5 Key Stories: 7/6/25 – 7/12/25

The build-up to NFL training camps continues, and the offseason’s quiet period has nearly come to an end as a result. The past few days have nonetheless seen a few notable developments. In case you missed any of them, here is a quick recap:

• Bears, Poles Agree To Extension: The 2025 offseason has seen plenty of changes on the sidelines in the case of the Bears, but they will have continuity in the front office. As expected, general manager Ryan Poles has agreed to an extension which keeps him under contract through 2029 (just like new head coach Ben Johnson). Poles – in place since 2022 – led the coaching search this winter as he looks to guide the team to a step forward from his first three years at the helm. Chicago has gone just 15-36 over that span, but expectations for quarterback Caleb Williams will be high ahead of Year 2 in the league. Poles has been busy attempting to fortify Chicago’s offensive and defensive lines this spring, but even if those moves do not produce the desired results his future should be secure.
• NFLPA Planning Collusion Case Appeal: For several months, the arbitration ruling on the NFLPA’s collusion case against the NFL were kept secret. Two weeks after the findings became public, however, the union now intends to appeal the decision made by arbitrator Christopher Droney. The January ruling stated the NFL did not engage in collusion following Deshaun Watson‘s fully guaranteed contract, but also noted how the league “urged” teams to limit guaranteed spending on player contracts. Meanwhile, it remains to be seen if NFLPA executive director Lloyd Howell will oversee the appeal since he is facing scrutiny based on his role in suppressing the ruling from players and conflict of interest concerns stemming from his consultant role with a private equity firm. For now, at least, Howell does not intend to resign.
• Cousins Speaks Out On Falcons’ Free Agent Approach: Last March, Kirk Cousins ended his six-year Vikings tenure by signing with the Falcons in free agency. That four-year deal included full guarantees for 2024 and ’25, suggesting he would remain atop the QB depth chart during that time. Atlanta then drafted Michael Penix Jr. in the first round, though, and the rookie took over for Cousins late last season. Cousins has spoken on the topic in Netflix’s Quarterback series, stating his free agent approach would have been different had he known the Falcons would draft a passer. The 36-year-old’s preference, in hindsight, was to stay in Minnesota knowing both the Vikings and Falcons would select a first-round quarterback. Cousins is set to handle backup duties in Atlanta moving forward.
• Holdout Possible For Bengals’ Hendrickson: Several notable pass rushers have yet to sort out their financial situations, and that includes Trey Hendrickson. A new round of extension talks with the Bengals is taking place, but the 2024 sack leader remains willing to stretch his holdout through not only training camp but...