Every NFL Team's Biggest Long-Term Roster Need and Potential 2026 Free-Agent Fit

As every team shifts its focus to Week 2 of the preseason, every coaching staff and front office will be honing on how to cut down the roster to 53 players ahead of the regular season.

They're taking a good, long look at how all the pieces fit together to have the best roster to start the season.

They're also keeping one eye on the future. Each team walks into the season with at least one long-term need that has a short-term fix. They'll need to evaluate throughout the season whether they want to re-sign someone headed toward free agency or look to fill a pressing need on the market this season.

It's through that lens that we'll evaluate each team ahead of Week 1. What are the needs that don't have an obvious answer in 2026? Who is each team's 2026 free agent who needs to be re-signed? Who might each team be looking to add if their current team doesn't want to pay up?

Let's dive in.

Arizona Cardinals

AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin

Jalen Thompson

Biggest Long-Term Needs: OT, S, LB

Priority Re-Signing: S Jalen Thompson

The Cardinals don't have a lot of young up-and-comers they haven't already signed. The front office wisely got in front of extending Trey McBride this spring. He was briefly the league's highest-paid tight end, but the Niners already beat it with George Kittle's extension.

That leaves Jalen Thompson as the team's most notable 2026 free agent. He was one of the best safeties in 2023, but he came back down to earth in 2024. That could be a sign of him breaking down a bit as he's dealt with several injuries in his career, but he's still only 27.

2026 Free Agency Target: LB Nakobe Dean, Philadelphia Eagles

Jonathan Gannon's connection to the Eagles is well-known. So if he decides to go the free-agent route to upgrade his linebacker corps, it wouldn't be surprising to see him give his old team a call.

The Eagles have a lot of heavy contracts on the books. Spending the money to extend Nakobe Dean might not be a priority for them, but it would give the Cardinals a much younger and exciting option than Akeem Davis-Gaither and Mack Wilson in the middle.

Atlanta Falcons

AP Photo/Danny Karnik

Kaleb McGary

Biggest Long-Term Needs: CB, C, DL

Priority Re-Signing: OT Kaleb McGary

The offensive line is one of the Falcons' greatest strengths right now. Bijan Robinson enjoys good blocking up front and Michael Penix Jr. should be able to build trust in his pass protection. Losing a strong veteran tackle is a good way to disrupt that consistency up front.

That's what is going to happen if the Falcons don't find a way to extend Kaleb McGary's contract ahead of the next season. He is already 30 years old so there's some risk in re-signing him, but he's been a good run-blocking right tackle and the Falcons didn't draft an obvious successor this offseason.

2026 Free Agency Target: John Franklin-Myers, Denver Broncos

The Falcons pass rush has been an issue for a long time. They took huge steps toward fixing it by taking Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. The two rookies are speed demons off the edge, but the Falcons might find they need a power-rusher to balance things out.

John Franklin-Myers would be a perfect candidate for that role. The 6'4", 289-pound defensive lineman is a strong power rusher as a defensive end, but he also has the side to kick inside if necessary. The Falcons could get creative with how they use all three of them if they sign him next offseason.

Baltimore Ravens

AP Photo/Terrance Williams

Tyler Linderbaum

Biggest Long-Term Needs: LB, IOL, CB

Priority Re-Signing: C Tyler Linderbaum

The Ravens win games because of their rushing attack and Lamar Jackson's electric ability. Continuing to win that like is going to require a strong interior offensive line.

While both guard spots are questions going into the season, they don't have to question whether they have a good center. Tyler Linderbaum has been as advertised as a former first-round pick.

He has started all but two games in his first three seasons. He's a back-to-back Pro Bowler after the last two seasons. The Ravens need to be willing to pay whatever the market dictates for Linderbaum because he's the glue of the offensive line.

2026 Free Agency Target: LB Devin Lloyd, Jacksonville Jaguars

The Ravens have a star linebacker in Roquan Smith, but the defense was better when he had Patrick Queen as a running mate. Trent Simpson will get another crack at the job, but his performance last season should have him on thin ice. Teddye Buchanan could also be a name to watch as an athletic fourth-round pick.

If neither steps up, Baltimore might want to get aggressive to find a new partner for Smith. Devin Lloyd would make sense. He's a strong downhill player who would fit in with the ethos of the Ravens defense. He also makes a few plays in coverage that would make him an ideal second inside 'backer.

Buffalo Bills

AP Photo/Adrian Kraus

Connor McGovern

Biggest Long-Term Needs: Edge, IOL, LB

Priority Re-Signing: C Connor McGovern

There are those who would argue James Cook is the team's most high-priority re-signing. The fact that they haven't extended the running back has been at the heart of many offseason storylines for the Bills. However, there's a good case to be made that the environment in Buffalo has been a big part of his success. He was 33rd in yards created per touch last season.

Replacing Cook's production with Ray Davis and a rookie running back would be much easier than finding a new starting center next offseason. Connor McGovern was ranked 10th among all centers in the league by PFF last season.

Left guard David Edwards is also a free agent next season so extending McGovern would ensure some continuity inside.

