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The NFL offseason lasts about five months, from the Super Bowl in mid-February to training camps starting mid-July.
With nearly 150 days passing between the two bookends of the season, it is hard to remember all of the moves that occurred in the offseason and the players who will be suiting up in new places as a new year begins.
With every team officially at training camp, we recap the biggest moves of the offseason and answer a burning question for each team.
Click on the following links to jump to a specific team:
AFC East:Buffalo Bills | Miami Dolphins | New England Patriots | New York Jets
AFCNorth:Baltimore Ravens | Cincinnati Bengals | Cleveland Browns | Pittsburgh Steelers
AFC South:Houston Texans | Indianapolis Colts | Tennessee Titans | Jacksonville Jaguars
AFC West:Denver Broncos | Kansas City Chiefs | Las Vegas Raiders | Los Angeles Chargers
NFC East:Dallas Cowboys | New York Giants | Philadelphia Eagles | Washington Commanders
NFC North:Chicago Bears | Detroit Lions | Green Bay Packers | Minnesota Vikings
NFC South:Atlanta Falcons | Carolina Panthers | New Orleans Saints | Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NFC West:Arizona Cardinals | Los Angeles Rams | San Francisco 49ers | Seattle Seahawks
What will Joe Brady do in his first season as head coach?
The Bills could look drastically different this season, but not necessarily with the players they will be utilizing. Buffalo had defensive head coach Sean McDermott for the past nine seasons. Now, the Bills are under Brady, who has an offensive background. This also means Buffalo's defense will be called by Jim Leonhard in his first DC role in the NFL. Will this shake-up be what was needed to get the Bills over the AFC hump and to the Super Bowl?
New head coach: Joe Brady (promoted from Bills OC)
How will new head coach Jeff Hafley approach a rebuild in Year 1?
No NFL team will admit it is in a rebuilding year, but Miami is. The Dolphins have more than $175 million in dead cap this season. To put it in perspective, the Jets are currently spending $184 million this season and the Saints $198 million for their entire active rosters. Hafley spent the last two years as the Packers' defensive coordinator. He is in his first NFL head coaching gig and faces an uphill battle as he tries to make an impact on his new organization while also evaluating the youth on the roster, with a focus on the future.
New head coach: Jeff Haley (former Packers DC)
Will Drake Maye be protected?
The last time we saw the Patriots, their offensive line was getting brutalized by the Seahawks in the Super Bowl. New England prioritized giving quarterback Drake Maye weapons by signing Romeo Doubs and trading for A.J. Brown, but how much will they matter if Maye doesn't have time for plays to develop? The Pats' biggest offensive line improvements this offseason included signing veteran guard Alijah Vera-Tucker and using their first-round pick on Utah OT Caleb Lomu. Outside of Will Campbell getting healthier this offseason, will these moves be enough to help Maye take fewer hits in the backfield?
Will Aaron Glenn make it to Year 3?
The defensive-minded Glenn struggled in his first season as head coach. New York finished 3-14, its lowest win total since 2020, and second-lowest win total since 1996. To make matters worse, New York's defense was historically bad. It did not record any interceptions over the course of the season and forced only four total turnovers, the fewest in a season since the AFL/NFL merger. Glenn will have veteran QB Geno Smith under center this year. Expectations for the season are low, but will he be able to turn the franchise around enough in 2026 to still be at the helm in 2027?
How will the Ravens handle going from a veteran head coach to a first-time head coach?
John Harbaugh was Baltimore's head coach from 2008-2025. He helped the Ravens win Super Bowl XLVII, but hadn't been back to the Super Bowl since and had made only one AFC championship game (2023 season). Baltimore moved on from Harbaugh and gave the reins to first-time head coach Jesse Minter. He spent the last two seasons as the Los Angeles Chargers' defensive coordinator. The Ravens were tired of falling short during Lamar Jackson's prime, and have now rolled the dice with Minter. Declan Doyle will take over as offensive coordinator after holding that position with the Chicago Bears last season. Will this be the spark that helps Baltimore make up ground in the AFC?
New head coach: Jesse Minter (former Chargers DC)
Will the splash trade for Dexter Lawrence pay off?
The Bengals let Trey Hendrickson walk in free agency after two offseasons dealing with contract disputes. Unfortunately for Cincinnati, he signed in Baltimore. While not a direct replacement, the Bengals used the 10th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to acquire defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II from the New York Giants. They then signed Lawrence to a two-year extension. Cincinnati is pairing Lawrence with DE Boye Mafe and DT Jonathan Allen, who signed in free agency for a nearly fully overhauled defensive front. With the way the draft unfolded, the Bengals could have kept the No. 10 pick and used it on Miami EDGE rusher Rueben Bain Jr. Even more pressure will now be on Lawrence to perform well in Cincinnati.
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Will the Myles Garrett trade pay off in Year 1?
The Browns shocked the world by dealing Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams, mere months after the defensive end set the all-time single-season sack record. Cleveland got back a 2026 first-round pick, a 2027 second-round pick and a 2028 third-rounder along with former Defensive Rookie of the Year Jared Verse. Much attention this offseason has focused on the Browns' quarterback battle, but with a projected loaded 2027 class, that decision may not actually matter. More interesting is whether or not the Browns will be considered winners of the Garrett trade in Year 1. Cleveland used the extra first-round pick on WR KC Concepcion. There's a non-zero chance that Verse takes a step forward and Concepcion helps his QB, even as a rookie. Add in the money the franchise saved moving Garrett, and it isn't ludicrous to think there could be early dividends from the blockbuster deal.
New head coach: Todd Monken (former Ravens OC)
Can a revamped offensive scheme help the Steelers' passing attack in Aaron Rodgers' final season?
This will be Rodgers' farewell tour, he said earlier this summer. As his era in the NFL ends, a new one begins in Pittsburgh as the franchise moves on without former head coach Mike Tomlin. New head coach Mike McCarthy didn't retain Arthur Smith, which means a new offense is coming to Pittsburgh. Last year's run-heavy scheme was heavily criticized, especially when the franchise traded away George Pickens in the offseason. Pickens finished the year with 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns. The Steelers' entire wide receiver room finished the season with a combined 1,716 yards and 13 touchdowns.
New head coach: Mike McCarthy (former Cowboys, Packers HC)
Can Texans' defense avoid regression?
Houston allowed the second-fewest points per game last season (17.4) and the fewest total yards per game (277.2 yards). Another eye-popping stat: 14.6% of offensive drives ended in a turnover against the Texans, the fourth-best mark in the league. The defense is staring regression in the face, and it won't take long to see how the Texans will fare in 2026. Houston opens the season with back-to-back home games against the Bills and Bengals. The Texans will also have to deal with the Cowboys, Jaguars (twice), Chargers, Ravens, Eagles and Packers over the course of the season. If the elite defense takes a big step back, it will be very hard for the Texans to make the playoffs this season.
Can Daniel Jones get back to his pre-Achilles injury form?
