2026 NFL Draft Team Needs
Arizona Cardinals
Disastrous 3-14 season led to firing of HC Jonathan Gannon and release of franchise QB Kyler Murray. New HC Mike LaFleur (former Rams OC) installed with DC Nick Rallis retained. Team is in full rebuild mode — missed on top FA QB Malik Willis (went to Miami), signed bridge QBs Brissett and Minshew. GM Monti Ossenfort is on the hot seat. Arizona invested heavily in OL and depth in free agency, but has massive holes on defense and no long-term QB. Likely eyeing a top QB in the 2027 draft and building around young defensive talent and Marvin Harrison Jr. in the meantime.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| EDGE | Critical | Josh Sweat had a career-high 12 sacks in 2025 but reportedly requested a trade after Gannon's firing (though teammate Mack Wilson denied it). Even if Sweat stays, Arizona has no viable second edge rusher. Baron Browning has been a disappointment and BJ Ojulari's development was stunted by a torn ACL in 2024. The Cardinals need a premium pass-rush partner for Sweat — or his replacement entirely if traded before the March 20 option bonus deadline. |
| OT | Critical | Right tackle is the biggest hole on offense. Jonah Williams (former starter) left in free agency, and the Cardinals signed Elijah Wilkinson as a stopgap. However, Wilkinson is a journeyman, not a long-term answer. Multiple mock drafts have Arizona taking Francis Mauigoa at No. 3 overall. Paris Johnson Jr. is solid at LT but the team desperately needs a bookend RT for the future. |
| QB | Critical | Kyler Murray was released and signed with the Vikings. Arizona missed on Malik Willis (signed with Miami). The Cardinals signed Gardner Minshew as a backup but are rolling with Jacoby Brissett (1-11 as starter in 2025) as the presumptive QB1. There is no franchise quarterback on this roster. However, the 2026 QB class is considered weak — Arizona may be positioning for a top pick in 2027 to draft their franchise QB, making this a 'bridge year' at the position. |
| IDL | Important | The Cardinals released both Dalvin Tomlinson and Bilal Nichols this offseason, gutting the interior defensive line depth behind Walter Nolen. Nolen was impressive as a rookie (first-round pick) but needs support. Roy Lopez was re-signed and L.J. Collier returns, but both are replacement-level. Darius Robinson has been hampered by injuries. Jonah Williams (DL, from Saints) was signed on a one-year deal for depth but the interior is thin and aging behind Nolen. |
| LB | Important | Mack Wilson Sr. is a solid team captain and starter, but the Cardinals released Akeem Davis-Gaither (117 tackles in 2025) and have limited depth. Cody Simon is the projected starter alongside Wilson but is unproven. The defense had a top-10 scoring unit through Week 8 before injuries derailed it — LB depth is a real concern for sustainability. |
| S | Moderate | Jalen Thompson, a longtime starter, signed with the Dallas Cowboys in free agency (3-year, $36M). Budda Baker remains an elite anchor at the position. Dadrion Taylor-Demerson is projected to step into the starting role alongside Baker, and the Cardinals signed Andrew Wingard for competition/depth. Taylor-Demerson is unproven as a full-time starter but showed promise — this is a moderate need, not critical. |
| CB | Moderate | The Cardinals have invested heavily in young cornerbacks — Will Johnson (2025 2nd round), Denzel Burke (2025 5th round, breakout rookie with 3 INTs), Max Melton (2024 2nd round), and Garrett Williams (2023 3rd round, recovering from Achilles). Sean Murphy-Bunting was restructured and returns from a knee injury. The talent is there but extremely young and injury-prone. Adding another CB for depth/competition would be wise but it's not a top priority. |
| IOL | Minor | The interior line was addressed aggressively in free agency. Isaac Seumalo was signed to a 3-year, $31.5M deal and will start at LG, replacing the released Evan Brown. Isaiah Adams projects as the starting RG with Matt Pryor providing competition. Center Hjalte Froholdt is entrenched. The interior is now adequate, though adding a developmental guard in the mid-to-late rounds would be smart given Seumalo's age (32) and injury history. |
- Isaac Seumalo (IOL) — 3yr/$31.5M ($19M gtd). Pro Bowl guard and best available IOL on market; anchors overhauled starting left guard spot
- Tyler Allgeier (RB) — 2yr/$12.25M ($8M gtd). Durable former 1,000-yard rusher provides insurance for injury-prone James Conner
- Kendrick Bourne (WR) — 2yr/$10M ($7.5M gtd, max $12M). Slot receiver with prior LaFleur connection fills WR3 hole left by Jones and Dortch departures
- Roy Lopez (IDL) — 2yr/$11.5M ($7M gtd). Arizona fan favorite returns; familiar with DC Rallis's scheme after two previous stints with team
- Elijah Wilkinson (OT) — 2yr/terms TBD. Starting RT who played all 17 games in Atlanta steps in to replace departed Jonah Williams
- Kyler Murray (QB) → Minnesota Vikings. Franchise QB released after 7 seasons and 87 starts; Cardinals carry massive dead money from 2022 extension
- Jalen Thompson (S) → Dallas Cowboys. Starting S2 alongside Budda Baker for 5 seasons departs, creating genuine hole in Arizona's secondary
- Dalvin Tomlinson (IDL) → TBD/released. Cap casualty release thins interior D-line depth heading into critical rebuild offseason
- Jonah Williams (OT) (OT) → TBD/unsigned. Starting right tackle allowed to walk, leaving OT as an unresolved position entering the draft
- Will Hernandez (IOL) → TBD/unsigned. Starting RG departs, though Seumalo signing and Isaiah Adams competition partially offset the loss
Scheme: DC Nick Rallis runs a 3-4/hybrid defense that values versatile edge players who can rush and drop. Arvell Reese-type EDGE/LB hybrids fit perfectly. New HC Mike LaFleur brings a Shanahan-tree offense emphasizing play-action, outside zone running, and bootlegs — making a dominant OT even more critical to protect play-fakes and the boot side. The offense will likely run heavy personnel groupings (12/13 personnel) given the strength of Trey McBride at TE and Allgeier/Conner at RB, so blocking at the point of attack matters more than pure pass-pro upside.
Atlanta Falcons
New regime year one: HC Kevin Stefanski, GM Ian Cunningham, President Matt Ryan. Went 8-9 in 2025, missed playoffs for 8th straight year. Fired HC Raheem Morris and GM Terry Fontenot. QB Michael Penix Jr. tore ACL in 2025 (his 5th season-ending injury). James Pearce Jr. facing 5 felony charges from domestic violence arrest — availability for 2026 highly uncertain. Massive roster turnover with 26+ free agents departing. Carrying $38.8M in dead money (Cousins $22.5M, Mooney $11M). Cap-strapped but making conservative, depth-oriented moves. Only 5 draft picks, no 1st rounder — must hit on Day 2-3.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| WR | Critical | Released Darnell Mooney ($18.4M cap hit) after a disastrous 2025 (32 catches, 443 yards). Drake London is the only proven weapon. Signed Jahan Dotson (former 1st-round pick, career 121 catches) and Olamide Zaccheaus (depth WR3/4), but neither is a true WR2. The receiver room behind London consists of Dotson, Zaccheaus, Casey Washington, and practice squad-level players. Need a dynamic complement to London, especially with Penix/Tua needing weapons. |
| EDGE | Critical | James Pearce Jr. faces 5 felony charges and his 2026 availability is highly uncertain — team should plan as if he's unavailable. Lost Arnold Ebiketie (Eagles) and Leonard Floyd (UFA) from 2025's franchise-record 57-sack unit. Signed Azeez Ojulari, Samson Ebukam, and Cameron Thomas on cheap 1-year deals, but all have injury/production concerns. Jalon Walker is the only proven, reliable edge presence. Need a high-upside pass rusher to replace potential Pearce loss. |
| IDL | Critical | Lost David Onyemata (Jets) and Kentavius Street (UFA). Six of nine interior DL who played in 2025 left. Young trio of Dorlus, Orhorhoro, and Harrison showed promise but Atlanta ranked 23rd against the run. Signed Da'Shawn Hand (run-stuffer) and Chris Williams (rotational), but still lack an established run-stuffing nose tackle. Matt Ryan explicitly stated stopping the run is a top priority for 2026. |
| CB | Important | Lost versatile CB Dee Alford (Bills, 3yr/$21M) who started 11 games with career-high 3 INTs and 13 PDs. A.J. Terrell is a locked-in CB1, but the CB2 spot is thin. Billy Bowman Jr. returns from Achilles injury to play slot, but health is uncertain. Only Terrell and Mike Hughes are under contract beyond 2026. Clark Phillips III has been a bust (1 game in 2025). Need a long-term CB2 opposite Terrell. |
| LB | Important | Lost Kaden Elliss to Saints ($33M deal) — was the defensive lynchpin with 380 tackles, 12.5 sacks over 3 years. DC Jeff Ulbrich said replacing Elliss would 'take more than one human being.' Signed Christian Harris and Channing Tindall as replacements, but neither is proven. Troy Andersen (restructured) has played only 9 games since end of rookie year due to injuries. Divine Deablo is the only cemented starter. Need a quality ILB to pair with Deablo. |
| OT | Moderate | Jake Matthews turns 34, entering the downswing of his career at LT. Kaleb McGary missed all of 2025 with a leg injury and returns at age 31 at RT — could be cut after 2026 to save $15M. No quality swing tackle depth after losing Elijah Wilkinson in FA. Need to begin developing a future starter to eventually replace both aging tackles. |
| RB | Moderate | Lost Tyler Allgeier (Cardinals, 2yr/$12.25M), who provided 1,841 yards and 15 TDs over 3 years as the primary backup and short-yardage back. Bijan Robinson is an elite RB1, but there is no proven RB2 on the roster. Nathan Carter and Carlos Washington are unproven depth. Need ~150 touches worth of production behind Robinson. |
| IOL | Minor | Chris Lindstrom is an elite RG. Matthew Bergeron is solid at LG. Ryan Neuzil is adequate at C after his first full season starting. Signed Corey Levin for depth. Interior line is the strongest part of the OL but center could use competition long-term. |
- Tua Tagovailoa (QB) — 1yr/$1.2M (minimum; MIA paying $54M in offset). Former Pro Bowl QB signs minimum deal to compete with Penix Jr. as Atlanta's bridge starter
- Jahan Dotson (WR) — 2yr/$15M ($10M gtd, up to $17M). Former 16th overall pick and Super Bowl champion gets fresh start as ATL's WR2 alongside Drake London
- Kyle Pitts (franchise tag) (TE) — 1yr/$15.045M (franchise tag). Breakout TE retained via franchise tag; long-term extension expected during 2026 season
- Nick Folk (K) — 2yr/$9M (~$4.5M gtd). NFL's most accurate kicker (last 3 seasons) ends ATL's carousel nightmare at placekicker
- Jake Bailey (P) — 3yr/$9M ($5M gtd). All-Pro punter (2020) provides long-term stability in total special teams overhaul
- Kirk Cousins (QB) → TBD/unsigned. Veteran QB cut as new regime moves to Tua/Penix era; $22.5M dead cap hit lingers
- Kaden Elliss (LB) → New Orleans Saints. ATL's defensive anchor (107 tackles, 3.5 sacks in 2025) nearly doubles his salary returning to Saints
- David Onyemata (IDL) → New York Jets. Three-year starting DT departs, leaving critical run-stopping void on a defense ranked 27th vs. the run
- Dee Alford (CB) → Buffalo Bills. Ascending versatile CB2/nickel cashes in after outstanding 2025, leaving ATL's secondary short-handed
- Darnell Mooney (WR) → New York Giants. Cut after injury-plagued 2025 (32 catches, 443 yards) to avoid $18.4M cap hit
Scheme: Under new HC Kevin Stefanski and returning DC Jeff Ulbrich, the Falcons run a 3-4 base defense that generated a franchise-record 57 sacks in 2025 via a deep rotation. Ulbrich values versatile, athletic edge players and aggressive blitzers — EDGE prospects who can rush from multiple alignments fit well. On offense, Stefanski will employ a heavy run-first scheme with extensive 12-personnel (2-TE) sets, making TE and OL valuable. OC Tommy Rees adds a passing game dimension. The defense needs run-stuffing IDL badly (ranked 23rd vs. run in 2025). CB prospects must be scheme-versatile — Ulbrich uses both man and zone coverage. LB prospects with blitzing ability have elevated value given Elliss's departure. Day 2 WR prospects who can stretch the field vertically are ideal to complement Drake London's contested-catch game.
Baltimore Ravens
New head coach Jesse Minter takes over an 8-9 team after John Harbaugh was fired. The Ravens lost a staggering number of starters in free agency — C Tyler Linderbaum, TE Isaiah Likely, TE Charlie Kolar, P Jordan Stout, S Alohi Gilman, S Ar'Darius Washington, EDGE Dre'Mont Jones, EDGE David Ojabo, EDGE Kyle Van Noy, and RB Keaton Mitchell. DT Nnamdi Madubuike's 2026 status remains uncertain after a potentially career-threatening neck injury. Baltimore signed EDGE Trey Hendrickson, IOL John Simpson, S Jaylinn Hawkins, CB Chidobe Awuzie (re-signed), QB Tyler Huntley (re-signed), and TE Durham Smythe. The interior OL is in shambles after Linderbaum's departure and guard play ranked 32nd in 2025. WR room is thin behind Zay Flowers with Rashod Bateman in trade rumors after a career-low 224-yard 2025 season. Eric DeCosta has signaled the draft is the primary roster-building tool this offseason.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| IOL | Critical | Tyler Linderbaum signed a record $81M deal with the Raiders, leaving a massive void at center. The starting guards ranked dead last (32nd) in pass block win rate in 2025. John Simpson was signed to address one guard spot, but the Ravens still need a starting center and potentially another guard. Emery Jones Jr. (2025 3rd-round pick) and Andrew Vorhees are the only remaining interior options. |
| WR | Critical | DeAndre Hopkins departed via voided contract. Rashod Bateman had a career-low 224 yards in 2025 and is the subject of active trade rumors. Zay Flowers (back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons, 2x Pro Bowler) is the only reliable weapon. Behind him, the depth chart features Devontez Walker, LaJohntay Wester, and Cornelius Johnson — none proven NFL contributors. The new offense under OC Declan Doyle will be more up-tempo, demanding better receiving talent. |
| CB | Important | Marlon Humphrey is entering the final year of his deal and will turn 33 in 2026. Nate Wiggins (2024 1st-rounder) showed promise but is still developing. Chidobe Awuzie was re-signed on a one-year deal as a stopgap CB3. The secondary was inconsistent in 2025 and DeCosta has said CB is a 'big need every year.' Baltimore needs to invest in the long-term future of the position. |
| DT | Important | Nnamdi Madubuike missed 15 games with a career-threatening neck injury and his 2026 availability remains deeply uncertain despite positive signals. The defense collapsed without him — the Ravens finished with just 30 sacks (30th in NFL). Travis Jones signed an extension and John Jenkins was re-signed, but the Ravens need a disruptive 3-tech pass rusher in case Madubuike cannot return or is limited. Broderick Washington was also limited to 3 games in 2025. |
| EDGE | Moderate | Signing Trey Hendrickson (4-year, $112M) was a massive upgrade and addresses the primary pass rush need. However, the Ravens lost Dre'Mont Jones (Patriots), David Ojabo (Dolphins), and Kyle Van Noy (UFA, unsigned). Behind Hendrickson, the depth is very young: 2nd-year Mike Green, Tavius Robinson, and Adisa Isaac (4 games in 2 seasons). The Ravens need a complementary edge rusher — Hendrickson alone cannot carry the pass rush, especially given his weakness in run defense. |
| TE | Moderate | Isaiah Likely signed with the Giants ($40M) and Charlie Kolar signed with the Chargers ($24.3M). Mark Andrews remains the TE1 but is a 3x Pro Bowler entering his age-31 season. Durham Smythe was signed as a blocking TE from Chicago. The Ravens need a receiving TE2 to complement Andrews — this has been a two-TE-heavy offense historically. |
| OT | Minor | Ronnie Stanley (LT, 32 years old) is signed through 2027 on a 3-year, $60M deal and played 16 games in 2025. Roger Rosengarten (RT, 2024 draft pick) is the starting right tackle. However, Stanley's age and injury history (missed significant time 2020-2022) mean the Ravens should consider future planning here. Bleacher Report named Stanley the team's 'Top Trade Asset' this offseason. |
| LB | Minor | Roquan Smith is elite and signed long-term. Trenton Simpson enters his 3rd year as the other starter. Teddye Buchanan provides depth. Jake Hummel departed (Raiders). The position is solid but could use a special teams contributor and developmental depth piece. |
- Trey Hendrickson (EDGE) — 4yr/$112M ($60M gtd, max $120M). 2024 NFL sacks leader (17.5) and four-time Pro Bowler fills Baltimore's biggest need on a franchise-record free-agent deal
- John Simpson (IOL) — 3yr/$30M ($17.5M gtd). Returning guard stabilizes one IOL spot but center vacancy created by Linderbaum's departure remains unsolved
- Jaylinn Hawkins (S) — 2yr/$10M. AFC Champion Patriots starter (4 INTs, 15 starts in 2025) fills the S3 role vacated by Gilman and Washington
- Durham Smythe (TE) — 1yr/$2.5M. Blocking TE replacement for Charlie Kolar reunites with OC Declan Doyle but does not address the receiving TE vacancy
- Tyler Huntley (QB) — 2yr/$5M (re-sign). Dual-threat backup who won both 2025 starts retained; Cooper Rush released
- Tyler Linderbaum (IOL) → Las Vegas Raiders. Three-time Pro Bowl center departs on a record-breaking deal, leaving an enormous hole at C that was not replaced in free agency
- Isaiah Likely (TE) → New York Giants. Versatile receiving TE follows former HC John Harbaugh to New York, leaving Andrews without a pass-catching complement
- Charlie Kolar (TE) → Los Angeles Chargers. Primary blocking TE and key run-game weapon departs, partially replaced by Durham Smythe
- Dre'Mont Jones (EDGE) → New England Patriots. Productive rotational edge rusher (2.5 sacks, 15 QB hits in 9 games) departs, reducing depth behind new star Hendrickson
- Alohi Gilman (S) → Kansas City Chiefs. Starting safety signs big deal with Chiefs; Hawkins signing partially replaces his production
Scheme: Under new HC Jesse Minter (former Chargers DC), Baltimore will run an aggressive, multiple-front defense that prioritizes disruption up front. Minter's scheme asks edge rushers to be versatile — not just pin-their-ears-back speed rushers — which makes sturdy, high-motor EDGE prospects who can set the edge against the run valuable. Interior DL who can generate pressure as 3-techs are paramount, especially with Madubuike's uncertain status. On offense, new OC Declan Doyle (from Bears) will push a faster tempo — the Bears ran the most plays per game in 2025, while the Ravens ranked 29th. This elevates the need for WRs who can run the full route tree and operate both inside and outside. The run-heavy identity (Derrick Henry, Lamar Jackson) means IOL prospects must excel in zone-blocking schemes. Baltimore traditionally plays three safeties, making the 3rd safety role important — Hawkins fills this for now.