2026 Free Agency Target: Edge Darrell Taylor, Houston Texans

The Bills' ceiling might be established by how well Joey Bosa can do for them on the edge. They needed more pass-rushing pop this offseason and acquired Bosa on a one-year deal to address the need. The only problem is that he might end up pricing himself out of Buffalo if he proves he can stay healthy and dominate.

That would likely send the Bills back to the free-agent market to address the need. Darrell Taylor doesn't have near the resume, but he's also only played four years. He's the kind of big, powerful edge player Buffalo usually covets.

Carolina Panthers

AP Photo/Danny Karnik

Taylor Moton

Biggest Long-Term Needs: CB, C, Edge

Priority Re-Signing: None

The Panthers made a smart move by extending Jaycee Horn this offseason. Signing him to a four-year, $100 million extension got out ahead of the market at the position and ensured their best 2026 free agent didn't even come close to hitting the open market.

Unfortunately, there aren't many other talents that are worth handing out an extension right now. Taylor Moton is the closest thing. The 32-year-old right tackle is in a contract season, but he'll need to prove he isn't hitting the age cliff. He missed three games last season for an elbow/tricep injury before missing the Week 17 game with a knee ailment.

2026 Free Agency Target: Edge Nik Bonitto, Denver Broncos

The Panthers are one edge-rusher away from having a potentially elite defensive line. Adding Tershawn Wharton and Bobby Brown III to an interior that already has Derrick Brown has given Carolina a strength to build around. It's also fair to wonder if Patrick Jones II, D.J. Wonnum and rookies Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen can take advantage on the outside.

It's a lock that Nik Bonitto would be able to. The Broncos edge-rusher broke out with 13.5 sacks in his first full season as a starter for Denver.

His speed and bend around the edge are unlike anything the Panthers have on the roster right now and Denver hasn't extended him yet.

Chicago Bears

AP Photo/Maria Lysaker

Jaquan Brisker

Biggest Long-Term Needs: Edge, RB, S

Priority Re-Signing: S Jaquan Brisker

It's understandable that the Bears have taken a slow approach to giving Jaquan Brisker an early extension. He missed 12 games last season with a concussion and has had three over the last three seasons. However, any kind of return to what he was doing before the injury last season should see him return to Chicago.

He is a physical enforcer in the back seven. He has the kind of playstyle Dennis Allen should love as the new defensive coordinator. Fellow safety Kevin Byard is also set to be a 2026 free agent, so the Bears would have to replace both starters if they don't bring at least one of them back.

Brisker's age and production make him the better option.

2026 Free Agency Target: RB Breece Hall, New York Jets

The Bears are heading toward a tight cap situation in 2026. They are projected to be $9.5 million over the cap heading into the offseason. However, clearing enough cap space to pay for a running back should be doable and Breece Hall figures to be one of the most intriguing names who could be available.

He has struggled to live up to the expectations of being an early second-rounder. We're waiting on his first 1,000-yard rushing season. But the Jets haven't been a picture of offensive stability or even blocking during his time in New York. A fresh start in a Ben Johnson offense could be appealing for both parties.

Cincinnati Bengals

AP Photo/Kareem Elgazzar

Trey Hendrickson

Biggest Long-Term Needs: IOL, Edge, S

Priority Re-Signing: Edge Trey Hendrickson

It's hard to believe this is still a topic of conversation. The Bengals' contract showdown with Trey Hendrickson has been a story throughout the offseason and remains an issue as we head into the second week of the preseason.

Hendrickson is at training camp but still not participating in practice as he "holds in" for a new contract.

The problem for the Bengals is that he is the only proven pass-rusher on the roster. He made his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl last season with 17.5 sacks. He is 30 years old so it's understandable Cincinnati might be hesitant to give him a multi-year contract, but it doesn't have many options at this point.

2026 Free Agency Target: Edge A.J. Epenesa, Buffalo Bills

The Bengals aren't going to be able to replace Hendrickson in 2026 free agency. They are going to have to hope first-round pick Shemar Stewart has a good rookie season to build on and the Myles Murphy pick finally pays off. Even then, the Bengals could be losing both Hendrickson and Joseph Ossai in free agency.

Targeting A.J. Epenesa would allow them to get a little younger at the position while still having veteran leadership in the room. He has had six or more sacks in each of the last three seasons and would provide the kind of reasonable floor as a starter that Sam Hubbard did.

Cleveland Browns

AP Photo/Kareem Elgazzar

David Njoku

Biggest Long-Term Needs: QB, WR, CB

Priority Re-Signing: TE David Njoku

The Browns are going to have some difficult decisions to make heading into the 2026 offseason. They have four offensive-line starters who are heading toward the open market. Joel Bitonio, Ethan Pocic, Wyatt Teller and Jack Conklin are all in contract years, but they will all be north of 31 years old.

That alone probably puts David Njoku at the top of their priorities. The offense is short on proven receiving weapons. Jerry Jeudy is the team's top receiver. Cedric Tillman has done some good things, but he has room to grow.

Njoku is still a dynamic receiving option and the Browns are going to need him as they try to develop a young quarterback.

2026 Free Agency Target: WR Jauan Jennings, San Francicso 49ers

As noted, the Browns have to upgrade their weaponry if they are going to make things work offensively. Whether it's Shedeur Sanders, Dillon Gabriel or a quarterback drafted in 2026, they'll likely have a young starter next season. Using their resources to improve the receiver corps would be wise.

