Updated NFL Team Needs and Looming Roster Decisions Ahead of 2025 Draft

NFL free agency is all about patching holes. The NFL draft is about building a foundation.

The first wave of free agency is done, and there are teams who undoubtedly got better through the moves they just completed. However, it's important to understand free agency is mostly about making the roster better for the next season.

The draft allows teams to take a longer view when it comes to roster construction. As such, it helps to take a look at the decisions that are coming down the pike for any franchise. Next year's free-agent class could have just as big of an impact on the 2025 NFL draft as this offseason's moves.

The B/R Scouting Department has been hard at work breaking down the draft class with our latest big board and mock draft. B/R's Gary Davenport also looked at the smartest move each team has made as teams look to build toward the 2025 season.

Here, B/R's Alex Ballentine a look at every team's updated needs and key 2026 free agents. We'll highlight one extension they should be looking at now and one upcoming free agent they might want to replace through the draft even if it's not a dire need.

Let's dive in.

Arizona Cardinals

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The Arizona Cardinals' biggest splash in 2025 free agency came in signing Josh Sweat. Reuniting the former Eagle with Jonathan Gannon finally gives the defense-minded head coach a reliable edge-rusher. It also opens up the team's draft plans as edge-rusher was its biggest need. 

Updated Needs

1. Cornerback
2. Guard
3. Right Tackle
4. Wide Receiver
5. Running Back 

Top 2026 Free Agents: TE Trey McBride, OT Jonah Williams, S Jalen Thompson, WR Greg Dortch, DL L.J. Collier

Extension to Prioritize: TE Trey McBride

Trey McBride is more than a tight end, he's Kyler Murray's personal safety valve. Marvin Harrison Jr. needs to come along as the primary target in the Cardinals passing game, but McBride has emerged as one of the most prolific tight ends in the game right now. 

The Cardinals should be looking to lock the 25-year-old in on a big extension. Fortunately, general manager Monti Ossenfort seems to understand this and has already said a McBride extension is "a priority."

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: OT Jonah Williams

The Cardinals are just a year removed from drafting Paris Johnson with the sixth overall pick in the draft. That doesn't mean they shouldn't go back to the position early in the 2025 draft. The bottom line is Jonah Williams only logged six games last season, and he gave up 35 sacks in his four seasons with the Bengals before that. 

If the Cardinals are on the clock with the likes of Armand Membou or Kelvin Banks Jr. on the board, it wouldn't be surprising to see them nab Williams' successor.

Atlanta Falcons

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The Falcons' offseason thus far has been more about balancing the books than improving the on-field product. Releasing Grady Jarrett and allowing Drew Dalman to walk gives them more financial flexibility moving forward.

Signing Leonard Floyd provides them with a veteran pass-rusher who can generate sacks, but there aren't many long-term needs that have been filled in free agency.

Updated Needs

1. Center
2. Cornerback
3. Edge-Rusher
4. Linebacker
5. Safety

Top 2026 Free Agents: WR Drake London, TE Kyle Pitts, OT Kaleb McGary, LB Kaden Elliss, DL David Onyemata

Extension to Prioritize: WR Drake London

The Falcons still have a fifth-year option on Drake London that would allow them to keep him off the market in 2026, but the the receiver market is such that it makes more sense to sign him to an extension.

The Bengals just made things a bit more difficult on the Falcons by giving Ja'Marr Chase a four-year, $161 million contract while also offering Tee Higgins a four-year, $115 million pact. Garrett Wilson is also extension-eligible, so the longer Atlanta waits, the more contracts will get factored into negotiations.

London has put up improved production in all three seasons with the Falcons and took his production to another level with 1,271 yards and nine touchdowns this season. It's time to pay up.

Player to Replace in 2025 Draft: TE Kyle Pitts

Fantasy managers and Falcons fans have been waiting on Kyle Pitts to reach the heights of his rookie season for a while now. It's high time to acknowledge him for what he is: A jumbo receiver who works well as a third or fourth option within the offense.

The coaching team of Arthur Smith and Dirk Koetter were criticized for how they utilized Pitts, and Zac Robinson wasn't able to get much more out of him last season.

This year's tight end class features five players in our top 50. Harold Fannin Jr. is another unique tight end prospect who could be featured as a chess piece in multiple alignments while someone like Mason Taylor could provide a more traditional tight end prospect.

Baltimore Ravens

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Retaining Ronnie Stanley was the Ravens' biggest win of the offseason thus far. Bringing back the 30-year-old on a team-friendly deal keeps left tackle from becoming a major need. It also maintains some continuity after replacing three starters on the offensive line last season.

External addition DeAndre Hopkins gives Lamar Jackson a big-bodied ball-winner on the outside, but it doesn't do too much for the long-term picture. The 33-year-old is likely a one-year bridge player in Baltimore.

Updated Team Needs

1. Edge-Rusher
2. Cornerback
3. Interior Offensive Line
4. Linebacker
5. Safety

Top 2026 Free Agents: RB Derrick Henry, TE Mark Andrews, S Kyle Hamilton, C Tyler Linderbaum, IOL Daniel Faalele

Extension to Prioritize: S Kyle Hamilton

This was a difficult decision between Kyle Hamilton and Tyler Linderbaum. Both are toward the top of their respective positions, and both are primed to break the bank with potentially market-setting deals. Both were first-round selections in the 2022 draft, so the Ravens could use fifth-year options on both players.

That doesn't maximize the financial flexibility of a long-term contract extension, though.

If we had to pick one between Hamilton and Linderbaum to prioritize, it's the do-it-all safety. Hamilton's rare ability to play all over the defensive formation gives the Ravens a unique weapon on defense that would be incredibly hard to replace.

Player to Replace in 2025 Draft: IOL Daniel Faalele

Daniel Faalele is the kind of player who becomes tricky to evaluate as they hit free agency. He was originally drafted to play tackle, but the 25-year-old finally found his footing as a guard.

He took a huge step forward after giving up eight sacks in his first two seasons while only playing 192 pass snaps, per Sports Info Solutions. After moving inside, he gave up just two sacks on 541 passing snaps.

At first glance, the 2022 fourth-rounder is a prime candidate to be extended, but the Ravens are going to be pouring a lot of money into Linderbaum's new contract. Letting someone else pay Faalele in a year and drafting his replacement would allow them to have continuity while keeping cost low.

Buffalo Bills

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The Bills moved on from Von Miller and brought in Joey Bosa and Michael Hoecht to give them two potential answers to their biggest need going into the offseason.

With Gregory Rousseau scoring a contract extension, the Bills have at least put together a good group of edge-rushers ahead of the draft. However, there are other defensive positions that could use new blood.

Updated Needs

1. Cornerback
2. Linebacker
3. Safety
4. Wide Receiver
5. Interior Defensive Line

Top 2026 Free Agents: CB Christian Benford, RB James Cook, Edge A.J. Epenesa, LB Matt Milano, Edge Joey Bosa

Extension to Prioritize: CB Christian Benford

The Buffalo Bills front office can't be happy with the Houston Texans right now.

The Texans inked Stingley to a market-setting three-year, $90 million extension. The Bills might not have to shell out that kind of money for Christian Benford, but it's the kind of rising tide that lifts all boats and the cost to lock him down just went up.

Still, the Bills are in a position where extending Benford has to be a priority. They signed Dane Jackson to help with their cornerback depth because they don't have great answers outside of him.

The 24-year-old limited quarterbacks to an 86.6 passer rating when targeted last season and has 25 passes defended over the last three seasons.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: LB Matt Milano

The Bills' decision to restructure Matt Milano's deal with a pay cut likely guarantees the veteran is on the roster for 2025. A post-June 1 cut would have saved money, but they freed up cash now by getting him to agree to the pay cut. That doesn't mean his job is safe in 2026, though.

