Chairshot NFL News Report (11/7/2026): Ravens Complete Brissett Trade, Shedeur Sanders Starts & Aiyuk Meets 49ers

Baltimore finalizes its Jacoby Brissett trade, Cleveland names Shedeur Sanders its starter, and Brandon Aiyuk meets with San Francisco.

The Baltimore Ravens have officially acquired Jacoby Brissett from the Arizona Cardinals, completing a trade designed to stabilize an offense that has collapsed following injuries to Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley. The agreement provides Baltimore with an experienced quarterback, but the Ravens still face significant questions after suffering their fourth consecutive defeat.

Cleveland is also making a quarterback change, naming Shedeur Sanders its starter while Deshaun Watson remains in concussion protocol. Meanwhile, Brandon Aiyuk returned to the San Francisco 49ers’ facility seeking a resolution to his complicated contractual situation, even as another injury left the team’s receiving corps dangerously thin.

Elsewhere, New England running back TreVeyon Henderson revealed that he was recently hospitalized following an unexplained medical emergency, Seattle learned that newly acquired guard Quenton Nelson requires knee surgery, and the Los Angeles Rams moved closer to welcoming Myles Garrett back into their defense.

It’s the Chairshot NFL News Report for November 7, 2026!

Ravens Officially Acquire Jacoby Brissett From Cardinals

Baltimore completed its trade for veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett on Friday, formally addressing the emergency created by injuries to Lamar Jackson and Tyler Huntley.

The Ravens received Brissett and Arizona’s 2027 fifth-round draft selection in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round pick and a 2028 seventh-round selection. The Cardinals also agreed to cover more than half of Brissett’s remaining 2026 salary, reducing Baltimore’s immediate financial commitment.

The agreement had been reported earlier in the week, but Friday’s announcement confirmed the transaction and established the compensation involved.

Brissett, 33, brings extensive experience to a quarterback room that has been forced into extraordinary circumstances. He has appeared in the NFL for more than a decade, making 73 career starts across several organizations.

He started eight games for Arizona this season, completing 63.3 percent of his passes for 1,719 yards, 10 touchdowns and seven interceptions. However, the Cardinals struggled to a 3-5 record, and Brissett was replaced by Gardner Minshew during their overtime victory against Dallas.

Arizona subsequently moved Brissett behind Minshew and rookie Carson Beck, creating an opportunity for Baltimore to acquire an established veteran without surrendering premium draft compensation. The Ravens desperately need that experience. Jackson underwent surgery after suffering a right thumb injury, while Huntley is expected to miss the remainder of the season with turf toe.

Those injuries forced Baltimore to start undrafted rookie Joe Fagnano during Thursday’s 33-10 loss to Jacksonville. Fagnano completed only 10 of 18 passes for 60 yards and two interceptions, demonstrating the difficulty of operating the Ravens’ offense without their established quarterbacks.

Baltimore has now lost four consecutive games, falling to 4-5 after entering the season with championship expectations. The offense has struggled to generate explosive plays, while the defense has been unable to consistently compensate for those limitations.

Brissett will have additional preparation time before Baltimore returns to action. That should allow the coaching staff to establish a more conventional offensive approach rather than relying on a rookie with minimal experience.

However, the acquisition does not automatically solve Baltimore’s problems. The Ravens must improve their offensive-line performance, establish a dependable rushing attack and reduce the mistakes that have contributed to their losing streak.

The organization also waived quarterback Austin Reed as part of its roster adjustments. Baltimore now has an experienced veteran available to lead the offense while Jackson recovers, but significant improvement will be necessary to restore the team’s competitive position.

Shedeur Sanders Named Browns Starter as Deshaun Watson Remains in Concussion Protocol

Cleveland head coach Todd Monken confirmed Friday that Shedeur Sanders will start at quarterback while Deshaun Watson continues recovering from a concussion.

Watson entered the league’s concussion protocol following Cleveland’s 27-6 defeat against Pittsburgh. He has not been cleared to return, prompting the Browns to prepare Sanders for another opportunity to lead the offense.

Sanders, 24, started seven games during his rookie season in 2025, completing 56.6 percent of his passes for 1,400 yards, seven touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Cleveland went 3-4 in those starts, providing Sanders with valuable experience despite inconsistent production.

Watson reclaimed the starting position during the offseason and has produced more efficient numbers through eight games. He has completed 65.5 percent of his passes for 1,806 yards, seven touchdowns and three interceptions, helping Cleveland establish a 5-3 record.

The Browns have remained competitive in the AFC North, but their recent defeat against Pittsburgh exposed offensive problems that must be addressed regardless of the starting quarterback.