Bringing in Jauan Jennings would change the tenor of the wide receiver room. He has long been underrated as a receiver because his blocking was one of the best parts of his skill set. However, he showed last season he can be a featured part of the passing game when he hauled in 77 receptions for 975 yards and six touchdowns.

Dallas Cowboys

AP Photo/Jessica Tobias

Micah Parsons

Biggest Long-Term Needs: DL, RB, S

Priority Re-Signing: Edge Micah Parsons

The Cowboys already have some big contracts on the books. Dak Prescott is the highest-paid quarterback in the league by average annual value and CeeDee Lamb is the third-highest-paid receiver. That makes it hard to hand out another market-setting deal, but it's pretty much a necessity at this point.

Micah Parsons has announced a trade request. It's a move that comes out of frustration with how his contract extension talks have been handled. However, the Cowboys really need to figure it out because the defense isn't nearly as effective without him completely altering the opposing offense's game plan.

2026 Free Agency Target: RB Tyler Allgeier, Atlanta Falcons

The Dallas running back room is suspect heading into the season. The best-case scenario would see fifth-round pick Jaydon Blue break out as a real weapon while either Javonte Williams or Miles Sanders recaptures the form they showed early in their career.

If none of those things happen, then the Cowboys could be back to square one in the backfield. Tyler Allgeier is a key name in an interesting free-agent class of running backs. He's been the thumper who complements Bijan Robinson over the last two seasons, but he could be seeking a bigger role in free agency.

Dallas could provide that with him playing thunder to Blue's lightning in 2026.

Denver Broncos

AP Photo/Jack Dempsey

Nik Bonitto

Biggest Long-Term Needs: WR, TE, OT

Priority Re-Signing: Edge Nik Bonitto

The Broncos have been busy this offseason getting out ahead of some major deals. They closed out July with a four-year, $92 million deal for Courtland Sutton and then inked Zach Allen to a four-year, $102 million extension at the beginning of August.

Nik Bonitto is arguably as important as those two players moving forward. The 25-year-old is just entering the early stages of his prime after breaking out with a 13.5-sack season next year. A monstrous 2025 could wind up making him even more expensive for the Denver defense.

2026 Free Agency Target: WR Terry McLaurin, Washington Commanders

The Broncos just paid out big money to Sutton to be the No. 1 receiver for Bo Nix. But the beauty of playing a quarterback on a rookie contract is that you can spend the money to put an elite supporting cast around him.

Terry McLaurin recently requested a trade, but the Commanders don't have to oblige if they want him to play out his current contract. If that's how things happen, then there would be plenty of suitors who would pay up for the 29-year-old.

If the Broncos continue to be a team on the rise, they would have a compelling pitch as McLaurin could team with Sutton and Nix to give the offense much more juice in 2026.

Detroit Lions

AP Photo/David Dermer

D.J. Reader

Biggest Long-Term Needs: Edge, DL, CB

Priority Re-Signing: DL Levi Onwuzurike

The Lions were fortunate to get Levi Onwuzurike to return to Motor City on a one-year, $5.5 million this offseason. However, both parties were incredibly unfortunate after he suffered a torn ACL that is expected to cost him the 2025 season.

The injury is a major setback for the 27-year-old. He registered 13 quarterback hits after combining for three in his first two seasons. A healthy Onwuzurike would have a big role this year. But he'll become even more important next season when D.J. Reader and Roy Lopez are both set to hit free agency.

2026 Free Agency Target: Edge Kwity Paye, Indianapolis Colts

Aidan Hutchinson gives the Lions a star pass-rusher when healthy. But the pass rush looked much more human when he was forced to miss 12 games last season with a knee injury. He still led the team with 7.5 sacks in the five games he played.

If Detroit doesn't have a secondary edge-rusher emerge opposite Hutchinson this season, they could be looking to the free-agent market. There aren't a ton of productive options that don't just fit the one-year mercenary role.

Kwity Paye is one of the exceptions. The Colt has 26.5 sacks through four seasons and is only 26 years old.

Green Bay Packers

AP Photo/Terrance Williams

Quay Walker

Biggest Long-Term Needs: CB, Edge, IDL

Priority Re-Signing: LB Quay Walker

Green Bay is a franchise that leans heavily into its draft and develop strategy. That works best when a club is able to reward highly achieving homegrown talent with contract extensions. The Packers declined the fifth-year option on Walker's deal as a former first-round pick, but that doesn't mean they won't be interested in bringing him back on an extension.

Walker has been a highly productive starter. He hasn't made a Pro Bowl yet, but he has finished with over 100 tackles in each season and had a career-high nine tackles for loss last season.

2026 Free Agency Target: CB Cam Taylor-Britt, Cincinnati Bengals

The Packers finally parted ways with Jaire Alexander and Eric Stokes this offseason. Both had struggled with injuries and forced the team to scramble for answers at cornerback.

Thus far, Green Bay is going to be relying on its development of players such as Keisean Nixon and free-agent acquisition Nate Hobbs on the outside.