Buffalo has two second-round picks. Linebacker might not be widely considered a huge need after bringing back Milano, but the reality is he's a 30-year-old linebacker who has played nine games over the last two seasons. Drafting his successor in this year's draft would be a wise move.

Carolina Panthers

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The Panthers went heavy on defense in free agency. The front seven was a particular area of focus as Christian Rozeboom, Bobby Brown III, Patrick Jones II and Tershawn Wharton should give that defensive front a much-needed makeover. Adding Trevon Moehrig also gives them a long-term answer to their need at safety.

It feels like some important offensive additions are coming in the draft.

Updated Needs

1. Center
2. Wide Receiver
3. Edge-Rusher
4. Cornerback
5. Linebacker

Top 2026 Free Agents: OT Taylor Moton, OT Ikem Ekwonu, Edge Jadeveon Clowney, IOL Cade Mays, DL Shy Tuttle

Extension to Prioritize: OT Ikem Ekwonu

The Panthers don't have a lot of players whose extensions should be expedited. Many of their 2026 free agents are either one-year contracts they just signed or older veterans like Jadeveon Clowney and Shy Tuttle who probably aren't part of the long-term vision.

Ikem Ekwonu is the closest thing they have to a priority contract extension and even making that move would carry some risk. He just put together his best season, but he has still been charged with surrendering 30 sacks in the last three seasons, per Sports Info Solutions.

This season, the 24-year-old cut that number down to six. If he can do that again next season, his price tag is only going to go up. That's why an extension now could make sense while the Panthers have some leverage.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: OT Taylor Moton

There's always a case to be made for retaining a veteran offensive tackle who is still playing well. However, general manager Dan Morgan told media that he's content to let Moton play out the final year of his current contract this season, know it can be revisited in the future.

If that's a game of contractual chicken that he's willing to play, then it would make sense to be looking for Moton's eventual replacement in this draft. That would give a prospect like Marcus Mbow or Aireontae Ersery a year to acclimate to the league and prepare to take over his role.

Chicago Bears

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Ben Johnson and general manager Ryan Poles wasted no time in fixing the Chicago Bears' biggest weakness through trades and free agency.

The interior trio of Joe Thuney, Drew Dalman and Jonah Jackson should go a long way in giving Caleb Williams a shot to take a leap in 2025.

The Bears also took an aggressive approach to fixing the pass rush with Dayo Odeyingbo and Grady Jarrett joining Montez Sweat up front. Another edge-rusher would make sense in the draft, but the secondary could also use more talent.

Updated Needs

1. Edge-Rusher
2. Cornerback
3. Running Back
4. Safety
5. Offensive Tackle

Top 2026 Free Agents: LB T.J. Edwards, IOL Joe Thuney, OT Braxton Jones, CB Kyler Gordon, S Jaquan Brisker

Extension to Prioritize: IOL Joe Thuney

It might seem counterproductive to make a 32-year-old a priority extension, but the Bears' trade for the guard doesn't make sense unless it comes with an extension.

Chicago gave up a fourth-round draft pick for Thuney in hopes he could stabilize the offensive line. He was the 12th-ranked guard by PFF grade last season and that was even with his play at left tackle when the Chiefs kicked him outside.

There are multiple guards who have maintained elite levels of play well into their 30s. That's the bet the Bears signed themselves up for when they swung the trade.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: OT Braxton Jones

Johnson's Detroit Lions offenses worked, in part, because they had one of the best tackle duos in the game. Penei Sewell and Taylor Decker allowed the coach to call a varied run game that could attack fronts in multiple ways.

You can talk yourself into Braxton Jones being a functional starter. He was 20th in overall grade at PFF, but he was 35th in run-blocking and gave up five sacks.

It's hard to talk yourself into the 2022 fifth-rounder ever becoming an elite player at the position, though. It wouldn't be shocking to see the Bears get another left tackle to develop on a rookie contract.

Cincinnati Bengals

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The Bengals already took care of two of the biggest looming decisions they've known about for a while.

They chose to ink both Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins to long-term extensions. Neither came cheap, though, and the Bengals now have a ton of money invested in Joe Burrow and his top two targets.

On the bright side, they won't have to deal with the drama of the franchise tag or a "hold-in" as they did with Higgins and Chase, respectively, last season. On the other hand, they now have to build out the defense with a lot of money invested in the offense.

Updated Needs

1. Interior Offensive Line
2. Cornerback
3. Edge-Rusher
4. Interior Defensive Line
5. Linebacker

Top 2026 Free Agents: Edge Trey Hendrickson, LB Germaine Pratt, S Geno Stone, Edge Joseph Ossai, IOL Cordell Volson

Extension to Prioritize: Edge Trey Hendrickson

Putting the Chase/Higgins suspense to bed leaves just one more big domino to fall in Cincinnati. Trey Hendrickson has been a public topic of trade rumors this offseason, but it doesn't sound like the possibility of returning to Cincinnati with a contract extension is out of the question.

ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported there was an "uptick" in conversation between both sides on an extension before Chase and Higgins received their new deals.

Fowler added that the Bengals haven't "shown eagerness" to trade him. That makes sense. Sam Hubbard's retirement makes retaining Hendrickson even more important as this defense needs help even with the 30-year-old on the roster.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: S Geno Stone

Safety isn't among the Bengals' top pressing needs right now, but it still wouldn't be surprising to see them target one in the draft. The safety tandem of Geno Stone and Jordan Battle will be back in 2025, but returning starters isn't always a good thing.

Stone did have four interceptions this season, but he was also charged with giving up five touchdowns in coverage. Maybe he goes out and earns another contract with Cincinnati, but it feels more like the Bengals could be looking to add his replacement in the draft.

Alabama safety Malachi Moore would be an intriguing fit based on his ability to play as a deep safety.

Cleveland Browns

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The Cleveland Browns still haven't answered the biggest question of the offseason. That is, unless the plan is to start Kenny Pickett at quarterback.

The Browns signaled their intention to forego a complete rebuild by extending Myles Garrett when he requested a trade. However, there aren't a lot of signings that could truly impact their 2025 draft plans.

Updated Needs

1. Quarterback
2. Left Tackle
3. Wide Receiver
4. Running Back
5. Edge-Rusher

Top 2026 Free Agents: CB Martin Emerson, CB Greg Newsome II, IOL Joel Bitonio, IOL Wyatt Teller, IOL Ethan Pocic

Extension to Prioritize: CB Martin Emerson Jr.

In reality, the Browns don't have a lot of no-brainer contract extensions to pursue right now.

Their interior trio on the offensive line could all be free agents in 2026, so they could make a move on one of them. But they are all getting older and waiting until next offseason to make a decision on those players could be the wise move.

On the other hand, Martin Emerson Jr. deserves some consideration for an extension. He had some struggles in 2024, but the entire Browns defense did.

However, the 24-year-old held quarterbacks to a passer rating of 46.3 in his second season and has the physical tools Cleveland is looking for.

Inking him to an extension now could wind up saving the team money and ensuring it doesn't lose a talented corner to free agency next season.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: CB Greg Newsome II

The Browns have already wisely drafted ahead of their future needs on the interior offensive line. Zak Zinter should be a future starter, with Luke Wypler and Javion Cohen also working as potential replacements for their older counterparts.

The somewhat surprising need the Browns could target in this draft is at cornerback. They have Denzel Ward under contract and Emerson should be up for an extension.

That leaves Greg Newsome II as the potential odd man out. His ability to play in the slot has given him a role in the Browns defense, but it would make sense for the team to have a succession plan at the position.

Dallas Cowboys

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Anyone hoping the Dallas Cowboys would get aggressive in free agency was sorely disappointed. That's generally the case when you have to pay a lot of homegrown talent.

The Cowboys made some understated moves that could help them next season such as trading for Kenneth Murray Jr. to get some competition at linebacker.