There was a long stretch of last season when Jones looked like one of the best quarterbacks in the league. He had led the Colts to an 8-2 record to begin the season with big wins over the Broncos and Chargers. Jones came up short against the Chiefs and Texans before suffering a season-ending Achilles tear in Week 14. Jones played well enough to earn a two-year, $88 million contract extension, but the Colts are rolling the dice on his recovery and ability to return to the QB who had 3,041 passing yards, 19 passing touchdowns and 5 rushing touchdowns in 12 games.
Can Liam Coen sustain the momentum from 2025 into Year 2?
In Coen's first season last year, the Jaguars were 5-4 heading into a Week 11 matchup vs. the Chargers. He led Jacksonville to not only a win in that game, but to eight straight victories to end the regular season. The Jaguars finished the season 13-4 before losing in the first round of the playoffs to the Bills. Still, there was much to celebrate, with the franchise winning the most games in a season since 1999. Coen and the Jags will have their work cut out for them. After opening at home against the Browns, Jacksonville faces the Broncos, Patriots, Bengals, Eagles and Texans in consecutive weeks.
Can Cam Ward take a noticeable step forward in Year 2?
Ward is coming off a subpar rookie season marked by a steep learning curve. The rookie largely sank last season as the Titans lost four consecutive games to start the year. Tennessee finished 3-14. The QB played in all 17 games and finished with 3,169 yards, 17 total touchdowns (15 passing, 2 rushing) and 7 interceptions. Tennessee has a new head coach in Robert Saleh, who is better known for his defensive prowess than for quarterback development. The Titans have Ward under contract for four more seasons, including 2026 (assuming the franchise picks up his fifth-year option), but it would be a stark positive on the season if Ward takes a step forward that you'd expect from a No. 1 overall pick.
New head coach: Robert Saleh (former 49ers DC, Jets HC)
How is Bo Nix's ankle?
Denver's offseason was highlighted by the acquisition of wide receiver Jaylen Waddle from the Dolphins. He and Courtland Sutton should lead the Broncos' receivers and be important weapons for quarterback Bo Nix, provided Nix is healthy. The last time we saw Nix, he suffered a heartbreaking ankle injury that sidelined him for the AFC championship game and forced Denver to start Jarrett Stidham with a trip to the Super Bowl on the line. Nix has since had two procedures on his ankle and head coach Sean Payton said the QB is "full-go" heading into camp. We'll see if that's true.
What impact will Kenneth Walker III have on Chiefs' offense?
With Patrick Mahomes saying Week 1 is a credible target for his return from knee injury, it makes sense to look at his supporting cast. WR Rashee Rice is expected to be healthy and not in trouble with the league, and Xavier Worthy should be enough to help Mahomes alongside tight end Travis Kelce in the passing game. As for Walker, he was a huge signing this offseason. The Super Bowl MVP is the most talented RB the Chiefs have had in the last 10 years. Will KC optimize Walker's usage at the expense of taking the ball out of Mahomes' hands on designed runs? How will the top RB free agent this offseason fit with the game plan?
Will we see No. 1 overall draft pick Fernando Mendzona this season?
Will the Raiders really sit Mendoza the entire year, especially after signing Kirk Cousins in free agency? While that is a sound plan and many believe that, historically, quarterbacks have better career outlooks if they sit for a year, why not get Mendoza some late-season experience? If the Raiders have another down season, especially if the soon-to-be 38-year-old Cousins doesn't bounce back, there isn't much reason to keep Mendoza from getting some meaningful reps. Las Vegas has a Week 13 bye. Mendoza could sit for 12 weeks, take QB1 reps coming out of the bye, and then get five games in as a rookie to try and jumpstart him for 2027.
New head coach: Klint Kubiak (former Seahawks OC)
What can Mike McDaniel do as offensive coordinator?
The last time McDaniel was an OC was with the 49ers in 2021. That year, San Francisco had a very balanced offense, with the 12th-most passing yards per game and the seventh-most rushing yards per game. That unit was quarterbacked largely by Jimmy Garoppolo. Now, McDaniel takes over an offense led by Justin Herbert, and the OC could be what helps unlock Herbert and get him to join the best of the best at the position. If that happens, the Chargers could be a problem for defenses this season.
Will the Cowboys' defense improve enough that Dallas can contend?
Last year, Dallas had one of the worst defenses in the league. The Cowboys allowed 30.1 points per game, the most in the NFL. Dallas also allowed the third-most yards per game (377). The Cowboys made defense a focal point this offseason. They used the Nos. 11 and 23 overall draft picks on defenders (safety Caleb Downs and EDGE Malachi Lawrence). The franchise also acquired DL Rashan Gary from the Packers and signed defensive end Jonathan Bullard.
What can John Harbaugh do with the young trio of Jaxon Dart, Cam Skattebo and Malik Nabers?
The Giants' QB, RB and WR all dealt with injuries in 2025 that they had to work back from, with both Skattebo's and Nabers' being season-ending. New York made the decision to bring in the veteran Harbaugh after parting ways with head coach Brian Daboll. Harbaugh has struggled to get the Ravens on a deep playoff run. Will he be able to help develop the Giants' youth to create a solid foundation to build on in 2026 and beyond?
New head coach: John Harbaugh (former Ravens HC)
Will Sean Mannion's offensive scheme work in Philly?
Mannion played for the Seahawks in 2023. He then spent a year as an offensive assistant with the Packers and was the team's QB coach last season. The former QB now joins Nick Sirianni's staff as offensive coordinator. The 34-year-old will be in charge of crafting a game plan for Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley. ESPN reported that Mannion's scheme is expected to "feature more under center, motion and throws over the middle, elements the offense hasn't leaned heavily into with Hurts as its signal-caller." Will it work as the Eagles look for their third consecutive NFC East title?
Will Dan Quinn's risky coordinator decision pay off?
Washington is headed into the third year with Quinn at the helm, and this could be his most controversial. After a 5-12 campaign in which star QB Jayden Daniels dealt with injuries, Quinn made some head-scratching moves for coordinators. Both David Blough (offense) and Daronte Jones (defense) will be first-time coordinators. The move is a drastic attempt to turn around poor rankings from a season ago. While both coordinators working out could help the Commanders be an exciting team in 2026, the risky move could also result in some serious heat on Quinn.
Can Caleb Williams finally become the Bears' first 4,000-yard passer?
Williams fell 58 passing yards short last season in the first year of the Ben Johnson era. The former No. 1 draft pick is now heading into his third season and his first since WR DJ Moore was traded to the Buffalo Bills. The QB will still have Rome Odunze, Luther Burden III and Colston Loveland to rely on, but Williams may need Johnson to continue showing creativity in play-calling to help him take another step forward as a passer without a Moore replacement.
How will moving on from David Montgomery impact the offense?
There was concern that losing former OC Ben Johnson to the Bears would cause the Lions' offense to take a huge step back in 2025. In reality, Detroit went from leading the league in scoring per game, having the second-most yards per game (409.5) and the most rushing yards per game (146.4) to scoring the fifth-most points per game (28.3), having the fifth-most yards per game (373.2) but the 14th-most rushing yards per game. The Lions had become known for the Sonic-and-Knuckles backfield of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, but now Detroit moves on without Montgomery, who was traded to the Texans. He was replaced with former Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco, but it remains to be seen if Montgomery's impact (716 yards, 8 touchdowns) can be made up.