Buffalo Bills
New HC Joe Brady (promoted from OC Jan 27) and new DC Jim Leonhard installing a 3-4 defense after Sean McDermott's firing. Josh Allen remains elite but the Bills went 12-5 and lost in the Divisional Round to Denver. Massive defensive scheme change from 4-3 to 3-4 creates new personnel needs. Bills extended their young core (Allen, Cook, Rousseau, Benford, Shakir, Bernard) in 2025 but are cap-strapped entering 2026. Free agency addressed WR1 (DJ Moore trade), EDGE (Chubb), slot CB (Alford), and safety (C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Geno Stone) but significant holes remain at LB, IDL/NT, IOL, and EDGE depth.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| LB | Critical | Scheme change to 3-4 demands two quality inside linebackers. Matt Milano (31, UFA) appears headed out after contract restructure freed him. Shaq Thompson (UFA) also departed. Terrel Bernard is locked in financially but was a huge disappointment in 2025 — outplayed by Thompson when healthy. Dorian Williams is a solid depth piece but not a true starter in a 3-4. Buffalo has only Bernard, Williams, and Joe Andreessen under contract from last year's active LB roster. Need an impact ILB who can cover TEs and stop the run alongside Bernard. |
| IDL | Critical | The switch to a 3-4 front creates an urgent need for a true nose tackle. The Bills allowed 136.2 rush yards per game (28th in NFL) in 2025. Deone Walker had a breakout rookie year but is a penetrating 3-tech, not a classic NT. Ed Oliver is undersized for NT and projects more as a 3-4 DE. T.J. Sanders showed flashes but cannot play nose. Brandon Beane acknowledged the scheme change alters how they value nose tackles. DaQuan Jones and Larry Ogunjobi are UFAs unlikely to return. The Bills need a space-eating IDL to anchor the front. |
| EDGE | Important | The Chubb signing addresses the top of the depth chart, pairing him with Greg Rousseau. However, Joey Bosa (UFA) and A.J. Epenesa (UFA) both appear unlikely to return. Landon Jackson (2025 3rd-rounder) had a disappointing rookie year. Michael Hoecht is returning from a ruptured Achilles. Depth behind Rousseau/Chubb is very thin. The Bills still need a developmental pass rusher, especially one who can play OLB in Leonhard's 3-4. |
| IOL | Important | David Edwards signed a 4-year/$61M deal with the Saints, leaving a gaping hole at left guard. Edwards started 37 games over two seasons and was one of the NFL's best guards. McGovern was re-signed (4yr/$52M), keeping center locked down. O'Cyrus Torrence is set at RG. The Bills re-signed swing OL Alec Anderson and have Sedrick Van Pran-Granger and Tylan Grable as internal options, but none are proven starters. This is a clear upgrade opportunity in the draft. |
| S | Important | The safety position was gutted this offseason. Taylor Rapp was released (failed physical), Damar Hamlin is unsigned, Darnell Savage signed with Pittsburgh, and Jordan Poyer (34) is unsigned. Cole Bishop is the only entrenched starter. The Bills signed C.J. Gardner-Johnson (1yr) and Geno Stone (1yr) as veteran stopgaps, but neither is a long-term answer. The safety unit ranked 22nd in PFF overall grade in 2025. Bishop needs a reliable partner. |
| WR | Moderate | The DJ Moore trade significantly addressed this need — he reunites with Joe Brady and projects as WR1. Khalil Shakir is a strong slot option on a new extension. However, Keon Coleman has not broken out, Josh Palmer is a role player, and Curtis Samuel was released. The WR corps generated the 9th-fewest receiving yards by WRs in 2025 (2,107). Even with Moore, adding another playmaker through the draft makes sense to give Allen a true three-deep threat. |
| CB | Minor | Christian Benford is locked in as CB1 on a 4yr/$76M extension and is one of the league's best corners. Maxwell Hairston (2025 1st-rounder) projects as CB2 after flashing as a rookie despite injuries. Dee Alford was signed (3yr/$21M) to replace Taron Johnson in the slot. Taron Johnson and Dane Jackson are gone, and Tre'Davious White is unsigned. The top 3 is solid if Hairston stays healthy, but depth behind them is very thin — could use a Day 3 pick for insurance. |
- DJ Moore (WR) — Trade (4yr/$98M remaining; Bills sent 2026 2nd-round pick #60). Reunites with HC Joe Brady; two-time 1,100-yard receiver immediately becomes WR1 and fully resolves Bills' biggest offensive need
- Bradley Chubb (EDGE) — 3yr/$43.5M ($29M gtd, max $52.5M). Two-time Pro Bowl pass rusher (8.5 sacks in 2025) fills the Joey Bosa void; pairs with Rousseau to give Buffalo a legitimate starting EDGE tandem
- Connor McGovern (IOL) — 4yr/$52M ($32M gtd) — re-sign. Pro Bowl center locked up long-term before free agency; anchor of the Bills' run-blocking unit stays put for 4 more years
- Dee Alford (CB) — 3yr/$15.75M base (up to $21M, $10.12M gtd). Nickel cornerback slides into Taron Johnson's slot role; three-year deal signals real investment in Leonhard's new scheme fit
- CJ Gardner-Johnson (S) — 1yr/$6M. Veteran safety brought in to compete for starting role opposite Cole Bishop amid complete overhaul of the Bills' safety room
- David Edwards (IOL) → New Orleans Saints. Starting left guard cashes in on the open market; Bills couldn't compete at $15M+/yr, leaving the most pressing remaining hole on the roster at LG
- Taron Johnson (CB) → Las Vegas Raiders. Starting nickel corner traded away as part of Leonhard's defensive overhaul; Dee Alford signed as the direct replacement
- Joey Bosa (EDGE) → TBD/unsigned. One-year experiment at EDGE produced only 5 sacks; not re-signed after Bills moved on to Bradley Chubb on a 3-year deal
- Taylor Rapp (S) → Released. Cap casualty cut triggered a complete safety room overhaul; Bills also lost Poyer, Hamlin, and Savage to UFA, forcing a full secondary rebuild
- Mitch Trubisky (QB) → Tennessee Titans. Backup QB departs for Tennessee; Kyle Allen signed on a 2-year deal as the familiar replacement behind Josh Allen
Scheme: Jim Leonhard's 3-4 defense is a complete overhaul from McDermott's 4-3. This changes nearly every defensive need: (1) True nose tackle is now essential — a space-eating 0-tech who can two-gap and eat double teams. (2) EDGE rushers need to be stand-up OLBs who can rush from a two-point stance — Rousseau and Chubb fit this well. (3) Two quality ILBs are critical in a 3-4 — the Bills currently have Bernard (disappointing) and Williams (limited). (4) DEs in a 3-4 need more girth than 4-3 DEs — Oliver and Walker may slide to 3-4 DE roles. (5) On offense, Joe Brady's system thrives with a true outside X receiver (Moore) paired with a shifty slot (Shakir), and values creative RB usage (Cook). The Bills should prioritize defensive players who fit Leonhard's specific 3-4 archetypes rather than generic BPA.
Carolina Panthers
NFC South champions at 8-9 in 2025, lost in Wild Card round to Rams. Bryce Young showed growth (3,011 passing yards) and Tetairoa McMillan won Offensive Rookie of the Year (70 catches, 1,014 yards). Team aggressively addressed pass rush and LB in free agency with Jaelan Phillips and Devin Lloyd. Lost Rico Dowdle, Cade Mays, and A'Shawn Robinson. Ikem Ekwonu ruptured patellar tendon in playoff loss, expected to miss most/all of 2026. Signed Rasheed Walker as 1-year LT replacement. Team is ascending but still has holes at DL depth, safety, WR2/WR3, and along the OL long-term.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| IDL | Critical | Released A'Shawn Robinson ($10.5M cap savings), losing the team's second-most productive DL behind Derrick Brown (62.2% of defensive snaps in 2025). Tershawn Wharton dealt with injuries all year (9 games played) and Bobby Brown III is a limited nose tackle. Fifth-round pick Cam Jackson is raw. Need a legitimate rotational or starting interior DL who can absorb snaps alongside Brown. |
| S | Important | Nick Scott was re-signed on a 1-year, $3.25M deal but is 30 and viewed as upgradeable despite 111 tackles. Tre'von Moehrig is the anchor but graded poorly in coverage. Lathan Ransom showed flashes as a rookie (51 tackles, INT) but is a similar skill set to Moehrig — both are box/run-support types. Ejiro Evero's big nickel scheme needs three safeties, and the Panthers lack a true center-field free safety. |
| OT | Important | Ikem Ekwonu suffered a ruptured patellar tendon in the Wild Card game and is expected to miss most or all of 2026. Signed Rasheed Walker (1-year, $10M) as a stopgap LT, but Walker is on a short-term deal. RT Taylor Moton is aging and entering the back end of his contract. Yosh Nijman surprisingly retired. Stone Forsythe is emergency depth only. Long-term OT investment needed even with Walker filling the 2026 gap. |
| WR | Important | Tetairoa McMillan is the clear WR1 (OROY) and Jalen Coker emerged late (19 catches, 244 yards, 3 TDs in final 5 games). But after those two, the cupboard is thin. Xavier Legette has massively underperformed as a 2024 1st-round pick with worsening PFF grades. John Metchie III was signed on a 1-year deal but has only 73 career NFL catches. Jimmy Horn Jr. is a gadget/speed player, not a reliable WR3. Need a true complement to McMillan. |
| EDGE | Moderate | Signed Jaelan Phillips to a massive 4-year, $120M deal — he immediately becomes the top pass rusher. But Phillips carries significant injury history. Nic Scourton (2nd-round pick, 5 sacks as rookie) and Princely Umanmielen provide young depth. DJ Wonnum and Trevis Gipson left in free agency. Patrick Jones II and Thomas Incoom are rotation pieces. Could still use another EDGE for insurance and rotation behind Phillips. |
| TE | Moderate | Ja'Tavion Sanders was placed on IR late in 2025 and has shown worsening PFF grades two years running. Tommy Tremble had back surgery in 2025 and is a better blocker than receiver. James Mitchell is an RFA depth piece. Bryce Young needs a reliable middle-of-field weapon. Multiple mock drafts have the Panthers targeting TE Kenyon Sadiq at 19. |
| IOL | Moderate | Lost starting C Cade Mays to Lions (3-year, $25M) and Austin Corbett to free agency. Signed Luke Fortner (1-year, $4.75M) from Saints as center replacement. Guards Damien Lewis and Robert Hunt (returning from torn biceps) are strong starters, but Hunt missed 15 games in 2025. Chandler Zavala ended season on IR. Fortner is a stopgap — long-term center solution may be needed. |
| RB | Moderate | Lost Rico Dowdle (1,076 rushing yards, 297 receiving yards) to Pittsburgh. Chuba Hubbard becomes the lead back again. Trevor Etienne is a capable backup. Jonathon Brooks (2024 2nd-rounder) is returning from back-to-back ACL tears — only 9 career carries — and is a huge question mark. Could use a complementary back in mid-to-late rounds. |
| LB | Minor | Signed Devin Lloyd (3-year, $45M) — the top off-ball LB in free agency with 5 INTs in 2025. This was a massive upgrade. Trevin Wallace (season-ending shoulder surgery) returns for Year 3. Lost Christian Rozeboom (team tackles leader) in free agency. Claudin Cherelus stepped in as starter late. Could still add depth behind Lloyd and Wallace, but this is no longer a glaring need. |
- Jaelan Phillips (EDGE) — 4yr/$120M ($80M gtd, $60M fully gtd at signing). Top free-agent EDGE rusher lands on a franchise deal — 73 QB pressures in 2025 finally fixes the Panthers' chronic pass-rush problem
- Devin Lloyd (LB) — 3yr/$45M ($25M gtd). 2025 Pro Bowl, Second-Team All-Pro linebacker (5 INTs, 81 tackles) addresses the Panthers' most glaring defensive weakness in one swing
- Rasheed Walker (OT) — 1yr/$10M. Top available LT on the market steps in at left tackle while Ikem Ekwonu recovers from torn patellar tendon
- Luke Fortner (IOL) — 1yr/$4.75M. Bridge starter at center fills the hole created by Cade Mays' departure to Detroit
- Kenneth Pickett (QB) — 1yr/$7.5M ($4M gtd). Former first-round pick upgrades backup QB room as younger, more athletic insurance behind Bryce Young
- Rico Dowdle (RB) → Pittsburgh Steelers. Back-to-back 1,000-yard rusher departs, leaving a backfield hole that Chuba Hubbard and Trevor Etienne must now fill
- Cade Mays (IOL) → Detroit Lions. Starting center exits for a multi-year deal in Detroit, triggering the Luke Fortner bridge signing
- Nick Scott (S) → TBD/unsigned. 17-game starting safety (career-high 111 tackles) departs, leaving a meaningful hole at the back of Carolina's secondary
- A'Shawn Robinson (IDL) → Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Veteran starting DT cut for cap space and signs with a division rival — thins an IDL rotation that now leans heavily on Derrick Brown
- Yosh Nijman (OT) → retired. Backup LT plan retires despite a multi-year offer, accelerating the team's pursuit of Rasheed Walker
Scheme: DC Ejiro Evero runs a 3-4 base with flexibility to shift to a 4-3. Heavy use of a big nickel package requiring three safeties on the field. Moehrig plays as a hybrid box/LB role, so the third safety needs to be a true center-field FS. Phillips fits as a 3-4 OLB/EDGE similar to his role under Vic Fangio in Philly. IDL prospects who can play 3-tech and generate interior pressure are especially valuable given the loss of Robinson. The offense under Dave Canales is a West Coast system that values YAC and middle-of-field passing — a receiving TE (like Sadiq) would be a scheme-perfect fit.
