Grading 2026 NFL Free-Agency Signings and Trades for Day 1 of Tampering Period

NFL free agency won't officially begin until 4 p.m. ET on Wednesday, but the legal tampering period has opened. Teams and free agents are now free to reach agreements that can be finalized at the start of the new league year.

Of course, we saw plenty of blockbuster deals before the week began, like the trade that will send Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders to the Baltimore Ravens. Grades for all of the pre-tampering deals can be found here.

Bleacher Report's team of NFL analysts— Brent Sobleski, Gary Davenport, Kris Knox, and Maurice Moton—is tracking all the action and will be grading deals throughout the week.

Grades are based on factors such as player upside, positional value, trade compensation, contract value, and how deals fit into each team's short- and long-term outlook.

49ers Add a Legend, Sign WR Mike Evans

AP Photo/Lynne Sladky

Mike Evans

Contract Terms: Three years, $60.4 million (via The Athletic)

Grade: C+

After cementing himself in NFL history with 11 straight 1,000-yard campaigns in 12 seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Mike Evans is on the move. He'll now be catching passes from Brock Purdy instead of Baker Mayfield.

Evans is a solid addition for San Francisco, but this may not be the home run deal that it would have been a few years ago.

Evans will turn 33 in August and has battled injuries in each of the past two seasons, including a broken clavicle in 2025. His days of being a true No. 1 receiver are probably over.

Evans will most likely replace another big-bodied possession receiver in Jauan Jennings, who is a free agent and who is roughly four years younger.

With that said, Evans is still a 6'5", 231-pound pass-catcher who can win most jump-ball situations and provide mismatches in the red zone.

Colts Keep Big-Play Receiver Alec Pierce

AP Photo/Maria Lysaker

Alec Pierce

Contract Terms: Four years, $114 million (via NFL Network's Ian Rapoport)

Grade: A

Alec Pierce was the most sought-after wide receiver set to hit the free-agent market if the Indianapolis Colts let it happen. Five minutes into free agency, a report surfaced that he and the Colts had reached a massive contract extension.

According to Rapoport, Pierce's new deal contains $84 million in guaranteed money. The deal is somewhat favorable for the Colts since projections had Pierce potentially reaching $30 million annually. Instead, his $28.5 million yearly average now ranks 11th among the league's wide receivers.

Pierce is the game's best downfield threat. His 21.3 yards per receptions last season led the NFL. The 2022 second-round draft pick set career-highs last season with 47 receptions for 1,003 yards.

The Colts' WR1 was expected to garner a robust market with numerous suitors. Instead, Pierce stays in Indianapolis, where he can continue to build upon the rapport he established with quarterback Daniel Jones, who is currently operating under the NFL's transition tag.

Pierce is the perfect receiver to thrive in Shane Steichen's offensive system. Indianapolis is wisely trying to keep its new battery together in an attempt to build on its blistering start to the 2025 campaign.

However, the Colts won't be running that exact same group back next year...

Colts Ship WR Michael Pittman Jr. to Steelers

AP Photo/Gregory Bull

Steelers Get: Wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr.

Colts Get: Late round pick-swap

Steelers Grade: B+

The Steelers desperately needed a second option beyond DK Metcalf in the passing game. Michael Pittman Jr. gives them a proven veteran whose skill set should fit nicely into their offense alongside Metcalf.

Beyond Metcalf, no other Steelers wide receiver had more than 31 receptions or 372 yards last season. That's unacceptable in today's NFL. Pittsburgh's offense took a significant step back when Metcalf got suspended late in the 2025 season.

Pittman had been the Colts' WR1 entering the 2025 campaign, but he was surpassed by Alec Pierce, who signed a massive new contract at the start of free agency. Pierce's emergence made Pittman expendable, particularly with his $29 million salary-cap charge.

The 28-year-old veteran took a step back last season with only 784 receiving yards. Still, he's excellent when it comes to using his body for difficult catches and creating after the catch. The Steelers now have a legitimate secondary threat at wide receiver.

Colts Grade: C+

Pittman's departure is purely a salary-cap move. After re-signing Pierce, Indianapolis had to get his contract off the books. General manager Chris Ballard did so quickly while getting something in return instead of outright cutting Pittman.

The move clears $24 million, which almost covers Pierce's deal in its first year (based on average annual salary). It also provides the Colts with some flexibility to dive into the open market and potentially address defensive needs.

Indianapolis is still set up nicely among its targets with Pierce as WR1, Josh Downs serving as one of the league's better slot options and tight end Tyler Warren being a weapon in Shane Steichen's offense.

Chiefs Add Super Bowl MVP, Sign Kenneth Walker III

AP Photo/Steve Luciano

Kenneth Walker III

Contract Terms: Three years, $45 million (via NFL Network's Tom Pelissero)

Grade: B

It's unclear whether Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes will be ready for the start of the 2026 season. Whenever he fully recovers from last year's torn ACL, though, he'll have an exciting new playmaker at his disposal in running back Kenneth Walker III.

While the Chiefs overpaid a bit to get Walker, adding him makes perfect sense. The reigning Super Bowl MVP hasn't always been the most consistent ball-carrier, but he's one of the league's better dual-threat running backs.

Walker has been productive as both a high-volume starter and as part of a committee, so he should fit with whatever Kansas City's remaining running back plans might be.

This past season, Walker tallied a career-high 1,309 scrimmage yards and five touchdowns. He had another 417 yards from scrimmage and four touchdowns in the postseason.

Walker, who turns 26 in October, should remain highly productive for the life of his new contract.

Raiders Anchor Offensive Interior, Land C Tyler Linderbaum

AP Photo/Nick Wass

Tyler Linderbaum

Contract Terms: Three years, $81 million (via ESPN's Adam Schefter)

Grade: A+

The Las Vegas Raiders are adding one of the top available offensive free agents in center Tyler Linderbaum. According to Schefter, Linderbaum's record-setting contract contains $60 million in guaranteed money.

The deal will make Linderbaum the highest-paid interior lineman in NFL history.

While Las Vegas is paying handsomely to land Linderbaum, this is a home run signing. The Raiders' offensive line was a liability this past season, and they're widely expected to use the first overall pick in April's draft on Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza.

Linderbaum, who was the No. 2 player on B/R's free-agent big board, is one of the top young linemen in the league. He's a powerful 6'2", 305-pound blocker who can anchor the interior and block on the run while rarely coming off the field.

The soon-to-be 26-year-old started 66 games in his four seasons with the Baltimore Ravens. Pro Football Focus ranked Linderbaum fifth overall among all centers this past season, and he's been named to the Pro Bowl in three straight campaigns.

Cowboys Replace Micah Parsons with Packers Pass-Rusher

AP Photo/David Dermer, file

Rashan Gary

Dallas Cowboys Get: Edge-rusher Rashan Gary

Green Bay Packers Get: 2027 fourth-round pick

Cowboys Grade: B+

One good turn deserves another, or something like that.

The Dallas Cowboys essentially flipped Micah Parsons and a fourth-round pick for Rashan Gary, defensive lineman Kenny Clark and a pair of first-rounders, albeit over the course of seven months.

The move might even be construed as shrewd if everyone didn't already know how badly the Cowboys botched Parsons' situation. Even so, the Cowboys eventually ended up with the best possible return after failing to re-sign Parsons.

Gary is a few years older than Parsons and isn't as productive. However, the 28-year-old racked up 24 sacks over the last three seasons.

Gary should also have a passing familiarity with new Cowboys defensive coordinator Christian Parker, who was on the Packers' staff during Gary's first two NFL seasons. Gary's current contract is also significantly cheaper than Parsons' over the next three seasons.

The Cowboys couldn't outright replace Parsons after bungling that situation. In the end, they did as well as they possibly could considering the circumstances.