Sanders offers mobility and the ability to extend plays, although he must demonstrate improved decision-making and consistency. His rookie season included flashes of potential alongside turnovers and difficulties handling defensive pressure.

Monken expressed confidence in Sanders’ preparation, noting that the quarterback received substantial practice repetitions during the offseason competition. The Browns also promoted defensive lineman Sam Kamara from their practice squad to the active roster, adding depth while dealing with injuries along the defensive front.

Watson’s recovery remains the determining factor in Cleveland’s longer-term quarterback plans. For now, Sanders has another opportunity to demonstrate his development and help the Browns remain competitive.

Brandon Aiyuk Meets With 49ers as Contract Dispute Continues

Brandon Aiyuk returned to the San Francisco 49ers’ facility Friday alongside agent Drew Rosenhaus, taking another step toward resolving his prolonged absence from professional football.

The receiver has not played since suffering significant knee injuries in October 2024. His recovery became complicated by disagreements with the organization over rehabilitation responsibilities, communication and contractual guarantees.

Aiyuk signed a four-year, $120 million extension in August 2024, but San Francisco subsequently voided approximately $27 million in guaranteed money after determining that he had failed to meet certain contractual obligations.

The dispute has since expanded to include approximately $13 million in signing bonus money that the 49ers are seeking to recover. The NFL Management Council and NFL Players Association are involved in the matter, and arbitration could become necessary if the parties cannot reach an agreement.

Aiyuk told reporters that he has completed his recovery and believes he is physically prepared to resume playing. However, his return to the facility does not mean he has been reinstated to the active roster or that he will play for San Francisco again.

General manager John Lynch has indicated that the organization wants to find a resolution. Head coach Kyle Shanahan, meanwhile, has publicly distanced himself from the situation and made clear that he is no longer planning around Aiyuk’s availability.

That creates an unusual conflict between the player’s desire to resume his career and an organization that appears prepared to move forward without him.

Aiyuk remains a talented receiver who produced 1,342 yards during the 2023 season. However, he has not played in more than two years, and any interested team would need to evaluate his conditioning, health and contract situation.

With the November 10 trade deadline approaching, San Francisco faces pressure to determine whether a trade is possible or whether another resolution is more practical. For now, Friday’s meeting represents progress toward addressing the dispute rather than confirmation that Aiyuk will return to the field.

49ers Lose Christian Kirk to Meniscus Injury as Receiver Problems Mount

San Francisco’s receiving corps suffered another setback when Christian Kirk injured his meniscus during Thursday’s practice. Head coach Kyle Shanahan confirmed Friday that Kirk will be unavailable, although the organization has not determined whether surgery will be necessary.

The team has also ruled out Mike Evans and Deebo Samuel, leaving San Francisco without three established receivers.

Evans continues dealing with rib and Achilles problems, while Samuel remains sidelined by a hamstring injury. Their absences create significant challenges for an offense that has relied on receiving depth to complement Christian McCaffrey and its rushing attack. The timing makes the Aiyuk situation even more complicated. San Francisco could benefit from additional receiving talent, but the organization’s contractual dispute with Aiyuk remains unresolved.

The 49ers are considering activating Demarcus Robinson from injured reserve, which would provide another experienced option. However, Robinson’s availability remains subject to a final roster decision.

San Francisco received more encouraging news elsewhere, with Nick Bosa completing a productive practice week and receiving no injury designation. McCaffrey also came off the injury report, providing additional stability for the offense. The 49ers have established a 6-1 record despite substantial injuries, demonstrating the effectiveness of their overall roster and coaching staff.

However, losing multiple receivers simultaneously places additional pressure on the available offensive contributors. San Francisco must determine whether internal replacements can adequately compensate or whether the approaching trade deadline creates an opportunity to add another option.

Patriots Running Back TreVeyon Henderson Reveals Medical Emergency

New England running back TreVeyon Henderson disclosed Friday that he was recently hospitalized following an unusual medical emergency involving unexplained neurological symptoms. Henderson described the experience in a public statement, explaining that he is focused on his recovery while medical professionals continue evaluating his condition.

The Patriots ruled Henderson out, but the circumstances surrounding his absence extend beyond a routine football injury. The organization has not publicly established a specific diagnosis, and it would be inappropriate to speculate about the cause of the symptoms or how long Henderson might require to recover.

His statement provides important context for an absence that had initially appeared on New England’s injury report as an illness. Henderson has become an important part of the Patriots’ offensive rotation, providing explosiveness and versatility from the running back position.

New England has improved to 5-3, but the organization is also dealing with several injuries involving established offensive contributors. Receiver A.J. Brown remains unavailable because of ankle and knee problems, while tight end Hunter Henry and offensive linemen Morgan Moses and Greg Van Roten have been managing their own injuries.