Updated Needs

1. Wide Receiver
2. Defensive Tackle
3. Offensive Tackle
4. Safety
5. Cornerback

Top 2026 Free Agents: Edge Micah Parsons, TE Jake Ferguson, CB DaRon Bland, IOL Tyler Smith, WR Jalen Tolbert

Extension to Prioritize: Edge Micah Parsons

The Micah Parsons extension has been the focus of speculation for a while now. The Cowboys have undoubtedly had it on their radar for a few years. But where the team and player are in negotiations is a bit murky at this point.

Mike Leslie of WFAA reported the Cowboys and Parsons have had discussions about a contract extension. Then Jane Slater of NFL Media reported "meaningful talks" haven't even begun yet. The word "meaningful" is doing a lot of heavy lifting in that report.

Ultimately, Parsons is the kind of young talent who just shouldn't hit free agency. He's a 25-year-old who has been a Pro Bowler every year he's been in the league at a premium position. The Cowboys will have to pay up.

Myles Garrett just received a four-year, $160 million extension, and it makes sense for Parsons to ask for more. Still, he's the foundation of the defense and needs to be extended.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: CB DaRon Bland

Maybe this isn't a pick to outright replace DaRon Bland, but the Cowboys should be taking a serious look at the cornerback room with this draft. They're about to have a conundrum on their hands with Bland and Trevon Diggs.

The Cowboys handed Diggs a five-year contract ahead of the 2023 season after he racked up 17 interceptions in his first three years in the league. Thus far, that deal has not panned out. The 26-year-old only played two games in 2023 and suffered another season-ending injury 11 games into 2024.

Now, Dallas will need to figure out if it's willing to pay both Diggs and Bland.

The latter only played in seven games last season while dealing with a stress fracture in his foot. Drafting another corner could give the Cowboys much-needed flexibility in 2026.

Denver Broncos

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The Broncos took some good swings on free-agent deals that made sense to patch some immediate holes.

Bringing over Talanoa Hufanga and Dre Greenlaw from the 49ers was an easy pair of moves to like. Evan Engram is getting older and doesn't work as a true in-line tight end, but he does give Bo Nix another proven target.

Free agency has made the Broncos better even if it's just incremental.

Updated Needs

1. Running Back
2. Wide Receiver
3. Interior Defensive Line
4. Cornerback
5. Tight End

Top 2026 Free Agents: WR Courtland Sutton, DL Zach Allen, DL John Franklin-Myers, Edge Nik Bonitto, IOL Luke Wattenberg

Extension to Prioritize: DL Zach Allen

The Broncos will officially get out from under the Russell Wilson contract in 2026, but they have plenty of players who will be looking to get the money that's freed up. Zach Allen, John Franklin-Myers and Nik Bonitto were all major contributors for a strong Denver defense last season.

Of the trio, it's probably wise to prioritize a new deal for Zach Allen. He has gone from a pretty good player to an elite one in Denver.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: DL Jonathan Franklin-Myers

When you look at the Broncos' 2026 free agents, it becomes clear they are going to have some tough decisions to make.

Courtland Sutton is coming off his best season, but he's also nearing 30. Bonitto, Allen and Franklin-Myers are instrumental to what they do on the defensive front, but paying all of them could get pricey.

Franklin-Myers feels like the odd man out. Bonitto gives them a true threat off the edge, and Allen has been more productive and well-rounded than Franklin-Myers. He brings a somewhat unique skill set to the table, but the Broncos might be able to find a facsimile in a prospect like Jared Ivey, who earned a comparison to Franklin-Myers from Matt Holder in his scouting report.

Detroit Lions

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The Lions didn't really push the chips to the middle of the table as some thought they might do in early free agency.

Trade speculation about acquiring the likes of Maxx Crosby or Myles Garrett never materialized, but they did make an important signing with D.J. Reed coming in to replace Carlton Davis III.

The Lions' needs remain mostly unchanged.

Updated Needs

1. Edge-Rusher
2. Wide Receiver
3. Interior Defensive Line
4. Interior Offensive Line
5. Linebacker

Top 2026 Free Agents: Edge Aidan Hutchinson, S Kerby Joseph, WR Jameson Williams, DL Levi Onwuzurike, LB Alex Anzalone

Extension to Prioritize: S Kerby Joseph

Making Aidan Hutchinson a Lion for a long time is obviously another priority, but given his injury last season and the rising cost of a star pass-rusher, it makes sense to give his new contract some time.

However, it would be in the Lions' best interest to expedite a new deal for Kerby Joseph before the Baltimore Ravens get Kyle Hamilton to sign an extension.

Joseph is coming off an All-Pro season and is one of the best ballhawks in the league. He led all defenders with nine picks last season and already has 17 career picks across three seasons. That kind of production would be hard to replace.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: LB Alex Anzalone

No one is going to bat an eye if the Lions go into the season with Jack Campbell and Alex Anzalone as their starting linebackers. The former is starting to live up to his draft pedigree as a former first-round pick, and the latter has become a legitimate starter in Detroit.

The problem is Anzalone is already 30 years old and will be heading into his age-32 season once he hits 2026 free agency. Even if the Lions can retain him, they will need a backup who is ready to take his spot.

Targeting Danny Stutsman or Barrett Carter in the draft could give them an heir apparent for the job.

Green Bay Packers

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In news that should shock absolutely no one, the Green Bay Packers were relatively quiet at the dawn of free agency.

They aren't usually involved in bringing in a lot of external free agents, and this year wasn't much different. The two they did bring in—cornerback Nate Hobbs and guard Aaron Banks—should play important roles.

Updated Needs

1. Edge-Rusher
2. Interior Defensive Line
3. Offensive Tackle
4. Wide Receiver
5. Cornerback

Top 2026 Free Agents: OT Zach Tom, WR Christian Watson, WR Romeo Doubs, OT Rasheed Walker, LB Quay Walker

Extension to Prioritize: OT Zach Tom

The Packers have some questions up front and Zach Tom is good enough to be the answer to nearly any of them.

In all likelihood, he's sticking at right tackle, but the Packers have always been an organization that will shuffle its offensive line to get the best five on the field and Tom has proved he can be an elite option.

Both of the Packers' projected starting tackles are set to hit the market in 2026. While the jury is still out on Rasheed Walker, Tom has established himself as a great option at right tackle.

Spotrac projects a four-year, $86.7 million contract that averages $21.7 million in annual salary. Even that feels like a deal when Penei Sewell's contract comes in at $28 million in annual average salary.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: WR Romeo Doubs

The Packers are well-known for prioritizing defense and the trenches in the draft. They finally broke their streak of first-round defenders by taking Jordan Morgan in last year's event. That's why it would be shocking if they used the first round to select a receiver, but it should be in play.

The Packers have a fairly deep group of receivers, but none that have emerged as a consistent No. 1 threat within the offense. Both Christan Watson and Romeo Doubs are set to hit free agency, and the latter might be in line for a bigger extension than the Packers are willing to give in 2026.

If that's the case, then bucking the overall consensus that they'll draft a cornerback to take a wide receiver like Matthew Golden or Tre Harris could be a sneaky-good move.

Houston Texans

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The Houston Texans entered the offseason with a clear need to shake up their offensive line. Protection for C.J. Stroud was shoddy all season, and they have to fix that immediately to get the most out of his rookie contract.

Trading away Laremy Tunsil seems like a backward way to go about it, but redistributing some of the money saved to get better play across the line could work.

Signing Cam Robinson and Laken Tomlinson while trading for Ed Ingram gives them a few more bodies to work with, but it wouldn't be surprising to see the trenches continue to be a point of emphasis in the draft.

Updated Needs

1. Interior Offensive Line
2. Wide Receiver
3. Interior Defensive Line
4. Safety
5. Cornerback

Top 2026 Free Agents: S Jalen Pitre, OT Cam Robinson, IOL Laken Tomlinson, S Jimmie Ward, IOL Shaq Mason

Extension to Prioritize: None

The Texans have been proactive in getting new deals for their players eligible for an extension. They got a three-year, $90 million extension done with Derek Stingley Jr. just a week after the Panthers got one done with Jaycee Horn. They tacked on one more year for Danielle Hunter at $35.6 million.

