As the NFL offseason intensifies, the Washington Commanders have decided to part ways with cornerback Marshon Lattimore, informing him of his release ahead of the 2026 league year kickoff in March. This move is designed to free up $18.5 million in salary cap space, pushing Washington’s total available cap to nearly $90 million this offseason, according to Over The Cap.
Lattimore, who faced extensive injury struggles over the past two seasons—playing just 18 games—had been identified as the 17th most likely salary cap casualty by analyst Greg Auman. The Commanders’ decision reflects a broader effort to restructure their roster and manage cap constraints before free agency officially begins.
Cleveland Browns Acquire Offensive Tackle Tytus Howard from Houston Texans
In a significant roster adjustment, the Cleveland Browns bolster their offensive line by trading for right tackle Tytus Howard from the Houston Texans in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick. Howard is also expected to sign a three-year, $63 million contract extension with Cleveland once the deal is finalized after March 11.
The Browns’ offensive line performance had been underwhelming in 2025, with Pro Football Focus ranking it as the league’s second-worst unit. Only Dawand Jones had an assured contract for the 2026 season among the starters. This trade may also affect Cleveland’s draft strategy; previously projected to use their sixth overall pick on an offensive tackle, they now might focus on other positions like wide receiver.
Kansas City Chiefs Release Offensive Tackle Jawaan Taylor to Manage Salary Cap
Facing salary cap issues, the Chiefs have cut offensive tackle Jawaan Taylor, generating $20 million in available cap space and pushing the team approximately $15 million under the cap, per Over The Cap. Taylor was among the top eight cap casualty candidates identified by Greg Auman heading into the offseason.
Taylor had been Kansas City’s starting right tackle since 2023 but struggled with penalties and overall performance, ranking 76th out of 80 tackles in the most recent Pro Football Focus rankings. His release aligns with the Chiefs’ efforts to adjust their roster and manage rising salary obligations.
Legendary Pass Rusher Von Miller Explores Potential General Manager Role
Von Miller, an eight-time Pro Bowler and Super Bowl 50 MVP, has been learning the responsibilities of an NFL general manager during the 2026 Scouting Combine. After a solid 2025 season with nine sacks and 26 tackles for the Washington Commanders, the 36-year-old free agent is considering a possible front-office career as his playing days near an end.
NFC East Linebacker Nakobe Dean Expected to Attract Interest from Rival Teams
Linebacker Nakobe Dean, who is projected to enter free agency, is anticipated to be pursued by multiple teams, including the Dallas Cowboys. Dean had an injury-limited season in 2025, playing only ten games due to knee and hamstring issues, but still made impactful contributions with four sacks, two forced fumbles, and 55 tackles.
“I am 100% convinced that Nakobe Dean is hitting the market and headed elsewhere … If you asked me to make a short list, they’ll be on it,”
said reporter Mike Garafolo on The Anthony Gargano Show.
Dallas Cowboys Create Significant Cap Space Through Contract Restructuring
The Dallas Cowboys increased their cap flexibility by around $66 million via restructurings of deals for quarterback Dak Prescott, wide receiver CeeDee Lamb, and guard Tyler Smith. Prescott, a four-time Pro Bowler, is entering the second year of a four-year, $240 million contract. Lamb, an All-Pro and five-time Pro Bowler, starts the second year of a $136 million deal, while Smith’s four-year, $96 million agreement begins in 2027.
NFL Sets Salary Cap at $301.2 Million for 2026 Season
The NFL announced the 2026 salary cap will total $301.2 million, a $22 million rise from 2025’s figure. This development allows free agents’ representatives to initiate contract discussions from noon ET on March 9. NFL free agency officially opens at 4 p.m. ET on March 11.
Dallas Cowboys Place Franchise Tag on Wide Receiver George Pickens
George Pickens, who emerged as one of the top wide receivers entering free agency, has received the franchise tag from Dallas, worth around $28 million for the 2026 season. Pickens delivered a breakout inaugural season in Dallas, registering career highs: 93 receptions, 1,429 yards, and nine touchdown catches, and earned his first Pro Bowl selection in 2025 after three seasons with the Steelers.
