge kidnapping incident. A waiver claim would come as a surprise, although Arnold’s attorney recently stated a new NFL opportunity will be lined up soon. During his two years in Detroit, Arnold largely served as a full-time starter. The Lions’ cornerback depth will be something to monitor over the coming weeks with him no longer in the fold.
• Sorsby Preparing For 2027 Draft: The Brendan Sorsby situation has been resolved, at least in the short term. No legal action will be taken against the NFL over its decision to deny Sorsby entry into the supplemental draft. As a result, the controversial quarterback will spend the coming months preparing for the 2027 draft next April. Sorsby’s NCAA eligibility for next season was denied due to his violation of gambling rules, something which also led to the unexpected decision of his supplemental draft application being denied. Sorbsy’s next on-field action will not take place until at least the Senior Bowl and/or the pre-draft NFL Combine.
• Momentum Building For Donald Rams Return: Since the Rams traded for Myles Garrett, the possibility of an Aaron Donald return has emerged as a major storyline. Donald is indeed giving serious thought to a 2026 comeback, and a growing belief exists within the team and the league that it will take place. Donald last played in 2023, so questions would be raised about his ability to return to his previous form. Even at the age of 35, though, the three-time Defensive Player of the Year would face high expectations in the event he were to suit up in 2026. A deal with Los Angeles may not result in full training camp participation, but Donald would be in line to play at least most of the season provided one can be worked out shortly.
• 49ers-Aiyuk-Commanders Saga Continues: On a regular basis, Brandon Aiyuk has added to his bizarre and ongoing saga with social media posts. The latest development on that front consisted of a back-and-forth with Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels. The two former college teammates do not appear to be on the same page, something which is critical since Aiyuk’s desire to join Washington has long been abundantly clear. For now, the disgruntled wideout remains under contract with the 49ers. Until he is removed from San Francisco’s reserve/left squad list, Aiyuk will not become a free agent. Even if/when he does, it...