General manager Nick Caserio will now have to be wise with who he gives out big contracts to.

C.J. Stroud and Will Anderson will soon both be extension-eligible and are both on course to command big money. Most of the Texans' key 2026 free agents are either players they signed to one-year deals or older players they might not want back.

They should be done with extensions for now.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: S Jalen Pitre

Jalen Pitre has said he wants to be a Texan. He has certainly made a strong case to stay.

The 25-year-old has been an asset in the slot and was ranked 26th in PFF grade among all safeties in the league in the 12 games he played last season. The question is whether the Texans see his strength as a run defender as worthy of a sizable contract.

Spotrac projects a four-year, $45 million contract for Pitre. That's not a huge overpay, but paying out those kind of mid-range deals gets more difficult with bigger deals already on the payroll. There are some intriguing box safeties in this class who could be replacements for Pitre.

Dante Trader Jr. should be of particular interest. B/R scout Cory Giddings compared him to current Texans safety Jimmie Ward.

Indianapolis Colts

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The Colts' biggest needs last season came down to the secondary.

General manager Chris Ballard should be applauded for landing two of the top free agents to give the group a boost. Charvarius Ward was one of the most talented corners on the market, and Camryn Bynum gives them a long-term answer at safety.

Unfortunately, the departures of Dayo Odeyingbo, Ryan Kelly and Will Fries open up a few new holes on the roster.

Updated Needs

1. Tight End
2. Wide Receiver
3. Interior Offensive Line
4. Edge-Rusher
5. Quarterback

Top 2026 Free Agents: OT Bernhard Raimann, S Nick Cross, WR Alec Pierce, Edge Kwity Paye, OT Braden Smith

Extension to Prioritize: OT Bernhard Raimann

Anthony Richardson has a lot to prove in the 2025 season. Step one will be beating out new acquisition Daniel Jones for the starting job, but he'll also have to do much better as a passer to stave off talks of the Colts adding a new starter in 2026. Regardless, they are going to benefit from having an above-average offensive line.

Head coach Shane Steichen wants to run the ball, and Bernhard Raimann has helped them a lot with that. Finding a franchise left tackle in the third round of the 2022 draft has been a big boost for the Colts.

Raimann ranked eighth overall in PFF grades among all tackles last season. With right tackle Braden Smith set to become a free agent in 2026, paying up for the 27-year-old is a must.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: Edge Kwity Paye

Kwity Paye is set to play out the 2025 season on his fifth-year option as a 2021 first-round pick. The Colts exercised that option last offseason, and he responded with a career-high 8.5 sacks. However, the team also used its 2024 first-round pick on an edge-rusher in Laiatu Latu.

That doesn't signal the end of Paye in Indy, but it does raise questions. He has produced well enough to rack up 16.5 sacks in the last two seasons, but his pressure rate was only 8.3 percent in 2023. He did post a career-high 11.0 percent in 2024, but that's just one season with a double-digit rate since his rookie year.

The Colts could be an under-the-radar fit for Shemar Stewart, as pairing him with Latu on rookie contracts for the next three years could be seen as a better alternative than paying up for Paye.

Jacksonville Jaguars

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The Jacksonville Jaguars were pretty busy in free agency even if they didn't make many splashy signings.

They may have overpaid Jourdan Lewis to be their nickel, but they desperately need to get better in the secondary this offseason. The Patrick Mekari signing helps them move on from Brandon Scherff and was necessitated by Mitch Morse's decision to retire.

Ultimately, the Jaguars patched some holes but didn't really make many moves that should preclude them from drafting positions of need.

Updated Needs

1. Cornerback
2. Interior Defensive Line
3. Safety
4. Wide Receiver
5. Interior Offensive Line

Top 2026 Free Agents: LB Devin Lloyd, Edge Travon Walker, RB Travis Etienne Jr., WR Dyami Brown, CB Montaric Brown

Extension to Prioritize: None

General manager James Gladstone is taking over a roster put together by Trent Baalke that makes it seem unlikely they'll be pursuing any early contract extensions. A quick rundown of the candidates leaves few options that would even make sense.

Travon Walker has racked up 20.5 sacks over the last two seasons. He would be the most logical candidate, but it remains to be seen how he looks in defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile's system. It would make more sense to evaluate that and exercise his fifth-year option.

Devin Lloyd has been one of the Jaguars' most productive tackles, but he's played multiple positions. He's another one who will need to show his fit with Campanile before getting a commitment from the franchise.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: RB Travis Etienne Jr.

Etienne will play out the 2025 season on his fifth-year option. If Baalke had the foresight to see what Tank Bigsby would become this past season, Etienne might not even be on the roster. Bigsby was the much more efficient back and eventually took over as the team's top runner.

That will likely continue with Liam Coen taking over as head coach. It also means 2025 is likely Etienne's last ride with the Jaguars. Fortunately, the running back class is loaded with prospects who could make great second choices to back up Bigsby.

From receiving backs like Cam Skattebo to power backs like Phil Mafah, there are going to be options for the Jaguars starting in Round 3 to replace Etienne.

Kansas City Chiefs

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The Chiefs made one of the most interesting signings in the entire free-agent cycle when they handed Jaylon Moore a two-year, $30 million contract.

The 27-year-old addresses their most pressing need at left tackle, but he's mostly unproven. He has played just 760 snaps in the first four seasons of his career serving as Trent Williams' backup in San Francisco.

Paired with the signing of Kristian Fulton, the Chiefs have reasonable answers for their biggest needs and can look elsewhere to future deficiencies.

Updated Needs

1. Interior Defensive Line
2. Interior Offensive Line
3. Edge-Rusher
4. Safety
5. Wide Receiver

Top 2026 Free Agents: IOL Trey Smith, CB Trent McDuffie, S Bryan Cook, TE Travis Kelce, Edge George Karlaftis

Extension to Prioritize: IOL Trey Smith

The Chiefs have some difficult decisions to make in the next year. That list of top free agents in 2026 includes some important players and doesn't even include role players such as Joshua Williams, Jaylen Watson and starting running back Isiah Pacheco.

However, Smith is the most important contract extension right now. The Chiefs have already tipped their hand that he's in their future plans. They franchise-tagged him, but then turned around and traded Joe Thuney, signalling the intention to lock up the 25-year-old for the long term.

The Chiefs are already going to have to find another starting guard. Coming to an agreement on an extension will be key in freeing up cap space for this season and ensuring the offensive line remains strong moving forward.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: TE Travis Kelce

Travis Kelce can't keep playing forever. He was open about mulling retirement after a disappointing performance in the Super Bowl.

The Chiefs offense will undoubtedly be impacted when the 35-yer-old does decide to hang it up. That's why it would be wise for them to take a look at a talented group of tight ends in the draft this season.

Jared Wiley could be the replacement who is already on the roster, but the Chiefs will need to evaluate him among some good prospects.

Elijah Arroyo, Mason Taylor and Harold Fannin Jr. aren't going to be direct Kelce replacements, but they are unique weapons that could certainly thrive in Andy Reid's offense. They're all ranked between 34-48 on our latest big board.

Las Vegas Raiders

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There's no doubt the Las Vegas Raiders offense was one of the biggest winners of the free-agent cycle.

Trading for Geno Smith gives them a real answer at quarterback for the next few seasons. He is the veteran signal-caller who can take the offense to a much higher level in Pete Carroll's first season as head coach.

However, the defense kind of treaded water by replacing Trevon Moehrig and Robert Spillane with Jeremy Chinn and Elandon Roberts. Vegas might still have a ways to go, but it is undoubtedly better now than it was a few weeks ago.