Commanders Release Offensive Lineman Tyler Biadasz
Tyler Biadasz, a key contributor to Washington’s NFC championship run and a former Cowboys Pro Bowler in 2022, was released despite having one year left on his three-year, $29.2 million contract. The move incurs a $10.9 million cap hit, leaving $8.1 million in dead cap. Biadasz has become an unrestricted free agent.
Indianapolis Colts Give QB Anthony Richardson Permission to Seek Trade
The Colts have authorized quarterback Anthony Richardson to explore trade opportunities. Drafted fourth overall in 2023, Richardson has struggled to secure consistent starting roles, hampered by injuries including shoulder, head, and eye ailments. He started only 15 games and lost his job to Daniel Jones during the 2024 and 2025 seasons.
Jets and Titans Complete Player Swap
New York Jets traded defensive end Jermaine Johnson, a 2023 Pro Bowler and 2022 first-round pick, to the Tennessee Titans for nose tackle T’Vondre Sweat, the Titans’ 2024 second-round choice. Johnson totaled three sacks and 43 tackles in 14 games last season, while Sweat averaged 1.5 sacks and 42.5 tackles per season over his first two years.
Chicago Bears Grant Linebacker Tremaine Edmunds Permission to Explore Trade Options
Tremaine Edmunds, a two-time Pro Bowler entering the final year of his four-year, $72 million contract, has been allowed to pursue a trade. In 2025, Edmunds made notable defensive plays, including four interceptions and 112 tackles despite missing games due to groin injury. He has achieved over 100 combined tackles each season across his eight NFL campaigns.
San Francisco 49ers and Star Left Tackle Trent Williams in Contract Standoff
Trent Williams, one of the league’s premier offensive tackles, is reportedly in contract negotiations that have yet to find resolution. Williams, a 12-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro, is entering the last year of an $82.7 million deal. He played through a hamstring injury during the 2025 campaign, which ended with a loss to the Seahawks in the NFC divisional round.
“struggling to find a contractual solution,”
reported ESPN regarding Williams’ current situation.
Dallas Cowboys Guard Tyler Smith Undergoes Minor Knee Surgery
Tyler Smith had minor surgery on his right knee following the 2025 Pro Bowl. Expected to return in time for OTAs, Smith has been a three-time Pro Bowler and missed only one game last season due to injury.
Atlanta Falcons Confirm Plan to Release Quarterback Kirk Cousins
The Falcons will cut veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins on the first day of the new league year, March 11, as anticipated. Cousins, 37, was benched late in the 2024 season after signing a four-year, $180 million deal two years prior. After starter Michael Penix Jr.’s season-ending injury in 2025, Cousins started eight games, posting 1,721 yards and 10 touchdowns with an 84.8 passer rating, though the Falcons have moved toward a new era under general manager Matt Ryan and head coach Kevin Stefanski.
Dallas Cowboys Aim to Secure Long-Term Contract for Kicker Brandon Aubrey
Cowboys co-owner Stephen Jones expressed optimism regarding finalizing a long-term agreement with kicker Brandon Aubrey before restricted free agency tends to take effect. Aubrey is a three-time Pro Bowler who has set multiple NFL records for field goals, including consecutive successful kicks at the start of a career and the most 50-plus-yard field goals in a season without a miss.
“We’ve been working on a long-term deal for some time,”
“We’ve exchanged offers, and the goal is to get him signed. We’ll tender him before the deadline if that’s what we have to decide.”
—Stephen Jones, Dallas Cowboys Co-owner
Kansas City Chiefs Show Interest in Acquiring Running Back Travis Etienne
The Chiefs are pursuing running back Travis Etienne, whose rookie contract ends with free agency opening on March 9. Etienne showed signs of improvement by rushing for over 1,100 yards and scoring 13 total touchdowns during his last contract year. With Kareem Hunt and Isiah Pacheco also set to hit free agency, Kansas City has a clear need at the running back position.