Chicago Bears
Coming off an 11-6 NFC North title and Divisional Round loss to the Rams. Ben Johnson's first year as HC was a massive success. Now pivoting to defense-heavy offseason after two years building the offense around Caleb Williams. Significant secondary turnover with Kevin Byard, Jaquan Brisker, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and Pro Bowl CB Nahshon Wright all departing. Drew Dalman's shocking retirement and Ozzy Trapilo's patellar tendon injury create OL concerns. Defense ranked 23rd in points allowed (24.4/g) despite 33 takeaways — pass rush and interior DL need significant upgrades to contend for a Super Bowl.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| EDGE | Critical | Despite Montez Sweat posting 10 sacks as the team's sack leader, the Bears lack a proven high-end edge presence opposite him. Austin Booker had 4.5 sacks in 10 games but struggles against the run. Dayo Odeyingbo was a nonfactor (1 sack, 10 pressures in 8 games) before a season-ending injury. Shemar Turner played just 5 games before a season-ending injury and his best position (DT vs. DE) is still unclear. The Bears signed Kentavius Street for depth but he's a rotational player, not a starter. Dennis Allen's defense needs a legitimate second edge rusher to generate consistent pressure. |
| DT | Critical | The interior defensive line was a glaring weakness in 2025. Grady Jarrett had just 1.5 sacks and ranked 71st among DTs in impact scoring. Gervon Dexter has potential but was inconsistent. Andrew Billings is a free agent. Neville Gallimore was signed on a 2-year/$10M deal but is a depth piece, not a game-changing interior disruptor. The Bears need a true pass-rushing DT who can collapse the pocket and complement the edge rush. Multiple mock drafts have Chicago targeting a DT at #25. |
| S | Critical | The Bears lost ALL of their safeties from 2025. Kevin Byard (signed with Patriots, $9M), Jaquan Brisker (Steelers, $5.5M), C.J. Gardner-Johnson (Bills, $6M), and Jonathan Owens (Colts) all departed. Coby Bryant was signed to a 3-year/$40M deal to fill one starting spot, but the second starting safety position is completely vacant. Elijah Hicks was re-signed but is a special teams player who didn't start a game in 2025. The Bears must draft a safety to pair with Bryant. |
| OT | Important | Ozzy Trapilo (2025 2nd-round pick) suffered a ruptured patellar tendon that will sideline him for most of 2026. Drew Dalman's retirement forced Joe Thuney to left tackle in the playoffs, but Poles confirmed Thuney won't be moving to LT permanently. The Bears re-signed Braxton Jones (1yr/$5M with $5M incentives) and signed Jedrick Wills, but Jones was benched during 2025 and Wills hasn't started since 2023 due to injuries. Theo Benedet and Kiran Amegadjie are developmental options. LT is a clear concern with no proven long-term answer while Trapilo recovers. Darnell Wright (RT) is a second-team All-Pro and locked in. |
| CB | Important | Pro Bowl CB Nahshon Wright (5 INTs, NFL-leading 8 takeaways) signed with the Jets for just $5.5M, a move many think the Bears should have matched. Jaylon Johnson is under contract through 2027 but had an injury-plagued 2025 (7 games played, groin injuries). Kyler Gordon played only 3 regular season games. Tyrique Stevenson had the lowest passer rating allowed when targeted but was phased out of the rotation late. Terell Smith missed all of 2025 (patellar tendon). The Bears signed Cam Lewis from the Bills for depth but lost Wright's production and have no proven CB2 outside of injury-prone starters. |
| IOL | Moderate | Drew Dalman's surprise retirement at 27 created a hole at center. The Bears traded a 2027 5th-round pick for Garrett Bradbury from the Patriots, a serviceable starter but not the Pro Bowler Dalman was. Bradbury carries a $5.7M cap hit. Joe Thuney (LG) won Protector of the Year and is elite, and Jonah Jackson (RG) is solid. The long-term center question remains — the Bears may draft a developmental center to eventually replace Bradbury. |
| WR | Moderate | The Bears traded DJ Moore to the Bills for a 2nd-round pick and lost Olamide Zaccheaus to the Falcons. However, Rome Odunze and 2025 2nd-round pick Luther Burden III are expected to step into elevated roles. Jahdae Walker showed promise as a young receiver. The Bears signed Kalif Raymond as a WR4/return specialist to replace Devin Duvernay. The WR room is young but talented — this isn't a critical need but another weapon wouldn't hurt. |
| LB | Moderate | Tremaine Edmunds was released as a cap casualty, saving $15M. The Bears signed Devin Bush (3yr/$30M) as a faster, cheaper replacement. T.J. Edwards fractured his fibula in the Wild Card game and will miss much of the offseason, but is expected to return as the MIKE linebacker. D'Marco Jackson was re-signed (2yr/$7.5M) and impressed filling in for Edmunds in 2025. Bush should start at WILL with Jackson at SAM. Depth concerns remain with Edwards' recovery timeline. |
- Coby Bryant (S) — 3yr/$40M ($25.75M gtd). Super Bowl champion safety (4 INTs in 2025) fills critical void as Bears' new S1 on a genuine 3-year commitment
- Devin Bush (LB) — 3yr/$30M ($21M gtd). NFL's only player with multiple pick-sixes in 2025 replaces Tremaine Edmunds as Chicago's starting linebacker
- Garrett Bradbury (IOL) — 1yr/$5.7M (trade — 2027 5th to NE). Familiar to Ben Johnson's system, Bradbury is the immediate bridge starter at center after Drew Dalman's stunning retirement
- Neville Gallimore (IDL) — 2yr/$12M ($5M gtd). Career-high 3.5 sacks in 2025 makes Gallimore the rotational DT tasked with replacing Andrew Billings at nose tackle
- Kalif Raymond (WR) — 1yr/$5.1M max. Ben Johnson reunion gives Chicago a proven WR4/returner to replace Devin Duvernay after DJ Moore's departure
- DJ Moore (WR) → Buffalo Bills. Bears trade WR1 Moore for draft capital, pivoting to Odunze/Burden as the receiving core enters Year 2
- Drew Dalman (IOL) → Retired. Pro Bowl center's shocking retirement at 27 forced an emergency trade for Bradbury and leaves Chicago without a long-term C answer
- Tremaine Edmunds (LB) → New York Giants. Released to create $15M in cap space, Edmunds led the Bears in tackles in 2025 — replaced in theory by Devin Bush
- Kevin Byard III (S) → New England Patriots. NFL's 2025 interceptions leader (7 INTs) leaves Chicago, deepening an already depleted safety room
- Jaquan Brisker (S) → Pittsburgh Steelers. Multi-year starting safety departs on a prove-it deal, leaving Coby Bryant without a proven partner at S2
Scheme: Dennis Allen runs a 4-3 defense that values speed and versatility in the secondary. The Bears need a true three-down EDGE who can rush and set the edge — designated pass rushers like Booker are fine as DE3 but not DE2. Interior DTs who can generate pressure are premium targets. Allen's scheme uses interchangeable DBs, so safety/slot hybrid types (like Coby Bryant) have elevated value. On offense, Ben Johnson runs an Erhardt-Perkins system emphasizing a dominant run game and play-action — the OL is scheme-critical, and LT must be a strong run blocker who can handle speed rushers off the edge.
Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals went 6-11 in 2025 despite an elite offense led by Joe Burrow, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins. The defense ranked 31st in total defense and dead last in rushing yards allowed per game (147.1). Cincinnati made major defensive free agency additions (Mafe, Cook, Allen) but lost Trey Hendrickson and Joseph Ossai. The offense returns all five OL starters and every key weapon. This is a team that needs to fix the defense around a championship-caliber offense in Burrow's prime.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| EDGE | Critical | Lost both Trey Hendrickson (Ravens, 4yr/$112M) and Joseph Ossai (Jets, 3yr/$36M) in free agency. Signed Boye Mafe to a 3yr/$60M deal as the top replacement, but he had only 2 sacks in 2025 despite strong underlying pass rush metrics. Behind Mafe, the Bengals have 2025 first-round pick Shemar Stewart (missed time with IR as a rookie, 1 sack in limited action), Myles Murphy (2023 first-rounder who has underperformed), and Cam Sample. They desperately need another high-end edge rusher opposite Mafe to replace Hendrickson's elite production (17.5 sacks in both 2023 and 2024). Beat reporters and SI/ESPN both note the Bengals still need another proven pass rusher. |
| CB | Critical | DJ Turner II emerged as a Pro Bowl-caliber CB1 in 2025, and Dax Hill developed into a solid CB2 after moving from safety to outside corner. However, both Turner and Hill are entering the final years of their contracts (Turner's rookie deal, Hill's 5th-year option), making long-term CB a critical need. Cam Taylor-Britt declined sharply, suffered a Lisfranc injury, and is not expected back. Jalen Davis was re-signed as a nickel, but the team has no third corner or long-term plan. The Bengals met with top CB prospects like Avieon Terrell and Jermod McCoy at the Combine. |
| LB | Critical | The Bengals had arguably the worst linebacker play in the NFL in 2025. Oren Burks posted a 30.2 PFF grade, Demetrius Knight Jr. a 40.2, and Barrett Carter a 39.5. Logan Wilson was traded mid-season. Knight and Carter are second-year players who could improve, but the Bengals cannot bank on that alone. Multiple outlets identify LB as the position most urgently needing a veteran addition. The team has not yet signed a veteran LB but is reportedly targeting Bobby Wagner or Matt Milano in free agency. |
| DT | Important | The Bengals signed Jonathan Allen (2yr/$28M) to address their interior pass rush void, which ESPN identified as their single biggest need pre-free agency. Allen provides leadership and disruption, but he's 31 years old and coming off injury. B.J. Hill and McKinnley Jackson are solid rotational pieces, and Kris Jenkins Jr. spent time on IR. The team allowed 5.2 yards per rush (second-worst in NFL) and hasn't had a dominant interior presence since Geno Atkins. Allen helps significantly but the position still needs youth behind him. |
| S | Moderate | The signing of Bryan Cook (3yr/$42.5M from Chiefs) was a major upgrade over Geno Stone, who departed to the Bills. Cook ranked 4th in PFF overall grade among safeties in 2025 and had the 4th-lowest missed tackle rate. He pairs with Jordan Battle, a 2025 second-round pick who showed flashes but was inconsistent. The safety position has been a problem since Jessie Bates left after Super Bowl LVI. Cook solves the starting FS hole, but Battle is still developing and there is little depth behind the two starters (PJ Jules, Russ Yeast). |
| IOL | Moderate | All five OL starters return: Orlando Brown Jr. (LT, extended through 2028), Dylan Fairchild (LG, promising second-year player), Ted Karras (C), Dalton Risner (RG, re-signed 1yr), and Amarius Mims (RT). This is the first time Burrow has had OL continuity. However, Karras is entering the final year of his deal and will be 33 in 2026. Risner is on a one-year deal. Finding a long-term center or guard for the future is a moderate need, and OL depth is very thin behind the starters. |
| TE | Minor | Mike Gesicki is the TE1 but functions more as a slot receiver. Noah Fant departed for the Saints in free agency. Tanner Hudson was re-signed on a 1yr extension, and Erick All Jr. is hopefully returning from injury. The Bengals could use another traditional blocking/receiving TE, though this is not a premium need with the offense already loaded. |
| RB | Minor | Chase Brown is the established starter and Samaje Perine provides veteran depth. Kendall Milton was re-signed. RB is not a pressing need, though a late-round complement with more explosive traits could add value to the backfield. |
- Boye Mafe (EDGE) — 3yr/$60M ($19M gtd). Super Bowl champion pass rusher arrives to anchor post-Hendrickson EDGE room at $20M AAV
- Bryan Cook (S) — 3yr/$40.25M ($14M gtd). Top-5 PFF-graded safety in 2025 returns to his hometown to upgrade Cincinnati's beleaguered secondary
- Jonathan Allen (IDL) — 2yr/$26M ($8M gtd). Former two-time Pro Bowl DT adds interior pass rush and veteran leadership to a struggling defensive front
- Orlando Brown Jr. (OT) — 2yr/$32M extension (through 2028). LT Brown locks himself in through 2028, securing Burrow's blindside on a team-friendly $16M AAV extension he negotiated himself
- Dalton Risner (IOL) — 1yr/$3.25M (up to $5M w/incentives). Fan-favorite veteran guard returns on a one-year deal to anchor an interior line that turned into one of Burrow's best
- Trey Hendrickson (EDGE) → Baltimore Ravens. 4x Pro Bowl pass rusher ends contentious Bengals tenure, signs blockbuster deal with division-rival Ravens — a painful double blow
- Joseph Ossai (EDGE) → New York Jets. Back-to-back 5-sack rotational EDGE departs, compounding a pass-rush crisis that defines Cincinnati's 2026 draft board
- Noah Fant (TE) → New Orleans Saints. Starting TE departs to New Orleans, leaving the Bengals without a proven receiving tight end alongside Chase and Higgins
- Cam Taylor-Britt (CB) → TBD. Starting outside CB departs in free agency, opening a genuine hole at CB2 that the Bengals have yet to address
- Jake Browning (QB) → Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Bengals decline to tender Browning as RFA, leaving the team without a capable backup QB behind the injury-prone Burrow
Scheme: Under DC Al Golden, the Bengals run a 4-3 base defense that emphasizes versatility on the defensive line. Edge rushers who can play multiple techniques (B-gap, C-gap, set the edge) are valued — Shemar Stewart embodies this mold. The defense needs EDGE prospects who can win one-on-one pass rush battles to unlock Golden's coverage schemes. At CB, man-coverage ability is critical given how Turner and Hill are deployed to lock up receivers and allow the safety structure to be more aggressive. Interior DL must be gap-stuffers who can also generate interior pressure — Allen fits this mold. LB prospects who can tackle reliably, cover tight ends, and play in space are the priority given the unit's historically poor performance.
Cleveland Browns
The Browns went 5-12 in 2025 under Kevin Stefanski (fired) and hired offensive guru Todd Monken as HC. The offense ranked 30th in total offense and the OL was decimated by injuries and free agent departures. The defense remains elite, led by DPOY Myles Garrett (23 sacks, broke NFL single-season record), rookie DROY Carson Schwesinger, and Pro Bowl CB Denzel Ward. Cleveland has aggressively rebuilt the OL in free agency but still has massive needs at QB, WR, and OT. Deshaun Watson's $44.9M cap hit in 2026 (restructured) limits flexibility, and he's expected to be released post-June 1 in 2027. The QB room of Shedeur Sanders, Watson, and Dillon Gabriel is in open competition but none has proven to be a franchise answer.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| OT | Critical | Left tackle is the biggest remaining hole after the OL rebuild. Dawand Jones is the default starter but has ended each of his three NFL seasons on injured reserve and cannot be relied upon. Cam Robinson was a liability in 2025 and is gone. Jack Conklin and the rest of the veteran tackles departed. The Browns are widely expected to use one of their two first-round picks on a left tackle to protect whichever QB wins the job. Beat reporter Daryl Ruiter confirmed the plan is to draft a LT in round 1. |
| WR | Critical | The Browns have not added a single WR this offseason. Jerry Jeudy regressed badly in 2025 (on pace for 48 catches, 546 yards after a 1,000-yard 2024). Cedric Tillman has totaled just 71 career receptions in 3 years and dealt with hamstring/concussion issues. Isaiah Bond showed flashes as a rookie but the group lacks a true WR1. Mary Kay Cabot noted the team needs another 'Wow' guy. Cleveland holds picks 6 and 24 and WR is firmly on the table for one of those selections. |
| QB | Important | The Browns enter 2026 with Shedeur Sanders (5th-round pick, 3-4 as starter, 56.6% completion, 7 TD/10 INT), Deshaun Watson (returning from two Achilles surgeries, hasn't played since 2024, 9-10 career as a Brown), and Dillon Gabriel (1-5 as starter, likely trade candidate). Todd Monken declared an open competition but none inspires confidence as a long-term answer. Andrew Berry has not ruled out drafting a QB and has been linked to Alabama's Ty Simpson. However, with Sanders showing some flashes and no elite QB prospect available at #6, this may be a 2027 priority rather than a 2026 one. Berry has signaled he's open to trading the #6 pick. |
| LB | Important | Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah is unlikely to play again after a severe neck injury suffered in October 2024. He missed all of 2025 on reserve/PUP and it's 'doubtful at best' he returns. Devin Bush, who had a career year (125 tackles, 3 INT), signed with the Bears for 3yr/$30M. The Browns replaced Bush with Quincy Williams (2yr/$17M) to pair with DROY Carson Schwesinger, but depth behind those two is thin. LB depth is a day 2-3 draft priority. |
| CB | Moderate | Denzel Ward (5x Pro Bowler) is still under contract but carries a $32.9M cap hit and turns 29 this year. He was identified as a potential cap casualty, and the Browns restructured his deal. Tyson Campbell was acquired via trade from Jacksonville mid-2025 and is the CB2. Slot corner is a weakness — Martin Emerson Jr. (Achilles rehab) was re-signed on unknown terms but Myles Harden is unproven. The Browns need to develop a cheaper long-term option behind Ward. |
| EDGE | Moderate | Myles Garrett is an all-time great (23 sacks, DPOY) but the Browns need a credible second pass rusher. Alex Wright is the other starting DE but lacks high-end pass rush production. Nate Thomas departed for Atlanta. The Browns could look for a developmental EDGE to pair with Garrett long-term and keep him fresh, especially as Garrett turns 31 in December 2026. |
| IOL | Minor | The Browns aggressively addressed interior OL in free agency with Zion Johnson (3yr/$49.5M at LG), Elgton Jenkins (2yr/$24M at C), and re-signed Teven Jenkins (RG). This was the team's most glaring need entering the offseason and it has been substantially addressed. Joel Bitonio's contract voided and he's likely retiring or leaving. The current interior is solid but unproven as a unit — Johnson struggled in pass protection in 2025 and Jenkins is 30. |
| S | Minor | Grant Delpit is a solid starter at strong safety. Ronnie Hickman was tendered as an RFA after starting all 17 games in 2025, though durability has been a concern. The safety room is adequate but not deep. A mid-to-late round developmental pick could provide insurance. |
- Tytus Howard (OT) — 3yr/$63M ($43M gtd) + trade (5th-round pick). Versatile veteran tackle (RT/RG/LG) anchors massive OL overhaul on a long-term deal
- Zion Johnson (IOL) — 3yr/$49.5M ($32.4M gtd). Top guard on market (2nd in run block win rate in 2025) signed to replace departed Teller and Bitonio
- Elgton Jenkins (IOL) — 2yr/$24M ($20M gtd). Two-time Pro Bowl C/G adds elite pass-blocking versatility and likely solves center void
- Quincy Williams (LB) — 2yr/up to $17M. Former first-team All-Pro LB reunites with DC Rutenberg to replace Devin Bush next to Schwesinger
- Kalia Davis (IDL) — 1yr/up to $3M. Rotational DT (37% run stop win rate in 2025) adds interior depth behind Graham and Collins
- Joel Bitonio (IOL) → Retirement/TBD. 7-time Pro Bowler's 12-year Cleveland tenure ends; Zion Johnson signed as replacement
- David Njoku (TE) → TBD/unsigned. 9-year Brown's release closes a chapter; Harold Fannin Jr. now the clear TE1 anchor
- Wyatt Teller (IOL) → TBD/unsigned. Former All-Pro RG departs after being benched mid-2025; Elgton Jenkins signing is the replacement
- Devin Bush (LB) → Chicago Bears. Career-year LB (125 tackles, 3 INTs) departs; Browns pivot to Quincy Williams at lower AAV
- Cam Robinson (OT) → TBD/unsigned. Starting LT who joined mid-2025 departs, leaving LT as the top remaining unaddressed need
Scheme: Todd Monken's offense will emphasize a strong run game and play-action passing, similar to what he ran as OC in Baltimore. This elevates the value of powerful run-blocking OL and big-bodied WRs who can win contested catches and threaten deep off play-action. New DC Mike Rutenberg runs a 4-3 base that relies on Myles Garrett as the primary edge threat with a need for a complementary EDGE rusher. LBs need to be sideline-to-sideline athletes who can cover in space — Quincy Williams and Schwesinger fit this mold. Monken's system benefits QBs who can extend plays and throw with anticipation, which aligns more with Sanders' profile than Gabriel's checkdown tendencies.