Updated Needs

1. Cornerback
2. Wide Receiver
3. Running Back
4. Offensive Tackle
5. Safety

Top 2026 Free Agents: QB Geno Smith, OT Kolton Miller, CB Jack Jones, WR Jakobi Meyers, IOL Dylan Parham

Extension to Prioritize: QB Geno Smith

It's mildly surprising that a new contract hasn't already been signed for Smith.

The Pete Carroll-John Spytek regime hasn't done anything to lose the benefit of the doubt, so a new contract for the quarterback should be expected soon. That's in line with what Vegas beat writer Vincent Bonsignore noted for the Las Vegas Review-Journal. He classified the delay as "a bit unusual" but also noted we can "pretty much rule out any major red flags."

Smith is 34 years old, but he hasn't taken nearly the beating of some NFL quarterbacks. He has only started 83 games to this point in his career. The Raiders should be looking to at least get a few years of starting from him so they have time to find the next guy.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: WR Jakobi Meyers

It's already well-known that the Raiders should be looking to draft a wide receiver this year. They never really replaced Davante Adams after they traded him away. Jakobi Meyers became the de facto No. 1 receiver if you don't count tight end Brock Bowers last season.

With Meyers' contract set to expire in 2026, the Raiders might have to consider doubling up on the position in the draft. Despite the apparent need at receiver, the Raiders have yet to sign another pass-catcher.

With Meyers approaching 30 years old when he hits free agency in 2026, it would make sense to get an infusion of young talent a year before it becomes an even bigger need.

Los Angeles Chargers

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The Los Angeles Chargers may have exacerbated their need for an edge-rusher by releasing Joey Bosa, but they also got a lot better on the offensive line.

Mekhi Becton to the Chargers might have been one of the best fits in all of free agency, and picking up Andre James gives them a good backup plan at center if Zion Johnson can't make the move from guard.

Getting Najee Harris at a common-sense price isn't going to hurt, either.

Updated Needs

1. Wide Receiver
2. Tight End
3. Interior Defensive Line
4. Edge-Rusher
5. Cornerback

Top 2026 Free Agents: OT Rashawn Slater, IOL Zion Johnson, S Alohi Gilman, Edge Khalil Mack, RB Najee Harris

Extension to Prioritize: OT Rashawn Slater

This one is pretty simple. Jim Harbaugh and Joe Hortiz have been all about establishing the Chargers as a physical football team that will prioritize having a great offensive line. Rashawn Slater has proved himself as a great offensive lineman. Now it's time to pay up to make sure he's anchoring the unit for a long time.

The 25-year-old is eligible for an extension, and Hortiz has already confirmed the team has started talking to him about a new deal, per ESPN's Kris Rhim.

Slater's Spotrac market value has been calculated at $25.5 million in annual average value on a five-year deal.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: Edge Khalil Mack

The Chargers kept Khalil Mack in Los Angeles on a one-year, $18 million contract that will actually cost $26.9 million against the cap this season. It's a smart move since they parted ways with Bosa, and Mack is still playing at a high level.

With Bud Dupree and Tuli Tuipulotu on the roster, it would be understandable if the Chargers are fine with their edge-rushers moving forward.

At the same time, they should be keeping an eye on the pass-rushers who could be available at No. 22. While a tight end like Colston Loveland or Tyler Warren would be great, taking a swing on Mykel Williams could put them in a better position at a premium position in the long term.

Los Angeles Rams

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Cooper Kupp is out, but Davante Adams is in, so the Rams receiving corps actually got stronger.

Adams seems to have more left to give than Kupp at this stage and could form a strong duo with Puka Nacua.

Outside of that swap, the Rams seem to have lost more talent than they gained in free agency. Jonah Jackson, Michael Hoecht, Christian Rozeboom and Bobby Brown III all left, opening up a few more needs for the team.

Updated Needs

1. Cornerback
2. Linebacker
3. Quarterback of the future
4. Tight End
5. Safety

Top 2026 Free Agents: OT Rob Havenstein, RB Kyren Williams, S Quentin Lake, S Kamren Curl, CB Cobie Durant

Extension to Prioritize: RB Kyren Williams

Extending a running back early is always going to carry some level of risk, but Williams' role in the Rams offense could make it a logical move.

The 24-year-old was a little less efficient in 2024, but that's because he saw a whopping 316 carries and the blocking was not nearly as good. In 2023, he averaged three yards before contact. Last year, that number shrunk to 2.2.

General manager Les Snead noted a Williams extension could be "on the plate" this offseason. Signing him to a multi-year extension now would give the Rams their featured back for the next few seasons and allow them to shift their focus to building an offensive line that can give them an elite rushing attack.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: OT Rob Havenstein

The Rams are bound to miss Rob Havenstein when he eventually hangs it up. He's been a foundational piece of their offensive line since he was drafted in 2015.

While the 32-year-old has generally missed at least a few games to injury each season, he's been a steady force on the right side when he's on the field.

All of those injuries should also make it concerning for L.A. to count on him beyond 2025. Havenstein will nearly be 34 this time next year, and the Rams just handed Alaric Jackson a three-year, $57 million contract.

Targeting a player such as Aireontae Ersery or Ozzy Trapilo would give them a long-term plan at the position.

Miami Dolphins

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The Miami Dolphins didn't have much cap space to work with in free agency, so it's not surprising their needs haven't changed too much.

Losing Jevon Holland and signing Ashtyn Davis leaves them with a new need at safety. Robert Jones may have been miscast in the Dolphins' zone-heavy run scheme so they did well to replace him with James Daniels.

Miami did a good job of finding value with signings like Nick Westbrook-Ikhine and Ifeatu Melifonwu, but none of them should really impact its draft plans.

Updated Needs

1. Cornerback
2. Offensive Tackle
3. Interior Offensive Line
4. Interior Defensive Line
5. Safety

Top 2026 Free Agents: OT Terron Armstead, TE Jonnu Smith, Edge Jaelan Phillips, CB Kader Kohou, IOL Liam Eichenberg

Extension to Prioritize: None

The Dolphins should be cautious with their crop of 2026 free agents. Terron Armstead has a long history of injuries and the club is reportedly moving forward as if he will retire.

Jonnu Smith had a huge year, but he'll be 31 years old when the 2026 season starts. It's a wise move to see what he looks like at the end of this year before giving him more guarantees.

Jaelan Phillips would be the best candidate for an early extension based on his age, talent and position. However, the 25-year-old is recovering from a torn ACL and has a concerning injury history that should have the Dolphins taking a patient approach to getting him to the negotiation table.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: OT Terron Armstead

Our latest mock draft has the Dolphins beefing up their interior defensive line by drafting Walter Nolen with the 13th overall pick. It's certainly an area of need as they are in dire need of more talent in the middle of the defense.

However, Armstead already agreed to cut his salary down to the league minimum. That likely signals he's going to retire before the season.

If the 33-year-old isn't even going to be around for the 2025 season, then it becomes imperative the Dolphins find a replacement.

At this point, the free-agent crop is a little scary and Miami might be forced to look at its tackle options with the 13th pick, including Armand Membou and Josh Simmons.

Minnesota Vikings

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Welcome to the J.J. McCarthy era.

The Vikings have made it clear they are excited to finally build a roster around a quarterback on a rookie contract.

Rather than pony up to pay Sam Darnold for what he did last season or go after one of the veteran quarterback free agents, they went on a spending spree that brought them Will Fries, Jonathan Allen, Javon Hargrave, Ryan Kelly and Isaiah Rodgers.

It's an impressive haul for a team that has one of the league's best coaching staffs and plenty of success to build on. The Vikings will have to hit on those free-agent signings, though. They only have four picks in the draft right now.