Philadelphia Eagles’ Right Tackle Lane Johnson to Return for 14th Season
Lane Johnson confirmed his intent to return for the 2026 season with the Eagles after recovering from a foot injury that sidelined him for eight games in 2025. Johnson, a two-time All-Pro and six-time Pro Bowler, aims to contribute to a team that won the NFC East but lost in the wild-card round last season.
Kansas City Chiefs Reduce Patrick Mahomes’ 2026 Salary to Increase Cap Space
The Chiefs restructured quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ 2026 contract, lowering his salary from $78.2 million to $34.65 million and freeing $43.56 million in cap space. Mahomes, recovering from ACL and LCL tears in 2025, is targeting a return for the first week of the upcoming season.
Seattle Seahawks Likely To Forego Franchise Tag on Running Back Kenneth Walker III
The Seahawks are reportedly prepared to allow star running back Kenneth Walker III to test free agency without placing the franchise tag, despite his impressive 2025 season, which included over 1,000 rushing yards and notable playoff performance. Analyst Greg Auman predicted that due to injury concerns in the Seahawks’ backfield, the team may still re-sign him.
Trade Request Expected from Colts QB Anthony Richardson After Benchings
Following Daniel Jones’ emergence as the starting quarterback, it is widely expected that Anthony Richardson will request a trade this offseason. Richardson’s tenure with Indianapolis has been hampered by injuries and inconsistent play, resulting in limited starts and modest passing statistics through his rookie contract.
Miami Dolphins Release Veteran Edge Rusher Bradley Chubb to Manage Cap
The Dolphins cut Bradley Chubb, clearing $7.34 million in salary cap space. Though Chubb had a solid season with 8.5 sacks in 2025, his upcoming cap hits in 2026 and 2027 exceeded $31 million, which was unsustainable for Miami’s salary structure.
NFLPA Barred from Publishing Annual Team Report Cards
An arbitrator ruled that the NFL Players Association violated the collective bargaining agreement by releasing annual team “report cards,” ordering that such public reports cease immediately. The NFL views these reports as disparaging and questioned the transparency of their methodology.
“We are pleased with the decision from the arbitrator, upholding the parties’ collective bargaining agreement and prohibiting the NFLPA from disparaging our clubs and individuals through ‘report cards’ allegedly based on data and methodologies that it has steadfastly refused to disclose,”
“We remain committed to working in partnership with the NFLPA and an independent survey company to develop and administer a scientifically valid survey to solicit accurate and reliable player feedback as the parties agreed in the CBA.”
—Brian McCarthy, NFL Spokesman
Miami Dolphins Weigh Decisions on QB Tua Tagovailoa’s Future
Dolphins GM Jon-Eric Sullivan revealed uncertainty about Tua Tagovailoa’s role going forward, emphasizing competition for the quarterback position. Tagovailoa, in the second year of a four-year, $212.4 million deal, experienced a challenging 2025 season marked by a career-low passer rating and a high number of interceptions.
“I don’t know what the future holds right now, and I told Tua that,”
“We’re working through some things. What I can tell you is that we’re going to infuse competition into that room — whether Tua is part of the room [or not]. … Tua knows where we are. We’ve been very honest and upfront, and Tua also knows that he will be the first to know when we make a decision. … We’re getting close to a decision, and when we do, we’ll let Tua know whether he’s going to be part of this or not, and we’ll move forward.”
—Jon-Eric Sullivan, Miami Dolphins General Manager
Cleveland Browns Tight End David Njoku Announces Departure
David Njoku, set to enter free agency after nine seasons with the Browns, announced he will seek a new team. Njoku, a 2023 Pro Bowler, contributed 33 receptions and four touchdowns in 2025 despite missing five games to a knee injury. He ranks highly in Browns franchise history in receptions, touchdowns, and receiving yards.
“the time for [him] to find a new home has come.”