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys went 7-9-1 in 2025 with the NFL's worst defense (30.1 PPG allowed, dead last) despite a top-10 offense (27.7 PPG). New DC Christian Parker is transitioning from a 4-3 to a multiple 3-4 base, which triggered a roster overhaul on the defensive side. The Micah Parsons trade last offseason left an enormous edge-rushing void. Trevon Diggs was released mid-season. DaRon Bland had foot surgery for a second consecutive year. The defensive rebuild is massive and must be addressed primarily through both first-round picks.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| CB | Critical | Trevon Diggs was released mid-season after injuries and a contentious relationship with the front office. DaRon Bland has had back-to-back seasons ending in foot surgery and his durability is a serious concern. Shavon Revel Jr. (2025 3rd-round pick) never found his groove returning from injury. Cobie Durant was signed on a one-year deal as a stopgap. The Cowboys had the NFL's worst pass defense in 2025 and must add a true CB1 caliber player. |
| LB | Critical | Linebacker was publicly stated as the Cowboys' biggest need entering the offseason, and it has not been addressed at all. They missed on Quay Walker, Nakobe Dean, and Devin Lloyd in free agency. DeMarvion Overshown is the only viable starter. Kenneth Murray was a one-and-done disappointment. Marist Liufau has been bad since being drafted. Shemar James (2025 5th-rounder) and UDFA Justin Barron are the only other bodies. Parker's 3-4 scheme demands two quality ILBs. |
| EDGE | Important | The Rashan Gary trade addressed the most acute need, but this position group is still thin and lacks a true elite pass rusher after the Micah Parsons trade. Donovan Ezeiruaku (2025 2nd-round pick) will miss OTAs and minicamp after hip surgery. Sam Williams had just 1 sack in 2025 coming off a torn ACL. Tyrus Wheat is a depth piece. The Cowboys had the 9th-worst sack rate in 2025 and missed out on Trey Hendrickson and Maxx Crosby. Parker's 3-4 demands versatile OLBs who can rush and set the edge. |
| IDL | Important | The Cowboys traded away both Osa Odighizuwa (to SF) and Solomon Thomas (to TEN) because they didn't fit Parker's 3-4 scheme. This gutted their interior depth behind Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark. Otito Ogbonnia was signed as a true nose tackle on a cheap one-year deal, but the team needs more bodies for a 3-4 front. Jay Toia (2025 draft pick) is the only other notable depth piece. |
| OT | Moderate | Tyler Guyton (2024 1st-round pick) is pegged as the LT starter but has had significant durability concerns, missing 7 games in 2025 and missing time as a rookie too. When Guyton went down, Tyler Smith had to move from his All-Pro guard spot to LT, weakening two positions. Terence Steele is a serviceable but unspectacular RT. The offense's biggest problem in 2025 was pass protection. A developmental tackle prospect would provide insurance. |
| S | Moderate | The Cowboys signed Jalen Thompson (3-year, $36M) and P.J. Locke in free agency, significantly addressing this need. Malik Hooker was retained via restructure. The safety room is now the most improved position group. However, Thompson is new to the system, Locke has been primarily a special teamer recently, and there's no long-term developmental piece. A Day 3 pick could add future depth. |
| WR | Minor | CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens (franchise tagged at $27.3M) form an elite 1-2 punch. Ryan Flournoy showed promise as WR3. Jonathan Mingo is a depth piece. Jalen Tolbert departed to Miami in free agency. The top end is set, but a Day 3 WR to develop behind the starters has some value, especially given Pickens' franchise tag status and uncertain long-term future. |
- Rashan Gary (EDGE) — 2yr/$32M ($16M gtd) | via trade. Pro Bowl edge rusher (46.5 career sacks, 7.5 in 2025) acquired for a 2027 4th-round pick to anchor pass rush rebuild under DC Christian Parker
- Jalen Thompson (S) — 3yr/$33M ($22M gtd, up to $36M). Five-year starter (87 starts) fills Cowboys' biggest secondary void on a real multi-year investment, reuniting with secondary coach Ryan Smith
- Javonte Williams (RB) — 3yr/$24M ($16M gtd) | re-sign. Career-best 1,201-yard, 11-TD season locked up long-term on below-market deal before RB prices soared in free agency
- George Pickens (WR) — 1yr/$27.3M (franchise tag, fully gtd). Breakout WR retained on franchise tag while long-term extension talks continue, keeping elite Lamb-Pickens receiver duo intact for 2026
- Cobie Durant (CB) — 1yr/up to $5.5M. NFL's postseason interceptions leader (3 in 2025 playoffs) bolsters injury-depleted CB room on a one-year deal
- Jadeveon Clowney (EDGE) → TBD/unsigned. Cowboys' 2025 sack leader (8.5) let walk as scheme-fit concerns under new DC Parker trumped production; EDGE room remains a glaring need
- Osa Odighizuwa (IDL) → San Francisco 49ers. One of the NFL's most disruptive interior pass rushers traded away despite $80M deal signed in 2025, creating immediate IDL depth crisis
- Solomon Thomas (IDL) → Tennessee Titans. Interior depth piece traded to Tennessee, compounding IDL thinning after the Odighizuwa deal
- Kenneth Murray Jr. (LB) → TBD/unsigned. Starting linebacker and team-leading tackler not re-signed, leaving LB as the single biggest unaddressed hole entering the draft
- Donovan Wilson (S) → TBD/unsigned. 7-year Cowboys veteran and 75-game starter let go as new defensive staff sought a younger, more athletic safety — fully replaced by Thompson
Scheme: New DC Christian Parker is installing a multiple 3-4 base defense (replacing Eberflus' 4-3), with 4-2-5 nickel and dime packages. This scheme change is the driving force behind several roster moves: Odighizuwa and Thomas were traded as 4-3 scheme misfits. EDGE prospects must be versatile enough to set the edge against the run AND rush the passer as 3-4 OLBs — pure speed rushers who can't play in space are poor fits. Interior DL must be big enough to play 3-4 DE (not undersized 3-techs). LB prospects need to be instinctive, communicate well, and handle coverage responsibilities as true 3-4 ILBs. Parker's background is in secondary development (Eagles, Broncos), so expect an emphasis on DBs who are physically and mentally tough with man coverage ability. Cover-6 and zone-match concepts will feature prominently.
Denver Broncos
Denver went 14-3 in 2025 and reached the AFC Championship Game before losing 10-7 to New England. The roster is one of the NFL's most complete, built around franchise QB Bo Nix on a rookie deal and an elite top-3 defense led by Zach Allen, Nik Bonitto, and Pat Surtain II. Sean Payton's run-it-back approach to free agency kept almost all key pieces but did not add outside talent. The offensive line returns all five starters for a third straight year. Key losses: DL John Franklin-Myers (Titans), S P.J. Locke (Cowboys), LB Dre Greenlaw (49ers). The Broncos have a championship window with Nix's cheap contract through 2027.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| WR | Critical | Sean Payton publicly identified receiver as a contributing factor in Denver's playoff loss, citing the team's league-second-worst 43 drops and inability to beat man coverage consistently. Courtland Sutton (1,017 yards) is the WR1 but isn't an elite separator. Troy Franklin (709 yards) took a step forward in year two but the room lacks a true dynamic, contested-catch playmaker. Marvin Mims is primarily a gadget/return weapon. Pat Bryant showed late-season promise but is still raw. The Broncos were interested in Romeo Doubs, Kendrick Bourne, and Mike Evans in free agency but have not yet signed an outside WR. They are hosting draft prospect Omar Cooper Jr. on a top-30 visit. |
| TE | Critical | Payton identified tight end as a top need at the NFL Combine. Evan Engram's first year in Denver was a massive disappointment — just 50 catches for 461 yards and 1 TD while playing over 50% of snaps only three times. Adam Trautman is re-signed on a 3-year deal but is a blocking specialist with barely any receiving production. Nate Adkins is a backup. The Broncos need a true pass-catching TE who can also block — a complete tight end. Multiple mock drafts project Denver taking TE Eli Stowers or Kenyon Sadiq in Round 1. |
| S | Important | P.J. Locke signed with the Cowboys ($5M/1yr), leaving a hole at the second safety spot behind Talanoa Hufanga. Brandon Jones is entering the final year of his contract, coming off a torn pectoral that ended his 2025 season early, and earned just a 64.2 PFF grade. He's a legitimate cut candidate at $9.2M cap hit. Beyond Hufanga, the depth is JL Skinner and Devon Key — neither viewed as starter-ready. Multiple mock drafts project Denver taking Toledo S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren at No. 30. Safety is a clear need for both the present and future. |
| LB | Important | Payton identified linebacker as a top need at the Combine. Alex Singleton (re-signed 2yr/$15.5M) is a leader but turns 33 in 2026. Justin Strnad (re-signed 3yr/$18M) turns 30 in August. Dre Greenlaw was cut and returned to San Francisco. The Broncos need a young, athletic ILB to develop behind Singleton and Strnad, and eventually replace them. Karene Reid is still developing. Multiple analysts project Denver taking Texas LB Anthony Hill Jr. in Round 1. |
| IDL | Important | John Franklin-Myers left for the Titans on a 3-year, $63M deal, creating a significant void on the defensive line. Franklin-Myers had 14.5 sacks over two seasons as a full-time starter in Denver's 3-4 front. While Zach Allen (Pro Bowler, NFL leader in QB hits) and Malcolm Roach are strong, the Broncos need a replacement for JFM's production. D.J. Jones is aging and carries a potential restructure candidate at $8.4M. Jordan Jackson and Eyioma Uwazurike provide depth but aren't impact starters. |
| IOL | Moderate | The starting OL returns intact for a third straight year, PFF's No. 1 ranked unit. However, Ben Powers (LG) is in the final year of his deal at $18.2M cap hit, missed 9 games in 2025 with a torn biceps, and the team considered trading him. Alex Palczewski (re-signed 2yr) is the heir apparent but was notably worse in pass protection. Payton hinted at investing early draft capital in the OL. No OL prospect has been drafted higher than a 7th-rounder in Payton's three Denver drafts. The line's average age is creeping up and a youth infusion is overdue. |
| OT | Moderate | Mike McGlinchey carries a $23.8M cap hit in each of the next two years and has been inconsistent in pass protection. He's 31. Garett Bolles earned his first Pro Bowl at 32 but age is catching up. Denver could save $37M by moving on from both eventually. Rising third-year tackle Frank Crum filled in capably but isn't proven as a full-time starter. Drafting a developmental OT makes strategic sense for the post-Nix-extension era when cap will tighten significantly. |
| RB | Minor | J.K. Dobbins re-signed (2yr/$20M) but missed the final 7 regular season games and playoffs with a foot injury. RJ Harvey showed promise as a rookie pass-catcher. Tyler Badie and Jaleel McLaughlin are back. The entire 2025 backfield is retained. However, Dobbins' durability is a concern (history of major injuries) and the room lacks a true bell-cow three-down back. Payton mentioned RB as a need at the Combine. Notre Dame's Jadarian Price has been linked to Denver. |
- J.K. Dobbins (RB) — 2yr/$16M ($8M gtd, max $20M). Starting RB retained after leading Denver in rushing (772 yards, 5.0 YPC) before Lisfranc injury ended 2025 season
- Alex Singleton (LB) — 2yr/$15.5M ($11M gtd). Team captain and leading tackler (135) re-signed as the defensive green-dot signal caller for Vance Joseph's system
- Justin Strnad (LB) — 3yr/$18M ($10M gtd). Breakout starter locked up on 3-year deal to pair with Singleton at ILB through at least 2028
- Adam Trautman (TE) — 3yr/$17M ($9.5M gtd, max $18.5M). Payton's trusted blocking TE re-signed on 3-year deal; played 57% of offensive snaps in 2025
- Alex Palczewski (IOL) — 2yr/$9.5M ($5.6M gtd, max $11M). Versatile swing lineman secured through 2027 after starting 10 games across two seasons
- John Franklin-Myers (IDL) → Tennessee Titans. Interior pass rush anchor (7.5 sacks in 2025, 14.5 over 2 DEN seasons) departs on elite IDL deal; biggest hole of the offseason
- P.J. Locke (S) → Dallas Cowboys. 7-year Broncos veteran and clutch playoff starter departs; creates depth void at safety behind Hufanga and Jones
- Dre Greenlaw (LB) → San Francisco 49ers. Marquee 2025 signing released after injury-shortened season (8 games); Broncos save $8.19M in cap space post-June 1
Scheme: Denver runs a 3-4 base defense under Vance Joseph that is among the NFL's most aggressive and man-heavy. EDGE rushers (Bonitto, Cooper, Elliss) are well-stocked — not a need. IDL prospects who can rush the passer as 3-4 DEs have elevated value given JFM's departure. LB prospects need to be three-down players who can cover TEs — Denver allowed the 6th-most yards to opposing TEs. On offense, Payton's system values versatile 'joker' TEs who can line up in multiple spots. WR prospects who can win in man coverage and make contested catches address a specific Payton request. IOL prospects who can play guard are more valuable than pure centers given Wattenberg's extension.