Packers Grade: C

Financially, the Packers couldn't hold onto both Parsons and Gary. They had to make a move, though Gary helped spur the situation and possibly lost the team some leverage a few days ago when he posted on social media that his time in Green Bay was done.

To be fair, Gary wouldn't fetch in a trade anywhere near the same stratosphere as what Green Bay surrendered for Parsons. Plus, his contract remains significant, even if it's less than Parsons' deal at this point in time.

More importantly, it's finally time to see what Lukas Van Ness and/or Barryn Sorrell can provide opposite Parsons with no one in front of them on the depth chart.

Dolphins, Jets Make Rare Swap for Minkah Fitzpatrick

AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura

Minkah Fitzpatrick

New York Jets Get: Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick

Miami Dolphins Get: 2026 seventh-round draft pick

Jets Grade: B+

With quarterback still up in the air, the New York Jets are overhauling their defense to build an identity under head coach/play-caller Aaron Glenn. Considering Glenn's long history as an NFL defensive back, New York's decision to bring in one of the league's most versatile and savvy backline defenders comes as no surprise.

Minkah Fitzpatrick immediately becomes the Jets' top safety since last year's projected starters, Andre Cisco and Tony Adams, are free agents. The 29-year-old veteran may no longer be an All-Pro or even Pro Bowl-caliber player, but his experience, intelligence and playmaking along the back end will provide the Jets with something completely different.

His familiarity with the Jets' new-look defensive staff will certainly help as well. Both defensive coordinator Brian Duker and safeties coach Ryan Slowik were on the Dolphins' staff last season.

Plus, Fitzpatrick can help bring along second-year safety Malachi Moore, who should move into a full-time starting role after taking over one of the safety spots in Week 5 of his rookie campaign.

Finally, expect the Jets to bypass superstar safety Caleb Downs with this year's second overall pick to concentrate on a front-five prospect.

Dolphins Grade: D

An entirely new coaching staff inevitably brings change to a roster. In Miami's case, new head coach Jeff Hafley also brings a defensive mindset and vision that clearly didn't include Fitzpatrick.

Teams always want to build a roster without mismatched parts. At the same time, good coaches find ways to deploy players based on their skill sets. In this case, the Dolphins got what they could for a veteran who no longer fit into their plans.

The minimal return in this trade only exacerbates the Dolphins' growing void in their secondary. The team's back line often appeared to be held together by bubble gum and duct tape last season. At this juncture, Miami's entire secondary needs a drastic overhaul.

This trade feels like a team trying to get something out of nothing. The Dolphins did, but they're not better as a result.

Dolphins Get Their Quarterback, Land Malik Willis

AP Photo/Mike Roemer

Malik Willis

Contract Terms: Three years, $67.5 million (via NFL Network's Ian Rapoport)

Grade: A

The Dolphins made the decision early Monday to move on from quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. It didn't take them long to find his replacement in Malik Willis, who's receiving $45 million in guaranteed money, according to Rapoport.

NFL Network's Tom Pelissero shared full details of the contract.

Willis was always a logical target for Miami, which now employs former Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley as its head coach. Willis, a 2022 third-round pick of the Tennessee Titans, revitalized his NFL stock over the past two years in Green Bay.

While Willis only has six starts on his career resume, he showed flashes of high-end ability with the Packers. In 11 games over the past two seasons (including three starts), the 26-year-old posted a 134.6 passer rating while throwing for 972 yards, six touchdowns and zero interceptions. He also rushed for 261 yards and three more scores.

Although Willis' contract is large for a player with such a limited resume, it's actually fairly reasonable for Miami. NFL insider Jordan Schultz reported during the scouting combine that many around the league expected him to receive a deal worth $30 million per year.

In an offseason that features few intriguing rookie quarterback prospects, the Dolphins landed the top free-agent signal-caller available.

Commanders Spend Big for EDGE Odafe Oweh

AP Photo/Julio Cortez

Terms: Four years, $100 million, $68 million guaranteed (per ESPN's Adam Schefter)

Grade: B+

Improving a pass rush that struggled off the edge was a priority for the Commanders this offseason, and they had the cap space to pursue the bigger names available. Washington did just that—and spent big doing it.

Including the playoffs, sixth-year edge-rusher Odafe Oweh topped 10 sacks in each of the past two seasons. He will now play for his third team in as many seasons, but he'll have a far fatter bank account doing it. He got $68 million in guaranteed money on his four-year, $100 million deal with Washington.

Oweh has spent most of his career as a stand-up outside linebacker. It will be interesting to see how Commanders head coach Dan Quinn deploys him given his penchant for four-man fronts.

But Oweh is in the prime of his career and was one of the best available options at a premium position. Guys like that don't come cheap.

Panthers Land Defensive Difference-Maker Jaelan Phillips

AP Photo/Terrance Williams

Jaelan Phillips

Contract Terms: Four years, $120 million (via NFL Network's Ian Rapoport)

Grade: A

Jaelan Phillips entered free agency as arguably the top young defender on the market. The third-ranked player on the Bleacher Report free-agent big board combines a terrific blend of youth, proven production and upside.

He'll now be putting that on display in Carolina alongside 2025 second-round pick Nic Scourton.

The soon-to-be 27-year-old revitalized his NFL stock in a big way with the Philadelphia Eagles this past season. After being traded by the Dolphins, Phillips racked up two sacks, 17 quarterback pressures, four tackles for loss, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery in eight games with Philly.

Perhaps most importantly, Phillips appeared to be back to 100 percent after a couple of injury-plagued seasons in Miami.

He's a wonderful addition for the Panthers, who won the NFC South this past season despite recording only 30 sacks as a team. Phillips will give Carolina a legitimate difference-maker on the edge.

Patriots Bolster Defensive Front, Add Dre'Mont Jones

AP Photo/Terrance Williams

Dre'Mont Jones

Contract Terms: Three years, $39 million (via NFL insider Jordan Schultz)

Grade: B-

The New England Patriots had a Super Bowl-caliber defense in 2025, and they're adding to their front in early free agency.

Dre'Mont Jones spent last season with the Tennessee Titans and Baltimore Ravens, appearing in 18 games in total. The 29-year-old finished the year with 43 combined tackles, a career-high seven sacks and seven tackles for loss.

While Jones isn't a traditional block-eating, run-stuffing interior defender, his penetrating play style should mesh well with new teammates Christian Barmore and Milton Williams.

The Patriots struggled against the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX, largely because they couldn't handle Seattle's relentless pass-rushing rotation. By adding another player who can get after opposing quarterbacks, New England may be trying to emulate Seattle's formula.

Houston Texans Don't Allow OL Ed Ingram to Leave

AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith

Ed Ingram

Contract Terms: Three years, $37.5 million (via NFL Network's Ian Rapoport)

Grade: B+

NFL teams understand the value of proven blockers and how sought-after they become in free agency. Multiple teams already ensured they didn't lose their starters in free agency, which has depleted the offensive line market before anyone even gets a chance to sign new additions to their front five.

Hours before the tampering period opened for business, the Houston Texans and guard Ed Ingram agreed to a new deal to keep him in place.

The Texans acquired Ingram in a trade from the Minnesota Vikings last offseason. The 27-year-old started 14 games at right guard to provide Houston with at least reliable piece among an offensive line somewhat in flux.

At $12.5 million, Ingram sits just outside of the league's top-20 guards in average annual salary. That's a good deal for Houston, which remains unsettled at the other guard spot.

The Texans have retained the right side of their offensive line by re-signing Ingram and Trent Brown. They can now concentrate on addressing the spot next to second-year left tackle Aireontae Ersery.