Kansas City Chiefs Tight End Travis Kelce Expected to Continue Playing
Speculation grows around veteran tight end Travis Kelce returning for a 14th season with the Chiefs. Despite a disappointing 6-11 year in 2025, Kelce recorded 76 receptions for 851 yards and five touchdowns. The 36-year-old is a four-time All-Pro and 11-time Pro Bowler with three Super Bowl titles.
Rams Extend Contracts of Head Coach Sean McVay and GM Les Snead
Sean McVay and general manager Les Snead have agreed to multi-year contract extensions, continuing their leadership of the Rams. Since McVay’s hiring in 2017, the team has enjoyed sustained success, including a Super Bowl victory in 2022 and multiple playoff runs.
McVay expressed optimism regarding quarterback Matthew Stafford’s potential return for an 18th season after an MVP-level 2025 campaign, though the team awaits Stafford’s announcement. Additionally, McVay has hired Bubba Ventrone as the special teams coordinator and is determining his next offensive coordinator following Mike LaFleur’s departure.
Green Bay Packers Hire Jonathan Gannon as Defensive Coordinator
Ex-Arizona Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon has been named defensive coordinator for the Packers, replacing Jeff Hafley, who left to become head coach of the Miami Dolphins. Packers coach Matt LaFleur praised Gannon’s extensive NFL coaching experience and leadership abilities.
“He possesses tremendous experience as an NFL coordinator and head coach,”
“I am confident that he will be an outstanding addition to our organization, as well as a strong leader of our defense.”
—Matt LaFleur, Green Bay Packers Head Coach
Gannon’s previous tenure with Arizona ended following a 3-14 season. Before that, he served two seasons as Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator, guiding a top-ranked defense that reached Super Bowl LVII.
Eagles Defensive Coordinator Vic Fangio Considers Retirement but Returns
Vic Fangio, recognized as one of the NFL’s premier defensive minds, initially planned to retire but was persuaded to return for another season with the Eagles. Had Fangio stepped away, Philadelphia intended to pursue Jonathan Gannon or Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz for the role. Fangio has shaped a defense that ranked in the NFL’s top five for scoring defense over the last two years.
Green Bay Packers Extend Key Front Office and Coaching Staff Contracts
Packers coach Matt LaFleur, GM Brian Gutekunst, and executive Russ Ball have signed multi-year contract extensions. This follows three consecutive playoff appearances and a competitive regular season. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to this leadership team and their pursuit of a championship.
“We are excited to extend our commitment to Brian, Matt and Russ as the leaders of our football operations,”
“Their steadfast dedication, passion and collaboration have remained constant in our drive to compete at the highest level. While we are all disappointed with the way this season ended, we remain aligned in purpose and have spent considerable time over the past weeks collaborating on a path forward.
“I am exceedingly confident we have the right people to achieve our goal. The entire Packers organization looks forward to supporting every effort to bring our community and fans another championship that they very much deserve.”
—Ed Policy, Green Bay Packers President/CEO
Atlanta Falcons Prepare to Cut Kirk Cousins but Might Re-Sign on Lower Terms
The Falcons are expected to release veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins but remain open to re-signing him on a reduced contract. Cousins’ performance waned after being benched for Michael Penix Jr. in 2024; however, he returned to the starting lineup during Penix’s season-ending injury in 2025 and maintained solid statistics, though the team is undergoing leadership changes under Matt Ryan and Kevin Stefanski.
Commanders have informed former Pro-Bowl CB Marshon Lattimore that they intend to release him before the new league year begins, a move that will save the team $18.5 million in salary cap space, per sources. pic.twitter.com/KNDe1botDA
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 2, 2026
Sources: The #Texans and #Browns have agreed to terms on a trade to send starting RT Tytus Howard to Cleveland in exchange for a fifth-round pick.
Much-needed OL help. Plus, Howard gets a new 3-year, $63M extension in a deal done by @malkikawa and Ethan Lock of @FirstRoundMgmt. pic.twitter.com/3X2PprFIjN
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 2, 2026
Chiefs have informed OT Jawaan Taylor that he will be released before the start of the league year barring a trade, per sources.