Cam Taylor-Britt hasn't been perfect in his time with the Bengals, but he finally put together a healthy season. That will be huge as he played all 17 games last year and picked off three passes. He could be the long-term third corner along with Nixon and Javon Bullard.

Houston Texans

AP Photo/Greg M. Cooper

Foley Fatukasi

Biggest Long-Term Needs: IOL, DL, S

Priority Re-Signing: None

The Texans class of 2026 free agents is primarily made up of stop-gap players on one-year deals like Laken Tomlinson, Cam Robinson and E.J. Speed or aging veterans who might be in their final seasons like Jimmie Ward (35), Derek Barnett (30) and Denico Autrey (36).

If we had to be pressed into picking one it would probably be Foley Fatukasi. His ability to take on blocks on the inside establish the kind of tone the Texans like up front. However, he's 30 years old, was ranked 116th out of the 118 interior defenders graded by PFF last season and is already on the PUP list.

2026 Free Agency Target: OG Dylan Parham, Las Vegas Raiders

The Texans knew they had to fix their offensive line and they mostly approached it by acquiring veterans who aren't likely to be long-term answers. Cam Robinson, Trent Brown, Laken Tomlinson and Ed Ingram are all recent additions who are set to become free agents in 2026.

It would be hard to believe the Raiders are going to let Dylan Parham leave the building, but the Texans should be first in line with an offer if they do. The 25-year-old is in the final year of his rookie deal and has proved to be a reliable starter. He's started all but two games since the Raiders drafted him in the third round of the 2022 draft.

Indianapolis Colts

AP Photo/Michael Conroy

Nick Cross

Biggest Long-Term Needs: QB, IOL, LB

Priority Re-Signing: S Nick Cross

The Colts secondary has been a weakness in years past, but it could be transformed into a strength in 2025. Lou Anarumo showing up as the defensive coordinator along with the addition of Charvarius Ward and Camryn Bynum could breathe life into the the secondary.

Nick Cross should be one of the incumbents who also gets a boost from having Anarumo on staff. The 23-year-old put together a strong season as a box safety who could offer run support.

With Bynum taking care of a lot of the deep safety responsibilities, it would make sense to keep the tandem together.

2026 Free Agency Target: LB Leo Chenal, Kansas City Chiefs

Off-ball linebacker will be an interesting position to track in Indy this season. The defense benefitted from pairing Zaire Franklin with Shaquille Leonard for a while, but they've been less exciting since the latter's back injury altered the course of his career.

After letting E.J. Speed walk this offseason, the linebacker room is even more unclear. Franklin is now the top linebacker while converted safety Jaylon Carlies is the second 'backer.

Leo Chenal is an elite run-stuffing linebacker who can also provide additional pop as a pass-rusher. Signing him next offseason would give the group a new leader who can take the run defense to the next level.

Jacksonville Jaguars

AP Photo/John Raoux

Devin Lloyd

Biggest Long-Term Needs: S, TE, CB

Priority Re-Signing: LB Devin Lloyd

The Jaguars cast some doubt they'll be interested in bringing back Devin Lloyd when they declined his fifth-year option. But the option would have been worth $14.8 million and that's a high price to pay for an off-ball linebacker who isn't really elite.

In reality, it's still likely the Jaguars would be interested in bringing back Lloyd on a cheaper deal. He hasn't turned out to be an All-Pro or anything, but he was the 13th-ranked linebacker among all those graded by PFF last season.

If he proves to be a fit in new defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile's system, then he's a good candidate to be re-signed.

2026 Free Agency Target: TE Isaiah Likely, Baltimore Ravens

The Jaguars have done a lot to overhaul the offensive weaponry with Liam Coen as head coach. Drafting Travis Hunter gives them a potentially great receiver duo. Signing Dyami Brown could end up being a strong under-the-radar move.

Tight end is a position that still feels a little unsettled. Brenton Strange emerged as the starter last season. The former second-round pick can be a traditional in-line blocker and showed some receiving chops last season (40 catches, 411 yards, two touchdowns). However, Likely has already shown he can work with another tight end like Mark Andrews in Baltimore.

Likely's versatility as a tight end who can line up as a big slot, H-Back or in-line tight end would be a nice addition to the developing Jaguars offense.

Kansas City Chiefs

AP Photo/Charlie Riedel

Travis Kelce

Biggest Long-Term Needs: DL, S, WR

Priority Re-Signing: None

The Chiefs' biggest 2026 free agent heading into the offseason was Trey Smith. They made the wise move of locking him up on extension. The move, along with signing Jaylon Moore and drafting Josh Simmons, shows they understand how important it is to have great protection for Patrick Mahomes.

With Smith now under contract through 2028, the Chiefs can probably start looking at their 2027 free agents next offseason. Travis Kelce highlights the 2026 class, but he's already 35 and will be 36 in October.

Bryan Cook highlights the young players, but he really needs to prove he should get an extension this season.

2026 Free Agency Target: S Reed Blankenship, Philadelphia Eagles

The safety room is one of the few concerns the Chiefs should have going into the 2025 season. Cook is in a contract year, only has three career interceptions and hasn't done enough to be a no-brainer extension candidate.

Meanwhile, Reed Blankenship has quietly become a reliable members of the Eagles secondary. He racked up four interceptions last season while holding opposing quarterbacks to a passer rating of 72.5 when targeted.

