The 2026 NFL free agency period has kicked off with remarkable energy, delivering numerous high-profile deals across the league. With franchises actively reshaping their rosters, we analyze and assign grades to the most impactful signings and trades, assessing which teams made savvy moves and which fell short amid the chaotic market.
Malik Willis Joins Dolphins as New Franchise Quarterback
Quarterback Malik Willis made headlines by agreeing to a three-year, $67.5 million contract with the Miami Dolphins, including $45 million guaranteed. This deal secures Willis as the highest-paid quarterback on the open market.
Willis links up with familiar faces, joining Miami under head coach Jeff Hafley and general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan, both former Green Bay Packers personnel. Miami’s roster features key offensive weapons like running back De’Von Achane and wide receiver Jaylen Waddle, providing a supportive environment for Willis to develop beyond his previous backup role in Green Bay. The Dolphins aim to transform Willis from a game manager into a consistent playmaker.
Concerns at the combine highlighted the risk of Willis’ contract becoming financially burdensome, especially with the financial hit looming from the release of Tua Tagovailoa, which could result in $99 million in dead cap space. Nonetheless, Willis’ average salary of $22.5 million per year aligns closely with other recent quarterback deals, indicating a balanced investment.
This signing carries significant risk due to Willis’ raw talent and limited starting experience, but with restricted quarterback options available this offseason, Miami’s aggressive pursuit could pay off.
Grade for Dolphins: A-
Colts Secure Wide Receiver Alec Pierce’s Return
The Indianapolis Colts made a crucial move by re-signing wide receiver Alec Pierce, a young talent pivotal to revitalizing their offense’s explosiveness. Pierce, who has demonstrated a strong connection with quarterback Daniel Jones, is noted for his deep-threat ability and expanding route proficiency.
Despite his promising skill set, Pierce’s contract reflects an inflated price compared to earlier opportunities when the Colts could have secured him more cheaply. This delay somewhat diminishes the efficiency of the signing but retains the player’s upside in the passing game.
Grade for Colts: B-
Chiefs Invest in Kenneth Walker III to Bolster Run Game
Kansas City Chiefs acquired running back Kenneth Walker III, most recently the Seattle Seahawks’ Super Bowl MVP, on a three-year, $45 million contract with $28.7 million guaranteed. Recognizing the need to enhance their running game which ranked 25th in the NFL last season, the Chiefs addressed a clear weakness in their roster.
Walker’s arrival provides a reliable focal point for the offense, especially with Patrick Mahomes recovering from ACL surgery. Despite Walker’s injury history, his potential to serve as a bell-cow back justifies the financial commitment aimed at increasing offensive balance and reducing pressure on Mahomes.
Grade for Chiefs: B
Falcons Strengthen QB Room with Veteran Tua Tagovailoa
The Atlanta Falcons signed veteran quarterback Tua Tagovailoa to a one-year deal, providing insurance as starting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. recovers from an ACL injury. New head coach Kevin Stefanski, familiar with left-handed quarterbacks, sees Tagovailoa as a fitting interim starter aligned with his West Coast offense approach, which emphasizes precise passing and a strong running game.
Tagovailoa enters a talented offense featuring running back Bijan Robinson, tight end Kyle Pitts, and receiver Drake London, though his recent track record includes injury struggles and an uneven 2025 season where he was benched. Despite these setbacks, Tagovailoa carries playoff experience and a 44-32 NFL record, offering seasoned leadership as Penix returns.
Grade for Falcons: B+
Commanders Commit Large Deal to Edge Rusher Odafe Oweh
Washington Commanders agreed to a four-year, $100 million contract with outside linebacker Odafe Oweh, whose production includes 21.5 sacks over the past two seasons including playoffs. However, while his sack totals impress, his overall pressure rate placed him 29th among edge defenders in 2025, revealing potential inconsistencies.
Following a midseason trade to the Los Angeles Chargers, Oweh showed improved pressure rates, registering the sixth-highest in the NFL during his time there. Despite this, the Commanders face uncertainty about his capability as an every-down disruptive force, particularly in run defense.
