Patrick Graham, the Las Vegas Raiders' defensive coordinator, interviewed for the Jacksonville Jaguars' defensive coordinator position, a role seen as crucial for new head coach Liam Coen. Coen emphasized the importance of shared vision and identity in shaping the team's style of play. He expressed his intention to be collaborative while allowing the new coordinator autonomy to implement his strategies. Graham has a solid reputation, having previously worked with the Miami Dolphins and New York Giants before joining the Raiders. The Jaguars' interest in Graham reflects their commitment to strengthening their defensive leadership as they prepare for the upcoming season.

The Detroit Lions are elevating Kelvin Sheppard from linebackers coach to defensive coordinator following Aaron Glenn's departure to coach the New York Jets. This marks a rapid progression for Sheppard, who is just in his third season with the Lions and has received mentorship from Glenn himself. Head coach Dan Campbell emphasized the need for continuity and finding the right staff to maintain the team's defensive edge. Sheppard, known for his fiery coaching style, has been with the Lions since 2021 and previously played for several NFL teams, including the Buffalo Bills and Indianapolis Colts.

In a significant overhaul, the Houston Texans are parting ways with several coaching staff members as the team prepares for next season. Offensive assistants Jarrod James and Leander Wallace, along with defensive assistant Ryan Milus, will not have their contracts renewed after their expirations. Wallace was with the Texans for four seasons, first in the football operations department and later as a coach. James joined the team for three seasons after his stint at Michigan State. The Texans have witnessed a coaching reshuffle following the arrival of head coach DeMeco Ryans in 2023, who aims to elevate the franchise’s performance, particularly aiming for playoff success.

With the departure of key coaching personnel, including Slowik, who was let go after two seasons as offensive coordinator, Ryans emphasizes the nature of the NFL, highlighting that change is constant in the league. Ryans, who previously worked as a defensive quality control coach, understands the implications of these changes and the difficult conversations necessary to build a successful team. Looking ahead, the Texans appear committed to a fresh start as they aim to improve their standing in the league.

The AFC East has showcased standout performances this season, particularly from the New York Jets' defense and the New England Patriots' special teams. Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills continues to impress, especially with his rushing abilities, while James Cook leads the running back category.

Wide receiver Garrett Wilson has made significant contributions for the Jets, and Hunter Henry stands out among tight ends for the Patriots. The Jets dominate the linebacker and cornerback positions, while the Patriots excel in special teams, achieving a clean sweep in that category.

New England Patriots coach Jerod Mayo expressed his disappointment with the team's performance after their sixth consecutive loss, a 32-16 defeat to the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley Stadium. He labeled the team as 'soft' and highlighted their struggles in running the ball and stopping the run.

The Patriots initially led 10-0 but faltered as the Jaguars scored four unanswered times. Jacksonville's Tank Bigsby dominated with 118 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while New England managed only 38 rushing yards.

Mayo emphasized the need for improvement and discipline, especially after allowing a punt return touchdown. Rookie quarterback Drake Maye showed promise with two touchdown passes but acknowledged the team's need to 'man up' and improve.