He could be an underrated target in free agency who could stabilize the position for a team.

Las Vegas Raiders

AP Photo/Kyusung Gong

Dylan Parham

Biggest Long-Term Needs: CB, LB, WR

Priority Re-Signing: IOL Dylan Parham

The Raiders offense should be much improved with Geno Smith under center and Ashton Jeanty taking handoffs.

Smith gives them a proven veteran quarterback with the arm to get even more out of Brock Bowers in Year 2. But ensuring the offensive line can take the unit to the next level is going to be crucial.

Retaining Dylan Parham into 2026 could be key. He was the 18th-hightest-graded run-blocker at the guard position, according to PFF in 2024. The 25-year-old has started all but one game since being drafted in the third round of the 2022 draft.

Keeping young, homegrown talent should be a priority and Parham qualifies.

2026 Free Agency Target: CB Riq Woolen, Seattle Seahawks

We already know how Pete Carroll feels about Riq Woolen. He was still in the Pacific Northwest when he was drafted in 2022. Since then, he has proved himself as a capable starter who can thrive within the coach's defensive philosophy. The 6'4", 210-pound corner would give them a major upgrade in the cornerback room.

As it stands, the Raiders are looking to get a huge bounce-back season from Eric Stokes, a breakout season from Jakorian Bennett or immediate contributions from third-round pick Darien Porter.

All three are gambles for one reason or another. Signing Woolen would give them more answers heading into 2026.

Los Angeles Chargers

AP Photo/Kyusung Gong

Zion Johnson

Biggest Long-Term Needs: CB, WR, DL

Priority Re-Signing: IOL Zion Johnson

The Chargers made it clear that re-signing Zion Johnson wasn't an immediate priority this offseason. They declined his fifth-year option, making it possible he will become a free agent in 2026. It's understandable, he hasn't lived up to his billing as a first-round guard.

That being said, he has the physical tools to be what the Chargers want at the position. If he can prove that in his second year under Jim Harbaugh then he will easily become the most important free agent for the Chargers to keep around.

2026 Free Agency Target: WR Mike Evans, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Chargers are hoping Tre Harris is going to be able to make an impact as a second-round pick and just brought back Keenan Allen. That's the plan for filling out the receiving hierarchy outside of Ladd McConkey.

Even if Harris turns out to be an answer, it isn't going to hurt to bring in another veteran next year. Mike Evans is in a contract year where his team drafted Emeka Egbuka in the first round and also re-signed Chris Godwin. If the Bucs don't want to pay for Evans, then the Chargers would be a logical landing spot.

A starting trio of Evans, Harris and McConkey would give Justin Herbert plenty to work with.

Los Angeles Rams

AP Photo/Eric Thayer

Kyren Williams

Biggest Long-Term Needs: CB, S, QB

Priority Re-Signing: None

The Rams have done a good job of locking up the talent that's on their roster. Kyren Williams was the last major extension on the horizon and they gave him a three-year, $33 million during training camp to keep their young core intact.

The most notable 2026 free agents on their roster include Quentin Lake and Kamren Curl. The safety duo could be upgraded, but it might be tough to bring in two new players and have to rebuild the chemistry from scratch.

2026 Free Agency Target: CB DaRon Bland, Dallas Cowboys

The Rams were expected to be in on the Jalen Ramsey trade market. Unfortunately, only having $19.5 million in cap space this season would have made it hard to take on his contract.

The good news is the Rams have the fourth-highest projected cap space for 2026 right now, which means they could get aggressive in landing help at a premium position next season.

Thus far, the Cowboys haven't locked up DaRon Bland on an extension. With Trevon Diggs already on the books and Micah Parsons requesting a trade, there's a decent chance he hits the market.

Miami Dolphins

AP Photo/Kirk Irwin

Kader Kohou

Biggest Long-Term Needs: CB, OT, TE

Priority Re-Signing: CB Kader Kohou

Cornerback was a big need for the Miami Dolphins even before they traded Jalen Ramsey for Minkah Fitzpatrick.

Trading him away only made that need even more glaring as they'll be hoping some combination of Storm Duck, Kendall Sheffield, Jack Jones and Jason Marshall Jr. emerges to cover receivers on the outside.

Given all the uncertainty there, it should be high on the priority list to extend or re-sign Kader Kohou. He's one of the most underrated defenders in the Dolphins secondary, limiting quarterbacks to a 79.3 passer rating when targeted in 2024.

2026 Free Agency Target: TE Dallas Goedert, Philadelphia Eagles

The other aspect of the summer's most interesting trade was that the Dolphins sent Jonnu Smith to the Steelers. He was a big part of Miami's passing game with 88 receptions for 884 yards and eight touchdowns.

They traded for Darren Waller, but it's fair to wonder what he'll look like coming out of retirement. He's still working his way back from the PUP list.

If Waller doesn't work out, then the Dolphins might have to go shopping for a new tight end. The good news is there should be intriguing veteran options. Dallas Goedert would be a good fit because of what he brings as a blocker and his ability to thrive on underneath routes cleared by Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.

Minnesota Vikings

AP Photo/Stew Milne

Ivan Pace Jr.