Grade for Commanders: C+
Panthers Take a Risk on Edge Rusher Jaelan Phillips
The Carolina Panthers signed former Eagles edge rusher Jaelan Phillips, a player praised for his pressure production but burdened with a significant injury history including torn ACL and Achilles tendon. Phillips thrived under Vic Fangio’s defense in Miami and Philadelphia but will face new defensive schemes in Carolina that may not suit his style.
The Panthers’ investment places Phillips among the top paid pass rushers this offseason, despite his lack of double-digit sack seasons and injury concerns, presenting a gamble that his recent rise will continue rather than regress.
Grade for Panthers: C+
Raiders Add Stability to Offensive Line with Tyler Linderbaum Signing
Las Vegas Raiders enhanced their offensive line by signing center Tyler Linderbaum to a three-year, $81 million contract with $60 million guaranteed, making him the highest-paid center in NFL history. Last season, the Raiders struggled with pass protection, allowing a league-worst 64 sacks.
Linderbaum is expected to anchor the line and facilitate improved blocking for rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza and running back Ashton Jeanty. With over $100 million in salary cap space entering free agency, this cornerstone addition positions the Raiders to build a sturdier offensive foundation.
Grade for Raiders: A-
Jets Acquire Cornerback Nahshon Wright on Affordable Deal
The New York Jets secured cornerback Nahshon Wright on a one-year, $5.5 million contract, a bargain for the 27-year-old who excelled last season with five interceptions and a Pro Bowl selection while playing for Chicago.
After overcoming injuries and slower development early in his career, Wright represents a potential ball-hawking upgrade for the Jets, whose defense lacked interceptions in 2025. The low-risk investment allows New York to evaluate his fit while maintaining salary cap flexibility.
Grade for Jets: A
Seahawks Recommit to Playmaker Rashid Shaheed
Seattle Seahawks re-signed wide receiver and kick returner Rashid Shaheed to a three-year deal averaging $17 million annually. Shaheed’s abilities as a dynamic returner and reliable receiver contributed significantly to Seattle’s Super Bowl victory.
His contract aligns with the compensation of a WR2, reflecting a fair valuation given his dual-threat potential in the offense and special teams. Shaheed’s continued development is expected to complement star WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba, expanding Seattle’s offensive options.
Grade for Seahawks: A
Saints Invest in Running Back Travis Etienne Jr.
The New Orleans Saints signed running back Travis Etienne Jr., a Louisiana native, to a contract averaging $13 million per year, making him the NFL’s seventh highest-paid running back. This move addresses the need for a durable three-down back as Alvin Kamara’s production wanes.
Etienne brings balanced rushing and receiving skills, boasting more career receiving yards than Kenneth Walker III, whom the Chiefs signed. Positioned as RB1, Etienne provides relief to quarterback Tyler Shough and strengthens the Saints’ offensive versatility.
Grade for Saints: A-
Eagles Add Cornerback Riq Woolen to Secondary
Philadelphia Eagles bolstered their secondary by signing cornerback Riq Woolen to a contract potentially worth up to $15 million. Woolen, a noted ball hawk with six interceptions as a rookie, is expected to improve on early departures from the Eagles’ cornerback room.
Alongside Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean, Woolen will be part of a formidable trio of corners tasked with maintaining the defensive prowess Vic Fangio’s scheme demands.
Grade for Eagles: A-
Patriots Sign Wide Receiver Romeo Doubs to Long-Term Deal
New England Patriots secured slot receiver Romeo Doubs on a four-year, $70 million deal. Doubs, known for his potential and route-running, will increasingly fill a crucial role in the Patriots’ offense under coordinator Josh McDaniels, who favors slot receivers.
Doubs’ contract places him alongside other high-priced slot receivers, signaling the team’s commitment to developing promising targets for quarterback Drake Maye as they move on from Stefon Diggs.