How long will it be before we see Micah Parsons this year?
The star linebacker is coming off a torn ACL that he suffered last year in his first season in Green Bay. The latest reports suggest that he could be out into October. The Packers' defensive line is projected to consist of Karl Brooks, Javon Hargrave, Devonte Wyatt and Lukas Van Ness as the season begins. Green Bay could play 4+ games without Parsons, and someone else on the line will have to step up until he returns. If Parsons suffers any setbacks in his recovery, the Packers could be without him for a third or more of their season, and his return could end up being too little too late for a playoff run depending on how long it takes.
Will Kyler Murray win the starting quarterback job?
Minnesota had a rough 2025 after JJ McCarthy struggled to hold onto the starting quarterback position. Due to poor play and injuries, the Vikings were also forced to turn to Carson Wentz and Max Brosmer under center. McCarthy finished his first active season with 1,632 passing yards, 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. When it became clear that Arizona was going to move on from Murray, Minnesota seemed like a low-risk, potentially high-reward landing spot. The dual-threat quarterback dealt with injuries last year, but now has a chance to take over as the Vikings' starter and command an offense consisting of Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and TJ Hockenson. Head coach Kevin O'Connell did not name a starter heading into camp, so all eyes will be on whether Murray can beat out McCarthy for the gig come Week 1.
Who will be Kevin Stefanski's Week 1 starting QB?
Atlanta went through some big changes in the offseason, moving on from QB Kirk Cousins and head coach Raheem Morris, and replacing them with Tua Tagovailoa and Kevin Stefanski. There was an assumption that Tagovailoa would be the starting QB to begin the year because Michael Penix Jr. is recovering from a partially torn ACL. Reports heading into training camp are that Penix is rehabbing well and could be cleared, paving the path for a left-handed quarterback battle.
New head coach: Kevin Stefanski (former Browns HC)
Will the expensive defensive additions pay off?
The Panthers are still working through offensive issues, but it looks like they have a solid foundation at least with Tet McMillan and Jalen Coker. Carolina managed to win the NFC South last year thanks to a tiebreaker over the Buccaneers and Falcons, with all three teams finishing 8-9. While the Panthers' offense needs to continue improving, Carolina's defense should be the focal point of the season. In the offseason, Carolina made two huge signings. The Panthers brought in linebackers Devin Lloyd (3-year, $42 million) and Jaelan Phillips (4-year, $120 million), with the franchise committing $162 million between the two players over the next four years. The defense already took a major hit early in training camp when linebacker Nic Scourton suffered a season-ending torn ACL. This puts even more pressure on Lloyd and Phillips to make an impact.
Is Tyler Shough for real?
Shough looked like a star quarterback at times last season, but how much of that was how poor the Saints' offense looked with Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener at the helm? Over 11 games, the rookie QB threw for 2,384 yards, 10 touchdowns and 6 interceptions. Shough played well enough that New Orleans did not prioritize finding a replacement for the former second-round draft pick, paving the way for him to be the starter. If New Orleans is going to take a step forward after a 6-11 finish last season, Shough will have to play well and secure his spot as the Saints' QB of the future.
How much will Baker Mayfield miss Mike Evans?
Tampa Bay is entering a new era without Evans, who signed with the 49ers in free agency. The WR had been with the Bucs since 2014 and had at least 1,000 receiving yards a season until injuries ruined his streak in 2025. Mayfield is in need of a contract extension, heading into the final season of his current deal. The quarterback will have to bounce back without his most reliable target.
What are the Cardinals doing at running back?
Arizona surprised many when it drafted Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love with the third overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Love was added to a running back room of James Conner, Trey Benson and Tyler Allgeier. Love will be a rookie, so he will likely be worked into the game plan, but the roles for the other three running backs feel confusing. Benson is likely the odd man out, but it seems hard for an offense to get into a groove if it is rotating in Conner, Love and Allgeier.
New head coach: Mike LaFleur (former Rams OC)
Will we see Aaron Donald make a return to the NFL?
When the Rams traded for former Browns defensive end Myles Garrett, one person who commented on the trade with interest was former Rams great Aaron Donald. This sent social media into a frenzy, with people wondering what would happen if Donald came out of retirement and joined Garrett on the Rams' defensive line. Donald was then seen working out at the Rams' practice facility, but that wasn't out of the ordinary. Still, with training camp underway, there is still hope that Donald will end his two-year retirement and return to the league, creating one of the scariest defensive duos in recent memory.
When will the Brandon Aiyuk situation be resolved?
Aiyuk is still technically a member of the 49ers and can't join another team until he is released or traded by the franchise. The wide receiver has frequented social media this offseason and has said several times he wants to join the Commanders. It could be that he stays in the background the whole season. If he becomes a distraction, though, San Francisco may need to cut ties with him.
Can the Seahawks' offense without Klint Kubiak make it back to the Super Bowl?
Seattle had one of the best offenses in the league last year, and it resulted in its hoisting the Lombardi Trophy. The Seahawks averaged the third-most points per game and seventh-most yards per game. Now, former offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak is head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders. What impact will this have on Sam Darnold, especially since former running back Kenneth Walker III is now with the Chiefs? Darnold will still have Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Rashid Shaheed to rely on in the passing game, but will the scheme be a good fit?
Continue reading...
With nearly 150 days passing between the two bookends of the season, it is hard to remember all of the moves that occurred in the offseason and the players who will be suiting up in new places as a new year begins.
With every team officially at training camp, we recap the biggest moves of the offseason and answer a burning question for each team.
Click on the following links to jump to a specific team:
AFC East:Buffalo Bills | Miami Dolphins | New England Patriots | New York Jets
AFCNorth:Baltimore Ravens | Cincinnati Bengals | Cleveland Browns | Pittsburgh Steelers
AFC South:Houston Texans | Indianapolis Colts | Tennessee Titans | Jacksonville Jaguars
AFC West:Denver Broncos | Kansas City Chiefs | Las Vegas Raiders | Los Angeles Chargers
NFC East:Dallas Cowboys | New York Giants | Philadelphia Eagles | Washington Commanders
NFC North:Chicago Bears | Detroit Lions | Green Bay Packers | Minnesota Vikings
NFC South:Atlanta Falcons | Carolina Panthers | New Orleans Saints | Tampa Bay Buccaneers
NFC West:Arizona Cardinals | Los Angeles Rams | San Francisco 49ers | Seattle Seahawks
AFC East
Buffalo Bills
What will Joe Brady do in his first season as head coach?
The Bills could look drastically different this season, but not necessarily with the players they will be utilizing. Buffalo had defensive head coach Sean McDermott for the past nine seasons. Now, the Bills are under Brady, who has an offensive background. This also means Buffalo's defense will be called by Jim Leonhard in his first DC role in the NFL. Will this shake-up be what was needed to get the Bills over the AFC hump and to the Super Bowl?