Detroit Lions
Detroit went 9-8 in 2025, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2022. The offensive line is in transition after Frank Ragnow's retirement, Taylor Decker's release, and Graham Glasgow's release. The defense was ravaged by injuries to Brian Branch, Kerby Joseph, D.J. Reed, and Terrion Arnold, and now lost key free agents Al-Quadin Muhammad, Alex Anzalone, Roy Lopez, and Amik Robertson. Aidan Hutchinson anchors the defense on a massive extension but desperately needs a complementary edge rusher. The team's Super Bowl window remains open with Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jahmyr Gibbs, and Hutchinson as cornerstones, but multiple roster holes must be addressed through the draft.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| EDGE | Critical | Al-Quadin Muhammad (11 sacks, 53 pressures in 2025) left for Tampa Bay, and Marcus Davenport was a complete bust who won't return. Behind Aidan Hutchinson, the only edge rushers on roster are Ahmed Hassanein, Tyler Lacy, and Josh Paschal (missed all of 2025 with back injury). There is no viable EDGE2 on this roster. The Lions cannot build a championship defense around one pass rusher. |
| OT | Critical | Taylor Decker was released after 10 seasons, creating a massive hole at left tackle. The Lions signed Larry Borom (one-year deal, career journeyman with 38 starts across 5 years) but he projects more as a swing tackle than a long-term starter. Penei Sewell may move from RT to LT, which would leave RT open. Giovanni Manu (2025 3rd-rounder) is still developing. The 2026 OT draft class is strong and the Lions picking at 17 are well-positioned to land a top tackle prospect. |
| LB | Important | Alex Anzalone, the defensive captain, signed with Tampa Bay on a 2-year, $17M deal. Grant Stuard, a core special teamer, left for the Rams. Malcolm Rodriguez was re-signed but is coming off a torn ACL. Jack Campbell is the starter at MIKE and Derrick Barnes returns at SAM, but Barnes has been inconsistent and could be cut next year to save $5M+. The Lions ran three-LB sets at very high rates and need at least one more starting-caliber linebacker. |
| S | Important | Both Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph ended 2025 on injured reserve, and their health status for 2026 carries uncertainty. Behind them, the depth is extremely thin — Thomas Harper (waiver claim), Loren Strickland (two-year project), Christian Izien (one-year FA signing from Tampa Bay), and Dan Jackson (missed all of 2025). If either starter suffers a setback, this group collapses as it did in 2025. |
| CB | Important | Amik Robertson left for Washington (2-year, $16M). D.J. Reed and Terrion Arnold return as the outside starters but both missed significant time with injuries in 2025 and Arnold had a disappointing sophomore campaign. Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (2024 2nd-round pick) has played just 8 career games due to recurring injuries. Roger McCreary was signed to compete at nickel but is not a proven long-term answer. The Lions signed Rock Ya-Sin back, but this room is one injury away from disaster. |
| IOL | Moderate | Center was addressed by signing Cade Mays (3-year, $25M from Carolina), which was the team's biggest FA splash. Guards Tate Ratledge and Christian Mahogany return as starters but are both very young with limited experience — neither has more than one year of game action. Juice Scruggs was acquired in the Montgomery trade and provides interior versatility. The unit ranked 30th in pass block win rate (55.2%) in 2025. While center is solved, depth and guard competition are still areas to monitor. |
| DT | Moderate | Roy Lopez left to return to Arizona, and D.J. Reader (UFA, turns 32) has not re-signed. The Lions still have Alim McNeill (3-tech) and Tyleik Williams (2025 draft pick, projected nose tackle starter), plus Mekhi Wingo. Levi Onwuzurike has missed multiple seasons with injuries and his availability is uncertain. The run defense depth is thinner after Lopez's departure, but the starters are solid if healthy. |
| TE | Minor | Sam LaPorta is the starter but is coming off a season-ending back injury. The Lions signed Tyler Conklin (1-year deal) for depth and Brock Wright returns, but Wright also ended 2025 on IR with a throat injury. New OC Drew Petzing uses heavy multi-TE personnel packages, making depth here more important than average. Could target a versatile TE on Day 3. |
- Cade Mays (IOL) — 3yr/$25M ($14M gtd). 26-year-old center fills critical void left by Ragnow retirement/Glasgow struggles; allowed zero sacks in 726 snaps in 2025
- Juice Scruggs (IOL) — Via trade (DAV Montgomery deal). Former 2nd-round pick adds interior OL depth and camp competition at guard/center
- Larry Borom (OT) — 1yr/$5M. Versatile tackle veteran (38 career starts) provides swing tackle insurance after Taylor Decker release
- Isiah Pacheco (RB) — 1yr/$1.81M. Physical KC Super Bowl winner steps into David Montgomery's RB2 role on a prove-it deal
- Roger McCreary (CB) — 1yr (terms TBD). Former top-35 pick (26) with 38 career starts projects as starting nickelback and best secondary addition
- Taylor Decker (OT) → UFA. Surprise release of 10-year franchise LT after contract talks broke down; creates critical OT need and $9.4M dead cap
- Al-Quadin Muhammad (EDGE) → Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Second-leading pass rusher (11 sacks, 53 pressures) departs, leaving Hutchinson without an established complement
- Alex Anzalone (LB) → Tampa Bay Buccaneers. 5-year Lions leader and defensive signal-caller joins division rival Tampa; major character and production loss
- Amik Robertson (CB) → Washington Commanders. Versatile CB who effectively started in 2025 amid injury chaos departs, deepening secondary concerns
- David Montgomery (RB) → Houston Texans. 'Knuckles' trades out after 2,506 career rushing yards in Detroit; Lions recoup OL depth and draft capital
Scheme: Detroit runs a 4-3 base defense under DC Kelvin Sheppard that is heavy on man coverage. They deploy three styles of edge rusher: a do-it-all player, a base end/run stuffer (4i technique), and a pass-rush specialist. EDGE prospects who can play multiple roles and set the edge against the run have elevated value — pure speed rushers are a harder fit. On offense, new OC Drew Petzing emphasizes multi-TE heavy personnel packages and a physical run game, making versatile tight ends and road-grading offensive linemen particularly valuable. The Lions prize athletic traits (RAS scores) at all positions, especially on the offensive line.
Green Bay Packers
Super Bowl-or-bust window with Jordan Love and Micah Parsons (ACL, likely misses early 2026 games) as cornerstones. Significant 2025 free agent departures (Walker, Doubs, Willis, Quay Walker, Gary, Enagbare) create short-term holes on an otherwise talented roster. New DC Jonathan Gannon installing a multiple 3-4 base scheme with heavy quarters coverage and three-safety looks. No first-round pick limits ability to address needs with premium talent; must be surgical with pick No. 52 overall.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| EDGE | Critical | Rashan Gary was traded to Dallas and Kingsley Enagbare signed with the Jets, gutting the edge rusher room. Micah Parsons (ACL) could miss the first 4-6 games. The remaining options are Lukas Van Ness, Barryn Sorrell, Collin Oliver, and Brenton Cox Jr. (re-signed on a cheap deal after missing most of 2025 with a groin injury). Green Bay needs at least one more starting-caliber edge to bridge the gap until Parsons returns and provide insurance. |
| CB | Critical | Nate Hobbs was released after a disastrous one-year, $48M experiment. Benjamin St-Juste was signed (2yr/$10M) as a low-cost addition but is unproven as a starter. Keisean Nixon is the only established boundary corner. Carrington Valentine had inconsistent stretches in 2025. Javon Bullard excels in the slot but boundary CB remains a major weakness. Both Nixon and Valentine are free agents after 2026, making this a need for both now and the future. |
| DT | Important | Kenny Clark was traded as part of the Parsons deal, and Colby Wooden was dealt to Indianapolis for Zaire Franklin. Javon Hargrave was signed (2yr/$23M) to reunite with Gannon but is 33 years old — a short-term fix. Devonte Wyatt is returning from a fractured tibia/torn ankle ligaments. The nose tackle spot is desperately thin with only Nazir Stackhouse and the injured Jordon Riley (torn Achilles). Jonathan Ford was re-signed but is a depth piece. Gannon's scheme requires three 300-pound linemen up front to stop the run. |
| OT | Important | Rasheed Walker signed with Carolina after starting 52 of 55 games over three years. Jordan Morgan (2024 1st-round pick) is expected to take over at LT but has never started there full-time in the NFL — he bounced between four OL positions over two years. His arm length (32 7/8 inches, 9th percentile) is a concern. Zach Tom is the RT anchor but is recovering from a partially torn patellar tendon suffered in Week 15. Swing tackle depth is limited to Darian Kinnard. If Morgan struggles, the Packers have no fallback plan. |
| IOL | Moderate | Sean Rhyan was re-signed (3yr/$33M) to start at center after a solid late-season audition. Aaron Banks remains at LG but has underperformed his $18M/yr contract. Anthony Belton is a sophomore 2nd-round pick at RG who ranked 68th of 71 qualifying guards in PFF grade as a rookie. Elgton Jenkins was released. The starters are locked in for 2026 but both guard spots are below average. Depth is a concern, though the line is under contract through at least 2028-29. |
| RB | Moderate | Josh Jacobs is the bell cow and under contract through 2027 (with a Pro Bowl 2025 season: 929 yards, 13 TDs). But Emanuel Wilson signed with Seattle, leaving the backup spot barren. Chris Brooks was re-signed but is a special-teams ace and blocking back, not a viable RB2 ball-carrier. MarShawn Lloyd has played one NFL game since being drafted in 2024 and has zero games in 2025 due to injury. Green Bay needs a reliable backup/change-of-pace back. |
| TE | Minor | Tucker Kraft is a strong starter (returning from offseason injury but expected to be healthy). Luke Musgrave has not developed as hoped and is entering the final year of his rookie deal. Josh Whyle was re-signed for depth. The Packers lack a true blocking tight end. Drafting a TE for the future could make sense given Musgrave's uncertain 2027 outlook. |
| WR | Minor | Romeo Doubs signed with the Patriots (4yr/$70M), but the Packers still have a strong WR room with Christian Watson, Jayden Reed, Dontayvion Wicks, and Matthew Golden. Watson and Reed are ascending talents. Skyy Moore was signed as a returner/depth piece. Five of seven rosterable WRs are in contract years, which could create future issues, but the 2026 starting corps is solid. Not a draft priority unless an exceptional BPA opportunity arises. |
- Zaire Franklin (LB) — 2yr/$15.2M (no guarantees remaining, acquired via trade). 2024 All-Pro tackler (173 tackles, league leader) replaces Quay Walker via player-for-player trade with Colts
- Javon Hargrave (IDL) — 2yr/$23M ($13M gtd). Two-time Pro Bowl DT reunites with DC Jonathan Gannon to anchor the defensive interior vacated by the Kenny Clark trade
- Sean Rhyan (IOL) — 3yr/$33M ($11M signing bonus, max $39M). Breakout center locked up long-term after taking over the position mid-2025 following Elgton Jenkins' ankle injury
- Benjamin St-Juste (CB) — 2yr/$10M ($3M gtd). 6-foot-3 boundary corner adds size and competition to a CB room depleted by Nate Hobbs' release
- Skyy Moore (WR) — 1yr/$2.5M (max $4.5M). Top-10 kickoff and punt returner in 2025 surgically repairs the team's dead-last return game
- Romeo Doubs (WR) → New England Patriots. Team's leading receiver in 2025 (55 rec, 724 yds, 6 TDs) departs on a massive deal, leaving WR depth concerns
- Malik Willis (QB) → Miami Dolphins. Elite backup who posted 134.6 passer rating departs as a full-time starter, netting Packers projected 3rd-round comp pick
- Quay Walker (LB) → Las Vegas Raiders. Four-year team tackle leader departs; only Packer to lead the team in tackles in each of his first 4 seasons
- Rasheed Walker (OT) → Carolina Panthers. Three-year starting LT (48 starts) heads to Carolina on a prove-it deal, opening the door for Jordan Morgan at left tackle
- Rashan Gary (EDGE) → Dallas Cowboys. Former 1st-round pick moved for cap relief, further thinning an EDGE room already without a healthy Micah Parsons
Scheme: New DC Jonathan Gannon is installing a multiple 3-4 base defense with heavy use of quarters (Cover 4) coverage and three-safety looks. This scheme requires three 300-pound DL up front (not undersized 3-techs), making nose tackle a premium need. Gannon's scheme generates pressure from the front four rather than blitzing, increasing the value of interior pass-rush ability. His three-safety packages (McKinney, Evan Williams, Javon Bullard) can replace a traditional LB, reducing the urgency at off-ball LB. Boundary CB quality matters because Gannon's quarters coverage puts corners in one-on-one matchups against WR1s. EDGE prospects should be versatile enough to stand up in a 3-4 set. Gannon previously reunited with Hargrave and thrived with pass-rush DTs like Fletcher Cox in Philly.
Houston Texans
Three-time consecutive playoff team (12-5 in 2025) that lost again in the Divisional Round, this time to New England 28-16. C.J. Stroud regressed for the second straight year (3,041 yards, 19 TD, 8 INT in 14 games) and threw 4 INTs in the playoff loss. Defense is elite under DeMeco Ryans (2nd in points allowed). The offseason priority is protecting Stroud and upgrading the offensive line interior, which has been a revolving door. The team signed several key free agents and made trades but still has glaring holes at IOL and DT.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| IOL | Critical | The offensive line interior remains the Texans' most glaring need. They traded away Tytus Howard (who was playing LG) and Juice Scruggs this offseason. Center Jake Andrews played 'on one leg' per GM Caserio and struggled much of the season. While Ed Ingram was re-signed ($37.5M/3yr) at guard, the team still needs a starting-caliber guard opposite him and likely an upgrade at center. Multiple mock drafts project Houston taking an interior OL in Round 1. Braden Smith was signed for RT, so the interior is where the biggest gaps remain. |
| DT | Critical | The Texans lost DT Tim Settle Jr. in free agency and Sheldon Rankins (re-signed) is 32. Tommy Togiai emerged as a bright spot but Houston lacks a true 3-technique interior pass rusher who can collapse the pocket alongside edge rushers Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter. Analysts have highlighted this as the position that separates a good defense from a historically dominant one. Logan Hall was signed but profiles more as a rotational edge/interior tweener than a true IDL anchor. |
| OT | Important | The Texans signed Braden Smith (2yr/$25M) to play RT and extended Trent Brown (1yr/$7M), but Brown is 32, injury-prone, and on a short-term deal. Sophomore Aireontae Ersery showed promise at LT but is still developing. The long-term tackle situation beyond Ersery remains uncertain — Brown missed the Divisional Round playoff game due to injury in 2025, which directly hurt the team. Blake Fisher is a backup option but not a proven starter. |
| WR | Moderate | Nico Collins is the clear WR1 (1,117 yards, Pro Bowler) but has missed time each of the last three seasons. Tank Dell is expected back from his catastrophic knee injury (torn ACL/MCL/LCL) but carries significant health risk. Christian Kirk departed in free agency after a disappointing 28-239-1 regular season. Jayden Higgins (525 yards, 6 TD as rookie) and Jaylin Noel showed promise but are unproven as consistent starters. The team could use a reliable WR2/WR3 to reduce dependence on Collins's health and Dell's uncertain recovery. |
| EDGE | Moderate | Will Anderson Jr. (First Team All-Pro) and Danielle Hunter (extended) form an elite starting duo. However, depth behind them is thin after Denico Autry departed in free agency. Dominique Robinson was signed as a rotational depth piece ($4M/1yr) and Logan Hall can flex to edge, but Houston needs a developmental pass rusher to develop behind their stars and protect against injury. |
| LB | Moderate | Azeez Al-Shaair (Pro Bowler, entering contract year) and Henry To'oto'o are the starting duo. Christian Harris left for Atlanta in free agency. E.J. Speed was re-signed ($13M/2yr) and Jake Hummel was added for special teams depth, but the team lacks a high-upside young LB to develop behind Al-Shaair, especially with his contract expiring after 2026. |
| TE | Minor | Dalton Schultz was extended (1yr/$12.6M) and posted a career-high 82 catches in 2025, but he turns 30 this season and is on a one-year deal. Foster Moreau was signed for depth. Brevin Jordan has been unable to stay healthy. Cade Stover and Luke Lachey (2025 7th-rounder) are depth pieces. The team could use a young TE to develop as Schultz's eventual successor. |
| CB | Minor | Derek Stingley Jr. and Kamari Lassiter form one of the NFL's best cornerback duos, with Jalen Pitre in the nickel. This is a position of strength with no urgent need, though adding a developmental Day 3 corner for depth is always wise. |
- Danielle Hunter (EDGE) — 1yr/$40.1M (fully gtd). Second straight one-year extension locks in elite 15-sack pass rusher through the 2027 season
- Ed Ingram (IOL) — 3yr/$37.5M ($23.5M gtd). Top-10 PFF run-blocking guard retained as the anchor of an overhauled offensive line
- Reed Blankenship (S) — 3yr/$24.75M ($16.5M gtd). Proven starting safety upgrades an already elite secondary alongside Calen Bullock
- Braden Smith (OT) — 2yr/$25M ($13.5M gtd). 8-year Colts starter (105 career starts) takes over as the new RT anchor
- David Montgomery (RB) — Acquired via trade (2yr/$12.99M remaining). 33 rushing TDs since 2023 — red-zone specialist immediately becomes RB1 in Houston
- Tytus Howard (OT) → Cleveland Browns. Best OL in 2025 (career-low 3.4% pressure rate) traded away for second straight offseason in a major OL overhaul
- Juice Scruggs (IOL) → Detroit Lions. Interior OL depth traded to Lions as part of David Montgomery acquisition, deepening center uncertainty
- Tim Settle Jr. (IDL) → Washington Commanders. Starting DT departs on a major deal, leaving Rankins and Togiai as the IDL tandem
- Joe Mixon (RB) → unsigned. Injury-plagued starter released at his own request after missing all of 2025 with a foot injury
- Denico Autry (EDGE) → unsigned/TBD. 35-year-old rotational EDGE did not return; replaced in scheme by Logan Hall signing
Scheme: DeMeco Ryans runs an aggressive 4-3 defense with the 'SWARM' identity, emphasizing speed, physicality, and turnovers. The defense was 2nd in points allowed in 2025. The scheme demands a disruptive 3-technique DT who can generate interior pressure to complement elite edge rushers Anderson and Hunter — this is the missing piece. On offense, Nick Caley runs a physical, run-oriented scheme that demands powerful interior OL who can dominate in the run game and sustain drives. Guards who excel in gap/power concepts are the priority over zone-scheme athletes. OT prospects who can play multiple positions have elevated value given the team's history of OL shuffling.
