The 2026 NFL Offseason: A Review of the Best Moves
The 2026 NFL offseason has been a whirlwind of trades, free-agent signings, and draft picks, with teams making bold moves to improve their rosters and coaching staffs. Here's a deep dive into the top 25 best moves, analyzing their potential impact and providing expert commentary.
1. Los Angeles Rams Acquire Myles Garrett
What makes this move particularly fascinating is the sheer magnitude of the trade. The Rams swapped edge-rusher Jared Verse, a 2027 first-rounder, a 2028 second-rounder, and a conditional 2029 third-rounder for the all-time single-season sack leader, Myles Garrett. This move is so good that Aaron Donald is thinking about extending his contract. Garrett's presence, combined with reigning league MVP Matthew Stafford, gives the Rams a formidable defense and a strong foundation for a Super Bowl run.
2. New York Giants Hire John Harbaugh
In my opinion, this is a franchise-altering move. John Harbaugh established a winning culture with the Baltimore Ravens for nearly two decades and won a Super Bowl in 2012. His arrival in New York will immediately raise the Giants' standards. With a history of getting the most out of athletic quarterbacks, Harbaugh will be a key factor in the team's success, especially with the potential of Daniel Jones and the young talent on the roster.
3. Minnesota Vikings Sign Kyler Murray
Nothing changes the trajectory of a football team like an upgrade at quarterback. The Vikings, who have struggled with inconsistent play at the position, will likely pivot from third-year signal-caller J.J. McCarthy to two-time Pro Bowler Kyler Murray. If healthy, Murray could rediscover his Pro Bowl form under head coach Kevin O'Connell, who helped Sam Darnold's career resurgence.
4. Las Vegas Raiders Hire Klint Kubiak
The Raiders' hiring of Klint Kubiak is a strategic move. With quarterback Fernando Mendoza, the Raiders have an innovative play-caller who's coming off a Super Bowl victory with a top-ranked scoring offense. Kubiak can optimize the talent of All-Pro tight end Brock Bowers and 2025 first-round running back Ashton Jeanty right away.
5. Chicago Bears Sign Coby Bryant
The Bears upgraded at safety by signing Coby Bryant, a 27-year-old ascending ball hawk. He played a key role in the Seattle Seahawks' Super Bowl-winning defense, recording impressive statistics. This move addresses a critical need and adds depth to the secondary.
6. San Francisco 49ers Sign Mike Evans
The 49ers signed Mike Evans, a 32-year-old wide receiver with a proven track record. Despite missing nine games due to injuries last year, Evans is expected to be a reliable target for quarterback Brock Purdy. His presence will be crucial for the team's success, especially with the departure of Brandon Aiyuk.
7. Kansas City Chiefs Sign Kenneth Walker III
The Chiefs, with Patrick Mahomes' recovery from a torn ACL, must design an offense that takes pressure off him. Kenneth Walker III, a talented running back, could be a key part of this strategy. The Chiefs could allot 15-16 carries per game to Walker III until Mahomes returns to full health.
8. Philadelphia Eagles Trade for Edge Jonathan Greenard
General manager Howie Roseman strengthened the Eagles' line of scrimmage by acquiring Jonathan Greenard, a proven pass-rusher. If he bounces back from an injury-riddled 2025 campaign, Greenard will be a key contributor to the team's defense.
9. Tennessee Titans Hire Brian Daboll
Brian Daboll's hiring is a strategic move for the Titans. With a history of getting the most out of athletic quarterbacks, Daboll will be a key factor in the team's success. He has a proven track record of developing Pro Bowl-caliber players, and his presence will be a boost for the team's playoff chances.
10. New Orleans Saints Sign Travis Etienne Jr.
The Saints can change the complexion of their offense with Travis Etienne Jr. His ability to rack up scrimmage yards and rush for over 1,000 yards in multiple seasons makes him a valuable asset. Etienne will be the focal point of head coach Kellen Moore's offense.