New head coach: Joe Brady (promoted from Bills OC)
Acquired WR DJ Moore from the Chicago Bears
Re-signed C Connor McGovern to 4-year, $52 million deal
Signed EDGE Bradley Chubb to 3-year, $45 million deal
Signed S Chauncey Gardner-Johnson to 1-year, $6 million deal
Drafted EDGE T.J. Parker, CB Davison Igbinosun, S Jalon Kilgore
Miami Dolphins
How will new head coach Jeff Hafley approach a rebuild in Year 1?
No NFL team will admit it is in a rebuilding year, but Miami is. The Dolphins have more than $175 million in dead cap this season. To put it in perspective, the Jets are currently spending $184 million this season and the Saints $198 million for their entire active rosters. Hafley spent the last two years as the Packers' defensive coordinator. He is in his first NFL head coaching gig and faces an uphill battle as he tries to make an impact on his new organization while also evaluating the youth on the roster, with a focus on the future.
New head coach: Jeff Haley (former Packers DC)
Signed QB Malik Willis to 3-year, $67.5 million deal
Signed RB De'Von Achane to 4-year, $68 million extension
Signed WR's Tutu Atwell, Jalen Reagor, Jalen Tolbert
Re-signed TE Greg Dulcich to 1-year, $3.25 million deal
Signed EDGEs David Ojabo, Josh Uche
Drafted OT Kadyn Proctor, CB Chris Johnson, LB Jacob Rodriguez
New England Patriots
Will Drake Maye be protected?
The last time we saw the Patriots, their offensive line was getting brutalized by the Seahawks in the Super Bowl. New England prioritized giving quarterback Drake Maye weapons by signing Romeo Doubs and trading for A.J. Brown, but how much will they matter if Maye doesn't have time for plays to develop? The Pats' biggest offensive line improvements this offseason included signing veteran guard Alijah Vera-Tucker and using their first-round pick on Utah OT Caleb Lomu. Outside of Will Campbell getting healthier this offseason, will these moves be enough to help Maye take fewer hits in the backfield?
Acquired WR A.J. Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles
Signed WR Romeo Doubs to 4-year, $70 million deal
Signed DL Dre'Mont Jones to 3-year, $39.5 million deal
Signed LB K.J. Britt
Signed S Kevin Byard to 1-year, $9 million deal
Drafted OT Caleb Lomu, EDGE Gabe Jacas, TE Eli Raridon
New York Jets
Will Aaron Glenn make it to Year 3?
The defensive-minded Glenn struggled in his first season as head coach. New York finished 3-14, its lowest win total since 2020, and second-lowest win total since 1996. To make matters worse, New York's defense was historically bad. It did not record any interceptions over the course of the season and forced only four total turnovers, the fewest in a season since the AFL/NFL merger. Glenn will have veteran QB Geno Smith under center this year. Expectations for the season are low, but will he be able to turn the franchise around enough in 2026 to still be at the helm in 2027?
Acquired QB Geno Smith from Las Vegas Raiders
Re-signed RB Breece Hall to 3-year, $45.75 million deal
Signed WR Tim Patrick
Signed OG Dylan Parham to 2-year, $20 million deal
Re-signed OL Joe Tippmann to 4-year, $66.4 million extension
Signed EDGEs Kingsley Enagbare (1-year, $10 million) and Joseph Ossai (3-year, $36 million)
Acquired DL T'Vondre Sweat from Tennessee Titans for EDGE Jermaine Johnson II
Acquired and signed S Minkah Fitzpatrick to 3-year, $40 million deal
Drafted EDGE David Bailey, TE Kenyon Sadiq, WR Omar Cooper Jr.
The @nyjets rookie class is ready to take flight
David Bailey | @KenyonSadiq | @TheOmarCooperpic.twitter.com/0QClyY7B5M
— NFL (@NFL) July 21, 2026
AFC North
Baltimore Ravens
How will the Ravens handle going from a veteran head coach to a first-time head coach?
John Harbaugh was Baltimore's head coach from 2008-2025. He helped the Ravens win Super Bowl XLVII, but hadn't been back to the Super Bowl since and had made only one AFC championship game (2023 season). Baltimore moved on from Harbaugh and gave the reins to first-time head coach Jesse Minter. He spent the last two seasons as the Los Angeles Chargers' defensive coordinator. The Ravens were tired of falling short during Lamar Jackson's prime, and have now rolled the dice with Minter. Declan Doyle will take over as offensive coordinator after holding that position with the Chicago Bears last season. Will this be the spark that helps Baltimore make up ground in the AFC?
New head coach: Jesse Minter (former Chargers DC)
Signed EDGE Trey Hendrickson to 4-year, $112 million deal
Signed DL Calais Campbell
Re-signed QB Tyler Huntley
Signed OL John Simpson to 3-year, $30 million deal
Drafted OG Olaivavega Ioane, EDGE Zion Young, WR Ja'Kobi Lane
Cincinnati Bengals
Will the splash trade for Dexter Lawrence pay off?
The Bengals let Trey Hendrickson walk in free agency after two offseasons dealing with contract disputes. Unfortunately for Cincinnati, he signed in Baltimore. While not a direct replacement, the Bengals used the 10th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to acquire defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II from the New York Giants. They then signed Lawrence to a two-year extension. Cincinnati is pairing Lawrence with DE Boye Mafe and DT Jonathan Allen, who signed in free agency for a nearly fully overhauled defensive front. With the way the draft unfolded, the Bengals could have kept the No. 10 pick and used it on Miami EDGE rusher Rueben Bain Jr. Even more pressure will now be on Lawrence to perform well in Cincinnati.
Acquired DT Dexter Lawrence II from New York Giants
Re-signed OT Orlando Brown Jr. to 2-year, $32 million extension
Signed EDGE Boye Mafe to 3-year, $60 million deal
Signed DL Jonathan Allen to 2-year, $26 million deal
Signed S Bryan Cook to 3-year, $40.25 million deal
Signed S Kyle Dugger
Re-signed QB Joe Flacco to 1-year, $6 million deal
Drafted EDGE Cashius Howell, CB Tacario Davis, C Connor Lew
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Cleveland Browns
Will the Myles Garrett trade pay off in Year 1?
The Browns shocked the world by dealing Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams, mere months after the defensive end set the all-time single-season sack record. Cleveland got back a 2026 first-round pick, a 2027 second-round pick and a 2028 third-rounder along with former Defensive Rookie of the Year Jared Verse. Much attention this offseason has focused on the Browns' quarterback battle, but with a projected loaded 2027 class, that decision may not actually matter. More interesting is whether or not the Browns will be considered winners of the Garrett trade in Year 1. Cleveland used the extra first-round pick on WR KC Concepcion. There's a non-zero chance that Verse takes a step forward and Concepcion helps his QB, even as a rookie. Add in the money the franchise saved moving Garrett, and it isn't ludicrous to think there could be early dividends from the blockbuster deal.