Giants Get New Receiving Weapon in TE Isaiah Likely

AP Photo/Terrance Williams

Isaiah Likely

Contract Terms: Three years, $40 million (via NFL insider Jordan Schultz)

Grade: B-

New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh will be looking to build his offense around second-year quarterback Jaxson Dart. He's bringing in a familiar face to help with that process in former Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely.

Likely's new $40 million deal is a hefty contract for a player who has spent most of his career playing the TE2 role behind Mark Andrews in Baltimore. However, Likely is turning only 26 in April and has tremendous upside.

Likely is a fast and athletic pass-catcher who should quickly become one of Dart's go-to targets and one of New York's biggest downfield threats. The Coastal Carolina product has averaged 11.6 yards per catch during his four-year NFL career.

Buccaneers Strengthen Defense, Add LB Alex Anzalone

AP Photo/David Dermer

Alex Anzalone

Contract Terms: Two years, $17 million (via NFL insider Jordan Schultz)

Grade: B

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers failed to make the postseason in 2025 largely due to an underwhelming defense that ranked 19th overall and 20th in points allowed. They took a big step toward strengthening that defense by agreeing to sign former Detroit Lions standout Alex Anzalone on Monday.

Anzalone, who spent his first four seasons with the New Orleans Saints, will bring all-around playmaking ability to Tampa's defense.

This past season, the 31-year-old started 16 games for the Lions and finished with 95 tackles, 2.5 sacks and nine passes defended. He allowed an opposing passer rating of only 78.6 in coverage.

Tampa still has work to do to build a playoff-caliber defense, but Anzalone should help make the unit better at the second level.

Saints Boost Offense, Sign RB Travis Etienne Jr.

AP Photo/John Raoux

Travis Etienne

Contract Terms: Four years, $52 million (NFL insider Jordan Schultz)

Grade: B-

The New Orleans Saints are adding a playmaking running back in Travis Etienne Jr. to help support second-year quarterback Tyler Shough.

Etienne's new $52 million deal is a large contract for a player who has struggled with consistency in the past and isn't widely considered one of the league's best running backs. However, Etienne's skill set makes him a perfect addition to Kellen Moore's offense.

The 27-year-old topped 1,000 rushing yards and 1,300 scrimmage yards in three of his four seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

The addition of Etienne makes Alvin Kamara's future in New Orleans far murkier, but Etienne will address a need even if Kamara stays. Backfield depth was a major issue this past season, and the Saints ranked 31st in yards per carry as a team.

Lions Land New Center, Sign Cade Mays

AP Photo/Danny Karnik

Cade Mays

Contract Terms: Three years, $25 million (via Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 Houston)

Grade: B

The Lions' offensive line was an issue in 2025, and it became a bigger issue when starting tackle Taylor Decker asked for and received his release from Detroit. On Monday, they found themselves a new starting center in former Carolina Panthers lineman Cade Mays.

Mays spent the first few years of his NFL career providing depth at guard and center. However, the 26-year-old emerged as a dependable starting center for the Panthers in 2025.

The 6'6", 325-pound Mays should now provide a physical presence on the interior for the Lions.

Pro Football Focus ranked him 24th overall among 40 qualifying centers this past season.

Titans Add New Weapon For Cam Ward, Sign Wan'Dale Robinson

AP Photo/John Locher

Wan'Dale Robinson

Contract Terms: Four years, $70 million (via NFL insider Jordan Schultz)

Grade: C+

The Tennessee Titans seemingly believe they have their quarterback of the future in 2025 first overall pick Cam Ward. Unfortunately, they surrounded him with one of the league's most underwhelming receiving corps.

They're looking to fix that with the addition of former New York Giants receiver Wan'Dale Robinson.

While Robinson won't address Tennessee's need for a No. 1 receiver, he should help boost the offense significantly. He's an explosive, high-volume slot receiver who's fresh off the first 1,000-yard campaign of his career.

Robinson will also bring familiarity with the offense, as he spent the bulk of his early career under new Titans offensive coordinator Brian Daboll.

A $70 million contract is a lot for an undersized (5'8", 185 lbs), slot-only receiver. But bad teams often have to overpay in free agency, and Tennessee was one of the NFL's worst this past season.

Steelers Boost Secondary, Add CB Jamel Dean

AP Photo/Gary McCullough

Jamel Dean

Contract Terms: Three years, $36.75 million (NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero)

Grade: C+

The Pittsburgh Steelers are adding a new starting cornerback to their secondary in Jamel Dean.

Dean fetched a sizeable sum for a cornerback who will turn 30 in October, but he played at a high level this past season. In 2025, Dean started all 14 games in which he appeared and allowed an opposing passer rating of only 63.1 in coverage.

Dean should provide solid value this season, although it's fair to wonder if he'll still be a quality starter in 2027 or 2028. Either way, the Auburn product was one of the better veteran corners on the market and will make the Steelers' secondary better this year.

In his seven seasons with the Buccaneers, Dean started 77 games and recorded 11 interceptions.

Bears Add Defensive Playmaker in LB Devin Bush

AP Photo/Eric Gay

Devin Bush

Contract Terms: Three years, $30 million (via ESPN's Adam Schefter)

Grade: B-

The Chicago Bears had a wildly inconsistent defense in 2025 that depended heavily on takeaways. They won 11 games and the NFC North, but they were 29th in total defense and 23rd in points allowed.

The Bears' newest linebacker should help bolster the defense while also aligning perfectly with its identity as a turnover-driven unit.

Devin Bush entered the NFL as the 10th overall pick in the 2019 draft, but he never quite played up to his draft status with the Steelers. This past season with the Cleveland Browns, however, he looked every bit like the difference-maker he was drafted to be.

In 2025, the 27-year-old finished with a career-high 125 tackles, two sacks, two forced fumbles, three interceptions and two defensive touchdowns.

Bears Add Super Bowl DB in Coby Bryant

AP Photo/Ben VanHouten

Coby Bryant

Contract Terms: Three years, $40 million (via NFL Network's Tom Pelissero)

Grade: B+

The Bears have prioritized their defense on the first day of the legal tampering period. Along with Devin Bush, they've added former Seahawks safety Coby Bryant.

Bryant played a variety of roles for Seattle in his four seasons with the club, including cornerback and both safety spots. This past season, he primarily played safety and started 15 games in the regular season, plus all three playoff contests.

In Chicago, Bryant is likely to continue playing safety. The Bears' top two starting safeties, Kevin Byard III and Jaquan Brisker, are both free agents this offseason. Bryant, who will turn 27 later this month, can fill just about any role Chicago chooses to address.

Like Bush, Bryant fits well with the Bears' defensive identity. He recorded seven interceptions over the last two years and allowed an opposing passer rating of only 54.0 in coverage in 2025.

Titans Snag Disruptive Defender, Sign John Franklin-Myers

AP Photo/David Zalubowski

John Franklin-Myers

Contract Terms: Three years, $63 million (via NFL Network's Tom Pelissero)

Grade: B+

While upgrading Cam Ward's supporting cast should be the Titans' top offseason goal, they should be interested in boosting their defense, too. Last season, they ranked 21st in total defense and 28th in points allowed.

That's why Tennessee's addition of defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers is a big one. The 6'4", 288-pound disruptive force thrived in the Denver Broncos defense over the past two years, but he's been productive at each of his NFL stops.

Across his stints with the Rams, Jets and Broncos, Franklin-Myers tallied an impressive 17-game average of 30 tackles, five tackles for loss and 5.1 sacks. In Tennessee, the 29-year-old will be reunited with former Jets head coach Robert Saleh.

Giants Land LB Tremaine Edmunds

AP Photo/Kamil Krzaczynski

Tremaine Edmunds

Contract Terms: Three years, $36 million (via NFL Network's Ian Rapoport)

Grade: C

The Giants have a new defensive playmaker in their linebacker room.