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts started 8-2 in 2025 before a catastrophic late-season collapse (lost 7 straight to finish 8-9) driven by injuries to Daniel Jones (torn Achilles), DeForest Buckner (neck), Sauce Gardner (calf), and Charvarius Ward (concussions). They've re-signed Jones and Alec Pierce to massive deals and are committed to competing in 2026, but lost significant defensive starters in free agency. No first-round pick this year or next leaves them with limited draft capital to address major defensive holes. Anthony Richardson is being shopped via trade. The front seven is the clear priority.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| LB | Critical | Trading Zaire Franklin to the Packers and letting Germaine Pratt reach free agency (unsigned as of March 16) has gutted this position. Jaylon Carlies, who barely played in 2025, is currently the most experienced LB on the roster with roughly 200 career defensive snaps. Austin Ajiake is a depth/special teams player. This is the single most urgent need on the roster and the one most beat writers identify as the top draft priority. |
| EDGE | Critical | Lost both Kwity Paye (Raiders, 3yr/$48M) and Samson Ebukam (Falcons) in free agency. The Colts signed rotational pieces Arden Key and Micheal Clemons, but neither is a starting-caliber pass rusher. Laiatu Latu (2024 1st-rounder) is the only legitimate pass-rush threat, and he hasn't yet had a double-digit sack season. JT Tuimoloau (2025 2nd-rounder) barely played as a rookie. The Colts' pass rush was already below average and is now significantly worse on paper. Multiple beat reporters note that even after the Key/Clemons signings, this remains a major need. |
| S | Important | Lost both Nick Cross (Commanders, 2yr deal) and Rodney Thomas II (Seahawks) in free agency. Cam Bynum returns at FS, but SS is now manned by Juanyeh Thomas (limited starter experience) and Jonathan Owens (depth/special teams signing). Hunter Wohler is a developmental hybrid. The drop-off from Cross to the current options is significant. |
| WR | Important | Trading Michael Pittman Jr. to the Steelers leaves Alec Pierce as the clear WR1, with Josh Downs as the slot receiver. Beyond that, the WR room consists of Ashton Dulin and Laquon Treadwell — reliable depth but not high-ceiling options. Adonai Mitchell was also traded in the Sauce Gardner deal. Tyler Warren fills some pass-catching role from TE, but a true WR2 who can complement Pierce on the outside is needed. |
| DT | Important | DeForest Buckner (32, returning from neck surgery, final year of his $26.6M cap hit contract) and Grover Stewart (32) are both aging and entering the final years of their deals. Buckner missed significant time in 2025. Lost Neville Gallimore (Bears) in free agency. Acquired Colby Wooden from Packers in the Franklin trade and signed Derrick Nnadi, but long-term succession planning behind Buckner and Stewart is critical. Adetomiwa Adebawore has not developed as hoped. |
| OT | Moderate | Braden Smith departed to the Texans, and 2025 4th-round pick Jalen Travis is expected to step into the starting RT role. Travis showed promise in 4 late-season starts but is unproven as a full-time starter. Bernhard Raimann is the LT but has been inconsistent. OT depth behind the starters is thin. Could use a developmental swing tackle. |
| CB | Moderate | On paper, the CB room is strong: Sauce Gardner, Charvarius Ward, and Kenny Moore II in the nickel. However, Ward suffered three concussions in 2025, missed 10 games, and openly contemplated retirement. While all indications point to his return, he said another concussion would likely end his career. Justin Walley (2025 3rd-rounder) is recovering from a torn ACL. Given Ward's fragility and Walley's injury recovery, CB depth insurance is warranted. |
- Daniel Jones (QB) — 2yr/$88M ($60M gtd). Richest 2-year QB deal in NFL history locks in Colts' starter after career year (3,101 yds, 68% completion rate)
- Alec Pierce (WR) — 4yr/$114M ($84M gtd, $60M fully guaranteed). Record-setting WR extension ($29M AAV, most-ever for free-agent WR) makes Pierce the Colts' WR1 for the next four years
- Charvarius Ward (CB) — 3yr/$60M ($35M gtd, $20M signing bonus). Elite CB2 with 41 PDs since 2022 joins Sauce Gardner to give Colts arguably the best cornerback tandem in the AFC
- Camryn Bynum (S) — 4yr/$60M ($26M gtd). Ballard's biggest free-agent investment ever in a safety — Bynum brings elite tackling and ball-hawking instincts to the Colts' rebuilt secondary
- Sauce Gardner (CB) — 4yr/$120.4M (acquired via trade, Nov. 2025; 2026+2027 1sts + Adonai Mitchell). Two-time All-Pro and highest-paid CB in NFL history gives Indy a shutdown No. 1 corner acquired at the trade deadline
- Michael Pittman Jr. (WR) → Pittsburgh Steelers. 8-year Colt and former WR1 traded to Pittsburgh for a 6th-round pick, freeing cap and clearing the path for Pierce's record extension
- Zaire Franklin (LB) → Green Bay Packers. Pro Bowl LB and 8-year defensive leader traded away, leaving the Colts without a proven starter at linebacker
- Kwity Paye (EDGE) → Las Vegas Raiders. Former first-round pick and 5-year starter departs in free agency, leaving a significant hole in the Colts' pass rush
- Braden Smith (OT) → Houston Texans. 8-year starting right tackle (105 starts) departs for a division rival, handing the starting RT job to unproven 2025 4th-rounder Jalen Travis
- Nick Cross (S) → Washington Commanders. Ascending strong safety and 38-game starter leaves, opening a hole alongside newly signed Camryn Bynum
Scheme: Lou Anarumo's defense is a Cincinnati-style 4-3 that relies heavily on man coverage and disguised zone schemes. Anarumo loves nickel corners (Kenny Moore II) and values LBs who can drop in coverage and rally to the ball. EDGE prospects with versatility to stand up or play with a hand down fit well given Latu's 4-3 DE alignment. LB prospects need to be three-down players who can handle coverage responsibilities — pure run-stuffers are less valuable. Safety prospects who can play both box and deep are prized. The Colts' offensive scheme under Steichen is a Shanahan-style outside zone run system, so OL prospects with athleticism and mobility are preferred over pure power blockers.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Jacksonville went 13-4 in Liam Coen's first season, won the AFC South, and lost in the Wild Card to Buffalo 27-24. The front office is taking a patient, draft-capital-focused approach to free agency, deliberately letting key contributors walk to recoup compensatory picks in 2027. The defense improved dramatically under DC Anthony Campanile (31 turnovers, 2nd in NFL) but lost its best off-ball linebacker (Devin Lloyd) and multiple rotational DL pieces. The offense was elite in the second half of the season after acquiring Jakobi Meyers. Travis Hunter will shift to a CB-primary role in 2026 after playing mostly WR as a rookie. No first-round pick means the Jaguars must address needs starting at #56 overall.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| IDL | Critical | The interior defensive line is arguably the Jaguars' biggest need. Arik Armstead is entering his age-33 season with a declining PFF grade and is a potential post-June 1 cut that would save ~$15M. DaVon Hamilton has not topped a 55.5 PFF grade since 2022. Rotational DL Austin Johnson, Dawuane Smoot, and Emmanuel Ogbah are all unsigned free agents. Matt Dickerson was re-signed on a minimum deal as depth. Maason Smith is young but unproven. The Jaguars led the NFL in rushing defense but struggled to generate interior pass-rush pressure. |
| LB | Critical | Devin Lloyd signed a 3-year, $45M deal with the Panthers after earning second-team All-Pro honors with 5 INTs in 2025. His departure leaves a massive hole. Foyesade Oluokun (age 30, $10M+ cap hit) is a potential post-June 1 cut for cap relief, though he led the NFL in tackles in 2025. Behind them, Ventrell Miller showed flashes but has limited starting experience, Dennis Gardeck was re-signed but is more of a special teams/rotational piece, and Jack Kiser/Branson Combs are depth-only players. |
| IOL | Important | Center Robert Hainsey (55.8 PFF pass-blocking grade) and right guard Patrick Mekari (52.9 PFF pass-blocking grade) were serviceable stopgaps but graded poorly in pass protection. Both are under contract but were signed as veteran bridges. The Jaguars had the 24th-ranked offensive line per PFF. The good news is that 2025 draft picks Wyatt Milum (3rd round) and Jonah Monheim (7th round) are developing as potential replacements, but a real investment in the draft could significantly upgrade the interior. |
| EDGE | Important | Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker are an elite starting duo, but depth behind them is now very thin. Dawuane Smoot and Emmanuel Ogbah are both unsigned free agents. Dennis Gardeck was re-signed and provides some versatility but had only 2.5 sacks in 2025. The Jaguars ranked near the bottom of the NFL in total sacks last season despite the strong edge starters. Walker is also entering a contract year in 2026, adding future uncertainty. |
| RB | Important | Travis Etienne signed a 4-year, $52M deal with the Saints after rushing for 1,107 yards in 2025. The Jaguars signed Chris Rodriguez Jr. (2-year, $10M) from Washington as a replacement, but he had only 500 rushing yards last season. Bhayshul Tuten showed promise as a rookie and LeQuint Allen Jr. provides depth, but the room lacks a proven lead back. Rodriguez is a complementary piece, not a true Etienne replacement. |
| S | Moderate | Andrew Wingard signed with the Cardinals, removing a starting-caliber safety. However, Antonio Johnson broke out in the second half of 2025 with 5 INTs and earned PFF's Most Improved Safety award. Eric Murray is under contract but missed 5 games with injuries in 2025. Second-year players Caleb Ransaw (missed 2025 on IR) and Rayuan Lane provide young depth. This is a moderate need — the starters are set but depth for Campanile's three-safety looks needs attention. |
| CB | Moderate | The Jaguars' CB room is actually in solid shape after re-signing Montaric Brown to a 3-year, $33M deal. Travis Hunter is shifting to CB1 in 2026 with Brown as CB2, plus Jourdan Lewis in the slot and Jarrian Jones providing depth. Greg Newsome II signed with the Giants, but the cupboard is not bare. Adding another versatile corner who can play slot and outside would maximize Hunter's two-way flexibility, but this is not a desperate need. |
| TE | Minor | Brenton Strange is a quality starter and potential extension candidate. Quintin Morris was re-signed for his pass-blocking ability. However, TE Johnny Mundt was released on March 10, reducing depth. The Jaguars could add a Day 3 developmental TE but this is not a pressing concern. |
- Montaric Brown (CB) — 3yr/$31.8M ($20.65M gtd). Team-high 12 PBUs and elite coverage metrics earn Brown a multi-year commitment as the locked-in CB2 opposite Travis Hunter
- Chris Rodriguez Jr. (RB) — 2yr/$10M ($6.2M gtd, max $12M). Former Coen pupil at Kentucky brought in as Etienne's replacement in a 1A/1B committee with Bhayshul Tuten
- Dennis Gardeck (LB) — 2yr/$6.5M ($3.65M gtd). Pass-rush specialist with 25 pressures and 2.5 sacks re-signed to maintain depth after Lloyd's departure
- Jakobi Meyers (WR) — 3yr/$60M ($40M gtd) — extension signed Dec. 19, 2025. Midseason trade acquisition locked up through 2028 after transforming the offense; $40M guaranteed signals long-term WR2 commitment
- Travis Etienne Jr. (RB) → New Orleans Saints. Franchise RB (1,107 rush yds, 13 total TDs in 2025) returns home to Louisiana on a $52M deal the cap-strapped Jaguars could not match
- Devin Lloyd (LB) → Carolina Panthers. Second-team All-Pro linebacker (5 INTs, 81 tackles) leaves after a breakout 2025 season, creating Jacksonville's biggest defensive hole
- Greg Newsome II (CB) → New York Giants. Midseason trade acquisition and CB2/CB3 departs on a prove-it deal, thinning cornerback depth behind Brown and Hunter
- Andrew Wingard (S) → Arizona Cardinals. 7-year Jaguars fan favorite and starter departs, ending a beloved tenure and adding to the safety depth question
Scheme: Under DC Anthony Campanile, Jacksonville runs a zone-heavy defensive scheme that emphasizes coverage ability from all levels. Montaric Brown's zone coverage strength was a key reason for his re-signing. The defense used frequent three-safety looks in 2025, making versatile DBs valuable. On offense, Liam Coen runs a Rams-derived system with play-action heavy concepts and an emphasis on the running game (22 rushing TDs in 2025, 4th in NFL). IOL prospects who excel in zone-blocking schemes are ideal fits. The front office has Rams-rooted philosophy that historically undervalues LB investment relative to other positions, though Lloyd's departure may force their hand. EDGE prospects who can also set the edge vs. the run complement the scheme's emphasis on gap integrity.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs went 6-11 in 2025 — their worst season since 2012 — and missed the playoffs for the first time in the Mahomes era. Mahomes suffered a torn ACL/LCL in Week 15 and his Week 1 availability is uncertain. The 2022 draft class that fueled the dynasty (McDuffie, Watson, Cook, Chenal, Pacheco) has been almost entirely dismantled via trade and free agency. GM Brett Veach is executing an aggressive retool, trading McDuffie for draft capital and overhauling multiple position groups. The team has two first-round picks (Nos. 9 and 29) for the first time since the 2022 Tyreek Hill trade haul. The secondary has been gutted, WR is unreliable, and EDGE/DL need more juice alongside Chris Jones and George Karlaftis.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| CB | Critical | The secondary was demolished this offseason. Trent McDuffie (All-Pro) was traded to the Rams. Jaylen Watson signed with the Rams. Joshua Williams signed with the Titans. The only CB additions are Kader Kohou (coming off a missed 2025 season due to knee injury) on a one-year prove-it deal, projected as a nickel option. There is no legitimate CB1 on the roster. This is the most glaring need on the team. |
| EDGE | Critical | The Chiefs generated just 12 takeaways in 2025 (third fewest in the NFL) largely due to inconsistent pass rush. George Karlaftis is locked in long-term but had a down 2025 season battling injuries. Ashton Gillotte showed promise as a 2025 3rd-rounder but is unproven. Mike Danna was cut for cap savings. Charles Omenihu signed with Washington. The team desperately needs a premium edge rusher to pair with Karlaftis and Chris Jones. |
| WR | Critical | No Chiefs WR reached 1,000 yards in 2025. Xavier Worthy had a disappointing sophomore season (42 catches, 532 yards, 1 TD) playing through a torn labrum — he had successful surgery in January and should be healthy for 2026. Rashee Rice faces a potential lengthy NFL suspension due to mounting off-field issues (prior 6-game suspension, new domestic violence civil suit). His availability in 2026 cannot be counted on. Tyquan Thornton was re-signed but is a WR3/4. The Chiefs need a true alpha WR1 who can carry the receiving corps. |
| S | Important | Bryan Cook, the Chiefs' best safety, was lured away by the Bengals on a 3-year/$40M deal. The team signed Alohi Gilman (3yr/$24.75M) from the Ravens as a replacement, and he'll be asked to play a versatile role under Spagnuolo. Chamarri Conner and Jaden Hicks remain, but the safety room lacks a true playmaking FS. Gilman helps but doesn't fully replace Cook's impact. |
| DT | Important | Chris Jones remains the anchor, but depth behind him was a major issue in 2025. Omarr Norman-Lott (2025 2nd-round pick) tore his ACL in October and is a question mark for 2026. The team signed Khyiris Tonga (3yr/$21M) to help with run-stuffing and depth, but still needs more interior pass-rush juice. Derrick Nnadi left for the Colts. |
| OT | Moderate | The right tackle spot is the only O-line question after Jawaan Taylor was released ($20M cap savings). Josh Simmons (2025 1st-round pick) is the franchise LT and looked excellent when healthy despite missing 9 games as a rookie. Jaylon Moore (signed 2yr/$30M in 2025) is the current projected RT starter and was adequate filling in for Taylor. The RT spot is fine short-term with Moore but needs a long-term answer. O-line is projected as a top unit if healthy. |
| LB | Important | Leo Chenal, one of the defense's most versatile and impactful LBs, signed with the Washington Commanders. Nick Bolton remains the anchor, and Drue Tranquill is under contract, but losing Chenal in a LB-rich draft class puts emphasis on the position. Cole Christiansen was re-signed for depth/special teams. |
| TE | Moderate | Travis Kelce returned on a 1-year/$12M deal for his 14th season, but he turns 37 in October 2026. He led the team in every receiving category in 2025 (76 catches, 851 yards, 5 TDs) but his production is declining. The Chiefs need to begin developing his eventual successor. There is no viable TE2 behind him currently. |
- Kenneth Walker III (RB) — 3yr/$43.05M ($28.7M gtd). Super Bowl LX MVP and most explosive RB in free agency eliminates KC's longest-standing offensive weakness
- Alohi Gilman (S) — 3yr/$24.75M ($15M gtd). Veteran starter partially patches secondary after Bryan Cook's departure to Cincinnati
- Khyiris Tonga (IDL) — 3yr/$21M ($14M gtd). Run-stuffing nose tackle brings legitimate IDL depth alongside Chris Jones for first time in years
- Travis Kelce (TE) — 1yr/$12M (up to $15M). Kelce returns for 14th season, providing critical Mahomes continuity atop the offense
- Tyquan Thornton (WR) — 2yr/$11M (up to $14M). Career-year deep threat retained to anchor a WR room that still needs significant reinforcement
- Trent McDuffie (CB) → Los Angeles Rams. Two-time All-Pro CB1 dealt for pick No. 29, three additional picks — historic secondary teardown begins
- Bryan Cook (S) → Cincinnati Bengals. Starting safety returns home to Cincinnati, leaving the Chiefs' backend with major vacancy
- Jaylen Watson (CB) → Los Angeles Rams. CB2 reunites with McDuffie in LA — Chiefs lose both starting corners in one week
- Jawaan Taylor (OT) → TBD/unsigned. Starting RT cut to clear $20M in cap space, leaving a glaring vacancy at right tackle heading into the draft
- Leo Chenal (LB) → Washington Commanders. Young versatile LB and blitz specialist departs, continuing the exodus of KC's 2022 draft class
Scheme: Steve Spagnuolo's 4-3 defense relies heavily on disguising coverages and playing versatile shell looks (Cover 4 shells that morph). This puts a premium on CBs who can play man and zone, inside and outside — which is exactly what they lost in McDuffie and Watson. EDGE prospects who can set the edge in the run game AND rush the passer fit best (Karlaftis prototype). On offense, Andy Reid's West Coast system with RPO elements values WRs who can run the full route tree, not just speed merchants. A big-bodied X receiver who can win contested catches would complement Worthy's speed. The Kelce succession plan favors a move TE who can line up inline and as a big slot. The Kenneth Walker signing indicates they want a power/speed back, reducing RB as a draft need but making pass-catching complements useful on Day 3.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers went 11-6 in 2025 and lost in the Wild Card round to the Patriots. The offense was ravaged by OL injuries (lost Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt for extended stretches), leading to one of the worst offensive lines in the NFL. Both tackles return healthy for 2026, but the entire interior OL has been overhauled after Bradley Bozeman retired, Zion Johnson left in free agency, and Mekhi Becton was released. New OC Mike McDaniel replaces Greg Roman, and new DC Chris O'Leary replaces Jesse Minter (now Ravens HC). The defense remains strong but lost key edge rusher Odafe Oweh to Washington's $100M deal. Only 5 draft picks limits flexibility.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| IOL | Critical | The entire interior OL has been rebuilt. Bradley Bozeman retired. Zion Johnson signed with the Browns ($49.5M). Mekhi Becton was released. The Chargers signed Tyler Biadasz at center and Cole Strange as a guard, but Strange is a floor raiser on a modest $13M deal, not a proven starter. The second guard spot is completely open with Trevor Penning as the only fallback option. The Chargers fielded the lowest-graded interior in the NFL in 2025 and must add a Day 1 starting guard to protect Justin Herbert. |
| EDGE | Critical | Odafe Oweh signed a 4-year, $100M deal with Washington after a dominant half-season with the Chargers (7.5 sacks in 12 regular season games). Khalil Mack was re-signed on a 1-year, $18M deal but turns 35 and this is likely his final season. Tuli Tuipulotu is in the final year of his rookie deal and is the long-term piece. The team needs a third edge rusher to replace Oweh's production and plan for Mack's retirement. |
| DT | Important | The Chargers re-signed Teair Tart on a multi-year extension and added veteran Dalvin Tomlinson on a 1-year, $7.5M deal. Jamaree Caldwell (2025 3rd-round pick) flashed as a rookie. But Da'Shawn Hand left for Atlanta and Otito Ogbonnia signed with Dallas. The interior DL lacks a true disruptive 3-technique pass rusher. Tomlinson is 32 and graded 120th of 134 DTs at PFF last season. The defense needs more interior beef, especially when Tart is off the field. |
| CB | Important | Cam Hart and Tarheeb Still are promising young starters from the 2024 draft class, but the Chargers lost key depth CB Benjamin St-Juste (signed with Packers) and Ja'Sir Taylor is a free agent. Donte Jackson is under contract but aging. Hart dealt with durability concerns (concussion, ankle sprains, torn labrum). The cornerback room has potential but lacks proven depth behind the starters, especially for a defense that uses a lot of sub-packages. |
| WR | Important | Ladd McConkey is the WR1 but no Charger cracked 800 receiving yards in 2025. Quentin Johnston has been discussed in trade talks and produced only 735 yards as the nominal WR1. Keenan Allen is a UFA at age 34 and unsigned. Tre Harris showed some promise as a rookie but tore his Achilles in Week 3. The team lacks a true outside X-receiver. Even if Allen returns on a cheap deal, the Chargers need a dynamic weapon to pair with McConkey in Mike McDaniel's new scheme. |
| S | Moderate | Derwin James Jr. is an All-Pro but enters the final year of his contract and plays more of a nickel/slot corner role in this defense. Elijah Molden is the other starting safety. Alohi Gilman was traded to Baltimore in the Oweh deal. Tony Jefferson is an unsigned free agent at 33. The safety room needs a young developmental piece even if the starters are adequate, especially to plan for life after James if an extension doesn't happen. |
| LB | Moderate | Daiyan Henley is the starter and showed growth in Year 2. Denzel Perryman was re-signed but is 33 years old and more of a locker room leader at this stage. Del'Shawn Phillips was re-signed as a special teams ace. The Chargers lack a young, athletic three-down LB who can cover in today's NFL. This is a historically deep LB draft class. |
- Tyler Biadasz (IOL) — 3yr/$30M ($17M gtd). Former Pro Bowl center fills biggest pre-FA need, replacing retired Bradley Bozeman with a clear upgrade at C.