New head coach: Todd Monken (former Ravens OC)
Acquired OT Tytus Howard from Houston Texans, signed him to 3-year, $63 million extension
Signed OG Zion Johnson to 3-year, $49.5 million deal
Signed OL Elgton Jenkins to 2-year, $24 million deal
Acquired EDGE Jared Verse in trade with Los Angeles Rams
Signed LB Quincy Williams to 2-year, $13 million deal
Drafted OT Spencer Fano, WR KC Concepcion, WR Denzel Boston, S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, QB Taylen Green
Pittsburgh Steelers
Can a revamped offensive scheme help the Steelers' passing attack in Aaron Rodgers' final season?
This will be Rodgers' farewell tour, he said earlier this summer. As his era in the NFL ends, a new one begins in Pittsburgh as the franchise moves on without former head coach Mike Tomlin. New head coach Mike McCarthy didn't retain Arthur Smith, which means a new offense is coming to Pittsburgh. Last year's run-heavy scheme was heavily criticized, especially when the franchise traded away George Pickens in the offseason. Pickens finished the year with 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns. The Steelers' entire wide receiver room finished the season with a combined 1,716 yards and 13 touchdowns.
New head coach: Mike McCarthy (former Cowboys, Packers HC)
Re-signed QB Aaron Rodgers to 1-year, $22 million deal
Signed RB Rico Dowdle to 2-year, $12.25 million deal
Acquired WR Michael Pittman Jr. from Indianapolis Colts, signed him to 3-year, $59 million deal
Signed TE Darnell Washington to five-year deal
Re-signed DT Cam Heyward to 2-year, $32.25 million deal
Re-signed LB Nick Herbig to 4-year, $100 million extension
Signed CB Jamel Dean to 3-year, $36.75 million deal
Re-signed K Chris Boswell to 5-year deal
Drafted OT Max Iheanachor, WR Germie Bernard, QB Drew Allar
AFC South
Houston Texans
Can Texans' defense avoid regression?
Houston allowed the second-fewest points per game last season (17.4) and the fewest total yards per game (277.2 yards). Another eye-popping stat: 14.6% of offensive drives ended in a turnover against the Texans, the fourth-best mark in the league. The defense is staring regression in the face, and it won't take long to see how the Texans will fare in 2026. Houston opens the season with back-to-back home games against the Bills and Bengals. The Texans will also have to deal with the Cowboys, Jaguars (twice), Chargers, Ravens, Eagles and Packers over the course of the season. If the elite defense takes a big step back, it will be very hard for the Texans to make the playoffs this season.
Acquired RB David Montgomery from Detroit Lions
Signed TE Jordan Schultz to 1-year, $12.6 million extension
Signed OG Ed Ingram to 3-year, $37.5 million deal
Signed OG Wyat Teller to 2-year, $16 million deal
Re-signed EDGE Will Anderson Jr. to 3-year, $150 million extension
Re-signed EDGE Danielle Hunter to 1-year, $40.1 million extension
Re-signed LB Azeez Al-Shaair to 3-year, $54 million extension
Signed S Reed Blankenship to 3-year, $24.75 million deal
Acquired P Kai Kroeger from New Orleans Saints
Re-signed K Ka'imi Fairbairn to 2-year, $13 million extension
Drafted OG Keylan Rutledge, DT Kayden McDonald, TE Marlin Klein
Indianapolis Colts
Can Daniel Jones get back to his pre-Achilles injury form?
There was a long stretch of last season when Jones looked like one of the best quarterbacks in the league. He had led the Colts to an 8-2 record to begin the season with big wins over the Broncos and Chargers. Jones came up short against the Chiefs and Texans before suffering a season-ending Achilles tear in Week 14. Jones played well enough to earn a two-year, $88 million contract extension, but the Colts are rolling the dice on his recovery and ability to return to the QB who had 3,041 passing yards, 19 passing touchdowns and 5 rushing touchdowns in 12 games.
Re-signed QB Daniel Jones to 2-year, $88 million deal
Re-signed WR Alec Pierce to 4-year, $114 million contract
Signed EDGE Arden Key to 2-year, $20 million deal
Signed DTs Derrick Nnadi and Jerry Tillery
Acquired DT Colby Wooden from Green Bay Packers for LB Zaire Franklin
Drafted LB CJ Allen, S A.J. Haulcy, OG Jalen Farmer
Jacksonville Jaguars
Can Liam Coen sustain the momentum from 2025 into Year 2?
In Coen's first season last year, the Jaguars were 5-4 heading into a Week 11 matchup vs. the Chargers. He led Jacksonville to not only a win in that game, but to eight straight victories to end the regular season. The Jaguars finished the season 13-4 before losing in the first round of the playoffs to the Bills. Still, there was much to celebrate, with the franchise winning the most games in a season since 1999. Coen and the Jags will have their work cut out for them. After opening at home against the Browns, Jacksonville faces the Broncos, Patriots, Bengals, Eagles and Texans in consecutive weeks.
Signed RB Ameer Abdullah
Signed RB Chris Rodriguez Jr. to 2-year, $10 million deal
Re-signed TE Brenton Strange to 3-year, $48 million extension
Acquired DL Ruke Orhorhoro from Atlanta Falcons for DL Maason Smith
Re-signed CB Montaric Brown to 3-year, $33 million deal
Drafted TE Nate Boerkircher, DT Albert Regis, OG Emmanuel Pregnon
Tennessee Titans
Can Cam Ward take a noticeable step forward in Year 2?
Ward is coming off a subpar rookie season marked by a steep learning curve. The rookie largely sank last season as the Titans lost four consecutive games to start the year. Tennessee finished 3-14. The QB played in all 17 games and finished with 3,169 yards, 17 total touchdowns (15 passing, 2 rushing) and 7 interceptions. Tennessee has a new head coach in Robert Saleh, who is better known for his defensive prowess than for quarterback development. The Titans have Ward under contract for four more seasons, including 2026 (assuming the franchise picks up his fifth-year option), but it would be a stark positive on the season if Ward takes a step forward that you'd expect from a No. 1 overall pick.
New head coach: Robert Saleh (former 49ers DC, Jets HC)
Signed QB Mitchell Trubisky to 2-year deal
Signed RB Michael Carter
Signed WR K.J. Osborn
Signed WR Wan'Dale Robinson to 4-year, $78 million deal
Signed TE Daniel Bellinger
Acquired EDGE Jermaine Johnson II from New York Jets for DL T'Vondre Sweat
Re-signed DT Jeffery Simmons to 3-year, $105.8 million extension
Signed DL John Franklin-Myers to 3-year, $63 million deal
Acquired DT Solomon Thomas from Dallas Cowboys
Signed CB Cordale Flott to 3-year, $45 million deal
Signed CB Alontae Taylor to 3-year, $60 million deal
Drafted WR Carnell Tate, EDGE Keldric Faulk, LB Anthony Hill Jr., RB Nicholas Singleton
AFC West
Denver Broncos
How is Bo Nix's ankle?