Tremaine Edmunds, who will turn 28 in May, was a two-time Pro Bowler early in his NFL career with the Buffalo Bills. However, he's been more good than great over the past three years with the Bears.

This past season, Edmunds started 13 games and recorded 112 tackles while allowing an opposing passer rating of 77.7 in coverage. Chicago released Edmunds earlier this month in a cap-saving move.

While New York overpaid to bring in Edmunds, he should boost the defense while bringing some playoff experience to a franchise searching for a culture shift.

Titans Add Starting Corner in Alontae Taylor

AP Photo/Tyler Kaufman

Alontae Taylor

Contract Terms: Three years, $60 million (via NFL insider Jordan Schultz)

Grade: C+

The Titans entered free agency with a massive cap surplus, and they're wasting little time in using it.

Cornerback Alontae Taylor, who just turned 27 in December, started 53 games in his four seasons with the Saints. While he has good ball skills (52 passes defended) and a long frame (6'0", 199 lbs), Taylor isn't the most consistent cover corner out there.

In each of the past two seasons, Taylor has allowed an opposing passer rating above 98.0.

Still, Taylor is a young starting-caliber corner who will fill a need for the Titans. Tennessee ranked 30th in net yards per pass attempt allowed this past season.

Chiefs Bring Back Future Hall of Fame TE Travis Kelce

AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann

Terms: One year, $12 million (per Tom Pelissero of NFL Network)

Grade: A-

This was inevitable—or at least it was as soon as Travis Kelce announced he would play a 14th NFL season.

Yes, there was some talk of Kelce exploring free agency, but it's impossible to imagine the 11-time Pro Bowler wearing any other jersey. And sure enough, Kelce will be back in Kansas City after signing a one-year pact that could be worth up to $15 million.

Kelce isn't the player he once was. His 76 catches last year were his fewest in a decade, and he hasn't cracked 1,000 receiving yards since 2022.

But he's also one of the greatest tight ends ever and one of the best players in franchise history. If Kelce wants to run it back, you run it back.

Bengals Strengthen Secondary, Add S Bryan Cook

AP Photo/David Becker

Bryan Cook

Contract Terms: Three years, $40.25 million (per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport)

Grade: C+

The Cincinnati Bengals probably would have made the playoffs in each of the past few years if they had a functional defense.

This past season, Joe Burrow's injury also played a significant role, but the Bengals still ranked 12th in scoring. However, their defense ranked 31st overall and 30th in points allowed.

The Bengals entered the offseason needing to bolster their defense. They're getting help in former Chiefs safety Bryan Cook.

The 26-year-old Cook isn't a top-tier starter, but he has shown good range and recovery speed, along with the versatility to play multiple roles in the secondary. This past season, he recorded 85 tackles, but he also allowed an opposing passer rating of 128.5 in coverage.

Browns Bolster Offensive Line with OG Zion Johnson

AP Photo/Kyusung Gong

Terms: Three years, $49.5 million, $32.4 million guaranteed (via ESPN's Adam Schefter)

Grade: C

It was hardly a state secret that the Cleveland Browns needed help on the offensive line. They spent big to get it on Monday, handing fifth-year guard Zion Johnson $16.5 million per season and over $30 million in guarantees.

The good news is that Johnson fills a major area of need for the Browns. The bad news is that he may not fill that need especially well.

Johnson allowed three sacks in 1,071 snaps last year and committed four penalties, according to Pro Football Focus. But the 26-year-old struggled in both pass protection and run blocking, grading out as a below-average option at his position.

Johnson was a first-round pick in the 2022 draft, so there's still a chance that he will improve. But this signing smacks of a bad team being forced to overpay to attract a so-so player.

Seahawks Bring Back CB Josh Jobe

AP Photo/Julio Cortez

Terms: Three years, $24 million (via NFL insider Jordan Schultz)

Grade: B+

The Seahawks fielded one of the NFL's best defenses in 2025. On Monday, they made an effort to keep the band together by agreeing to terms on a three-year deal with cornerback Josh Jobe.

The 27-year-old Jobe, who spent the last two seasons in Seattle after two years in Philadelphia, started 15 games for the Seahawks last year. He logged a career-high 54 tackles along with an interception.

Jobe was solid in coverage last year. He allowed only 49.5 percent of the passes thrown at him to be completed, which resulted in a passer rating against of 77.

Those 15 starts last year were more than in Jobe's first three seasons combined, but it's hard to find much fault with a deal for a starting cornerback that averages less than $10 million a season.

Bengals Bolster Defense With EDGE Boye Mafe

AP Photo/Lindsey Wasson

Terms: Three years, $60 million (via ESPN's Dianna Russini)

Grade: D+

The Cincinnati Bengals were dreadful defensively last year. And with edge-rusher Trey Hendrickson headed out the door, adding an edge-rusher was a must for the team.

The Bengals wasted no time doing so, agreeing to terms with Boye Mafe on a three-year deal that averages $20 million per season.

The 27-year-old Mafe had nine sacks in 2023, but he appeared to fall out of favor with the Seattle Seahawks in 2025. He started in only four games and played his fewest snaps since his rookie season.

The Bengals can't be faulted for adding a pass-rusher after logging just 35 sacks in 2025. But $20 million per year is a lot for a guy who had only two sacks last year and has never had 10 in a season.

Cowboys Address Secondary, Sign Veteran S Jalen Thompson

AP Photo/Samantha Chow

Terms: Three years, $36 million maximum (via Ian Rapoport of NFL Network)

Grade: B-

As he does just about every year, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones pledged the team would be aggressive in free agency. There wasn't a level of the Dallas defense that didn't need a significant upgrade heading into the offseason.

Jalen Thompson isn't an elite safety. But over a seven-year career spent entirely with the Arizona Cardinals, he has been a capable NFL starter. Thompson has started 87 games, and he topped 100 total tackles twice.

Thompson isn't great in coverage. He's allowed a passer rating above 100 in three of the past four seasons. But he'll be the best safety on the team from the moment he gets off the plane, and he should add some badly-needed stability on the back end for Dallas.

Falcons Get QB Insurance, Add Tua Tagovailoa

AP Photo/Robert F. Bukaty, file

Tua Tagovailoa

Contract Terms: One year, $1.2 million (via NFL Network's Tom Pelissero)

Grade: B

The Falcons are adding former Dolphins starter Tua Tagovailoa on a one-year, league-minimum deal. The 2020 first-round pick was available at that bargain price because the Dolphins already owe him $54 million in guaranteed salary next year.

Tagovailoa will now serve as insurance behind 2024 first-round pick Michael Penix Jr., who is recovering from a torn ACL. If he gets the chance to start early in the season, the Alabama product may also get an opportunity to revitalize his career.

Though he's dealt with multiple injuries throughout his career—including an alarming number of concussions—Tagovailoa has also played at a Pro Bowl level for stretches. There's a non-zero chance that new Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski may decide by season's end that Tagovailoa has better long-term potential than Penix.

Even if Tagovailoa only fills the backup role this season, this is a solid signing for Atlanta. Like Penix, Tagovailoa is left-handed, meaning the Falcons won't have to change up their operation if switching between the two. He also has 76 starts on his resume and is coming in on a deal that carries practically no financial risk.

Raiders Add Maxx Crosby Replacement, Sign EDGE Kwity Paye

AP Photo/Zach Bolinger

Terms: Three years, $48 million (via Jordan Schultz)

Grade: C+

After trading star pass-rusher Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens, the Las Vegas Raiders had two things—more cap space than any team in the league and a massive hole on the edge. They burned through a chunk of that cap space on Monday, spending part of it on Crosby's ostensible replacement.