Biggest Long-Term Needs: CB, S, LB

Priority Re-Signing: LB Ivan Pace Jr.

Brian Flores has built a front seven in Minnesota that is hell for opposing offenses. The Vikings have done a good job of identifying and developing talent that fits what they like to do and linebacker Ivan Pace Jr. is the embodiment of that.

He was added as an undrafted free agent. He plays with the exact kind of edge you'd expect from someone who had to earn a role as a UDFA. He carried the third-highest pass-rush grade from any linebacker, according to PFF, last season. He was also top 15 against the run.

He'll only be a restricted free agent next offseason, but Minnesota would be wise to lock him into a longer deal.

2026 Free Agency Target: CB Greg Newsome II, Cleveland Browns

The Vikings are going to hope Mekhi Blackmon has a great bounce-back season after a serious knee injury last season. He had a strong rookie campaign in 2023.

But they're also hoping to get something out of Jeff Okudah and/or Isaiah Rodgers. Okudah is playing on a one-year deal and Rodgers only has a two-year contract.

There's not a lot of reason the Vikings wouldn't be on the market for a corner again if Okudah doesn't pan out. If that's the case, then Greg Newsome II would be a logical target. He's used to playing coverage in an aggressive scheme in Cleveland and he has inside-out versatility.

New England Patriots

AP Photo/Charles Krupa

Marcus Jones

Biggest Long-Term Needs: Edge, WR, CB

Priority Re-Signing: CB/PR Marcus Jones

The Patriots are still in the middle of a rebuild under Mike Vrabel, so there aren't a ton of 2026 free agents who will take precedence.

Roster turnover could be their friend next offseason, but Marcus Jones is worth keeping around. He's a gritty slot defender who can also line up as a safety on defense and was an All-Pro return man as a rookie in 2022.

Jones has the kind of fight and mentality Vrabel covets. It would make sense to let him continue to develop as the team's slot corner alongside Christian Gonzalez.

2026 Free Agency Target: WR Terry McLaurin, Washington Commanders

The Patriots signed Stefon Diggs to a three-year, $63.5 million contract this offseason. The deal will cost the club $8.7 million this year, but that number balloons to $26.5 million next year. They would only have to pay out $8 million in dead cap if they move on from it, though. That could open up quite the budget to target a younger receiver on the market next season.

It feels more and more likely Terry McLaurin will be available if the Commanders don't work out an extension with him soon. He has proved himself as a producer even when Washington had subpar quarterback play before Jayden Daniels. He would do wonders for Drake Maye's progression.

New Orleans Saints

AP Photo/Brian Westerholt

Alontae Taylor

Biggest Long-Term Needs: QB, Edge, CB

Priority Re-Signing: CB Alontae Taylor

For a minute, it was hard to envision cornerback being a huge need for the Saints. They had a talented cornerback duo in Alontae Taylor and Marshon Lattimore before trading away Lattimore to the Commanders. That was part of a financial belt-tightening that improved their cap outlook, but also left them with a thinner cornerback room.

Taylor has the ability to play inside and outside. He has been a healthy contributor who hasn't missed a game in each of the last two seasons. Letting him walk at the end of the season would mean the Saints might have to go find or develop two starters at corner.

Re-signing Taylor would mean having one fewer question to answer as they rebuild this roster.

2026 Free Agency Target: Edge Kwity Paye, Indianapolis Colts

There's a good chance the Saints are finally going to have to replace Cameron Jordan at the end of the season. He's heading into a contract year at 36 years old and played less than 50 percent of the snaps last season. Carl Granderson's production took a dip last season and he'll be in his age-30 season in 2024.

The Saints have found their other long-term starter on the edge by taking a chance on former first-round pick Chase Young. He had a career-high 34 pressures last season.

Pursuing Kwity Paye would be a similar strategy. He hasn't been bad for the Colts, but he also hasn't lived up his draft stock as a former first-round pick. The Saints could get him at a bargain price and find another starter.

New York Giants

AP Photo/Seth Wenig

Wan'Dale Robinson

Biggest Long-Term Needs: IOL, QB, LB

Priority Re-Signing: None

Most of the Giants' cap space budget this year was spent on acquiring external talents. Punter Jamie Gillan was the most notable extension and that was just a three-year, $9 million deal.

It could be more of the same next offseason because it's hard to identify someone they should even prioritize. Russell Wilson is the most notable free agent, but they should be ready to hand things over to Jaxson Dart by then (if not sooner).

Wan'Dale Robinson would be another possibility, but the team signed Darius Slayton this offseason and Robinson was inefficient with his five yards per target on 140 looks.

2026 Free Agency Target: OT Luke Goedeke, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

There's a good chance the Giants will be looking for a new starter at both right guard and tackle next offseason. Both Greg Van Roten and Jermaine Eluemunor are set to be free agents and their age will make them less-than-ideal candidates to return.

Outside of drafting a right tackle in the first round next year, getting a player like Luke Goedeke would be a dream scenario. The Giants drafted Marcus Mbow in the fifth round this offseason, but he could be a candidate to kick inside at guard.

Goedeke is just hitting his prime at 26 years old and continues to show growth at right tackle in Tampa Bay.