Updated Needs

1. Cornerback
2. Safety
3. Offensive Line Depth
4. Linebacker
5. Running Back

Top 2026 Free Agents: Edge Andrew Van Ginkel, S Harrison Smith, S Josh Metellus, TE Josh Oliver, WR Jalen Nailor

Extension to Prioritize: S Josh Metellus

One of the reasons why the Vikings were probably comfortable going all-in on free agency is that they don't have any big-ticket 2026 free agents to extend.

Andrew Van Ginkel has been good, but it's fair to wonder what his worth will be as a 31-year-old free agent who might be a product of Brian Flores' system next offseason.

If there is someone the Vikings should consider locking up now it's Josh Metellus. His versatility allows Flores to get creative with his schemes and this could be Harrison Smith's final season. He would be playing at 37 in 2026.

Inking Metellus to a pay raise for another three years or so would ensure continuity in the secondary and shouldn't cost too much.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: S Harrison Smith

This is the obvious choice as Smith enters his 14th season. The latest B/R mock draft has the Vikings landing Malaki Starks as his replacement.

Like Metellus, the Georgia product is a versatile defensive weapon who is as comfortable patrolling the deep-third as a deep safety as he is going into the box and covering slot receivers.

Flores is a creative enough defensive mind to utilize Smith, Metellus and a third rookie safety while preparing for life without Smith in 2026.

New England Patriots

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Mike Vrabel put some really good defenses on the field when he was the Tennessee Titans head coach, and the Patriots used free agency to help him do that again as head coach of their franchise.

The Pats had one of the biggest salary-cap budgets to work with, and they used it to get serious on defense. Milton Williams, Carlton Davis III and Harold Landry III give them two upgrades up front and a leader in the secondary.

Offensively, they were hurt by Ronnie Stanley and Chris Godwin remaining with their teams. However, Morgan Moses and Wes Schweitzer give them two veteran offensive linemen to work with, and Mack Hollins is an underrated receiver.

Updated Needs

1. Offensive Tackle
2. Interior Offensive Line
3. Wide Receiver
4. Running Back
5. Cornerback

Top 2026 Free Agents: IOL Cole Strange, OT Vederian Lowe, S Jaylinn Hawkins, CB Marcus Jones, TE Austin Hooper

Extension to Prioritize: None

There's a reason the Patriots are picking fourth in the draft this year and were flush with cap space: There just weren't many players on the roster who were worth giving big-money contracts to.

Looking ahead to their 2026 free-agent class, there really isn't a player who should be an extension priority before the season.

Cole Strange probably has the closest thing to an argument. He was their first-round pick in 2022 and has played well at guard and center. However, a torn patellar tendon last season means he'll likely have to earn his extension this year.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: OT Vederian Lowe

Vederian Lowe is only going to be 26 years old next season, and offensive linemen can take a while to fully blossom into their potential. All that being considered, the Patriots still need to come out of the draft with at least some competition.

The 25-year-old has been a decent pass-blocker, but his run-block grade from PFF ranked 132nd among 141 tackles.

That's not going to fit with Vrabel's ethos as head coach. The Patriots could find Armand Membou or Kelvin Banks Jr. appealing if they were to trade back from No. 4. A second-round prospect like Josh Conerly Jr. would make a lot of sense as well.

New Orleans Saints

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As usual, the Saints didn't come into free agency with a whole lot to spend.

It's a nice win that they were able to keep Juwan Johnson and Chase Young in the Bayou, and they also signed safety Justin Reid and traded for Davon Godchaux to give their defensive line and secondary a needed boost.

Losing Paulson Adebo stings, but drafting Kool-Aid McKinstry a year ago is a good example of a team anticipating a future need. The Saints might once again look to build contingency plans with the draft.

Updated Needs

1. Edge-Rusher
2. Cornerback
3. Interior Offensive Line
4. Offensive Tackle
5. Quarterback

Top 2026 Free Agents: WR Chris Olave, CB Alontae Taylor, LB Demario Davis, OT Trevor Penning, S Tyrann Mathieu

Extension to Prioritize: CB Alontae Taylor

The Saints are going to have to some interesting decisions to make on their 2022 draft class in the coming year.

Chris Olave's health makes it so that it's best for both sides to wait on an extension. If he can stay healthy and put together a strong season, he'll get paid more and the Saints can feel more at ease about the investment.

Trevor Penning still needs to prove he can be an above-average starter at tackle.

Then there's Alontae Taylor. The Saints have had a lot of turnover at cornerback. They traded away Marshon Lattimore and let Paulson Adebo walk in free agency. Taylor has played both inside and outside corner with mixed results.

But his production and reliability probably warrant an extension. Getting one done this offseason gives them one less thing to worry about in a busy 2026 offseason.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: OT Trevor Penning

The Saints' aggressive management of the cap means they really can't afford to give out contracts to players who aren't going to provide value for them. That's why it's easier to see them drafting a new right tackle rather than giving Penning his $17 million fifth-year option or inking him to an extension.

The 25-year-old has shown flashes of being a really good tackle, but he also had the second-most blown blocks in the league last season, by Sports Info Solution's charting, with 51.

Add in 11 penalties and it's a lot of volatility to give a big contract. Depending on what the Saints think of Kelvin Banks Jr., they could address the position as early as the first round.

Marcus Mbow would be intriguing later in the draft. He has played both guard and tackle and could compete at the former before moving out to tackle in Year 2.

New York Giants

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We're still waiting to see what is going to happen at the game's most important position, but the Giants should be commended for some of the work they did in free agency.

Paulson Adebo is a young free agent with the potential to be the legitimate No. 1 corner they were missing last season while Jevon Holland was the top safety on the market, so they now have two long-term fixes for a secondary that was awful last season.

Quarterback remains the biggest looming question for the Giants. Signing Jameis Winston can't be the endgame there.

Updated Needs

1. Quarterback
2. Interior Offensive Line
3. Linebacker
4. Interior Defensive Line
5. Edge-Rusher Depth

Top 2026 Free Agents: Edge Kayvon Thibodeaux, OT Jermaine Eluemunor, WR Wan'Dale Robinson, LB Micah McFadden, CB Cor'Dale Flott

Extension to Prioritize: None

Brian Daboll and Joe Schoen managed to hold on to their jobs this offseason, but it's hard to not feel like they may be on thin ice as the team has performed worse in each season since the pair took over in 2022.

There are some mitigating circumstances, but the uncertainty makes it feel less likely they pursue any major contract extension before the season.

Even if Schoen has a little better job security, this isn't a crop of future free agents that inspires an extension. The Giants should hope to have a better long-term right tackle in place than Jermaine Eluemunor a year from now, Kayvon Thibodeaux has a lot to prove in a contract year, and the others simply don't warrant a rushed extension.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: WR Wan'Dale Robinson

This might be an unpopular take, but the Giants should be more excited about what a better receiver could do with 140 targets than what Wan'Dale Robinson did with his last season.

Robinson saw the ball often with defenses trying to stop Malik Nabers. He turned all those targets into 93 receptions for 699 yards and three touchdowns.

The 24-year-old is a slot-only receiver with some juice after the catch. But is he a true Robin to Malik Nabers' Batman? The answer is probably not.

This draft class is filled with intriguing receivers who could play in the slot with a little more versatility, including Jalen Royals, Jaylin Noel and Isaiah Bond.

Taking a shot on a slot with even more upside could be huge for whoever the quarterback is.

New York Jets

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The New York Jets' 2025 offseason has been a hard reset for an era that was ultimately a letdown anyway.

The Jets offense will take on a new look going from Aaron Rodgers to Justin Fields. The new quarterback comes at a much cheaper price and with the hopes of rekindling his career as a starting QB.

The bad part is that the Jets offense is also much less prepared to support a quarterback. Davante Adams left the building, Tyron Smith remains unsigned and Morgan Moses has been replaced by Chukwuma Okorafor. There's a lot of work to be done before Aaron Glenn's team looks scary.