Over five years with the Indianapolis Colts, Kwity Paye has developed into a quality edge-setter against the run. But the 27-year-old hasn't lived up to his first-round pedigree. His four sacks for the Colts in 2025 tied a career-low.

Given that the Cincinnati Bengals gave Boye Mafe $20 million per season on Monday, this move can't be completely bashed. But Paye is a very poor man's Maxx Crosby. The Raiders still have work to do this offseason defensively.

Giants Retain OT Jermaine Eluemunor

AP Photo/Butch Dill

Terms: Three years, $39 million, $26 million guaranteed (per ESPN's Adam Schefter)

Grade: B+

For the first time in a long time, the New York Giants' offensive line wasn't offensive last year. Jermaine Eluemunor played a big role in that. The 31-year-old was a solid right tackle who played almost 1,100 snaps for Big Blue in 2025.

On Monday, Eluemunor was rewarded for that. He got more than $25 million in guarantees as part of a three-year deal to stay in New York.

Eluemunor isn't getting any younger, and while he's a good tackle, he isn't a great one. He has allowed 14 sacks over the past three seasons, per Pro Football Focus. This signing doesn't preclude the Giants from looking to add a tackle early in the 2025 draft.

But $13 million a season isn't bad for a capable, experienced tackle. And with Eluemunor back in the short term, the Giants can look for a tackle of the future on Day 2 while addressing other needs in Round 1.

Raiders Continue Spending Spree, Sign LB Quay Walker

AP Photo/David Zalubowski

Terms: Three years, $40.5 million, $28 million guaranteed (via NFL Network's Tom Pelissero)

Grade: B

The Las Vegas Raiders entered free agency with both a massive war chest of cash and needs in more areas than not. They haven't been shy about getting after it.

On Monday, they added a badly-needed "green dot" linebacker after fielding one of the weakest groups at the position in 2025.

In each of Quay Walker's four seasons in Green Bay, the 2022 first-round pick topped 100 total tackles, including a career-best 128 in 2025. But just 58 of those were solo stops, and Walker struggled in coverage, so the Pack traded for Zaire Franklin this offseason.

Walker isn't without flaws, and $13.5 million per season is a sizable investment in an off-ball linebacker. But the Raiders were flat-out bad at the position a season ago, and Walker is a big step forward for the Vegas defense.

Raiders Take Buzzsaw to LB Corps, Sign Nakobe Dean

AP Photo/Jeffrey Phelps

Terms: Three years, $36 million (via NFL insider Jordan Schultz)

Grade: C-

But wait, there's more!

The Las Vegas Raiders didn't just bolster their linebackers corps on Monday. They set it on fire and rebuilt it from the ground up, giving a pair of off-ball linebackers deals averaging over $12 million per season.

The second was Nakobe Dean, who spent the first four years of his career with the Philadelphia Eagles.

When healthy, Dean has shown he can be a high-end NFL linebacker. In the Eagles' Super Bowl season in 2024, he recorded 128 tackles (including 88 solo stops) in 15 games.

However, injuries have been something of a constant for Dean of late. A foot injury limited him to only five games in 2023, and his breakout 2024 campaign ended with a torn patellar tendon in the postseason.

Those injuries make this a risky signing. But a healthy Dean alongside Quay Walker could make for an impressive duo in Vegas.

Seahawks Retain WR Rashid Shaheed

AP Photo/Stephen Brashear

Terms: Three years, $51 million, $34.7 million guaranteed (via ESPN's Adam Schefter)

Grade: C

During the Seattle Seahawks' march to Super Bowl LX last year, they made an in-season trade for contract-year wide receiver Rashid Shaheed from the New Orleans Saints.

Shaheed won't be going anywhere in 2026. The Seahawks gave him a new contract Monday that averages $17 million per season and includes almost $35 million in guarantees.

That might seem like a lot to give a wide receiver who averaged less than 25 receiving yards in nine games for the Seahawks last year. But Shaheed will now have a full offseason to better learn the offense in the Emerald City, and his seismic impact on special teams can't be ignored.

This is an overpay, but not an atrocious one.

LB Quincy Williams Joins Browns

AP Photo/Ella Hall

Terms: Two years, $17 million (via NFL insider Jordan Schultz)

Grade: B+

After losing Devin Bush earlier on Monday, the Cleveland Browns were left with a hole at inside linebacker opposite 2025 Defensive Rookie of the Year Carson Schwesinger. They filled that hole with a player whom new defensive coordinator Adam Rutenberg is familiar with.

Quincy Williams played under Rutenberg when the latter was the linebackers coach for the Jets. Since then, the 29-year-old has gone on to post four 100-tackle seasons and earn first-team All-Pro honors in 2023.

Williams' 2025 season wasn't great. He missed four games and totaled only 83 stops. But when healthy, he's a quality veteran starter who may well be an upgrade over Bush. And for the cap-strapped Browns, the money isn't unreasonable, either.

Texans Sign Veteran S Reed Blankenship

AP Photo/Daniel Kucin Jr.

Terms: Three years, $24.75 million (via ESPN's Adam Schefter)

Grade: B

The Houston Texans fielded arguably the NFL's best defense last year, but with multiple starters hitting free agency, change was coming on that side of the ball.

The first shoe has already dropped. After four seasons in Philadelphia, former undrafted free agent Reed Blankenship now appears to be in line for the Texans' starting box safety job in 2026.

Blankenship has admittedly had his moments. The 27-year-old won a Super Bowl with the Eagles and topped 110 total tackles back in 2023. But he has been inconsistent in coverage, allowing 11 touchdowns over his career.

Blankenship is what he is—a box safety who is much better stuffing the run than in space. But provided the Texans can scheme around those limitations, $8.25 million per year isn't bad for a 50-game starter.

Cardinals Shore Up Offensive Line, Sign G Isaac Seumalo

AP Photo/Peter Joneleit

Guard Isaac Seumalo

Terms: Three years, $31.5 million (via NFL Network's Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo)

Grade: B-

The Arizona Cardinals' early moves in free agency indicate they will field a physical offensive attack.

After signing running back Tyler Allgeier, they inked a deal with a guard Isaac Seumalo. The 10-year veteran with 104 career starts can stabilize Arizona's offensive line.

Just two years ago, Seumalo earned his first Pro Bowl nod. So, even with a decade of snaps on his body, the 32-year-old is still performing at a high level. According to Pro Football Focus, Seumalo allowed only three sacks in 770 snaps last season.

Arizona should have one concern with this signing, though. Seumalo has missed seven games over the last two seasons. At this stage of his career, the physical demands of his position may be taking a toll on his body.

Seumalo will open up the run game, but it's fair to wonder how his health will hold up for the next few seasons.

Broncos Re-Sign RB J.K. Dobbins

AP Photo/Jack Dempsey

Denver Broncos running back J.K. Dobbins

Terms: Two years, $20 million (via NFL Network's Tom Pelissero)

Grade: D

According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the Denver Broncos sniffed around big-name free-agent running backs like Travis Etienne Jr. and Kenneth Walker III. Both tailbacks signed elsewhere on the first day of the legal tampering period, which may have forced the Broncos to scramble in their hunt for a playmaker to complement RJ Harvey out of the backfield.

Denver circled back to J.K. Dobbins, who led the team in rushing with 772 yards last season while averaging five yards per carry. The 27-year-old is still in his prime and runs efficiently.

However, Dobbins hasn't been able to shake the injury bug. In six years as a pro, he's yet to play a full season. He has missed at least four games in each of the past five years.

Denver is giving an eight-figure salary to a player who's suffered season-ending injuries multiple times in a short window. Dobbins deserves praise for his resilience, but the Broncos missed on their pursuit of an upgrade at running back.

