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Every NFL Team's To-Do List for Rest of the 2026 Offseason
The start of the 2026 NFL campaign is still three months away, and plenty can still be accomplished by each franchise before teams officially take the field.
The calendar flipping to June allowed at least two massive deals to come together with Myles Garrett and AJ Brown moving to the Los Angeles Rams and New England Patriots, respectively. Maybe another one or two still happens.
However, roster decisions will be the biggest determinants over the next couple of months—whether through competition or tinkering with personnel to some degree. A business side exists as well, with an emphasis on multiple high-level performers looking to sign new deals prior to the start of the upcoming season.
No organization should think it's finished with its offseason work. Instead, a few objectives should be checked off their to-do list between now and the first week of action.
Arizona Cardinals
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This season is an evaluation year for the Arizona Cardinals.
The process starts at quarterback, because the team doesn't have a long-term starting option.
No incentive exists to restructure Jacoby Brissett's current deal, despite his preference for a new agreement. Either he comes in and plays under what's already in place, or Arizona starts Gardner Minshew II. Either option likely leads the organization to the same place: drafting a quarterback in next year's first round.
The same can be said of trading Josh Sweat, who retains enough value to add more ammunition for next April's event.
Finally, new head coach Mike LaFleur must build the passing game around Harrison, who has yet to live up to expectations after being the fourth overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft.
Atlanta Falcons
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With a new regime in place, the Atlanta Falcons can start fresh, specifically at quarterback.
The new front office didn't select Michael Penix Jr. in the top 10 of the 2024 NFL draft. Instead, a healthy Tua Tagovailoa is a better fit in Kevin Stefanski's offense thanks to his accuracy and experience.
From there, the Falcons don't know what they'll get, if anything, from James Pearce Jr. this season. If he isn't available for any amount of time, the organization should bring in a Jadeveon Clowney or Derek Barnett to provide more punch off the edge.
Meanwhile, Jessie Bates III remains one of the NFL's best safeties and should continue to be paid as such before he plays under the last year of his current deal.
Baltimore Ravens
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Plenty of work must be done on the offensive side of the ball for the Baltimore Ravens.
Three-time Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum leaving to join the Las Vegas Raiders is a major loss, with no clear replacement. Either Danny Pinter or Jovaughn Gwyn will be named the new snapper. The sooner, the better.
Baltimore also wanted to get bigger and more physical at wide receiver. The organization has never had a problem bringing in aging veterans who can still play. For example, Keenan Allen could round out the team's pass-catchers quite nicely.
Lastly, Derrick Henry remains an offensive focal point, even at 32. No other running back currently on the roster ran for over 100 yards last season. A legitimate rotation is necessary to extend his career and expand the team's offensive package.
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Buffalo Bills
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Buffalo Bills ownership made the surprising decision to fire Sean McDermott after a seventh-straight winning season. However, the inability to reach the Super Bowl dictated a different path.
New head coach Joe Brady brought in Jim Leonhard to reshape Buffalo's defense, and it's a drastic departure from the team's previous approach. How the coaching staff deploys talent will determine how successful the unit can be. Those nuances will be decided throughout training camp and the preseason.
Surprisingly, the organization still has a lot of faith in its wide receivers, though the team added DJ Moore and rookie Skyler Bell. Instead of stopping there and hoping Joshua Palmer and Keon Coleman give the team more than last year, the Bills should still be in the wide receiver market.
To help ensure quarterback Josh Allen stays upright, the Bills should solidify their offensive line by extending 26-year-old O'Cyrus Torrence, who is entering the final year of his rookie deal.
Carolina Panthers
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So much of the Carolina Panthers' trajectory depends on how recent high draft picks fare.
Ikem Ekwonu, who suffered a ruptured patellar tendon in January, still has a significant recovery period in front of him. Even healthy, his inconsistencies on Bryce Young's blind side may prevent him from returning as the starting left tackle.
The team signed veteran Rasheed Walker as a replacement in the interim, while also drafting Monroe Freeling in this year's first round. The premium position has too much uncertainty right now.
The same can't be said at wide receiver where Tetairoa McMillan and Jalen Coker are firmly established as Carolina's top two options. Xavier Legette was drafted to be in that conversation. Instead, he's entering a make-or-break season. If Legette doesn't show marked improvement during training camp, the Panthers should be ready to move on.