Updated Needs

1. Wide Receiver
2. Safety
3. Cornerback
4. Offensive Tackle
5. Interior Defensive Line

Top 2026 Free Agents: CB Ahmad Gardner, WR Garrett Wilson, RB Breece Hall, LB Quincy Williams, OL Alijah Vera-Tucker

Extension to Prioritize: WR Garrett Wilson

The Jets' 2022 draft class is a big reason why they felt going all-in on Rodgers was the right move. It is also their best hope that they'll be able to transition out of the Rodgers era successfully. Signing Garrett Wilson to an extension would help.

Ideally, the Jets would be able to extend both Ahmad Gardner and Wilson before the season starts.

Gardner has earned an extension and Patrick Surtain II's four-year, $96 million deal probably laid down the groundwork for his new contract.

That's why it might be wise to lock in Wilson's first. It'll be a little trickier to find where his should land after Ja'Marr Chase just scored his four-year, $161 million extension.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: LB Quincy Williams

Quincy Williams has been a steady presence on several underrated Jets defenses since joining the franchise in 2021 and even earned All-Pro honors in 2023.

But the decision to sign Jamien Sherwood to a three-year, $45 million contract sure feels like a declaration that the 28-year-old will be looking for a new team in 2026.

The Jets obviously have a lot of new contracts to figure out and re-signing Williams could give them less financial flexibility to bring back their young stars. Carson Schwesinger and Demetrius Knight Jr. could be interesting options later in the draft.

Philadelphia Eagles

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It's good to be the Super Bowl champs, but it doesn't usually make life in free agency easy.

The Eagles lost Milton Williams and Josh Sweat, but they did a decent job of finding some potential values on the market. Josh Uche and Azeez Ojulari have both shown the ability to produce and will be added to their collection of pass-rushers.

Extending Saquon Barkley and re-signing Zack Baun were nice moves to keep a championship core together, but there are a few spots that could still use more help to mount a title defense.

Updated Needs

1. Safety
2. Interior Defensive Line
3. Cornerback
4. Wide Receiver Depth
5. Offensive Line Depth

Top 2026 Free Agents: IOL Cam Jurgens, LB Nakobe Dean, DL Jordan Davis, TE Dallas Goedert, TE Grant Calcaterra

Extension to Prioritize: IOL Cam Jurgens

A commitment to building an elite offensive line is at the core of Howie Roseman's blueprint for the Eagles. The Athletic's Brooks Kubena noted that the GM called his dedication to the offensive line as an "unhealthy obsession."

Kubena noted the quote when laying out his reasoning why Philadelphia would be signing Jurgens to an extension soon.

The 25-year-old was drafted as the heir apparent to Jason Kelce at center. He earned Pro Bowl honors in his first year at the pivot, and the Eagles have shown their ability to spot and develop talent on the offensive line.

It's a no-brainer to get Jurgens on a long-term deal now before he gets more expensive.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: TE Dallas Goedert

Dallas Goedert put together a strong postseason with over 200 receiving yards to help the Eagles win the championship. That's probably not going to be enough to keep him in Philly beyond the 2025 season, though.

Multiple reports have cited the 30-year-old as a trade candidate this offseason. It's hard to see the Eagles signing him to another contract if they are already looking to move him.

Grant Calcaterra picked up a lot of the slack when Goedert was hurt in 2024, but he's also set to become a free agent. The Eagles don't have a lot of depth at receiver so drafting a dynamic tight end prospect like Elijah Arroyo would make a lot more sense than one might initially think.

Pittsburgh Steelers

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The Steelers' free-agency picture isn't complete yet. ESPN's Jeremy Fowler reported they are "aggressively pursuing" Aaron Rodgers after he recently met with Mike Tomlin, Arthur Smith and Omar Khan.

Landing DK Metcalf could help attract the strong-armed quarterback. With George Pickens and Metcalf set to play on the same team, the Steelers have two physical, deep-ball threats on the outside. The move finally gives them a second receiver albeit one with a similar skill set to Pickens.

The Steelers also made an aggressive move to cover their other major weakness. Darius Slay Jr. is an experienced, proven option to play opposite Joey Porter Jr.

Updated Needs

1. Quarterback
2. Interior Defensive Line
3. Running Back
4. Offensive Line Depth
5. Wide Receiver Depth

Top 2026 Free Agents: Edge T.J. Watt, IOL Isaac Seumalo, RB Jaylen Warren, S DeShon Elliott, WR George Pickens

Extension to Prioritize: Edge T.J. Watt

Truth be told, the Steelers probably should have already given T.J. Watt a contract extension.

On The Pat McAfee Show, J.J. Watt questioned the Steelers for not getting his brother a new deal, and he has a point. The Raiders signed Maxx Crosby to a three-year, $106.5 million extension, and the Browns signed Myles Garrett to a four-year $160 million extension.

Watt, 30, has made it known he wants to remain a Steeler, but beating those contracts or at least matching them is probably a goal he will have in negotiations.

It would be best to get his deal done before the Lions pay Aidan Hutchinson even more money.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: IOL Isaac Seumalo

The Steelers' in-state rival has shown the importance of drafting at least one year ahead of offensive-line needs. They were fortunate to have unearthed Mason McCormick in the fourth round last season. It allowed them to move on from James Daniels this offseason. Now they should look to repeat some of that magic to fill their left guard spot for the long term.

Isaac Seumalo has been a good pickup for the Steelers over the last two seasons. He earned his first Pro Bowl nod last year, but this is a class with some good interior offensive linemen and drafting a Miles Frazier or Wyatt Milum could give them necessary flexibility on the line moving forward.

San Francisco 49ers

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For better or worse, the 2025 offseason will be a pivot point for the Niners. After years of making aggressive moves to pursue a title, San Francisco will be eating $85 million in dead cap and losing some talented players to hit the refresh button.

The bottom isn't set to fall out. Kyle Shanahan still has Brandon Aiyuk, Christian McCaffrey and George Kittle to build his offense around, but losing the likes of Deebo Samuel, Dre Grennlaw and Talanoa Hufanga while Mac Jones highlights the free-agent additions signals a focused effort to clean up their payroll.

Updated Needs

1. Edge-Rusher
2. Interior Offensive Line
3. Interior Defensive Line
4. Cornerback
5. Wide Receiver

Top 2026 Free Agents: QB Brock Purdy, TE George Kittle, OT Colton McKivitz, WR Jauan Jennings, DL Jordan Elliott

Extension to Prioritize: TE George Kittle

There's a lot of unease that comes with a quarterback negotiating a new contract. That's even more tension when it's still unclear how much the QB is worth. Mike Garafolo of NFL Media recently laid out the case that Brock Purdy could ask for a contract similar to the one Dak Prescott has that averages $60 million per year.

What's not controversial and much more straightforward is that George Kittle is vital to what the Niners do on offense. He's 31 years old, so age is starting to become a concern, but he just put up his best stats since 2018 and was a second-team All-Pro. Giving Kittle an extension is the easier choice than figuring out the right numbers for Purdy right now.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: WR Jauan Jennings

Jauan Jennings went from the ultimate glue guy to a legitimate featured wide receiver last season. He has always been a coach favorite as one of the best blocking receivers in the game. Last season, he emerged as a true pass-catching option with 77 receptions for 975 yards and six touchdowns.

His ability to do that probably gave them the extra push they needed to trade Deebo Samuel, but how expensive is that next contract going to be? The Niners probably have some buyer's remorse on Brandon Aiyuk's new contract as it is.

The team should at least make Jennings prove he can have that kind of production again. It wouldn't hurt to give themselves options by adding another receiver early in the draft even with Jennings, Aiyuk and Ricky Pearsall on the roster.

Seattle Seahawks

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Geno Smith is out. Sam Darnold is in. That's going to be the headline for the Seahawks, but there's a little more to it than that.

Darnold's contract is fairly easy to get out of after one season, so this was more about resetting the offense under new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak.