Grade for Patriots: A
Texans Add Offensive Tackle Braden Smith to Lineup
Houston Texans agreed to a two-year, $25 million deal with offensive tackle Braden Smith, likely to replace recently traded right tackle Tytus Howard. Smith’s return after addressing obsessive-compulsive disorder was marked by mixed performance last season.
While Smith bolsters Houston’s offensive line rebuild alongside re-signed veterans Trent Brown and Ed Ingram, questions remain whether he signifies a substantial upgrade at right tackle.
Grade for Texans: C+
Cowboys Boost Pass Rush with Rashan Gary Acquisition
Dallas Cowboys traded a fourth-round draft pick to acquire edge rusher Rashan Gary from the Green Bay Packers. Gary, 28, recorded 7.5 sacks in 2025, though all occurred in the first half of the season. Despite the risk, Dallas values his consistent past season sack averages and the relatively reasonable cost compared to pricier alternatives.
The Cowboys accept a two-year, $42 million contract as a calculated gamble to address pass-rushing needs.
Grade for Cowboys: B
Steelers Acquire Reliable Wide Receiver Michael Pittman Jr.
Pittsburgh Steelers traded for wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., acquiring a dependable target to complement DK Metcalf. Pittman, a two-time 1,000-yard receiver who has missed only three games since 2021, provides physicality and yards after catch skills suited to Pittsburgh’s offense.
The three-year, $59 million deal and draft pick compensation make this an advantageous move for the Steelers and head coach Mike McCarthy.
Grade for Steelers: A
Jets Strengthen Defense by Trading for Minkah Fitzpatrick
The New York Jets added safety Minkah Fitzpatrick from Miami in exchange for a seventh-round pick. Though Fitzpatrick struggled in 2025 following three Pro Bowl seasons in Pittsburgh, he fits the Jets’ need for savvy veterans on defense under new coordinator Aaron Glenn.
The three-year, $40 million deal is low-risk, intended to stabilize a secondary weakened by the loss of cornerback Sauce Gardner and improve ball-hawking capabilities, which were lacking last year.
Grade for Jets: B+
49ers Sign Veteran Receiver Mike Evans to Deepen Receiving Corps
The San Francisco 49ers signed wide receiver Mike Evans to a three-year, $60.4 million contract. Evans, 32, holds 11 career 1,000-yard receiving seasons and remains a reliable scoring threat despite not matching the explosive levels of younger stars.
Under coach Kyle Shanahan, with quarterback Brock Purdy and running back Christian McCaffrey supporting him, Evans is expected to reinvent himself as a focal point of the 49ers’ passing game, similar to what the Rams did with Davante Adams on a comparable deal.
Grade for 49ers: A
Travis Kelce Returns for 14th Season with Chiefs on One-Year Deal
Tight end Travis Kelce re-signed with the Kansas City Chiefs on a one-year contract reportedly worth up to $15 million, including a $12 million base. Despite being 36 and showing signs of decline, Kelce remains productive and valuable in Andy Reid’s offense, as evidenced by his 851 receiving yards and five touchdowns in 2025.
The deal’s value reflects Kelce’s status as a future Hall of Famer and key offensive contributor planning to conclude his career after the upcoming season.
Grade for Chiefs: A-
Bears Enhance Secondary with Safety Coby Bryant
The Chicago Bears signed safety Coby Bryant, known for his Super Bowl experience and versatility in transitioning from cornerback to safety. Over the past two seasons, Bryant amassed seven interceptions and 139 tackles, boosting the Bears’ defense under coach Ben Johnson.
Bears face several safeties outgoing via free agency; Bryant’s addition aims to solidify the secondary amid a Super Bowl-contending outlook.
Grade for Bears: A
Rams Bolster Secondary by Adding Cornerback Jaylen Watson
Los Angeles Rams continued reinforcing their defensive backs by signing cornerback Jaylen Watson to a three-year, $51 million deal with $34 million guaranteed. Previously acquiring Trent McDuffie through trade, the Rams now feature two talented corners to improve their once vulnerable secondary.