Brown’s continued absence is especially concerning because he has already missed substantial time this season. The veteran has struggled to regain his normal production since returning from a high ankle sprain. The Patriots must now evaluate their offensive depth while prioritizing Henderson’s health and recovery.

His situation is a reminder that not every player absence can be evaluated through a conventional football timetable. Until additional medical information becomes available, Henderson’s return remains uncertain.

Seahawks Lose Quenton Nelson to Knee Surgery Shortly After Trade

Seattle received disappointing news Friday when head coach Mike Macdonald confirmed that guard Quenton Nelson requires a minor surgical procedure on his knee. Nelson was acquired from Indianapolis on October 27 in exchange for a 2027 third-round pick and a 2028 fifth-round selection.

The eight-time Pro Bowl guard played every offensive snap during his Seattle debut against Chicago, but he aggravated an existing knee problem after joining the organization. Medical evaluations determined that surgery would be the most appropriate treatment. Reporting indicates the procedure will address a cartilage issue, with Nelson expected to miss several weeks.

Macdonald said Nelson will not be placed on injured reserve and is considered week to week, suggesting the Seahawks believe he can return without a lengthy absence. Nevertheless, the timing is frustrating for Seattle. The organization acquired Nelson specifically to strengthen its offensive line, but his immediate contribution has been interrupted after just one appearance.

The Seahawks are also dealing with injuries to several other important players. Quarterback Sam Darnold is unavailable because of rib and quadriceps injuries, while left tackle Charles Cross remains sidelined by an ankle problem.

Receiver Rashid Shaheed and defensive contributors Leonard Williams, Brandon Pili and Uchenna Nwosu are also unavailable. Seattle has fallen to 4-4 after losing three of its previous four games, creating additional pressure to stabilize its roster.

Nelson’s eventual return should provide an important improvement, but the Seahawks must find ways to maintain offensive protection while multiple established contributors recover.

Myles Garrett Nears Rams Return as Secondary Faces Questions

The Los Angeles Rams received encouraging news Friday when head coach Sean McVay indicated that Myles Garrett is expected to be activated from injured reserve, barring an unexpected setback. Garrett has been recovering from knee surgery and recently returned to practice. His progress has been sufficiently encouraging that the organization is preparing to restore him to the active roster.

The Rams acquired Garrett from Cleveland during the offseason in a blockbuster transaction designed to strengthen their pass rush. However, the veteran has missed most of the season following surgery, leaving Los Angeles without one of the league’s most accomplished defensive players.

The Rams have generated only 12 sacks through eight games, making Garrett’s potential return especially important. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt offensive blocking schemes could improve the effectiveness of the entire defensive front.

Los Angeles has recovered to 4-4 following consecutive victories, providing an opportunity to build momentum during the second half of the season. However, the organization also faces significant concerns in its secondary.

Cornerback Jaylen Watson is expected to undergo season-ending shoulder surgery, while Trent McDuffie is managing a back injury and safety Kamren Curl has been dealing with a foot problem. Those injuries create uncertainty about the available defensive personnel even as Garrett approaches his return.

The Rams must balance the benefits of restoring an elite pass rusher against the need to compensate for reduced depth elsewhere. Garrett’s return would be a substantial improvement, but maintaining defensive consistency will require contributions from multiple positions.

Jets Rule Out Garrett Wilson While Breece Hall Returns to Full Participation

The New York Jets will be without receiver Garrett Wilson because of a concussion, removing their most established passing-game contributor. Wilson has been the subject of trade speculation ahead of Tuesday’s deadline, although reporting indicates the Jets have resisted interest from other organizations.

The receiver has publicly expressed his desire to remain with New York, making it premature to assume that he will be moved. His absence creates another challenge for a Jets offense that has struggled during a 2-6 start.

The organization received more encouraging news regarding running back Breece Hall, who completed full practice participation and was removed from the injury report after managing a quadriceps problem.

Hall remains one of New York’s most important offensive contributors, providing both rushing production and receiving ability. The Jets also released quarterback Jake Haener as part of their roster adjustments, while several defensive contributors remain limited by injuries.

The organization must determine how to generate dependable offensive production without Wilson while continuing to evaluate its longer-term personnel plans. The approaching trade deadline adds uncertainty, but the Jets have not announced any agreement involving Wilson or Hall.

Lions Face Significant Defensive Absences Following Vikings Victory

Detroit’s important victory over Minnesota came with several injuries that continue affecting the team’s defensive depth. Linebacker Jack Campbell, defensive end D.J. Wonnum, cornerback D.J. Reed and safety Kerby Joseph have all been ruled out because of their respective injuries.