Steelers Add to Backfield, Sign RB Rico Dowdle

AP Photo/Jacob Kupferman

Running back Rico Dowdle

Terms: TBA (via NFL insider Jordan Schultz)

Grade: C+

The Pittsburgh Steelers lost running back Kenneth Gainwell, who led the team in catches last season, to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday. Fortunately, they're replacing him with a superior ball-carrier. 

Rico Dowdle has rushed for 1,000-plus yards in back-to-back seasons with the Dallas Cowboys and Carolina Panthers. He also racked up a career-high 1,373 scrimmage yards last year.

Dowdle is a complete three-down tailback who doesn't have much tread on his legs. He logged 451 of his 567 career carries over the last two seasons. The 27-year-old should be firmly in his prime.

With that said, Dowdle projects as a complement to Jaylen Warren. That raises questions about the outlook for 2025 third-rounder Kaleb Johnson, who struggled to find a role last season. Dowdle may be the cover-up for a shaky draft pick.

Panthers Make Another Defensive Splash, Sign LB Devin Lloyd

AP Photo/Gary McCullough

Linebacker Devin Lloyd

Terms: Three years, $45 million (via ESPN's Adam Schefter)

Grade: A

The Carolina Panthers paid a premium price to solidify the middle of their defense. They agreed to terms with Devin Lloyd on a deal that ranks fourth in average annual value among linebackers, trailing only All-Pros Fred Warner, Roquan Smith and Zack Baun.

Lloyd earned his massive raise. In four seasons, he's started in 61 of 63 games. He broke out in pass coverage this past campaign, logging five interceptions (including one returned for a touchdown) and seven pass breakups.

The Panthers defense made strides after a historically poor showing in 2024, but the unit needed a playmaking centerpiece as Christian Rozeboom explores the open market. 

Carolina has made a couple of major moves with the addition of Jaelan Phillips and Lloyd, though the latter has been more reliable in terms of availability and has become one of the best at his position.

Bears Re-Sign OT Braxton Jones

(AP Photo/Kamil Krzaczynski

Chicago Bears offensive tackle Braxton Jones

Terms: One year, worth up to $10 million (via ESPN's Jeremy Fowler)

Grade: C-

In 2025, the Chicago Bears started four different players at left tackle, if you count Joe Thuney's divisional-round playoff performance. They did that in part because of Braxton Jones' poor performances early in the season. The Bears benched him for Theo Benedet after Week 4, then inserted Ozzy Trapilo into the lineup.

Trapilo improved as the weeks went on, but he ruptured his patellar tendon in the Bears' playoff victory over the Green Bay Packers. The 2025 second-rounder could miss the entire 2026 campaign, which leads us back to Jones.

The Bears opted to stick with a familiar face to play left tackle for the upcoming season. The 2022 fifth-round pick out of Southern Utah started all 17 games as a rookie and fared well in pass protection up until this past season.

Perhaps Jones' injuries contributed to his struggles. The Bears need the healthy version of him this year. Either way, they didn't gamble on Jones for the long term.

Given his recent showings, signing Jones doesn't necessarily lock up the position. The Bears could still add competition at that spot.

Chiefs Replenish Secondary, Signing S Alohi Gilman

AP Photo/Nick Wass

Safety Alohi Gilman

Terms: Three years, $24.75 million (via NFL Network's Tom Pelissero)

Grade: D

The Kansas City Chiefs lost multiple defensive backs this offseason. They traded Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams and lost Bryan Cook, Jaylen Watson and Joshua Williams in free agency.

On Monday, they added a capable body to compensate for some of those losses. 

In 2025, Alohi Gilman bounced between the Los Angeles Chargers and Baltimore Ravens. He recorded a career-high 90 tackles (including one tackle for loss), nine pass breakups and a forced fumble.

At safety, Gilman will be a direct replacement for Cook, but he's a downgrade as a tackler. 

For comparison, Cook missed less than 6 percent of his tackle attempts in the last two seasons. Gilman has missed at least 11 percent of his tackle attempts in five of six seasons. He's a below-average cover defender as well, having allowed passer ratings above 113 in consecutive campaigns.

Kansas City signed a warm body to fill a void in the secondary, but this signing doesn't move the needle for a unit that's lost a ton of talent.

Patriots Beef Up Offensive Line, Signing Alijah Vera-Tucker

AP Photo/Adam Hunger

Offensive lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker

Terms: Three years, $42 million (per ESPN's Adam Schefter)

Grade: B-

The New England Patriots will take a gamble on talented, oft-injured offensive lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker. Since 2022, he's missed 41 games, including the entire 2025 season. 

When Vera-Tucker is healthy, he's shown Pro Bowl potential and the ability to play four out of five positions across the offensive line. But there's a reason why the New York Jets allowed him to test free agency. The 26-year-old has missed at least 10 games in three of his five pro seasons.

With ample cap space, New England can afford to take a risk in free agency on a key position group. 

Vera-Tucker will need to knock off serious rust after sitting out the 2025 campaign. But if he can stay healthy, the Patriots would have a versatile building block in the trenches for the next few years.

Saints Bolster Offensive Line with David Edwards Signing

AP Photo/Terrance Williams

Buffalo Bills guard David Edwards

Terms: Four years, $61 million (via ESPN's Adam Schefter)

Grade: B

The New Orleans Saints went into free agency with a clear plan to improve their ground attack. They signed running back Travis Etienne Jr.; he'll run behind David Edwards, who was one of the top guards on the open market.

After an inconsistent four-year stint with the Los Angeles Rams, Edwards developed into a solid interior run and pass-blocker in Buffalo. According to Pro Football Focus, he allowed just three sacks while on the field for 594 pass-blocking snaps.

Based on head coach Kellen Moore's history of fielding top-nine rushing offenses in three of the previous five seasons, he'll be able to get the most out of Edwards in his prime years.

In 2025, the Saints ranked sixth in pass attempts and 23rd in rush attempts. They should be a more balanced, competitive team with Etienne and Edwards on the ground. 

Rams Continue Poaching Chiefs CBs, Adding Jaylen Watson

AP Photo/Reed Hoffmann

Cornerback Jaylen Watson

Terms: Three years, $51 million (via ESPN's Adam Schefter)

Grade: A

Apparently, the Los Angeles Rams liked what they saw out of the Kansas City Chiefs cornerbacks. This past weekend, they acquired Trent McDuffie in a blockbuster trade deal, then circled back to the Chiefs' talent pool for Jaylen Watson on the first day of the legal tampering period.

Watson bounced back from an injury-shortened 2024 campaign, logging 64 tackles, three for loss, two sacks, six pass breakups and two interceptions. In consecutive campaigns, he's allowed a passer rating below 80, which is exceptional coverage.

As a seventh-rounder from the 2022 draft, Watson has far exceeded expectations. Like McDuffie, he's in line to play his best football behind a more aggressive defensive front than what the Chiefs fielded in the previous season. 

Expect Watson to see more opportunities to force turnovers with Jared Verse, Byron Young, Kobie Turner and Braden Fiske bearing down on quarterbacks in the pocket.

Other Signings and Extensions

AP Photo/Zach Bolinger

Montaric Brown

Jaguars Extend Montaric Brown on Three-Year, $33 Million Deal

Grade: A

The Jacksonville Jaguars finished among the bottom half of the league in pass defense last season. The possibility of losing their top corner, Montaric Brown, wouldn't have helped matters. Instead, Brown and the Jaguars reached an agreement Monday on a three-year $33 million contract extension, per ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Brown could have possibly received a bigger deal had he actually tested free agency, but the 26-year-old former seventh-round draft pick "didn't want want to leave Jacksonville."

While the cornerback may have left some money on the table, an opportunity to return to an ascending team that played as well as any over the second half of the 2025 regular season seems like a smart strategy, particularly if Jacksonville continues to add more pieces to its secondary.