Whereas, Jonathon Brooks deserves another chance after back-to-back ACL tears in his right knee. A healthy Brooks can still give the Panthers an excellent one-two punch alongside Chuba Hubbard.
Chicago Bears
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Amazingly, the Chicago Bears entered this offseason with their pass rush being the team's biggest need and have yet to properly address the problem.
Montez Sweat is a tremendous player, but he can benefit greatly from a bookend taking off some of the pressure. Multiple proven veteran options remain available, even if they're long in the tooth.
Drew Dalman's unexpected retirement certainly threw a wrench into the Bears' offseason plans. A week later, the team acquired veteran center Garrett Bradbury from the New England Patriots, then doubled down by drafting Logan Jones in this year's second round.
Bradbury may have the edge, but Jones has a legitimate chance to start in Year 1. Also along the offensive line, Wright has been the Bears' most consistent presence since joining the organization in 2023. He entered the window for his first contract extension this offseason and deserves one.
Cincinnati Bengals
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Unsurprisingly, the Cincinnati Bengals' plans remain the same as the franchise's previous approach: Continue to address the defensive side of the ball.
Expectations for this squad rose after the additions of veterans Dexter Lawrence, Jonathan Allen, Boye Mafe and Bryan Cook. Why stop there? The Bengals should still be weighing all options to make the defense even better.
Another free-agent addition or a potential trade need to be strongly considered, specifically at linebacker where the team still plans to start Demetrius Knight Jr. and Barrett Carter.
The second-round selection of Cashius Howell is an important addition as well, because he's already a more polished pass-rusher than former first-round draft picks Myles Murphy and Shemar Stewart.
The Bengals should also strive to keep the quality talent the organization previously brought in. As of now, top corner DJ Turner II is on the last year of his rookie contract.
Cleveland Browns
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The Myles Garrett trade set the stage for the Cleveland Browns' 2026 campaign.
Everything is aimed toward getting a franchise quarterback. Shedeur Sanders must be named the starter now so the organization knows whether he's capable of filling that role. Deshaun Watson is nothing but a failed trade and the worst contract in league history. His insertion to create a quarterback competition serves no purpose.
In order for this year's QB1 to thrive, the Browns had to rebuild their offensive line entirely, and it's still not settled at center or right guard. Elgton Jenkins will start at one spot, but another option must emerge and help determine the veteran's position.
If the Browns are truly all-in to reset the organizational timeline and build a war chest for the 2027 draft, they can also move either Ward or Delpit for significant return and create a strong foundation for the future.
Dallas Cowboys
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Defense defined the Dallas Cowboys' offseason. The team will employ a new scheme under first-time coordinator Christian Parker. Who will be his voice on the field has yet to be determined.
Linebacker DeMarvion Overshown is expected to take on play-calling duties, though that's yet to be decided. In order for this new system to come together, the defender lining up the rest of the unit is vital for this transition to be successful.
A competition is ongoing at left tackle, too. The Cowboys don't want to hand Tyler Guyton anything after two inconsistent seasons. Nate Thomas started four games last year, and he's been handed a chance to push Guyton for the gig.
Obviously, Dak Prescott's health is of the utmost important considering his history. Thus, the team's backup option could be vital. Currently, Sam Howell and Joe Milton III are vying to earn that designation.
Denver Broncos
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The idea of Miller returning to the Denver Broncos isn't just a feel-good story to end a Hall of Fame career.
The 37-year-old pass-rusher can still help the team, particularly with questions surrounding Jonathon Cooper's availability following a recent arrest, as reported by ESPN, and the impact it could have on Denver's edge depth.
In fact, Miller led the Washington Commanders last season with nine sacks. He can add a veteran presence to an already outstanding defense and possibly help push the Broncos toward another Super Bowl.
The unit can be even better depending on how Barron fits into the puzzle. Last year's first-round selection brings a varied skill set capable of contributing in multiple roles. Barron never looked comfortable as a rookie, though. Denver's coaching staff must find ways to utilize the talented defensive back.
