What happened: Taj Gibson is already making himself heard in his first days as an assistant coach. A player described him as constantly in the group’s ear and said the approach is aimed at getting the best out of them.

Why it matters: The early reaction points to Gibson bringing a direct, player-driven voice into preseason work ahead of the 2026-27 season. It also extends his move from a 17-year playing career into coaching less than three weeks after he was waived on Sept. 9.

What to watch: Watch how prominent Gibson’s role looks once exhibition games begin and whether that tone carries from camp to the bench.