11. Denver Broncos Acquire Jaylen Waddle
The Broncos added a reliable wide receiver in Jaylen Waddle, who can lead their aerial attack over the next five seasons. With Courtland Sutton entering his age-31 season, Waddle's presence will be crucial for the team's success, especially with the potential of quarterback Bo Nix.
12. Washington Commanders Sign Odafe Oweh
The Commanders' prized free-agent pickup, Odafe Oweh, is a talented edge rusher. His comparable pass-rushing numbers to K'Lavon Chaisson make him a valuable addition to the team's defense.
13. Pittsburgh Steelers Acquire WR Michael Pittman Jr.
The Steelers significantly upgraded their No. 2 receiver spot by acquiring Michael Pittman Jr. In terms of trade value, the Steelers won this deal, acquiring a wideout who has eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards twice in six seasons. This move will help Aaron Rodgers in his final NFL season.
14. Los Angeles Chargers Hire Mike McDaniel
Mike McDaniel's hiring will improve the Chargers' ground attack and bring creativity to the offense. Under his tutelage, the Miami Dolphins ranked sixth in rushing, and Tua Tagovailoa led the league in passing yards. This move will be beneficial for the Chargers' overall success.
15. New York Giants Sign TE Isaiah Likely
As more details emerge about Malik Nabers' recovery, Isaiah Likely becomes more valuable to the Giants' offense. Likely could be the team's lead pass-catcher in the early part of the season, providing a boost to the team's receiving corps.
16. Chicago Bears Sign DE John Franklin-Myers
John Franklin-Myers, a versatile defensive lineman, reunites with defensive-minded head coach Robert Saleh. His ability to play in even and odd-man fronts, coupled with his productive seasons, makes him a valuable addition to the Bears' defense.
17. Tampa Bay Buccaneers Draft Edge Rueben Bain Jr.
The Buccaneers drafted Rueben Bain Jr., a top edge-rushing prospect, despite some concerns about his arm length. His steady collegiate production and physical tools make him a potential steal for the team's defense.
18. New York Jets Draft David Bailey Over Arvell Reese
The Jets made a strategic move by drafting David Bailey, a top pass-rushing prospect, over Arvell Reese. This decision addresses a critical need in the team's pass rush and provides a versatile standout defender.
19. Dallas Cowboys Trade Up for S Caleb Downs
The Cowboys, in need of defensive upgrades, moved up to draft Caleb Downs, a two-time unanimous All-American. His intangibles and versatility make him a valuable addition to the team's defense.
20. Philadelphia Eagles Trade Up for WR Makai Lemon
The Eagles' trade for Makai Lemon, a talented wide receiver, is a strategic move. The team's general manager, Howie Roseman, made a calculated decision to strengthen the offense.
21. Tennessee Titans Draft WR Carnell Tate
The Titans drafted Carnell Tate, a wide receiver with reliable hands and man coverage skills. His ability to help quarterback Cam Ward make strides in his second year is a positive development for the team.
22. Washington Commanders Sign Edge K'Lavon Chaisson
K'Lavon Chaisson, a free-agent steal, signed a one-year, $11 million contract with the Commanders. His comparable pass-rushing numbers to Odafe Oweh make him a valuable addition to the team's defense.
23. Cleveland Browns Pick Up Another 2027 1st-Round Pick
The Browns' acquisition of another 2027 first-round pick is a strategic move. With the addition of Jared Verse and three draft picks, the Browns have the potential to add two rookies who could be cornerstone players.
24. Los Angeles Rams Trade for CB Trent McDuffie
The Rams addressed a glaring weakness in their secondary by acquiring Trent McDuffie, an All-Pro cornerback. His ability to line up on the boundary and in the slot will bolster the team's pass defense.
25. Chicago Bears Sign S Coby Bryant
The Bears signed Coby Bryant, a 27-year-old ascending ball hawk, to address a critical need at safety. His role in the Seahawks' Super Bowl-winning defense makes him a valuable addition to the team's secondary.
.jpg?w=3800&h=2000)