A similar statement can be said about the squad's young tight ends. Evan Engram proved to be a disappointment during his first year with the Broncos. Instead, the Broncos can start transitioning to rookie Justin Joly or former collegiate basketball player Caleb Lohner.
Detroit Lions
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The Detroit Lions went from fielding the league's best offensive line to reworking three-fifths of the unit this offseason.
Penei Sewell isn't a new starter, but he'll shift from right to left tackle. He is a natural left tackle and one of the NFL's best so he's expected to maintain his All-Pro standard.
Conversely, first-round rookie Blake Miller is competing to start at right tackle with veteran Larry Borom. Miller should win the job, but he'll experience his share of ups and downs during his first season. Cade Mays takes over as the Lions' center after signing in free agency.
For quarterback Jared Goff to operate at peak efficiency, he requires a clean pocket. This group must gel quickly to keep Detroit's offense on track. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs will help, of course, because he's a special talent. Detroit would be wise to sign him to a contract extension before Bijan Robinson does with the Atlanta Falcons.
Safety Brian Branch is another talented young player on Detroit's roster. Unfortunately, he suffered a torn Achilles tendon in December.
As Branch continues to recover, the Lions should sign a veteran safety to reinforce the secondary.
Green Bay Packers
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Micah Parsons isn't expected back on the field until October after suffering a torn ACL in December.
The Green Bay Packers will lean on Lukas Van Ness, Barryn Sorrell, Brenton Cox Jr. and rookie Dani Dennis-Sutton to create pressure off the edge until Parsons returns. The initial trio combined for four sacks a season ago. Thus, the Packers should be one of multiple franchises in the market for pass-rush help.
The team isn't solid in the trenches on the other side of the ball, either. Competition should be expected at right guard and possibly left tackle depending on how Jordan Morgan fares at his natural position.
On special teams, the Packers chose to draft Trey Smack in this year's sixth round. Typically, drafted kickers are a lock to make the roster. However, Smack looked shaky during his first sessions with the team.
An experienced veteran should be signed for training camp to push or possibly replace the rookie.
Houston Texans
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The Houston Texans already feature a Super Bowl-caliber defense. The organization must ensure its offense is good enough to compete against the AFC's best after losing in the postseason's divisional round for the third straight year.
Houston has invested heavily to ensure its offensive line is solid this fall. Even so, center and right tackle still aren't settled. This year's 26th overall draft pick, Keylan Rutledge, will be given every chance to take over center after serving as a collegiate guard. On the strong side, Trenton Brown and Braden Smith provide a battle of capable tackles. One will eventually emerge.
A jump in performance is also expected from second-year wide receiver Jaylin Noel, who holds the inside track toward claiming the starting slot role.
Last but not least, a punter capable of burying opponents deep into their own territory is critical when a team features a defense as good as Houston's. Kai Kroeger and undrafted free agent Jack Stonehouse are vying for that job.
Indianapolis Colts
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The Indianapolis Colts sit at an organizational crossroads. Another failed season likely signals the end of the current regime. Or, the team can look like the one that started the 2025 campaign.
As of now, the franchise can only operate based on what it knows. It knows that Nelson and Downs are quality players, who need to remain on the roster. Those two are outstanding talents and deserve contract extensions. The same can be said of DeForest Buckner and Jonathan Taylor, who are also on the last year of their deals, but those conversations are far more involved either due to age, injury history or positional value.
The front office also knows Richardson isn't the team's quarterback of the future and should be dealt for whatever it can get.
As the offseason continues, the Colts accomplished most of their primary goals except for adding a legitimate presence off the edge. After missing out on Trey Hendrickson, general manager Chris Ballard quickly pivoted to signing Arden Key and Micheal Clemons.
However, the addition of a Joey Bosa or Jadeveon Clowney can provide much-needed help.
Jacksonville Jaguars
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Brian Thomas Jr. is a talented wide receiver who finished third overall in receiving yardage as a rookie. He also took a significant step backward in Year 2 and won't be the primary target in the Jacksonville Jaguars' offense this fall.
With Jakobi Meyers' ascension to WR1 after being acquired midseason, Parker Washington's late-season surge and Travis Hunter's return to the lineup, Thomas is expendable. Plus, another organization should pay handsomely for a 23-year-old wide receiver with three more controllable seasons.
