NFL News Roundup: Cam Ward, Titans Starters to Play in Preseason; Bills RB James Cook Continues Hold-in

BNLive

BNLive keeps you up to date with all the latest league news from around the NFL. Here is a breakdown of the key headlines and notes from Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

Titans and Browns Set Preseason Quarterback Plans

In a key development for the Tennessee Titans, head coach Brian Callahan confirmed that rookie quarterback Cam Ward and the team's starters will play in every preseason game. Ward is expected to get a series or two in Saturday's preseason opener against the Buccaneers. This decision reflects the team's desire to give their rookie signal-caller as much live-game experience as possible ahead of the regular season.

Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns will start rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders in their preseason opener against the Panthers. With quarterbacks Dillon Gabriel and Kenny Pickett dealing with hamstring injuries, Sanders will get a significant opportunity to showcase his skills.

Bills' James Cook Continues Contract Hold-in

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook will not practice on Wednesday, continuing a hold-in that has now stretched for several days amid contract negotiations. Cook, who is in the final year of his rookie deal, has been seeking an extension that would place him among the league's highest-paid running backs. While both sides have remained in communication, Cook's continued absence from the field is a notable storyline as the Bills prepare for the season.

Injury Updates Across the League

• Los Angeles Rams: Quarterback Matthew Stafford is dealing with an aggravated disc in his back and has received epidurals to manage the injury. While the team is being cautious and has called him "week to week," they still plan for him to be ready for Week 1.

• New England Patriots: Cornerbacks Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis are not expected to practice this week. The team's defensive coordinator, Terrell Williams, was also treated for dehydration after leaving practice early.

• Washington Commanders: Wide receiver Terry McLaurin remains on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list with an ankle injury and has no timetable to return.

• Carolina Panthers: Cornerback Jaycee Horn needed stitches on his left hand after being involved in a car crash on his way to the stadium. He is considered day to day and will not play in the preseason opener.

Roster Moves and Other News

• Los Angeles Chargers: Wide receiver Keenan Allen's signing was officially announced, marking his return to the team where he spent the first 11 seasons of his career.

• Green Bay Packers: The team signed wide receiver Isaiah Neyor after placing receiver Sam Brown Jr. on injured reserve.

• Dallas Cowboys: Rookie quarterback Joe Milton III is "fine" after injuring his hand on Tuesday and was seen throwing in a walkthrough on Wednesday.

• Denver Broncos: Running back J.K. Dobbins is listed as the starting RB on the team's first unofficial depth chart of the season, followed by a crowded group of running backs.

• Houston Texans: The team signed wide receiver Quintez Cephus.

• Miami Dolphins: Tight end Darren Waller, who came out of retirement to join the Dolphins, is a week away from practicing as he remains on the physically unable to perform list.