- Khalil Mack (EDGE) — 1yr/$18M (fully gtd). Future Hall of Famer returns for Year 5 in LA, anchoring the pass rush after Oweh's departure to Washington.
- Charlie Kolar (TE) — 3yr/$24.3M ($17M gtd). Multi-year investment at a barren position — Kolar and Gadsden form a legitimate starter TE room for McDaniel's offense.
- Cole Strange (IOL) — 2yr/$13M ($9M gtd). McDaniel scheme-fit guard reunites with his former head coach to compete for a starting role on a rebuilt interior line.
- Teair Tart (IDL) — 3yr/$30M ($20M gtd, up to $37.5M). Chargers lock up their best defensive lineman early, preventing another Poona Ford-type loss at the position.
- Odafe Oweh (EDGE) → Washington Commanders. Biggest departure of the offseason — Oweh's 7.5-sack, 2-forced-fumble playoff performance earned him a $100M deal LA was unwilling to match.
- Zion Johnson (IOL) → Cleveland Browns. 2022 first-round pick departs to Cleveland, stripping the already-battered interior OL of its lone returning guard.
- Mekhi Becton (IOL) → TBD/unsigned. Cap casualty after one injury-plagued and inconsistent season — his release left the Chargers without a single interior OL starter.
- Bradley Bozeman (IOL) → Retired. Starting center's February retirement created the most urgent need heading into free agency, quickly addressed by the Biadasz signing.
- Benjamin St-Juste (CB) → Green Bay Packers. Breakout rotational CB departs after one excellent year under Jesse Minter, thinning a CB room that already had limited depth.
Scheme: New OC Mike McDaniel brings a wide-zone, motion-heavy scheme from Miami that prioritizes athletic, mobile OL who can pull and get to the second level — making IOL athleticism paramount. New DC Chris O'Leary is a Jesse Minter protege continuing the same aggressive, multiple-front defense that led the NFL in points allowed in 2024. The defense uses heavy sub-packages with Derwin James in a hybrid nickel role, meaning versatile CBs and coverage-capable LBs are valued. Press-man corners fit the scheme. Edge rushers who can set the edge against the run and rush the passer are premium. Interior DL who can eat double-teams and generate interior pressure are needed to complement the coverage scheme.
Los Angeles Rams
NFC Championship Game team built around 38-year-old MVP Matthew Stafford in what is likely his final push. Aggressively addressed CB via blockbuster McDuffie trade and Watson signing. Havenstein and Darious Williams retired. Offensive window closing — several core players entering contract years (Kobie Turner, Steve Avila, Puka Nacua, Byron Young). Philosophy is to use free agency to avoid being desperate in the draft.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| WR | Critical | Davante Adams is 33, had only 789 yards in 2025, carries a massive $24M cap hit, and the Rams have actively explored trading him. No reliable WR3 behind Puka Nacua — Tutu Atwell departed as a free agent, Jordan Whittington is unproven. Need a complementary receiver to maximize Stafford's final window. Mock drafts frequently project USC's Makai Lemon here. |
| OT | Important | Rob Havenstein retired after 11 seasons, leaving right tackle to Warren McClendon who impressed filling in (10 starts in 2025) but is unproven as a full-time starter. D.J. Humphries is not expected back. Alaric Jackson is the LT, but OT depth is paper-thin behind McClendon and veteran backup David Quessenberry. Protecting 38-year-old Stafford is paramount. |
| QB | Important | Stafford is 38 and on a year-to-year arrangement — no successor on roster. Jimmy Garoppolo is an unsigned free agent (Arizona deal fell through, could still return). Only Stetson Bennett under contract, who has never thrown a regular-season pass. The Rams don't feel 'urgency' per Les Snead but need to develop a successor. A mid-round developmental pick behind Stafford makes sense. |
| IOL | Moderate | Starting interior of Steve Avila (LG), Coleman Shelton (C), and Kevin Dotson (RG) returns intact. However, both Avila and Dotson are entering their final contract years, creating future concerns. Interior depth was exposed in 2025 — Justin Dedich is the primary backup but drop-off is significant. Need to develop a future starter. |
| CB | Moderate | Major need was addressed via McDuffie trade and Watson signing, but depth is thin. Lost Darious Williams (retired), Ahkello Witherspoon (UFA), Cobie Durant (UFA), and Roger McCreary (UFA) — the entire 2025 rotation departed. Emmanuel Forbes is the only other outside CB under contract. Could use one more veteran or mid-round pick for CB4 depth. |
| LB | Moderate | Nate Landman had a career year with 132 tackles and was extended. Omar Speights is the second ILB. Depth is thin beyond them with Chris Paul Jr. and Shaun Dolac as backups. Could benefit from adding a coverage linebacker to complement the pass rush. |
| IDL | Minor | Solid rotation with Kobie Turner (7 sacks), Braden Fiske, Poona Ford, and Tyler Davis. Could use a big-bodied run-stuffing DT to complement the smaller, movement-oriented starters. Sebastian Joseph-Day has been mentioned as a cheap FA fit. Turner is in a contract year which adds some uncertainty. |
| TE | Minor | Colby Parkinson set career-highs in 2025 and is the TE1. Tyler Higbee re-signed on a two-year deal. Terrance Ferguson and Davis Allen provide depth. McVay's offense leaned on 13 personnel (3 TE sets) in 2025, so keeping five TEs makes sense. Parkinson and Allen are in contract years beyond 2026. Oregon's Kenyon Sadiq has been mocked to LAR at 13. |
- Trent McDuffie (CB) — 4yr/$124M ($100M gtd) + trade cost: 2026 1st (No. 29), 5th, 6th & 2027 3rd. NFL's new highest-paid CB ($31M AAV, 2x All-Pro) gives Rams an elite CB1 to anchor a rebuilt secondary
- Jaylen Watson (CB) — 3yr/$51M ($34M gtd). McDuffie's former Chiefs running mate reunites with him in LA as a legitimate CB2 on a starter-money deal
- Kamren Curl (S) — 3yr/$36M ($24M gtd, max $39M). Career-best season (122 tackles, 3 INTs including a playoff OT winner) earns Curl a long-term commitment as starting safety
- Grant Stuard (LB) — 2yr/$5.05M (max value). Elite special teams ace (18th-ranked ST player per PFF, 375 ST snaps in 2025) addresses a major Rams weakness
- Joe Cardona (LS) — 2yr/$3.45M (approx.). 11-year veteran long snapper stabilizes a special teams unit that was a liability throughout 2025
- Rob Havenstein (OT) → Retired. Starting RT of 10+ years retires, leaving an immediate hole at right tackle that depth signing Quessenberry cannot fill
- Darious Williams (CB) → Retired. 6-year Ram retires, but his departure is softened by the arrivals of McDuffie and Watson
- Cobie Durant (CB) → Dallas Cowboys. Fan-favorite and former starter reads the writing on the wall after McDuffie trade and signs prove-it deal in Dallas
- Roger McCreary (CB) → Detroit Lions. Trade acquisition who shined in the playoffs departs on a 1-year deal as CB room overhaul renders him expendable
- Tutu Atwell (WR) → TBD/unsigned. Former 2nd-round pick exits after underwhelming tenure, leaving WR depth behind Nacua and Adams thin
Scheme: McVay's offense shifted to 13 personnel (3 TE sets) in 2025, making TE prospects uniquely valuable. Chris Shula's 3-4 defense relies on undersized, high-motor IDL and athletic OLBs as EDGE rushers. Quentin Lake plays nickel/slot safety hybrid role. CB prospects must have versatility to play inside and outside in press-man and zone concepts. WR prospects benefit from route-running precision and red zone ability given Stafford's style.
Las Vegas Raiders
Full rebuild underway after a league-worst 3-14 season in 2025. New HC Klint Kubiak and GM John Spytek are reshaping the roster with massive free agency spending (~$280M+ committed). Expected to draft QB Fernando Mendoza No. 1 overall. Maxx Crosby remains on roster after Baltimore trade collapsed due to failed physical, though his future remains uncertain. Strong young skill position core with Ashton Jeanty, Brock Bowers, and Michael Mayer. Transitioning to a 3-4 defensive scheme under DC Rob Leonard.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| QB | Critical | After trading Geno Smith to the Jets and losing Kenny Pickett to Carolina in free agency, the Raiders have only Aidan O'Connell on the roster at quarterback. Fernando Mendoza (Indiana) is the consensus No. 1 overall pick and is expected to be selected here. This is a franchise-defining pick for a team that hasn't drafted a QB in Round 1 since JaMarcus Russell in 2007. |
| WR | Critical | The Raiders lack a true No. 1 wide receiver. Jakobi Meyers was traded to Jacksonville, and the current room is led by Tre Tucker, Jalen Nailor (signed from Minnesota), and Jack Bech — none of whom profile as a legitimate 'X' receiver. Nailor's signing was characterized as under-the-radar and should not prevent them from adding to the WR room. With a rookie QB likely arriving, a reliable pass-catching weapon is essential. |
| S | Critical | The safety group is the weakest unit on the roster. Isaiah Pola-Mao struggled badly in 2025 at free safety, and Jeremy Chinn is merely adequate at strong safety. The team lost Tre'von Moehrig, Divine Deablo, and Jamal Adams from last year's roster. No significant safety additions were made in free agency despite targeting several (Coby Bryant went to Bears, Alohi Gilman to Chiefs). The position needs a starter badly, particularly at FS. |
| IDL | Important | The transition to a 3-4 defense creates an urgent need for a true nose tackle who can hold gaps against double teams. JJ Pegues had difficulties holding his gap as a rookie despite his size. Adam Butler is 32 and declining. Jonah Laulu is undersized at 292 lbs for interior work. Thomas Booker was re-signed but is a rotational piece. The Raiders need a quality nose tackle to anchor their new 3-4 front. |
| IOL | Important | While the Linderbaum signing was a home run at center and Jackson Powers-Johnson is locked in at LG, the right guard spot is a clear weakness. Jordan Meredith and Caleb Rogers are the current options but neither is a proven starter. The offensive line ranked near the bottom of the NFL in 2025 in run-blocking win rate. Kubiak's wide-zone scheme demands athletic, movement-oriented guards. |
| CB | Moderate | Re-signing Eric Stokes and trading for Taron Johnson (slot) addressed the immediate starting needs. Darien Porter played over half the snaps in 2025 as a third-round pick but remains a question mark as a full-time starter. The secondary still needs young developmental depth — Decamerion Richardson and Chigozie Anusiem are unproven. Overall the position was improved but not fully secured. |
| OT | Moderate | Kolton Miller (age 30, entering year 9) dealt with significant injuries in 2025 including a fracture and ankle sprain. He's under contract but durability is a concern. DJ Glaze is solid at RT but some analysts question his fit in Kubiak's wide-zone scheme. Backup Stone Forsythe left for Carolina. Tackle depth is very thin — Charles Grant and Dalton Wagner are unproven. LT succession planning is needed. |
| EDGE | Moderate | Situation is fluid due to Maxx Crosby's uncertain future. If Crosby stays, EDGE is moderate — Kwity Paye was signed but had a down year (4 sacks) and Malcolm Koonce was re-signed but hasn't looked the same since his ACL tear. Tyree Wilson (7th overall in 2023) has underperformed and is transitioning to interior work. If Crosby is eventually traded, EDGE becomes Tier 1 instantly. For now, the Raiders are telling teams Crosby won't be traded. |
| LB | Minor | The signings of Quay Walker and Nakobe Dean transformed this group from a major weakness to a solid unit. Walker led Green Bay in tackles four consecutive years, and Dean brings coverage and pass-rush ability from Philadelphia. Tommy Eichenberg and Cody Lindenberg provide depth. Could still use a developmental Day 2-3 pick given Dean's injury history, but no longer a pressing need. |
- Tyler Linderbaum (IOL) — 3yr/$81M ($60M gtd). Record-breaking center deal — highest-paid interior lineman in NFL history anchors O-line for Mendoza era
- Quay Walker (LB) — 3yr/$40.5M ($28M gtd). Led Packers in tackles all four seasons; teams with Nakobe Dean to rebuild the Raiders' second level
- Nakobe Dean (LB) — 3yr/$36M ($23M gtd). Super Bowl champion and elite blitzing LB reunites with college teammate Walker to form the Raiders' new LB core
- Kwity Paye (EDGE) — 3yr/$48M ($31.28M gtd). Former 1st-round pick (30.5 career sacks) joins Maxx Crosby to form a formidable pass-rush duo
- Eric Stokes (CB) — 3yr/$30M ($20M gtd). Former first-round pick re-signed as committed starter after career-high 16 starts in first Raiders season
- Geno Smith (QB) → New York Jets. Bridge QB traded away, officially clearing the path to select Fernando Mendoza No. 1 overall
- Dylan Parham (IOL) → New York Jets. Homegrown guard starter (63 starts in 4 seasons) departs, leaving a hole at LG that Linderbaum's arrival can't fully fix
- Kenny Pickett (QB) → Carolina Panthers. Backup QB departs, leaving the Raiders without an experienced QB behind incoming rookie Mendoza
- Alex Cappa (IOL) → TBD. Veteran guard released as cap casualty, part of broader IOL overhaul led by Linderbaum signing
- Stone Forsythe (OT) → Carolina Panthers. Emergency LT starter (13 games for injured Kolton Miller) departs; Raiders expect Miller healthy in 2026
Scheme: HC Klint Kubiak runs a wide-zone rushing scheme that prioritizes athletic, movement-oriented offensive linemen who can reach and climb to the second level — the Linderbaum signing is a perfect schematic fit. DC Rob Leonard is installing a 3-4 base defense, creating specific needs for a true nose tackle (gap-filler) and stand-up OLBs. EDGE rushers with versatility to play from a two-point stance have elevated value. The 3-4 scheme also demands three quality off-ball LBs, which was addressed via Walker and Dean. On offense, Kubiak's system benefits from a two-headed backfield and receivers with run-after-catch ability and motion versatility.