Resource allocation is an important aspect in roster-building. The Jaguars already allowed another talented standout in Devin Lloyd to leave in free agency. Instead of paying the 2022 first-round draft pick, Ventrell Miller or Branson Combs will compete to start next to Foyesade Oluokun.
However, an opportunity to sign Brenton Strange can keep one of the league's bright, young tight ends in the fold.
Kansas City Chiefs
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With Patrick Mahomes' latest contract extension, the Kansas City Chiefs' heaviest offseason lift is now done. Though everything else the team must continue to address still involves its franchise quarterback.
As of now, Mahomes' timetable isn't known. Considering he suffered a torn ACL and LCL in December, the odds of him being Kansas City's starting quarterback to open the 2026 campaign remains in doubt.
In the meantime, the Chiefs' offense must be built around Fields. The unit isn't settled at right tackle, either. KC's coaching staff wants an open competition between Jaylon Moore, Esa Pole and undrafted rookie Khalil Benson.
Furthermore, the Chiefs' wide receivers shouldn't be considered a reliable group. Aside from fifth-round rookie Cyrus Allen, who is a good fit in the slot, Kansas City didn't add anything to the position and should consider all available options to provide a boost. Is a Tyreek Hill reunion possible?
Las Vegas Raiders
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The Las Vegas Raiders had a plan in place and need to stick with it. The previous statement applies to this year's No. 1 overall pick, Fernando Mendoza, and the team's most talented player, Maxx Crosby.
At quarterback, Mendoza will eventually take over as the starter. However, the Raiders don't need to rush him into the lineup. Instead, they should concentrate on Kirk Cousins being the primary starter during the 2026 campaign, with Mendoza learning.
In Crosby's case, he's already been traded once. Considering how many teams still need pass-rush help, his value should still remain relatively high, even if it's not quite to the level the Raiders were supposed to receive from the Baltimore Ravens. Like Myles Garrett, Crosby is a player ready to win now when the organization isn't.
To ram that point home, kicker might be the Raiders' most important outright position battle. Matt Gay isn't the kicker he once was, and undrafted free agent Kansei Matsuzawa can unseat the veteran to continue his astounding personal story.
Los Angeles Chargers
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The Los Angeles Chargers managed 11 wins and made the postseason last season despite obvious offensive issues.
The marriage between new offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, quarterback Justin Herbert and a reworked offensive line will determine if the Chargers can reach the next tier.
McDaniel's hire proved to be interesting. He obviously knows how to devise a scheme, but his approach tends to be on the opposite end from head coach Jim Harbaugh, who prefers a physical, punishing style.
McDaniel knows how to adapt and should improve the entire unit, particularly if the Chargers are healthy along the offensive line.
Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt will be back from season-ending injuries. Center Tyler Biadasz signed as a free agent. Both guard spots remain question marks, though. Second-round rookie Jake Slaughter is expected to claim one spot, while Cole Strange and Trevor Penning compete for the other.
Meanwhile, McDaniel asked Herbert to change his footwork to improve his efficiency. If all of this comes together, the Chargers offense should easily be a top-10 unit.
Los Angeles Rams
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If Donald is seriously entertaining the possibility of unretiring and rejoining the Los Angeles Rams, the organization must do everything it can to make it a reality, because the idea of him and Myles Garrett on the same defensive front is nightmare fuel.
Throw Kobie Turner, Braden Fiske and Byron Young into the mix and opposing offensive coordinators won't sleep a wink the week they play the Rams.
The all-in approach applies to the offense, too. Left tackle is a potential concern given the uncertainty around Alaric Jackson's status following a recent arrest, as reported by ESPN, and the potential impact on the Rams' depth at the position.
The team should bring in a veteran, such as Taylor Decker, or re-sign Joseph Noteboom to ensure Matthew Stafford's blind side is properly protected.
Furthermore, the Rams' offensive line is scheduled to be rebuilt next offseason. The approach can be partially avoided if Avila signs a contract extension before playing out the entirety of his rookie deal.
At 26 years old, Avila is the youngest of the Rams' interior starters, with the flexibility to start at multiple positions.