Steelers Sign Asante Samuel Jr. to One-Year, $4 Million Contract

Grade: B

A year ago at this time, Asante Samuel Jr.'s NFL future remained up in the air after requiring spinal-fusion surgery. On Monday, he agreed to a new one-year, $4 million deal to stay with the Pittsburgh Steelers, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Originally, the Steelers signed Samuel to the practice squad in November. He became a starter by Week 15. This re-signing shows a level of confidence in Samuel that he'll A) remain healthy and B) likely start opposite Joey Porter Jr. since James Pierre is set to enter free agency.

Texans Retain Sheldon Rankins With Two-Year Deal

Grade: A

The Houston Texans are putting in the work prior to the start of the NFL's legal tampering period. The organization already traded offensive lineman Tytus Howard to the Cleveland Browns. It then re-signed offensive tackle Trent Brown and guard Ed Ingram. Afterward, attention shifted to the defensive line.

Defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins and the Texans agreed to a two-year contract extension that included $12 million in guaranteed money, according to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo.

Prior to Rankins' retention, last year's top-ranked defense didn't have either of its Week 1 starting defensive tackles under contract. Now, Rankins, alongside Tommy Togiai, will keep Houston's front four strong without being forced to draft a defensive tackle early in the process.

Buccaneers Keep TE Cade Otton

Grade: A

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are keeping an important, if often underrated, member of their offense. According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the Bucs are re-signing tight end Cade Otton.

Otton isn't one of the league's more prolific receiving tight ends, but he's been a very capable pass-catcher during his four seasons. This past year, he recorded 59 catches for 572 yards and a touchdown.

The 26-year-old is also a fine blocker who can impact things in the running and passing games.

Raiders Sign CB Eric Stokes to Three-Year, $30 Million Deal

Grade: B+

The Las Vegas Raiders took a flier on former first-round pick Eric Stokes this past season and got good results. While Stokes was often inconsistent in Green Bay, he performed well for the Raiders.

The 27-year-old started 16 games and allowed an opposing passer rating (OPR) of only 77.7 in coverage.

Las Vegas will now retain Stokes with a three-year, $30 million deal, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Buccaneers Sign RB Kenneth Gainwell to Two-Year, $14 Million Deal

Grade: B+

The Buccaneers are adding a new dual-threat weapon to their offense in the form of running back Kenneth Gainwell. An explosive runner and shifty pass-catcher, Gainwell racked up 1,023 scrimmage yards and eight touchdowns with the Steelers this past season.

The 26-year-old, who began his career with the Eagles, should be a strong complement to Bucky Irving in Tampa's backfield.

According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Buccaneers are adding Gainwell on a two-year, $14 million deal. It's a fair price for a player who may fill a large role over the next two seasons.

Jets Sign Joseph Ossai to Three-Year, $36 Million Deal

Grade: B-

The Jets are boosting their pass-rushing rotation, adding Joseph Ossai on a three-year, $36 million deal, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Ossai, a 2021 third-round pick of the Cincinnati Bengals, has never been a top-tier sack artist. However, he's been a fine rotational player who has recorded 10 sacks over the past two seasons.

This past season, the 25-year-old appeared in 14 games with nine starts. He finished with 43 tackles, 5.0 sacks, and nine tackles for loss.

Ravens Sign John Simpson to Three-Year, $30 Million Contract

Grade: B

The Ravens may be losing center Tyler Linderbaum, but they're bringing back a familiar face to help bolster their offensive interior. According to NFL Media's Ian Rapoport, Baltimore is adding guard John Simpson on a three-year deal.

Simpson, who will turn 29 in August, started 17 games for the Ravens in 2023 before spending the past two years with the Jets. He spent his first three seasons with the Raiders and has started 72 games over the course of his career.

This past season, Pro Football Focus ranked Simpson 23rd overall among qualifying guards.

Chiefs Sign DL Khyiris Tonga to Three-Year, $21 Million Deal

Grade: C-

The Chiefs are adding a versatile defender to their front in former Patriots standout Khyiris Tonga. According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, Tonga will join the Chiefs on a three-year, $21 million contract.

This past season, Tonga appeared in 14 games with eight starts and finished with 24 tackles. The 6'2", 335-pound BYU product largely served as a space-eating run-stuffer and will likely play a similar role in Steve Spagnuolo's defense for the Chiefs.

Tonga, who has also spent time with the Bears, Vikings, and Cardinals, will turn 30 in July.

Chargers Get TE Charlie Kolar on Three-Year, $24.3 Million Contract

Grade: C+

The Chargers added a versatile piece to their offense in the form of tight end Charlie Kolar. The former Ravens backup has primarily served as a blocking tight end, though he's shown that he can make the occasional play as a pass-catcher.

This past season, Kolar grabbed 10 receptions for 142 yards and two touchdowns.

The 27-year-old should be a solid fit for Mike McDaniel's offense in Los Angeles. According to NFL Network, he'll join the Chargers on a three-year deal worth just over $24 million.

Commanders Re-Sign QB Marcus Mariota With One-Year Deal

Grade: B+

The Commanders are bringing back backup quarterback Marcus Mariota on a one-year, $7 million deal, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero. It's a very sensible move for Washington, which saw starter Jayden Daniels miss multiple games due to injuries last season.

Mariota started eight games for the Commanders in 2025, and while he only won two of them, he posted a respectable 86.1 passer rating. His experience and scrambling ability allowed Washington to run its normal offense with few tweaks during Daniels' absence.

The second overall pick in the 2015 draft, Mariota has 82 starts on his resume and is now one of the better backups in the league.

Falcons Sign WR Olamide Zaccheaus

Grade: C

The Falcons may have a new starting quarterback in 2026. They'll definitely have a new complementary receiver in Olamide Zaccheaus. According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, the seven-year veteran is coming back to Atlanta on an undisclosed deal.

Zaccheaus, who entered the league as an undrafted free agent with the Falcons in 2019, spent this past season with the Bears. He appeared in 16 games with five starts and finished with 39 catches, 313 yards, and two touchdowns.

In Atlanta, the 28-year-old will likely fill the role recently vacated by Darnell Mooney, who was released.

49ers Add OL Depth with OT Vederian Lowe

Terms: Two years, $12 million, $5.75 million guaranteed (via Ian Rapoport of NFL.com)

Grade: B+

Every NFL team is constantly searching for offensive line depth, and the San Francisco 49ers obtained some Monday, inking a two-year deal with fifth-year tackle Vederian Lowe.

Lowe started 15 games over the past two years with the Patriots, including four a year ago. Per PFF, the 6'6", 320-pounder allowed 1 sack in 317 snaps in 2025.

It's hard to fault any team procuring a swing tackle with starting experience in his prime for a reasonable amount.

Cardinals Sign QB Gardner Minshew

Terms: One year, $8 million (via ESPN's Adam Schefter)

Grade: C

Who's up for an incredibly depressing quarterback competition in Arizona?

Given the team's pending release of Kyler Murray, the Cardinals were linked to a number of free agent quarterbacks. But rather than spend big on a name, the Redbirds instead elected to give journeyman backup Gardner Minshew a one-year deal.

Minshew is coming off a season-ending fractured leg in Kansas City last year, but he has started 47 games, including nine with the Raiders two years ago. If healthy, he'll compete with Jacoby Brissett to start in Arizona in 2026.

Commanders Sign DT Tim Settle

Terms: Three years, $24 million (per the NFL Network's Mike Garafalo)

Grade: C-

The Commanders were aggressive in an effort to improve the defensive front Monday, including bringing back a familiar face. After two years in Houston, defensive tackle Tim Settle is back with the team that drafted him after inking a three-year, $24 million contract.

