The NFL is reportedly expected to reach a conclusion in tampering investigations against the Atlanta Falcons and Philadelphia Eagles as early as this week, which could result in both teams losing draft picks.

ESPN's Adam Schefter reported the Falcons are expected to face more "severe" punishment if they're found to have tampered with quarterback Kirk Cousins before signing him this offseason. The Eagles have been accused of violating league tampering rules before signing running back Saquon Barkley.

Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk reported the league's investigation into the Falcons was multifaceted. The NFL was expected to look into whether Cousins provided the Falcons with medical information before the legal tampering period or had any impermissible contact with team officials before the start of the league year.

Teams are only allowed to communicate with agents during the legal tampering period.

Cousins told reporters he spoke with Atlanta's head athletic trainer before the start of the league year. The four-time Pro Bowler is coming off a torn Achilles, so it would make sense that the Falcons would be interested in getting a full outlook on his medical situation. However, doing so while flouting league rules could have major consequences.

Penn State coach James Franklin got the Eagles and Barkley in hot water by telling reporters Philadelphia general manager Howie Roseman spoke to the All-Pro running back before the start of the league year.

ESPN's Tim McManus reported the Eagles and Barkley denied Franklin's accounting of events, saying Roseman only spoke to Barkley's agent.

While punishments for tampering are rare, they're typically harsh when handed out. The Miami Dolphins were docked a 2023 first-round pick and a 2024 third-round selection for violating tampering rules with Tom Brady and Sean Payton. That situation was unique because it involved multiple instances of tampering over the period of years, but it would not be a surprise if a Day 2 selection winds up coming off the books for Atlanta.