Miami Dolphins
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At this point in time, the Miami Dolphins are widely considered the NFL's worst team. Obviously, games have yet to be played, but their roster is definitely suspect.
For example, the organization hasn't placed its new quarterback, Malik Willis, in a position to succeed, because the Dolphins lack talent at wide receiver. A longtime veteran may not want to enter this type of situation. However, one can definitely enter this locker room and easily claim the WR1 spot.
On the other hand, Brooks is Miami's best player. He's coming off an All-Pro season after leading the NFL in total tackles. Even so, he's on the last year of his current deal and likely looking for a significant contract extension. The Dolphins can trade him and capitalize now instead of waiting for him to leave later.
While the entire team is in transition, Miami's offensive line remains a major area of concern. The left side appears set. The combo of right tackle Austin Jackson and right guard Jonah Savaiinaea played as poorly as anyone at their respective positions.
Miami would be wise to push both by creating competition at each spot.
Minnesota Vikings
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The Minnesota Vikings need a jump-start on both sides of the ball, specifically when dealing with those leading their particular units.
Offensively, Kyler Murray is the obvious choice to become the team's starting quarterback. His experience and superior arm talent, as well as athleticism, compared to JJ McCarthy will give the Vikings the best chance to rejoin the NFC's winning teams.
Defensively, Harrison Smith is an all-time franchise great. At the same time, his uncertainty whether to play this season should make the decision for the organization. At 37 years old, he can still play. But it's time for the team to move past the veteran defensive back. Eventually, third-round rookie Jakobe Thomas can slot into that spot.
Along the offensive line, Brian O'Neill has been a stalwart at right tackle, with 120 starts in eight NFL seasons. Despite turning 31 later this year, he should be in line for one more contract extension to ensure the Kevin O'Connell's offense features talented bookend blockers.
New England Patriots
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AJ Brown's acquisition completely reshapes the New England Patriots' offense. He joins his new team and immediately takes over as WR1, which could have long-term implications from potential contract negotiations.
From there, the Patriots must determine which options will get the most opportunities. New England signed Romeo Doubs in free agency. Kayshon Boutte continues to improve and impressed at minicamp. DeMario Douglas and Mack Hollins are proven veterans. Kyle Williams should be more prepared entering his second NFL season.
Wide receiver went from a major concern area to a potential strength depending on how the group evolves. However, the Patriots are looking for more at tight end, specifically an inline option to serve as a primary blocker. The team can invest in a Y-tight end to field a more complete offense.
Meanwhile, a big chunk of money should be reserved for Pro Bowl cornerback Christian Gonzalez since the 23-year-old entered the first window to negotiate a contract extension.
New Orleans Saints
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The New Orleans Saints are ahead of schedule thanks to Tyler Shough's emergence last season, but they're still not at the point where they can compete against the NFC's best.
Interestingly, two different situations among long-term veterans should have opposite outcomes despite the team's current status. Cameron Jordan should return if he still wants to play. He may be 36, but he's still a viable starter, who led the team with 10.5 sacks last season.
Whereas, Kamara should now be considered an overpriced backup after the Saints signed Travis Etienne Jr. on the first day of free agency. The Saints' all-time leading rusher can still contribute, particularly on passing downs, yet the soon-to-be 31-year-old runner holds a $10.5 million salary-cap charge.
On the other side of the ledger, the Saints should open up a competition at linebacker to see if Danny Stutsman can beat out Pete Werner to start next to Kaden Elliss.
New York Giants
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The New York Giants are full speed ahead with Jaxson Dart at quarterback and head coach John Harbaugh leading the way.
Unfortunately, Big Blue still has significant questions among Dart's targets. With Malik Nabers still recovering from an ACL injury and possibly not being ready for the start of the regular season, the Giants went out and signed Odell Beckham Jr., JuJu Smith-Schuster and Braxton Berrios to join a non-descript group of receivers. The next two months will help decide what options can actually play and which can be cut.
Conversely, the Giants have an embarrassment of riches among their edge-defenders. Brian Burns and Abdul Carter form an explosive pair, with this year's fifth overall pick, Arvell Reese, capable of playing off-ball and on the edge.
Sooner or later, Kayvon Thibodeaux will be the odd man out. The Giants can maximize the 2022 first-round pick's value by trading him sooner rather than later.
