# NFL roster and starting lineup preparations

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/nfl-roster-and-starting-lineup-preparations
> Updated: 2026-09-07T00:11:47.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

As the 2026 NFL season approaches, teams are finalizing rosters and making critical decisions regarding starting lineups.

Early reports indicate the Las Vegas Raiders have named Kirk Cousins as their starting quarterback under head coach Klint Kubiak, while the Miami Dolphins are undergoing significant leadership changes following the departures of players such as Tua Tagovailoa and Tyreek Hill. 

Subsequent updates show a trend toward veteran experience in quarterback selections. The Minnesota Vikings named Kyler Murray as their starter over J. J. McCarthy, and the Cleveland Browns confirmed Deshaun Watson as their starter ahead of Shedeur Sanders. Additionally, the Atlanta Falcons opted for Tua Tagovailoa based on camp preparation, and the Baltimore Ravens selected Jovaughn Gwyn as their starting center.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-07: NFL teams finalize starting quarterbacks ahead of season opener

NFL teams are finalizing rosters ahead of Week 1, with veterans like Kyler Murray and Deshaun Watson winning quarterback battles in Minnesota and Cleveland.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nfl-teams-finalize-starting-quarterbacks-ahead-of-season-opener

### 2026-09-04: NFL teams finalize rosters ahead of 2026 season opener

NFL teams prepare for Week 1, with the Raiders naming Kirk Cousins as starting quarterback and the Dolphins looking to Malik Willis to lead a revamped roster.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nfl-preseason-week-3-results-and-raiders-offensive-line-updates

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Cite as: NFL roster and starting lineup preparations. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/nfl-roster-and-starting-lineup-preparations