Taylor’s release will save the Chiefs $20 million under the cap. pic.twitter.com/Tzbnw4x6xl
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 2, 2026
Really cool: Von Miller spent part of this week in Indianapolis at the NFL Combine learning more about becoming a future GM, according to multiple sources.
Von has long wanted to be a GM after his playing days and he’s putting the work in to gain experience. pic.twitter.com/Nh0IunQHHA
— Zac Stevens (@ZacStevensDNVR) February 28, 2026
Could Nakobe Dean sign with the #Cowboys in free agency?
"I am 100% convinced that Nakobe Dean is hitting the market and headed elsewhere… If you asked me to make a short list, they'd be on it."
– @MikeGarafolo pic.twitter.com/t63EuEpRon
— Anthony Gargano (@AnthonyLGargano) February 27, 2026
NFL clubs were informed today that the salary cap for the ’26 season will jump $22 million per club to $301.2 million. Add in another $77.6m in benefits & that’s $378.8m per club in player spending. Tremendous growth pic.twitter.com/cQ5Zf3aGVW
— Brian McCarthy (@NFLprguy) February 27, 2026
A rare straight player for player trade involving two young ascending players: Jermaine Johnson for T’Vondre Sweat. https://t.co/t5ffv0mDhP pic.twitter.com/QbHuyq1YRo
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) February 26, 2026
The #Bears have granted permission for LB Tremaine Edmunds to seek a trade, according to a league source. He's under contract for the '26 season at $15M. Still young and was Pro Bowl-caliber player thru first 10 games before minor injury. Finished year healthy. Led D in tackles.
— Brad Biggs (@BradBiggs) February 25, 2026
Cunningham says he spoke with Kirk Cousins and his agent recently and told them the plan was to release Cousins the first day of the league year. #Falcons
— Marc Raimondi (@marcraimondi) February 24, 2026
Ahead of Combine week, I’m hearing there’s legitimate interest from Travis Etienne to come to KC. Etienne’s due to become a UFA on 3/11, and the Chiefs need a running back. We’ll see.
— Pete Sweeney (@pgsween) February 21, 2026
Lane Johnson just told me that he’s officially returning for a 14th season with the #Eagles.
Having the future HOF right tackle will be key as HC Nick Sirianni alters the offense under new OC Sean Mannion in 2026.
The Eagles will also have a new O-line coach after Jeff… pic.twitter.com/bQfPPIWR9m
— Jeff McLane (@Jeff_McLane) February 19, 2026
The Kansas City Chiefs restructured Patrick Mahomes’ contract this week, lowering his salary cap number from $78.2 to $34.65 million for the upcoming season and creating $43.56 million in salary cap space, as @Jason_OTC reported. pic.twitter.com/2MShU1GAmq
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 18, 2026
It’s unlikely the Seahawks will use their franchise tag on running back and Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker, per league sources. The Seahawks have multiple free agents they want to retain and sign. They also will try to extend WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba. There are enough Super-Bowl tax… https://t.co/9xbtIgLNn7 pic.twitter.com/XdfkNk16kf
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 17, 2026
The Dolphins are releasing veteran edge Bradley Chubb, per source. pic.twitter.com/u0Lscp3rxI
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) February 16, 2026
Sources: The NFL informed all 32 teams today in a memo that it prevailed in its grievance vs. the NFLPA and its “team report cards.” An arbitrator determined that the NFLPA’s conduct violated the CBA and ordered it to stop making public any future report cards. pic.twitter.com/mss5WUQjhF
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 13, 2026
Impending free agent David Njoku writes in an Instagram post that “the time for me to find a new home has come.”
Njoku’s contract is set to void on March 12, one day after the new league year begins. Njoku, who has played the entirety of his career in Cleveland, previously… pic.twitter.com/njkDc7yPzB
— Daniel Oyefusi (@DanielOyefusi) February 10, 2026