Denver's offseason was highlighted by the acquisition of wide receiver Jaylen Waddle from the Dolphins. He and Courtland Sutton should lead the Broncos' receivers and be important weapons for quarterback Bo Nix, provided Nix is healthy. The last time we saw Nix, he suffered a heartbreaking ankle injury that sidelined him for the AFC championship game and forced Denver to start Jarrett Stidham with a trip to the Super Bowl on the line. Nix has since had two procedures on his ankle and head coach Sean Payton said the QB is "full-go" heading into camp. We'll see if that's true.
Re-signed RB J.K. Dobbins to 2-year, $20 million deal
Acquired WR Jaylen Waddle from Miami Dolphins
Re-signed TE Adam Trautman to 3-year deal
Re-signed LB Alex Singleton to 2-year, $15.5 million deal
Re-signed LB Justin Strnad to 3-year, $19.5 million deal
Drafted DT Tyler Onyedim, RB Jonah Coleman, OT Kage Casey
Kansas City Chiefs
What impact will Kenneth Walker III have on Chiefs' offense?
With Patrick Mahomes saying Week 1 is a credible target for his return from knee injury, it makes sense to look at his supporting cast. WR Rashee Rice is expected to be healthy and not in trouble with the league, and Xavier Worthy should be enough to help Mahomes alongside tight end Travis Kelce in the passing game. As for Walker, he was a huge signing this offseason. The Super Bowl MVP is the most talented RB the Chiefs have had in the last 10 years. Will KC optimize Walker's usage at the expense of taking the ball out of Mahomes' hands on designed runs? How will the top RB free agent this offseason fit with the game plan?
Acquired QB Justin Fields from New York Jets
Signed RB Kenneth Walker III to 3-year, $45 million deal
Re-signed WR Tyquan Thornton to 2-year, $11 million deal
Re-signed TE Travis Kelce to 3-year, $54.735 million deal
Signed DL Khyiris Tonga to 3-year, $21 million deal
Signed CBs Kaiir Elam, Kader Kohou, L'Jarius Sneed
Signed S Alohi Gilman to 3-year, $24.75 million deal
Drafted CB Mansoor Delane, DT Peter Woods, EDGE R Mason Thomas, QB Garrett Nussmeier
Las Vegas Raiders
Will we see No. 1 overall draft pick Fernando Mendzona this season?
Will the Raiders really sit Mendoza the entire year, especially after signing Kirk Cousins in free agency? While that is a sound plan and many believe that, historically, quarterbacks have better career outlooks if they sit for a year, why not get Mendoza some late-season experience? If the Raiders have another down season, especially if the soon-to-be 38-year-old Cousins doesn't bounce back, there isn't much reason to keep Mendoza from getting some meaningful reps. Las Vegas has a Week 13 bye. Mendoza could sit for 12 weeks, take QB1 reps coming out of the bye, and then get five games in as a rookie to try and jumpstart him for 2027.
New head coach: Klint Kubiak (former Seahawks OC)
Signed QB Kirk Cousins to 1-year, $20 million deal
Signed WR Jalen Nailor to 3-year, $35.03 million deal
Signed C Tyler Linderbaum to 3-year, $81 million deal
Signed EDGE Kwity Paye to 3-year, $48 million deal
Signed LB Nakobe Dean to 3-year, $36 million deal
Signed LB Quay Walker to 3-year, $40.5 million deal
Acquired CB Taron Johnson from Buffalo Bills
Re-signed CB Eric Stokes to 3-year, $30 million deal
Retained EDGE Maxx Crosby after failed physical in trade with Baltimore Ravens
Drafted QB Fernando Mendoza, S Treydan Stukes, EDGE Keyron Crawford, CB Jermod McCoy
FERNANDO. MENDOZA.
THE PLAY OF A LIFETIMEpic.twitter.com/g3o5nNNslr
— ESPN (@espn) January 20, 2026
Los Angeles Chargers
What can Mike McDaniel do as offensive coordinator?
The last time McDaniel was an OC was with the 49ers in 2021. That year, San Francisco had a very balanced offense, with the 12th-most passing yards per game and the seventh-most rushing yards per game. That unit was quarterbacked largely by Jimmy Garoppolo. Now, McDaniel takes over an offense led by Justin Herbert, and the OC could be what helps unlock Herbert and get him to join the best of the best at the position. If that happens, the Chargers could be a problem for defenses this season.
Signed RB Keaton Mitchell to 2-year, $9.25 million deal
Signed TE Charlie Kolar to 3-year, $24.3 million deal
Signed TE David Njoku to 1-year, $8 million deal
Signed C Tyler Biadasz to 3-year, $30 million deal
Re-signed DL Teair Tart to 3-year, $37.5 million extension
Re-signed Khalil Mack to 1-year, $18 million extension
Re-signed S Derwin James to 3-year, $75.6 million extension
Drafted EDGE Akheem Mesidor, C Jake Slaughter, WR Brenen Thompson
NFC East
Dallas Cowboys
Will the Cowboys' defense improve enough that Dallas can contend?
Last year, Dallas had one of the worst defenses in the league. The Cowboys allowed 30.1 points per game, the most in the NFL. Dallas also allowed the third-most yards per game (377). The Cowboys made defense a focal point this offseason. They used the Nos. 11 and 23 overall draft picks on defenders (safety Caleb Downs and EDGE Malachi Lawrence). The franchise also acquired DL Rashan Gary from the Packers and signed defensive end Jonathan Bullard.
Re-signed RB Javonte Williams to 3-year, $24 million deal
Franchise tagged WR George Pickens
Acquired EDGE Rashan Gary in trade with Green Bay Packers
Acquired LB Dee Winters in trade with San Francisco 49ers
Signed S Jalen Thompson to 3-year, $36 million deal
Re-signed K Brandon Aubrey to 4-year, $28 million deal
Drafted S Caleb Downs, EDGE Malachi Lawrence, EDGE Jaishawn Barham
New York Giants
What can John Harbaugh do with the young trio of Jaxon Dart, Cam Skattebo and Malik Nabers?
The Giants' QB, RB and WR all dealt with injuries in 2025 that they had to work back from, with both Skattebo's and Nabers' being season-ending. New York made the decision to bring in the veteran Harbaugh after parting ways with head coach Brian Daboll. Harbaugh has struggled to get the Ravens on a deep playoff run. Will he be able to help develop the Giants' youth to create a solid foundation to build on in 2026 and beyond?
New head coach: John Harbaugh (former Ravens HC)
Signed FB Patrick Ricard to 2-year, $7.63 million deal
Signed WRs Calvin Austin III, Odell Beckham Jr., Braxton Berrios, Isaiah Hodgins, Darnell Mooney, Gunner Olszewski, JuJu Smith-Schuster
Signed TE Isaiah Likely to 3-year, $40 million deal
Signed LB Tremaine Edmunds to 3-year, $36 million deal
Signed DL D.J. Reader to 2-year, $12.5 million deal
Drafted LB Arvell Reese, OT Francis Mauigoa, CB Colton Hood, WR Malachi Fields
Philadelphia Eagles
Will Sean Mannion's offensive scheme work in Philly?