New York Jets

AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth

Alijah Vera-Tucker

Biggest Long-Term Needs: WR, DL, QB

Priority Re-Signing: IOL Alijah Vera-Tucker

Justin Fields is going to get one more shot to prove he can be an NFL starter. Until we see what he does with that chance, it's hard to call him a priority to re-sign. Ultimately, the Jets will need to be prepared to create the best environment possible for a young quarterback.

That means keeping capable blockers like Alijah Vera-Tucker on the roster. The Jets have spent a lot of draft capital and resources to build out the offensive line. The fact that Olu Fashanu, Armand Membou and Joe Tippman will all be on rookie contracts should help justify any money they have to spend on keeping the versatile Vera-Tucker around.

2026 Free Agency Target: WR Jakobi Meyers, Las Vegas Raiders

It would be fun to see the Jets really go after Chris Olave. Pairing him with fellow Ohio State alum Garrett Wilson would instantly create one of the league's best duos. However, the Jets probably won't have the cap space to do that as they have an extension for Wilson looming.

Instead, they could go after one of the league's more underrated receivers. Jakobi Meyers doesn't get a lot of love, but he's a consistent receiver who works well as a second option. He could thrive in a role where he simply knows how to get open and becomes a safe option for a young quarterback while letting Wilson be the star.

Philadelphia Eagles

AP Photo/Terrance Williams

Nakobe Dean

Biggest Long-Term Needs: DL, S, WR

Priority Re-Signing: LB Nakobe Dean

Off-ball linebacker has not typically been a position Howie Roseman has prioritized in the past, but that might be changing. The Eagles paid to keep Zack Baun around, giving him a three-year, $51 million extension this offseason. Now, they'll have to make a choice about Nakobe Dean.

The 24-year-old broke out with 128 tackles, nine TFL and three sacks in his first full season as a starter. Unfortunately, he also tore his patellar tendon and is starting the season on the PUP list.

Dean's injury history is likely to be baked into his free-agent price anyway. It would make a lot of sense to keep him and Baun as the backbone of the defense.

2026 Free Agency Target: S Geno Stone, Cincinnati Bengals

Safety is a long-term need for the Eagles because Cooper DeJean is primarily going to serve as a slot defender and Reed Blankenship is headed toward free agency. If someone wants to pay a premium because of his experience in the Eagles defense, then Philly might be looking to move on and replace him with another veteran.

If that's the case, then Geno Stone would be worth keeping an eye on. His penchant for finding interceptions would work well as a deep safety who could pair with Sydney Jones.

The Bengals moving on from Lou Anarumo could have them looking to go younger at the position.

Pittsburgh Steelers

AP Photo/David Richard

Isaac Seumalo

Biggest Long-Term Needs: QB, WR, CB

Priority Re-Signing: IOL Isaac Seumalo

There aren't a lot of free agents in the 2026 class who are going to be pressing priorities. The Steelers already took care of their biggest business by extending T.J. Watt. Most of the other notable free agents are aging veterans who might be better off replaced through the draft.

Isaac Seumalo is one of the few exceptions. He'll be 32 going into next season, but he just earned his first Pro Bowl nod. There's a high probability Pittsburgh will be breaking in a new, young quarterback next season. Retaining offensive-line continuity could be important to their development.

2026 Free Agency Target: CB Jaylen Watson, Kansas City Chiefs

The Steelers are relying a lot on aging cornerbacks to get them through the 2025 season. They traded for 30-year-old Jalen Ramsey and also signed 34-year-old Darius Slay. Much like their situation at cornerback, there's really just hope that the older players will be able to get them to next season.

Next offseason they will need to get younger at the position. Finding a long-term running mate for Joey Porter Jr. would make their defense even better. Jaylen Watson would be a great candidate. He has the 29th-highest coverage grade among corners on PFF last season and is only 26 years old.

He has the length and physicality to do what PIttsburgh asks and still has some room to grow his game.

San Francisco 49ers

AP Photo/Scot Tucker

Colton McKivitz

Biggest Long-Term Needs: CB, IOL, S

Priority Re-Signing: OT Colton McKivitz

Colton McKivitz is a solid right tackle. According to PFF, he only surrendered two sacks last season and carried respectable run and pass blocking grades. He's not an elite tackle, but he's certainly a solid veteran starter. The Niners could look to improve the position through the draft, but rolling with a rookie starting tackle always carries risk.

San Francisco would be wise to get McKivitz under contract for a few more seasons and work toward putting together a succession plan at the position.

2026 Free Agency Target: IOL Connor McGovern, Buffalo Bills

Kyle Shanahan's offensive genius can only go so far. The Niners have to build a strong offensive line to make their head coach's system work. That means potentially looking at options to replace Jake Brendel who will be 33 in September.

Connor McGovern has proved to be a good run- and pass-blocking option at the pivot for the Buffalo Bills. He earned his first Pro Bowl nod in 2024 and the Bills have a tight cap situation going into next year.

Seattle Seahawks

AP Photo/Abbie Parr

Riq Woolen

Biggest Long-Term Needs: IOL, CB, WR

Priority Re-Signing: CB Riq Woolen

The Seahawks have a few key in-house options headed toward free agency in 2026. Kenneth Walker III, Boye Mafe and Abraham Lucas are all under 30, play key roles and could be extension candidates. However, Riq Woolen should take precedence with Coby Bryant also headed toward the open market.