Settle tied a career-high with five sacks in 2024, and he was a sold player against the run the past couple of years. But Settle got to the quarterback just once in 2025, and his season was ended by a Lisfranc injury.

Eight million a year is a lot for an eight-year veteran rehabbing a major injury.

Bills Sign Veteran Slot CB Dee Alford

Terms: Three years, $21 million, $10.5 million guaranteed (via Jordan Schultz)

Grade: C+

After trading Taron Johnson to the Las Vegas Raiders, the Buffalo Bills needed to find a new starter in the slot. On Monday, the team got one.

Dee Alford wasn't a full-time starter while with the Atlanta Falcons, making 22 starts over four seasons. Last year, he started seven games and allowed a passer rating against of 89.2.

Simply put, Alford isn't the quality of player that Johnson is. But he shouldn't be a major liability for the Bills defense, and $7 million a season isn't terrible for a starter on the back end.

Raiders Bring Back EDGE Malcolm Koonce

Terms: One year, $11 million (per ESPN's Adam Schefter)

Grade: C+

Apparently the Raiders believe that spending all your cap space as quickly as possible means you win free agency.

Joking aside, this is the second "prove it" deal in a row for Koonce, who appeared a rising young edge-rusher after an eight-sack 2023 campaign only to miss the entire 2024 season with a knee injury.

Koonce's 2025 season was OK—30 tackles and 4.5 sacks in 501 snaps. If Koonce can build on that this year, he'll be a reasonably-priced starter on the defensive front. But those 501 snaps are a career high, and if last year is his ceiling that's a big deal for a limited player.

Panthers Sign Former First-Round Pick Kenny Pickett

Terms: One year, $7.5 million (via Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network)

Grade: C+

Wait, is that Kenny Pickett's theme music? Watch out Bryce Young! He has a steel chair!

Hey, you grade this many signings, at some point you get punchy.

The Panthers bringing in Pickett is a depth move—he has just three starts over the past two seasons after two years as the starter for the Pittsburgh Steelers. But Pickett actually still has a winning record as a starter (16-11), and the 27-year-old is an upgrade over Andy Dalton, who will likely still hang around as a third-string player/coach.

Provided he doesn't start more than a game or two, it's a decent addition.

If he does, it's Kenny Pickett.

S Ar'Darius Washington Reunites with John Harbaugh in New York

Terms: One year, $3 million (per SNY's Connor Hughes)

Grade: C

New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh will welcome a familiar face in Ar'Darius Washington, who played under him with the Baltimore Ravens between 2021 and 2025. 

Washington possesses a versatile skill set. He's lined up at both safety spots and in the slot, logging 85 tackles, seven for loss, three sacks, 10 pass breakups and two interceptions. He'll provide depth at multiple spots in the secondary and contribute to special teams.

Bills Find New Backup QB, Sign Kyle Allen

Terms: Two years, $4.1 million (per ESPN's Adam Schefter)

Grade: C

The Bills lost quarterback Mitchell Trubisky to the Titans in free agency. They signed Kyle Allen to replace him for veteran insurance at the most important position. 

Josh Allen has started in every game since the 2019 season, but he takes hits because of his willingness to pick up yards on the run.

Consequently, Buffalo must invest in the primary backup signal-caller. The new Allen in Buffalo has 19 career starts, throwing for 26 touchdowns and 21 interceptions, though he hasn't opened a game since the 2022 term with the Houston Texans.

Cardinals Bring Back DT Roy Lopez for Second Stint

Terms: Two years, $11.5 million (via NFL Network's Ian Rapoport)

Grade: C+

The Arizona Cardinals cut defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson before the start of free agency to save $9.4 million in cap space. They reinvested in their defensive line by bringing back Roy Lopez. 

Lopez played two seasons with the Cardinals between 2023 and 2024, logging 70 tackles, six for loss, a sack and three pass breakups. He signed with the Detroit Lions in free agency last year and saw his defensive snap count drop below 40 percent for the first time in his career.

Back in the desert, Lopez should see an uptick in playing time in the middle of the defense if the team doesn't re-sign Calais Campbell.

Chargers Sign G Cole Strange

Terms: Two years, $12 million (per ESPN's Adam Schefter)

Grade: D

Cole Strange hasn't played up to the expectations of a first-round pick, and that's not his fault. Former New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick overdrafted him in 2022, which made Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay laugh.

Strange has started in 43 out of 44 games, though. He'll have a chance to carve out a lead role with the Los Angeles Chargers, who hired his former head coach, Mike McDaniel, to run their offense. 

The Chargers let Zion Johnson walk in free agency, and Jamaree Salyer is still a free agent as of late Monday. Strange has an inside track to play at guard, but he's been a below-average starter.

Jets Sign S Dane Belton

Terms: One year, $4 million, $6 million maximum (via NFL insider Jordan Schultz) 

Grade: C+

The New York Jets added a second safety on Monday, signing Dane Belton, who will join Minkah Fitzpatrick as the new faces on the back end of the defense. 

Belton spent his first four seasons with the New York Giants and saw a steady uptick in playing time after the 2023 campaign. Last year, he recorded a career-high 120 tackles, three for loss, five pass breakups and an interception. The four-year pro has six career interceptions.

At 25, Belton has shown signs that he's an ascending player. If the Jets help him develop, the 2022 fourth-rounder could be a solid addition to their revamped defense.

Raiders Continue to Spend, Sign Kicker Matt Gay

Terms: TBA (per NFL Network's Tom Pelissero)

Grade: C

Daniel Carlson's time in Las Vegas has come to an end. After eight seasons with the Silver and Black, he's a free agent, and the Raiders signed Matt Gay. 

In 2025, Gay played with the Washington Commanders and San Francisco 49ers, converting on 73.9 percent of his field-goal attempts. He made all 26 of his extra-point tries. 

Though Carlson had his struggles in the previous season, he still made 81.5 percent of his field-goal attempts. The Raiders are hoping Gay rediscovers his Pro Bowl form, when he converted over 94 percent of his field-goal attempts with the Los Angeles Rams in 2021.

Chiefs Re-Sign WR Tyquan Thornton

Terms: Two years, $11 million (via NFL insider Jordan Schultz)

Grade: C

Last season, Kansas City saw growth in wide receiver Tyquan Thornton, who caught 19 passes for a career-high 438 yards and three touchdowns last season. With the current state of the Chiefs' pass-catching group, they will need more from him.

Tight end Travis Kelce will return for his 14th season, but Hollywood Brown and JuJu Smith-Schuster are free agents. Rashee Rice hasn't been the most reliable in terms of availability. He has played in 12 games over the past two seasons. 

Barring a reunion with Tyreek Hill, Thornton may need to emerge in three-receiver sets this year.

Cowboys Re-Sign DE Sam Williams

Terms: One year, $3 million (per NFL insider Jordan Schultz)

Grade: C- 

The Dallas Cowboys retained depth on the edge, extending Sam Williams' contract for another year. He was a more efficient pass-rusher with fewer snaps in his first two seasons. 

Last year, Williams played a career-high 43 percent of the defensive snaps, but he only logged one sack and 15 pressures, which is a letdown when you consider his 9.5 sacks between 2022 and 2023 while on the field for less than 29 percent of the snaps.

With Rashan Gary in the fold, Williams will remain in a rotational role, assuming Donovan Ezeiruaku takes on a bigger workload in his second season.

Chargers Re-Sign OL Trevor Penning

Grade: D

The Los Angeles Chargers have a lot to figure out at the guard positions. Trevor Penning could be a competitor for one of those spots if the team continues to experiment with his transition from tackle to the interior. 

Before the 2025 trade deadline, Los Angeles acquired Penning from the New Orleans Saints. After one game at left tackle, he moved to right guard. The 26-year-old is a first-round disappointment from the 2022 draft and projects as depth until he shows otherwise.