Trading away D.K. Metcalf is further evidence of that. They signed Cooper Kupp, but it still creates a need at wide receiver that wasn't necessarily there before.

The more concerning development for the Seahawks is they haven't done too much yet to fix an offensive line that was at the heart of a lot of their issues last season.

Updated Needs

1. Interior Offensive Line
2. Cornerback
3. Wide Receiver
4. Offensive Tackle
5. Interior Defensive Line

Top 2026 Free Agents: OT Charles Cross, CB Tariq Woolen, S Coby Bryant, OT Abraham Lucas, Edge Boye Mafe

Extension to Prioritize: OT Charles Cross

The Seahawks offensive line is a mess. The unit was 21st in ESPN's pass block win rate and 28th in run block win rate. Those numbers always need some context, but the unit was bad by just about any measurement.

The interior trio might be one of the worst in the league. Abraham Lucas is a good tackle when he's on the field, but that's only been 13 games over the last two seasons.

All of these offensive line woes only serve to confirm the Seahawks should be looking to secure a new contract for Charles Cross. He's the lone consistent presence in the unit right now with 48 starts across his first three seasons in the league.

They could always use the fifth-year option to keep him on the roster in 2026, but a multi-year extension could save more cap space for next offseason.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: Edge Boye Mafe

Interior offensive line is going to be a popular direction for the Seahawks in most mock drafts. That includes our latest where we have them drafting do-it-all interior prospect Grey Zabel.

However, that scenario has them passing on Marshall's Mike Green, who projects as a headache for offensive tackles coming off the edge.

It shouldn't come as a huge surprise if the Seahawks decide to chase a long-term answer at edge-rusher early. Boye Mafe is set to hit free agency and did not break out in his first year in Mike Macdonald's system. He went from nine sacks in 2023 to just six in 2024.

His age, athleticism and production might see a team overpay him in 2026 free agency. The Seahawks could avoid being the team that does that by drafting his replacement now.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

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The Buccaneers might not have made many splashy moves, but finding a way to retain Chris Godwin when there was a healthy market for him is big for the offense.

It keeps wide receiver from being a huge need. Tampa was also a nice landing spot for Haason Reddick to potentially revitalize his career after a tumultuous season with the New York Jets last season.

Outside of that, they essentially swapped linebackers with Miami by signing Anthony Walker Jr. after the Fins signed K.J. Britt. Most of the other moves they've made so far have been depth additions.

Updated Needs

1. Edge-Rusher
2. Linebacker
3. Cornerback
4. Guard
5. Safety

Top 2026 Free Agents: WR Mike Evans, LB Lavonte David, CB Zyon McCollum, OT Luke Goedeke, TE Cade Otton

Extension to Prioritize: OT Luke Goedeke

As the Detroit Lions have shown, having two high-end bookend tackles can help make an offense go. Tristan Wirfs is one of the best left tackles in the game, and Luke Goedeke spent this season showing he can be the long-term starter at right tackle.

The Buccaneers might want to move quickly to make that happen before he puts together another good season and his price goes even higher.

Goedeke transitioned from guard to tackle in his second NFL season and has clearly become comfortable on the edge. He surrendered just three sacks on 507 passing snaps this season.

Locking him up on a new deal would ensure Baker Mayfield has the protection he needs on the perimeter for a long time.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: WR Mike Evans

Mike Evans is among one of the most underappreciated players at his position over the last decade. He's never made an All-Pro team, but he's also never had a season with fewer than 1,000 yards receiving.

The 2024 campaign nearly broke that streak, though, and Evans will be a 32-year-old free agent at the end of the season.

The Bucs should look to re-sign him when that time comes. He's played his entire career in Tampa and it would feel wrong to see him in another jersey. But they might want to make a surprising move and draft a receiver earlier than expected despite extending Godwin.

Tre Harris is the premium big-bodied receiver in the class, but Jayden Higgins could be an interesting project for them in later rounds.

Tennessee Titans

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The central question for the Titans offseason remains what they're going to do with the top pick and who will play quarterback. They haven't done anything yet to answer those questions.

However, the question of what they'll do to protect that QB has been answered.

The Titans signed Dan Moore Jr. and Kevin Zeitler, elevating the floor of what their offensive line will look like next year. The former isn't the best starting left tackle, but he's at least been a starting left tackle. The latter is in the twilight of his career, but he's still playing well.

It clears the path for the Titans to have a much more functional offense in 2025.

Updated Needs

1. Quarterback
2. Edge-Rusher
3. Wide Receiver
4. Linebacker
5. Tight End

Top 2026 Free Agents: S Amani Hooker, Edge Arden Key, CB Roger McCreary, TE Chigoziem Okonkwo, DL Sebastian Joseph-Day

Extension to Prioritize: CB Roger McCreary

New general manager Mike Borgonzi might be a little reticent to hand out extensions to players he didn't draft, but Roger McCreary is worthy of consideration.

The 25-year-old brings the toughness and grit that most teams are looking for in their primary slot defender. He had a bit of an off-year in coverage with a passer rating allowed of 104.9, but he also had his lowest yards allowed per target (6.8).

McCreary's physicality also helps out in the run game. He's a willing tackler with 220 tackles over the last three seasons. He's the kind of young player you want to stick around on a rebuilding roster.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: TE Chigoziem Okonkwo

Chigoziem Okonkwo is entering the final year of his rookie contract. While he's been the team's top receiving tight end in each of his first three years in the league, the Titans might want to go another direction after 2025.

Okonkwo drew attention in the draft process for his athleticism, but that hasn't made him an overly dynamic weapon in the passing game. He has 1,457 career receiving yards and has only averaged 4.8 yards after the catch in each of the last two seasons after averaging 7.9 as a rookie.

They are one of a few teams who should have their eye on Elijah Arroyo, Mason Taylor, Harold Fannin Jr. or even Jake Briningstool on Day 2.

Washington Commanders

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The Commanders look like a team on the cusp of contending with a dynamic quarterback on a rookie contract and a coaching staff with a proven track record.

They were appropriately aggressive in early free agency. Trading for Deebo Samuel and Laremy Tunsil gives them answers at two of their biggest needs.

Edge-rusher is still an obvious need that hasn't been filled, but Dan Quinn's squad has done a lot of the things it needed to do to keep its upward trajectory.

Updated Needs

1. Edge-Rusher
2. Tight End
3. Cornerback
4. Wide Receiver
5. Linebacker

Top 2026 Free Agents: WR Terry McLaurin, WR Deebo Samuel, LB Bobby Wagner, RB Brian Robinson Jr., OT Andrew Wylie

Extension to Prioritize: WR Terry McLaurin

Of all the players who deserve a pay raise for what they've done in Washington, Terry McLaurin is the most deserving.

The receiver has been forced to play with some bad quarterbacks in some questionable offenses, and he's been a steady producer regardless of the circumstance. It's no surprise he put together his fifth-consecutive 1,000-yard season with Jayden Daniels throwing him the football.

McLaurin was instrumental in Daniels' successful rookie season. Even though he's going to be 30 this season, it would be a good idea to get McLaurin locked in.

Sports Illustrated NFL insider Albert Breer hinted at McLaurin getting a new contract back in January, but nothing has come to fruition.

Spotrac projects a three-year, $89.7 million extension as his market value and that feels like a good contract for the Commanders at this point.

Player to Replace in the 2025 Draft: LB Bobby Wagner

The Commanders brought back Bobby Wagner on a one-year, $9 million contract. It's a sensible move. The 34-year-old was instrumental in helping turn the defense around under Quinn and he still shows signs of elite athleticism from time to time.

That being said, it would be wise for the Commanders to use this year's draft as an opportunity to draft an heir apparent for Wagner's job. Finding another athletic linebacker who can play beside Frankie Luvu would allow the team to transition smoothly into 2026.

Someone like Chris Paul Jr., who is considered a bit of a project, could be a worthwhile investment in the third round.