Though investments in these positions are significant, attention will soon turn to contract negotiations for key wide receiver Puka Nacua, entering his final rookie contract year.
Grade for Rams: B+
Giants Add Versatile Tight End Isaiah Likely
The New York Giants signed tight end Isaiah Likely, a 6-foot-4, 245-pound athlete with notable untapped capabilities. Likely’s production was limited behind Ravens TE Mark Andrews but showed reliability and field-stretching ability, making him a potential lead receiving target alongside quarterback Jaxson Dart.
Likely’s three-year, $40 million contract provides affordable weaponry for the Giants’ offense.
Grade for Giants: A-
Titans Acquire Wide Receiver Wan’Dale Robinson
Tennessee Titans added receiver Wan’Dale Robinson on a four-year, $70 million agreement, reuniting him with offensive coordinator Brian Daboll who valued Robinson’s slot receiving skills in New York.
While Robinson’s production surged due to teammate injuries, his limited yards-after-catch ability raises questions about the hefty investment in a player primarily suited to a slot role. Still, his presence is expected to aid quarterback Cam Ward’s development.
Grade for Titans: C+
Lions Sign Center Cade Mays to Strengthen Offensive Line
The Detroit Lions signed former Panthers center Cade Mays on a three-year, $25 million deal to fill the void left by Frank Ragnow’s departure. Mays took over as starting center during the 2025 season, performing well by allowing no sacks and aiding the Panthers’ run-heavy approach.
At 26, Mays is poised for prime production years, offering Detroit greater stability upfront.
Grade for Lions: B+
Patriots Add Guard Alijah Vera-Tucker Amid Injury History Concerns
New England signed guard Alijah Vera-Tucker, addressing a key offensive line need. Although the 26-year-old guard has dealt with Achilles and triceps injuries, his contract with a $14 million average annual value offers cost-effective experience.
The move pairs Vera-Tucker alongside talented linemen to stabilize the Patriots’ unit, though health remains a concern.
Grade for Patriots: B+
Jets Trade for Veteran QB Geno Smith
The New York Jets completed a trade for quarterback Geno Smith from the Las Vegas Raiders, costing a sixth-round pick. Smith, who spent early years with the Jets, has improved but struggled in 2025 with the Raiders, leading the league in interceptions.
At nearly 36 and with a history of turnovers, Smith is a stopgap solution while the Jets prioritize future draft picks and development.
Grade for Jets: D
Giants Enhance Linebacker Corps by Signing Tremaine Edmunds
The New York Giants addressed their linebacker needs by bringing in 27-year-old Tremaine Edmunds on a three-year, $36 million contract. Edmunds offers leadership and sideline-to-sideline speed, providing veteran presence to a defense undergoing youth transitions.
Though no longer a Pro Bowler, Edmunds maintains impressive tackle production over his career.
Grade for Giants: B
Bengals Bring in Edge Rusher Boye Mafe as Trey Hendrickson’s Replacement
Cincinnati Bengals agreed to a three-year, $60 million deal with edge rusher Boye Mafe, who recorded a career-high nine sacks in 2023. Mafe replaces departing All-Pro Trey Hendrickson, aiming to bolster the pass rush for quarterback Joe Burrow.
While questions persist about Mafe’s ability to consistently produce double-digit sacks, the deal matches market value and enhances Cincinnati’s defensive line.
Grade for Bengals: A-
Titans Revamp Defense with Key Signings at Cornerback and Defensive Line
The Tennessee Titans aggressively restructured their defense early in free agency, acquiring cornerbacks Cor’Dale Flott and Alontae Taylor, along with defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers. Franklin-Myers, reunited with coach Robert Saleh, offers versatile pass rush capabilities valued at $21 million annually, fitting Saleh’s preference for front-four pressure.
The Titans invested $74 million guaranteed for Flott and Taylor combined, reflecting an urgent need to repair a previously inadequate secondary.
Grade for Titans: B