With Harbaugh's history, special teams will be a priority as well. Specifically, New York is searching for its kicker, with Ben Sauls and undrafted rookie Dominic Zvada vying for the role.
New York Jets
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The New York Jets are trying to establish a new standard, with an understanding they're still rebuilding and need to address quarterback next offseason.
To the credit of general manager Doug Mougey, he raised the roster's talent floor this offseason. At the same time, the Jets already own three first-round picks in next year's draft.
The franchise is walking a fine line between trying to get better but still being in position to draft a top quarterback prospect. New York added T'Vondre Sweat, Kingsley Enagbare, Joseph Ossai, Demario Davis, Nahshon Wright and Minkah Fitzpatrick. Then, the team drafted David Bailey and D'Angelo Ponds in the first two rounds.
Wright will compete with Azareye'h Thomas to start at corner, while Ponds is vying to take over the nickel role from Jarvis Brownlee Jr.
New York's second line of defense can be boosted by signing a Bobby Okereke, Germaine Pratt or Jerome Baker to play alongside Davis.
Finally, Geno Smith will be the Jets' Week 1 starting QB. Still, it's important the team gets a look at whichever young quarterback it keeps on the roster once the season is out of hand.
Philadelphia Eagles
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Jalen Carter is already one of the NFL's most disruptive defensive linemen. At 25 years old, he can get even better. The Philadelphia Eagles understand how valuable the two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle is. As such, a contract extension should be forthcoming, likely making his the league's highest-paid interior defender.
On the other side of the ball, the Eagles' offensive line is set. However, injuries have derailed this once dominant group.
Right and left tackles Lane Johnson and Jordan Mailata have both missed games over the last two seasons. The competition between veteran Fred Johnson and rookie Markel Bell could be the roster's most important battle if/when a starter misses time.
Similarly, the wide receiver position is in flux after the AJ Brown trade and a competition will ensue to see who sees the field. Dontayvion Wicks and first-round rookie Makai Lemon are vying to be the team's WR2 behind DeVonta Smith.
Pittsburgh Steelers
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The Pittsburgh Steelers' top remaining offseason objective may come across as shocking because of Watt's name value.
At the same time, the four-time first-team All-Pro turns 32 later this year, and he's not the caliber of player he once was. It's always better to get rid of a player one year too early than one year too late.
Watt still holds value around the league and should get good return.
Furthermore, the Steelers can clear up to $32 million with a trade (depending on terms). With Alex Highsmith and Nick Herbig both signed through 2027, someone will eventually go. Pittsburgh might as well sell high to get the best possible return.
On the other side of the ball, the Steelers legitimately need to address left tackle since Broderick Jones' status remains unclear due to a neck injury. Troy Fautanu moving from the right to left side is the most logical step, though the signing of Taylor Decker should be considered as well.
Another veteran addition could come at safety, where Pittsburgh lacks a true over-the-top defender. A Jimmie Ward or Xavier Woods could come into play.
San Francisco 49ers
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The left side of the San Francisco 49ers' offensive line is unsettled, even with all-world left tackle Trent Williams still playing at a high level at 37 years old.
Left guard is another matter, because the Niners don't have an established starter. Connor Colby started six games last season and struggled. He needs to show improvement, or veteran Robert Jones, who signed as a free agent, will claim the job.
Fourth-round rookie Carver Willis can enter the mix as well. Prior to Willis' selection, the 49ers used a third-round pick to add edge-rusher Romello Height. The Texas Tech product can serve as a designed pass-rusher in sub-packages, but the group needs more after the Niners finished dead last in sacks last season. Maybe general manager John Lynch brings in Joey Bosa to join his brother, Nick.
San Francisco already signed a high-profile, veteran wide receiver in Mike Evans. Now, it needs to move Brandon Aiyuk for whatever another team is willing to give in return since that relationship appears fractured beyond repair.
Seattle Seahawks
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Off the field, the Seattle Seahawks' pending sale is the biggest ongoing matter for the franchise. While that looms over everything, football operations continue unabated.
Like any previous Super Bowl champion, the Seahawks suffered their share of attrition during the subsequent offseason. Edge-rusher is one area where the team hasn't adequately addressed.