Mannion played for the Seahawks in 2023. He then spent a year as an offensive assistant with the Packers and was the team's QB coach last season. The former QB now joins Nick Sirianni's staff as offensive coordinator. The 34-year-old will be in charge of crafting a game plan for Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley. ESPN reported that Mannion's scheme is expected to "feature more under center, motion and throws over the middle, elements the offense hasn't leaned heavily into with Hurts as its signal-caller." Will it work as the Eagles look for their third consecutive NFC East title?
Acquired QB Andy Dalton from Carolina Panthers
Acquired WR Dontayvion Wicks from Green Bay Packers
Signed WR Marquise Brown to 1-year, $6.5 million
Re-signed DT Jordan Davis to 3-year, $78 million extension
Acquired EDGE Jonathan Greenard in trade with Minnesota Vikings, signed him to 4-year, $100 million extension
Drafted WR Makai Lemon, TE Eli Stowers, OT Markel Bell
Washington Commanders
Will Dan Quinn's risky coordinator decision pay off?
Washington is headed into the third year with Quinn at the helm, and this could be his most controversial. After a 5-12 campaign in which star QB Jayden Daniels dealt with injuries, Quinn made some head-scratching moves for coordinators. Both David Blough (offense) and Daronte Jones (defense) will be first-time coordinators. The move is a drastic attempt to turn around poor rankings from a season ago. While both coordinators working out could help the Commanders be an exciting team in 2026, the risky move could also result in some serious heat on Quinn.
Re-signed QB Marcus Mariota to 1-year, $7 million deal
Signed RBs Jerome Ford, Jeremy McNichols, Rachaad White
Signed TE Chigoziem Okonkwo to 3-year, $30 million deal
Re-signed OT Laremy Tunsil to 2-year, $60.2 million extension
Signed EDGE Odafe Oweh to 4-year, $100 million deal
Signed EDGEs K'Lavon Chaisson, Charles Omenihu, Deatrich Wise Jr.
Signed DT Tim Settle to 3-year, $24 million deal
Signed LB Leo Chenal to 3-year, $24.75 million deal
Drafted LB Sonny Styles, WR Antonio Williams, RB Kaytron Allen
NFC North
Chicago Bears
Can Caleb Williams finally become the Bears' first 4,000-yard passer?
Williams fell 58 passing yards short last season in the first year of the Ben Johnson era. The former No. 1 draft pick is now heading into his third season and his first since WR DJ Moore was traded to the Buffalo Bills. The QB will still have Rome Odunze, Luther Burden III and Colston Loveland to rely on, but Williams may need Johnson to continue showing creativity in play-calling to help him take another step forward as a passer without a Moore replacement.
Re-signed QB Case Keenum to 2-year, $4.4 million deal
Acquired C Garrett Bradbury from New England Patriots
Signed DL Neville Gallimore to 2-year, $12 million deal
Signed LB Devin Bush to 3-year, $30 million deal
Signed S Coby Bryant to 3-year, $40 million deal
Drafted S Dillon Thieneman, C Logan Jones, TE Sam Roush
Detroit Lions
How will moving on from David Montgomery impact the offense?
There was concern that losing former OC Ben Johnson to the Bears would cause the Lions' offense to take a huge step back in 2025. In reality, Detroit went from leading the league in scoring per game, having the second-most yards per game (409.5) and the most rushing yards per game (146.4) to scoring the fifth-most points per game (28.3), having the fifth-most yards per game (373.2) but the 14th-most rushing yards per game. The Lions had become known for the Sonic-and-Knuckles backfield of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, but now Detroit moves on without Montgomery, who was traded to the Texans. He was replaced with former Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco, but it remains to be seen if Montgomery's impact (716 yards, 8 touchdowns) can be made up.
Signed QB Teddy Bridgewater
Signed RB Isiah Pacheco to 1-year, $1.81 million deal
Signed WR Greg Dortch to 1-year deal
Signed C Cade Mays to 3-year, $25 million deal
Acquired OL Juice Scruggs from Houston Texans for RB David Montgomery
Re-signed LB Jack Campbell to 4-year, $81 million extension
Drafted OT Blake Miller, EDGE Derrick Moore, LB Jimmy Rolder
Green Bay Packers
How long will it be before we see Micah Parsons this year?
The star linebacker is coming off a torn ACL that he suffered last year in his first season in Green Bay. The latest reports suggest that he could be out into October. The Packers' defensive line is projected to consist of Karl Brooks, Javon Hargrave, Devonte Wyatt and Lukas Van Ness as the season begins. Green Bay could play 4+ games without Parsons, and someone else on the line will have to step up until he returns. If Parsons suffers any setbacks in his recovery, the Packers could be without him for a third or more of their season, and his return could end up being too little too late for a playoff run depending on how long it takes.
Signed QB Tyrod Taylor
Signed WR Skyy Moore
Re-signed OL Sean Rhyan to 3-year, $33 million deal
Re-signed DT Devonte Wyatt to 3-year, $57 million extension
Signed DL Javon Hargrave to 2-year, $23 million deal
Acquired LB Zaire Franklin in trade with Indianapolis Colts for DT Colby Wooden
Drafted CB Brandon Cisse, DT Chris McClellan, EDGE Dan Dennis-Sutton
Minnesota Vikings
Will Kyler Murray win the starting quarterback job?
Minnesota had a rough 2025 after JJ McCarthy struggled to hold onto the starting quarterback position. Due to poor play and injuries, the Vikings were also forced to turn to Carson Wentz and Max Brosmer under center. McCarthy finished his first active season with 1,632 passing yards, 11 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. When it became clear that Arizona was going to move on from Murray, Minnesota seemed like a low-risk, potentially high-reward landing spot. The dual-threat quarterback dealt with injuries last year, but now has a chance to take over as the Vikings' starter and command an offense consisting of Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and TJ Hockenson. Head coach Kevin O'Connell did not name a starter heading into camp, so all eyes will be on whether Murray can beat out McCarthy for the gig come Week 1.
Signed QB Kyler Murray to 1-year deal
Re-signed QB Carson Wentz to 1-year deal
Signed WR Jauan Jennings to 1-year, $8 million deal
Re-signed LB Eric Wilson to 3-year, $22.5 million extension
Signed CB James Pierre to 2-year, $8.5 million deal
Drafted DT Caleb Banks, LB Jake Golday, DT Dominique Orange, OT Caleb Tiernan
NFC South
Atlanta Falcons
Who will be Kevin Stefanski's Week 1 starting QB?
Atlanta went through some big changes in the offseason, moving on from QB Kirk Cousins and head coach Raheem Morris, and replacing them with Tua Tagovailoa and Kevin Stefanski. There was an assumption that Tagovailoa would be the starting QB to begin the year because Michael Penix Jr. is recovering from a partially torn ACL. Reports heading into training camp are that Penix is rehabbing well and could be cleared, paving the path for a left-handed quarterback battle.