Campbell suffered a neck injury during the victory over Minnesota, while Wonnum remains in concussion protocol. Reed is dealing with a hip injury, and Joseph continues recovering from a knee problem. Those absences represent a substantial loss of established defensive talent for a team attempting to remain competitive in the NFC North.

Detroit has relied on improved defensive performances to complement its productive rushing attack, making the loss of multiple contributors particularly concerning. The Lions also ruled out center Cade Mays because of an ankle injury, creating another challenge along the offensive line.

Receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown remains questionable with a rib injury, while running back Sione Vaki is managing an ankle problem. Detroit improved to 5-2 after ending Minnesota’s undefeated season, but the organization must now determine whether its remaining depth can sustain that momentum.

The Lions have demonstrated the ability to overcome difficult circumstances, although repeated injuries across multiple positions can eventually affect even well-constructed rosters.

Packers Continue Micah Parsons Recovery, Rule Him Out

Green Bay’s Micah Parsons returned to practice earlier in the week, but the organization has ruled him out as he continues recovering from a torn ACL. The Packers recently opened Parsons’ 21-day practice window, allowing the defensive star to resume limited participation while remaining on injured reserve.

His return to practice represents an important milestone, but Green Bay is proceeding cautiously rather than immediately restoring him to game action. Parsons suffered the injury last December after recording more than 12 sacks during his first season with the Packers.

His eventual return could significantly improve Green Bay’s defensive front, particularly during a competitive NFC North race. The Packers are also dealing with injuries to several other contributors.

Offensive linemen Sean Rhyan and Travis Glover have been ruled out, while linebacker Zaire Franklin remains unavailable with a shin injury. Cornerback Keisean Nixon is questionable because of a groin problem, creating another situation for the coaching staff to monitor.

Green Bay enters the week at 5-3 and remains competitive despite the absence of several established players. The organization must determine when Parsons is ready for full participation without rushing his recovery. His eventual activation could provide one of the most significant defensive reinforcements available during the second half of the season.

NFL Trade Deadline Approaches With Major Decisions Remaining

The November 10 trade deadline is rapidly approaching, and several organizations continue evaluating whether additional personnel moves are necessary. Baltimore’s acquisition of Brissett demonstrates how injuries can create unexpected demand for experienced players.

The Ravens entered the season expecting Jackson to lead their offense, but the loss of their top two quarterbacks forced the organization to seek an immediate alternative. Chicago has taken a different approach, surrendering two first-round selections and additional compensation to acquire defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons from Tennessee.

The Bears received an immediate contribution from Simmons during their victory over Seattle, reinforcing their belief that an established interior defender could significantly improve their competitive position. Indianapolis has moved in the opposite direction, trading Quenton Nelson and DeForest Buckner while retaining younger contributors such as Adetomiwa Adebawore.

The Colts continue facing questions about the futures of Jonathan Taylor and Josh Downs, although neither player has been traded. San Francisco’s situation involving Aiyuk could also become relevant, but the receiver’s contractual dispute and lengthy absence complicate any potential transaction.

The Chargers have publicly expressed their desire to retain Khalil Mack despite speculation about his future, while the Jets have resisted reported interest in Garrett Wilson. Those situations illustrate why trade speculation must be distinguished from confirmed agreements.

Teams can receive inquiries, explore compensation and evaluate potential transactions without ultimately completing a deal. The deadline will provide an opportunity for contenders to address weaknesses, but organizations must also consider future draft capital, contracts and long-term roster development.

Friday’s developments demonstrated how significantly injuries are affecting the league’s competitive landscape.

Baltimore has acquired Brissett because its top two quarterbacks are unavailable, while Cleveland is preparing Sanders for another starting opportunity. San Francisco is dealing with multiple receiver injuries even as Aiyuk attempts to resolve his contractual dispute.

New England faces a more serious health concern involving Henderson, whose recovery remains the priority following his hospitalization. Seattle must manage injuries to Darnold, Nelson and several other contributors, while Detroit and Green Bay continue evaluating important defensive personnel.

The Rams are approaching Garrett’s return, but the loss of Watson creates another challenge in the secondary. With the trade deadline approaching, teams must determine whether their current rosters can support their competitive ambitions or whether additional moves are necessary.

The next several days will provide important answers about which organizations are prepared to invest in immediate improvement and which are beginning to prioritize future seasons.

This report includes information from: NFL.com, Reuters, Associated Press, ESPN, San Francisco Chronicle, NFL Network, NBC Sports, 49ers Webzone, and official NFL injury and transaction announcements.