Obviously, multiple teams are looking to boost their pass rush, but the Seahawks hold an edge over most because of their recent success. Thus, they could have their pick of the top remaining free agents.
Also, the squad's championship-run was fueled by one of the NFL's most aggressive secondaries, with Witherspoon serving as the unit's CB1. Riq Woolen and Coby Bryant signed elsewhere. They did so knowing Witherspoon was due a massive contract extension now that he's entered his first window to do so. Kenneth Walker III capitalized in free agency as well.
The Seahawks chose Jadarian Price in this year's first round. With Zach Charbonnet recovering from a torn ACL, the Seahawks must decide who will be the featured back to open the 2026 campaign—whether it's Price, George Holani or Emmanuel Wilson.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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The clock is ticking for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Mayfield to reach terms on a new contract.
Despite a down season in 2025 for all parties, Mayfield established him a team leader and the Bucs' franchise quarterback. The 31-year-old now expects a long-term contract after setting career highs in completion percentage, passing yards and passing touchdowns during his first two seasons with the team.
Mayfield's re-signing grew in importance with Mike Evans' departure. The quarterback and his play will now be a bigger focal point after losing the franchise's all-time leading receiver to free agency.
Emeka Egbuka and Chris Godwin are firmly established as the squad's top two receiving threats, but someone between the trio of Jalen McMillan, Tez Johnson and rookie Ted Hurst must claim that third spot.
The Bucs were fortunate to have edge-defender Reuben Bain Jr. slide to them with this year's 15th overall pick. Bain is known for his physicality and relentlessness.
Instead of trying to rein the rookie, Tampa's coaching staff should let him go and set a different tone for the entire Buccaneers defense in hopes of elevating the entire unit.
Tennessee Titans
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The Tennessee Titans did a good job this offseason building up Cam Ward's support cast by adding wide receivers Carnell Tate and Wan'Dale Robinson, as well as tight end Daniel Bellinger.
Tennessee's offensive line still needs work, though. JC Latham may be at his more natural position on the right side and Peter Skoronski is one of the league's better guards. Beyond those two, left tackle Dan Moore Jr. played poorly last season.
The team's starting center and right guard have yet to be decided, with Austin Schlottmann and Jackson Slater considered the early favorites to start.
The Titans' middle linebacker finds itself in a similar position, with veteran Cody Barton being pushed by second-round rookie Anthony Hill Jr. Even if Barton remains on the field due to his ability to call the defense, Hill can be deployed in a variety of manners to ensure his athleticism and play-making ability are utilized.
The biggest organizational decision falls on whether the front office sees itself in a similar situation as the Cleveland Browns where Myles Garrett's timeline didn't match the team's. The same may apply to Simmons.
The Titans can trade him now and receive a huge return or extend his contract and make him the veteran centerpiece of the defense. A decision should be made either way.
Washington Commanders
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The Washington Commanders want to resemble the team that made it to the NFC Championship Game during the 2024 campaign instead of last year's five-win squad.
A healthy Jayden Daniels will go a long way. But the organization still has multiple areas to consider, starting at wide receiver where it failed to bring in a significant target opposite Terry McLaurin. Stefon Diggs, Keenan Allen and DeAndre Hopkins are available. Maybe Washington makes a play for Brandon Aiyuk. Deebo Samuel could return for another season.
Whatever the case, the Commanders don't have enough at wide receiver.
On the other side of the ball, Washington drafted Sonny Styles with this year's seventh overall pick. At the same time, veterans Frankie Luvu and Leo Chenal are on the roster. Head coach Dan Quinn must decide who will wear the green dot as the team's on-field play-caller.
Furthermore, that group may no longer be playing behind Payne. The organization is no stranger to flipping defensive linemen as they near contract extensions. The 29-year-old veteran is on the last year of his current deal and the Commanders have solid depth along their defensive front.
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.jpg?w=480 "Giants Eagles Football")
.jpg?w=480 "Lions Rams Football")
.jpg?w=480 "Raiders Football")
-(4).jpg?w=600 "Grading Monday Night Raw 🔠")
.jpg?w=600 "Ranking Biggest Draft Mistakes Ever 😱")