New head coach: Kevin Stefanski (former Browns HC)
Signed QB Tua Tagovailoa to 1-year deal
Signed RB Brian Robinson to 1-year, $2.5 million deal
Signed WR Jahan Dotson to 2-year, $15 million deal
Re-signed WR Drake London to 4-year, $141 million extension
Re-signed TE Kyle Pitts Sr. to 3-year, $54 million deal
Acquired DL Maason Smith from Jacksonville Jaguars for DL Ruke Orhorhoro
Acquired S Sydney Brown in trade with Philadelphia Eagles
Drafted CB Avieon Terrell, WR Zachariah Branch, LB Kendal Daniels
Carolina Panthers
Will the expensive defensive additions pay off?
The Panthers are still working through offensive issues, but it looks like they have a solid foundation at least with Tet McMillan and Jalen Coker. Carolina managed to win the NFC South last year thanks to a tiebreaker over the Buccaneers and Falcons, with all three teams finishing 8-9. While the Panthers' offense needs to continue improving, Carolina's defense should be the focal point of the season. In the offseason, Carolina made two huge signings. The Panthers brought in linebackers Devin Lloyd (3-year, $42 million) and Jaelan Phillips (4-year, $120 million), with the franchise committing $162 million between the two players over the next four years. The defense already took a major hit early in training camp when linebacker Nic Scourton suffered a season-ending torn ACL. This puts even more pressure on Lloyd and Phillips to make an impact.
Signed QB Kenny Pickett to 1-year, $4 million deal
Signed RB AJ Dillon to 1-year deal
Re-signed WR Jalen Coker to 3-year, $35 million extension
Signed WR John Metchie III to 1-year deal
Signed EDGE Jaelan Phillips to 4-year, $120 million deal
Signed LB Devin Lloyd to 3-year, $45 million deal
Drafted OT Monroe Freeling, DT Lee Hunter, WR Chris Brazzell II
New Orleans Saints
Is Tyler Shough for real?
Shough looked like a star quarterback at times last season, but how much of that was how poor the Saints' offense looked with Spencer Rattler and Jake Haener at the helm? Over 11 games, the rookie QB threw for 2,384 yards, 10 touchdowns and 6 interceptions. Shough played well enough that New Orleans did not prioritize finding a replacement for the former second-round draft pick, paving the way for him to be the starter. If New Orleans is going to take a step forward after a 6-11 finish last season, Shough will have to play well and secure his spot as the Saints' QB of the future.
Signed QB Zach Wilson to 1-year deal
Signed RB Travis Etienne Jr. to 4-year, $52 million deal
Signed TE Noah Fant to 2-year deal
Re-signed EDGE Cameron Jordan to 1-year, $7.5 million deal
Acquired EDGE Tyree Wilson in trade with Las Vegas Raiders
Signed LB Kaden Elliss to 3-year, $33 million deal
Signed P Ryan Wright to 4-year, $14 million deal
Drafted WR Jordyn Tyson, DT Christen Miller, TE Oscar Delp, S Lorenzo Styles Jr.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
How much will Baker Mayfield miss Mike Evans?
Tampa Bay is entering a new era without Evans, who signed with the 49ers in free agency. The WR had been with the Bucs since 2014 and had at least 1,000 receiving yards a season until injuries ruined his streak in 2025. Mayfield is in need of a contract extension, heading into the final season of his current deal. The quarterback will have to bounce back without his most reliable target.
Signed RB Kenny Gainwell to 2-year, $14 million deal
Re-signed TE Cade Otton to 3-year, $30 million deal
Signed LB Alex Anzalone to 2-year, $17 million deal
Drafted EDGE Rueben Bain Jr., LB Josiah Trotter, WR Ted Hurst
NFC West
Arizona Cardinals
What are the Cardinals doing at running back?
Arizona surprised many when it drafted Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love with the third overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Love was added to a running back room of James Conner, Trey Benson and Tyler Allgeier. Love will be a rookie, so he will likely be worked into the game plan, but the roles for the other three running backs feel confusing. Benson is likely the odd man out, but it seems hard for an offense to get into a groove if it is rotating in Conner, Love and Allgeier.
New head coach: Mike LaFleur (former Rams OC)
Signed QB Gardner Minshew to 1-year, $5.75 million deal
Signed RB Tyler Allgeier to 2-year, $12.25 million deal
Signed WR Kendrick Bourne to 2-year, $10 million deal
Signed OG Isaac Seumalo to 3-year, $31.5 million deal
Drafted RB Jeremiyah Love, OG Chase Bisontis, QB Carson Beck
Los Angeles Rams
Will we see Aaron Donald make a return to the NFL?
When the Rams traded for former Browns defensive end Myles Garrett, one person who commented on the trade with interest was former Rams great Aaron Donald. This sent social media into a frenzy, with people wondering what would happen if Donald came out of retirement and joined Garrett on the Rams' defensive line. Donald was then seen working out at the Rams' practice facility, but that wasn't out of the ordinary. Still, with training camp underway, there is still hope that Donald will end his two-year retirement and return to the league, creating one of the scariest defensive duos in recent memory.
Re-signed TE Tyler Higbee to 2-year, $8 million extension
Acquired EDGE Myles Garrett in trade with Cleveland Browns for EDGE Jared Verse
Acquired CB Trent McDuffie in trade with Kansas City Chiefs and signed him to 4-year, $124 million deal
Signed CB Jaylen Watson to 3-year, $51 million deal
Re-signed S Kamren Curl to 3-year, $36 million extension
Drafted QB Ty Simpson, TE Max Klare, OT Keagen Trost
San Francisco 49ers
When will the Brandon Aiyuk situation be resolved?
Aiyuk is still technically a member of the 49ers and can't join another team until he is released or traded by the franchise. The wide receiver has frequented social media this offseason and has said several times he wants to join the Commanders. It could be that he stays in the background the whole season. If he becomes a distraction, though, San Francisco may need to cut ties with him.
Signed WR Mike Evans to 3-year, $60.4 million deal
Signed WR Christian Kirk to 1-year, $6 million deal
Re-signed OT Trent Williams to 2-year, $50 million extension
Acquired DT Osa Odighizuwa in trade with Dallas Cowboys
Re-signed K Eddy Pineiro to 4-year, $17 million extension
Drafted WR De'Zhaun Stribling, EDGE Romello Height, RB Kaelon Black
Seattle Seahawks
Can the Seahawks' offense without Klint Kubiak make it back to the Super Bowl?
Seattle had one of the best offenses in the league last year, and it resulted in its hoisting the Lombardi Trophy. The Seahawks averaged the third-most points per game and seventh-most yards per game. Now, former offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak is head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders. What impact will this have on Sam Darnold, especially since former running back Kenneth Walker III is now with the Chiefs? Darnold will still have Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Rashid Shaheed to rely on in the passing game, but will the scheme be a good fit?
Re-signed WR Jake Bobo to 2-year, $5.5 million deal
Re-signed WR Rashid Shaheed to 3-year, $51 million deal
Signed WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba to 4-year, $168.6 million extension
Re-signed EDGE Derick Hall to 3-year, $42 million extension
Drafted RB Jadarian Price, S Bud Clark, CB Julian Neal
THE PRICE IS RIGHT X
YARDS. JADARIAN PRICE #GoIrish
pic.twitter.com/XYRkeXDaWs
— Notre Dame Football (@NDFootball) October 19, 2025
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