It would be a tough ask to have the Seahawks replace two starting corners in one offseason. Woolen was a Pro Bowler as a rookie and, though his numbers have dipped a bit, he still has 11 interceptions and 41 passes defended over his first three seasons.

2026 Free Agency Target: IOL Alijah Vera-Tucker, New York Jets

The Seahawks are going to hope some young talents emerge to fix the offensive line this season. Abraham Lucas needs to stay healthy and prove worthy of an extension at right tackle, Gray Zabel will need to be a Day 1 contributor as a rookie and the right guard spot is a shaky combination of Christian Haynes and Anthony Bradford.

If no one emerges as a consistent starter in those spots, then paying up for a talent like Alijah Vera-Tucker is an idea. The fifth-year pro has played both guard and tackle in his time with the Jets. That versatility could help the Seahawks put a better combination of five blockers on the line next season.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

AP Photo/Peter Joneleit

Luke Goedeke

Biggest Long-Term Needs: Edge, LG, CB

Priority Re-Signing: OT Luke Goedeke

Early returns on draft Luke Goedeke suggested a bust. He struggled at left guard when the Buccaneers drafted him. Fortunately, a move to his college position of right tackle has helped him to develop into a foundational piece of the offensive line. Tristan Wirfs is always going to get the headlines, but Goedeke only surrendered three sacks in 13 starts last season.

The Bucs might get a preview of what it's like to try to work around below-average tackle play with Tristan Wirfs on the PUP list. That might be just the motivation they need to get the 26-year-old Goedeke under a new contract.

2026 Free Agency Target: Edge Boye Mafe, Seattle Seahawks

The Bucs lean heavily into Todd Bowles' ability to generate pressure with blitzes and games up front. The Bucs were third in blitz rate, but only ninth in pressure rate. The Seahawks blitzed much less, but they were still able to get more pressure on the quarterback and Boye Mafe was a big part of that.

Not only is he a strong edge-setter against the run, but he also had a strong 16.2 percent pressure rate. Playing in Mike Macdonald's system requires versatility and Mafe's ability to play different roles would also make him a good fit with Bowles.

Tennessee Titans

AP Photo/Matt Slocum

Roger McCreary

Biggest Long-Term Needs: Edge, WR, TE

Priority Re-Signing: CB Roger McCreary

The Titans will embark on a new era with Cam Ward at quarterback this season, but the roster is still under construction.

Pressing needs at premium positions like edge-rusher and wide receiver are going to make it difficult for them to get too far ahead this season. It also means they have to do what they can to retain the strengths they have.

There's some promise the secondary could become a strength this season. If Roger McCreary can bounce back after some struggles in 2024 and L'Jarius Sneed returns to his Kansas City form, the Titans will at least have a strong outside corner and nickel.

That should make it a priority for them to bring back the 25-year-old on a second contract.

2026 Free Agency Target: Edge Malcolm Koonce, Las Vegas Raiders

The Titans' biggest addition on the edge this season was Dre'Mont Jones. While the former Bronco and Seahawk is a good run defender, he's never had more than 6.5 sacks in a season. They'll hope second-rounder Oluwafemi Oladejo emerges as a rookie, but veteran Arden Key is in the final year of his contract.

Malcolm Koonce missed the entire 2024 season with a knee injury. There's going to be some risk associated with his free agency, but he finished out the 2023 season with six sacks in the final four games of the season.

There's some potentially untapped upside there that the Titans could really use.

Washington Commanders

AP Photo/Seth Wenig

Terry McLaurin

Biggest Long-Term Needs: Edge, TE, LB

Priority Re-Signing: WR Terry McLaurin

The Commanders have to protect Jayden Daniels at all costs. They also need to prove they are a franchise that will take care of its own.

They can kill two birds with one stone by extending Terry McLaurin. The receiver has put up six consecutive 1,000-yard receivers despite playing for a laundry list of bad to mediocre quarterbacks for most of his time in Washington.

Now the Commanders finally have a capable quarterback, they are engaged in a showdown with McLaurin over his contract. The soon-to-be 30-year-old reportedly wants something close to D.K. Metcalf's contract.

That's not an absurd request considering his time in Washington. The Commanders are about to have Daniels on a rookie contract for the next three to four seasons and they'll have the resources to really build a contender.

They need to make sure Daniels has a legitimate WR1 and he's already on the roster.

2026 Free Agency Target: Edge Micah Parsons, Dallas Cowboys

Micah Parsons is clearly frustrated with the Dallas Cowboys. There's a certain former Cowboys defensive coordinator who knows just how dominant Parsons is.

Dan Quinn has his superstar on offense. Bringing one in on defense would elevate the Commanders from team on the rise to bona fide contender.

As noted, the Commanders have a nice three- to four-year window with Daniels on a rookie contract.

Parsons signing with the Commanders would allow him to go to a contender, reunite with Dan Quinn and provide some diabolical payback to the Cowboys' front office.

It's a scary thought not only for the Cowboys, but also the rest of the league.