Miami Dolphins
Full-scale rebuild under new GM Jon-Eric Sullivan and HC Jeff Hafley (both from Green Bay). Released Tua Tagovailoa (post-June 1, ~$42.9M dead money), Tyreek Hill (failed physical), Bradley Chubb, James Daniels, Liam Eichenberg, and Jason Sanders. Traded Minkah Fitzpatrick to Jets. Lost Kader Kohou to Chiefs in free agency. Signed Malik Willis as presumptive starting QB on 3-year/$67.5M deal. Cap-strapped team making mostly one-year, low-cost signings. Building through the draft with five top-100 picks.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| CB | Critical | The secondary is decimated. Traded Jalen Ramsey in 2024, lost Kader Kohou to Chiefs in FA, Rasul Douglas is a UFA who left. Current CB room is Cam Smith, Ethan Bonner, A.J. Green III, Marco Wilson, Darrell Baker Jr., and Alex Austin — mostly unproven depth pieces and special teamers. No legitimate CB1 on the roster. Multiple beat reporters and analysts identify this as the team's biggest defensive need. |
| IOL | Critical | Guard play was historically bad in 2025. Jonah Savaiinaea earned a 14.1 PFF pass-blocking grade as a rookie, ranking dead last among all guards. James Daniels was released, Cole Strange and Larry Borom left in FA. Signed Jamaree Salyer but he projects more as depth/swing option. Need a legitimate starting guard to protect Malik Willis. Beat writers say team prefers to use a top-100 pick on a guard. |
| WR | Critical | Tyreek Hill was released (failed physical, coming off ACL). Jaylen Waddle is the only proven receiver left, and the room desperately lacks size and depth. Signed Tutu Atwell and Jalen Tolbert on one-year deals, but neither is a true WR2. ESPN notes Atwell is 'not likely the No. 2 receiver Miami still needs opposite Jaylen Waddle.' The WR room is facing a 'complete overhaul' per ESPN. Need a big-bodied complement to Waddle. |
| S | Critical | Traded Minkah Fitzpatrick to Jets for only a 7th-round pick. Elijah Campbell signed with Giants. Current safety room is Dante Trader Jr. (2nd-year, limited), Zayne Anderson, and Lonnie Johnson Jr. — all depth/special teams caliber. Safety was critical in Jeff Hafley's Green Bay defense. A to Z Sports identifies this as a 'major need' that 'needs a starter to come from somewhere...most likely the 2026 NFL Draft.' |
| EDGE | Important | Traded Jaelan Phillips to Eagles at midseason. Released Bradley Chubb (post-June 1). Lost Matthew Judon to FA. After Chubb's release, Chop Robinson was the only pass rusher with legitimate experience per ESPN. Signed Josh Uche and David Ojabo on one-year prove-it deals, but neither has been consistently productive. Robinson is the only long-term building block. Need a complementary edge rusher with Chop. |
| TE | Important | Traded Jonnu Smith (2024), Darren Waller likely retired. Re-signed Greg Dulcich (bright spot with 26 rec, 336 yds, 1 TD in 10 games) and added Ben Sims from Green Bay. Dulcich showed promise but the room lacks depth and a true every-down TE. Julian Hill signed with Patriots. New GM Sullivan's offense needs a versatile weapon here. |
| OT | Moderate | Patrick Paul is blossoming into an elite LT. Austin Jackson accepted a pay cut to return at RT but is injury-prone and in a contract year (FA after 2026). Need a developmental RT to eventually replace Jackson. Salyer provides some tackle versatility as a backup. Not an immediate crisis but a clear succession plan needed. |
| LB | Moderate | Jordyn Brooks is the anchor at off-ball LB and is an extension candidate. Re-signed Willie Gay Jr. but he played only 131 defensive snaps in 2025. Tyrel Dodson could be a cap casualty. The room needs youth and athleticism next to Brooks. PFF identifies LB as one of the 'most urgent needs' in the back seven. |
- Malik Willis (QB) — 3yr/$67.5M ($45M gtd). New-regime franchise QB replaces Tua; $45M guaranteed over 2 years signals real investment in a rebuild starter
- Jamaree Salyer (IOL) — 1yr (terms undisclosed). 40-career-start OL veteran joins as projected starting RG, addressing the biggest void left by James Daniels' release
- Josh Uche (EDGE) — 1yr (near-minimum). Miami native returns home on a prove-it deal; best pass rush option on roster after Chubb's departure but far from a solution
- Greg Dulcich (TE) — 1yr/$3.11M ($2.92M gtd). Re-signed pass-catching TE who led all TEs in YAC and yards-per-target in 2025; expected to be focal point of Willis-led passing game
- Tutu Atwell (WR) — 1yr (terms undisclosed). Miami native and deep-ball threat adds speed to WR room but does not solve the WR2 problem opposite Waddle
- Tua Tagovailoa (QB) → Atlanta Falcons (veteran minimum). Franchise QB era ends after benching; NFL-record $99.2M dead cap hit defines Miami's 2026-27 cap picture
- Tyreek Hill (WR) → TBD (rehabbing knee ligament tear). Eight-time Pro Bowler released after Week 4 knee injury; leaves a WR1-opposite-Waddle void that Miami has not filled
- Bradley Chubb (EDGE) → Buffalo Bills. Team's best pass rusher (8.5 sacks in 2025) cut for cap reasons, then immediately signed by division rival Bills
- Minkah Fitzpatrick (S) → New York Jets. Elite safety traded to division rival for minimum return; creates unaddressed starting safety void
- Julian Hill (TE) → New England Patriots. Primary blocking TE non-tendered and lost to division rival; highlights Miami's rebuild-mode roster philosophy
Scheme: New HC Jeff Hafley comes from Green Bay where he was DC — expect a defense modeled on the Packers' system, making versatile safeties critical (Hafley's defense leaned heavily on safety play). OC Bobby Slowik brings Shanahan-tree zone-run concepts, elevating the need for athletic offensive linemen who can move laterally. Willis's rushing ability means the offense will incorporate designed QB runs and RPOs, making IOL mobility a priority. CB prospects who can play press-man and zone-match coverage fit best. EDGE rushers with power and run defense ability complement the scheme alongside Chop Robinson's speed.
Minnesota Vikings
Coming off a disappointing 9-8 season and playoff miss. GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah was fired in January; Rob Brzezinski is acting as interim GM. The Vikings are in full cap-crunch mode after a record $345M cash spend in 2025, releasing both Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave to save $21M+. QB uncertainty persists as J.J. McCarthy has started only 10 of 34 possible games in two years due to injury. Kyler Murray was signed on a minimum deal to compete. The secondary faces massive turnover with Harrison Smith likely retiring and CB depth paper-thin behind starters. The defensive interior was gutted, and a Jonathan Greenard trade to Philadelphia remains in active discussion. This is a roster with elite talent at the top (Justin Jefferson, the EDGE group, Byron Murphy) but glaring depth issues across the board.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| S | Critical | Harrison Smith was released via post-June 1 designation and is heavily leaning toward retirement after 14 seasons. Even if he returns, he is 37 and cannot be relied upon long-term. Camryn Bynum left in 2025 free agency. The only safety under contract is Tavierre Thomas, a special-teams-first player. Minnesota has no viable starting free safety on the roster and this is a position Brian Flores' defense demands versatility and playmaking from. |
| IDL | Critical | The Vikings released BOTH Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave to save $21M+ in cap space after both underperformed in 2025. Jalen Redmond was their best interior DL in 2025 and was tendered, but the room behind him is extremely thin — Levi Drake Rodriguez, Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins, and Jaylon Hutchings are unproven rotational pieces. Brian Flores' defense needs a disruptive interior presence to allow the edge rushers to function. |
| CB | Important | Byron Murphy Jr. and Isaiah Rodgers are solid starters but the depth behind them is dangerously thin. The Vikings signed James Pierre (depth/ST piece from Pittsburgh) but he played only 26% of defensive snaps with the Steelers. Rodgers is entering the final year of his deal. The Vikings have finished outside the top 15 in PFF team coverage grade in each of the past six seasons. One injury to a starter and there is no viable replacement. |
| IOL | Important | Center Ryan Kelly retired after suffering three concussions in 2025 (his sixth career concussion). The Vikings have no established starting center on the roster. Blake Brandel (versatile backup who started 6 games at C) and Michael Jurgens (7th-round pick, 309 snaps in 2025) are the in-house options. The top free agent centers (Tyler Linderbaum, Cade Mays) signed elsewhere. Guard spots are fine with Donovan Jackson (LG) and Will Fries (RG), so this is specifically a center need. |
| WR | Important | Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison are locked in as WR1/WR2, but the WR3 spot is completely vacant. Jalen Nailor signed a 3-year/$35M deal with the Raiders, and Adam Thielen retired in January 2026. There is no established third receiver on the roster. Tai Felton showed some promise late in 2025 but the position needs a real addition for offensive depth. |
| EDGE | Moderate | This is contingent on the Jonathan Greenard situation. The Vikings are actively shopping Greenard to the Eagles for a Day 2 pick, as he wants a raise on his $76M contract. If traded, the starters become Andrew Van Ginkel and Dallas Turner. Turner broke out with 8 sacks and 15 QB hits in 2025 and is ready for a starting role, making the EDGE position manageable even without Greenard. But losing Greenard without adding depth would be risky. Re-signed Bo Richter as a ST/rotational piece. |
| RB | Moderate | Aaron Jones restructured his deal to stay at 31 years old ($5.5M base, $5M guaranteed), but he is aging and the Vikings need a long-term plan. Zavier Scott was re-signed after flashing in 2025 but is not an established RB2. Beat reporter Alec Lewis noted the team could still draft an RB. Jones was effective in 2025 (1,138 rushing yards) but his workload may need to be managed. |
| LB | Minor | Eric Wilson was re-signed on a 3-year/$22.5M deal after a career-best 2025 season. Blake Cashman turns 30 in May and Ivan Pace Jr. was tendered. The starters are set and capable, but Wilson (32 in September) and Cashman are aging. Could use a young developmental piece for the future but not an urgent need. |
- Kyler Murray (QB) — 1yr/$1.3M (fully gtd). Former No. 1 overall pick and 2019 Offensive Rookie of the Year joins on minimum deal to compete with J.J. McCarthy
- Eric Wilson (LB) — 3yr/$22.5M ($12.5M gtd). Breakout 2025 starter (6.5 sacks, 17 TFLs) locked up long-term as the Green Dot LB in Flores' defense
- Aaron Jones (RB) — 1yr/$5.6M ($5M gtd, restructured). 1,138-yard rusher avoids release after taking pay cut; returns as starter alongside Jordan Mason
- James Pierre (CB) — 2yr/$8.5M ($3.7M gtd). Veteran depth corner adds third option to thin CB room primarily through special teams contributions
- Jalen Redmond (IDL) — 1yr/$1.075M (ERFA tender). Team's best IDL in 2025 (6 sacks, 12 TFLs) retained at minimum on ERFA tender; extension expected
- Jalen Nailor (WR) → Las Vegas Raiders. WR3 'Speedy' cashes in with Raiders at $11.7M/yr, leaving Minnesota's receiver depth chart thin behind Jefferson and Addison
- Ryan Kelly (IOL) → N/A. Starting center retired after three concussions in 2025 season, creating the team's single most critical positional void
- Jonathan Allen (IDL) → Cincinnati Bengals. Cap casualty after disappointing first year (1 sack) — departure saves $6.5M but deepens IDL crisis
- Javon Hargrave (IDL) → Green Bay Packers. Second IDL starter released in cap purge ($10.9M savings), leaves Redmond as the only reliable piece on interior
- Harrison Smith (S) → TBD/possibly retiring. 14-year franchise icon released in procedural cap move while deciding on retirement; safety vacancy now looms large
Scheme: Brian Flores runs an aggressive, multiple-front defense that relies heavily on disguised coverages and pre-snap movement. The defense uses multiple safeties more than most teams (reducing CB depth urgency slightly but making safety versatility paramount). Interior DL must be disruptive against the run and collapse the pocket to support the elite edge rush (Van Ginkel/Turner). Flores values versatile LBs and DBs who can play multiple alignments. On offense, Kevin O'Connell runs a Shanahan-style scheme with heavy play-action, RPOs, and creative motion. The QB must handle pre-snap reads well (Murray's dual-threat ability fits). The WR3 role involves slot work and after-the-catch ability. Center must handle complex protection calls in O'Connell's system.
New England Patriots
Coming off a stunning 14-3 season and Super Bowl LX loss to Seattle under first-year HC Mike Vrabel. Drake Maye is the franchise QB (MVP runner-up). Team made aggressive FA moves but still has clear holes at EDGE and OT. Window is open — this is a contender looking for complementary pieces, not a rebuild.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| EDGE | Critical | The Patriots' most glaring need despite signing Dre'Mont Jones. New England ranked 26th in sacks (35), 26th in pressures, and 29th in hurries in 2025. Lost K'Lavon Chaisson (7.5 sacks) to Washington and released Anfernee Jennings. Harold Landry turns 30 and missed time with a knee injury late in the season, producing zero sacks in three playoff games. Jones helps but the depth behind Landry/Jones is Elijah Ponder, Bradyn Swinson, and Jesse Luketa — all unproven. Eliot Wolf himself noted edge rusher as a position of strength in this draft class, signaling the team's intentions. |
| OT | Important | Morgan Moses is 34 years old and while he played all 21 games effectively in 2025, he is not a long-term answer at RT. Maye was sacked 21 times in four playoff games and was under pressure on 38.7% of playoff dropbacks. Backup OT Vederian Lowe signed with SF, leaving virtually no depth behind Moses (only Marcus Bryant, a raw 7th-round pick). Will Campbell is entrenched at LT but had a shaky postseason that included an MCL injury. Need an heir to Moses at RT who can develop behind him for a year. |
| WR | Important | Released Stefon Diggs ($26M cap hit was untenable) and signed Romeo Doubs (4yr/$80M) as the replacement. Doubs is a solid WR2-level player but not a true WR1 who commands defensive attention the way Diggs did. Kayshon Boutte and Mack Hollins (33, final year) are complementary pieces. Boutte and Douglas are in contract years. The Super Bowl exposed the lack of a true alpha receiver — Diggs had just 101 yards in the entire playoffs. Team has explored an A.J. Brown trade and could still draft a WR. Kyle Williams (3rd-round pick) showed flashes but is unproven. |
| LB | Important | Released Jahlani Tavai, and Jack Gibbens (10 starts, 90 tackles in 2025) remains unsigned as an RFA. Spillane and Elliss are the only two LBs signed through 2027, making long-term depth a concern. Behind them, the group is mostly special teamers (Marte Mapu, KJ Britt, Chad Muma). Spillane had an ankle injury late in 2025. Need a dynamic playmaker next to Spillane who can be a long-term piece. |
| IOL | Moderate | Signed Alijah Vera-Tucker (3yr/$42M) to play LG, moving Jared Wilson from LG to C (replacing traded Garrett Bradbury). Wilson's PFF pass-block grade was a poor 42.8 at guard — his transition to center is unproven. Mike Onwenu (RG) bounced back with a solid season but is 29, in his final contract year, and has a $25M cap hit. Interior OL depth is a concern, and Wilson's development at center is a major question mark after the playoff struggles. |
| IDL | Moderate | Milton Williams and Christian Barmore form a solid starting duo, but lost run-stuffing DT Khyiris Tonga to KC in free agency. Tonga was a key contributor as a run-stuffer and even moonlighted as a fullback. Depth behind the starters (Cory Durden, Joshua Farmer, Leonard Taylor III) is unproven. Barmore is a talent but has had health scares (autoimmune condition in 2024). Could use another rotational piece. |
| S | Minor | Signed Kevin Byard (1yr/$9M) to replace departed Jaylinn Hawkins. Byard was a first-team All-Pro with 7 INTs in 2025 but is 32 and on a one-year deal — not a long-term solution. Craig Woodson had an excellent rookie season and is the long-term starter. Could use a developmental FS behind Byard for 2027. |
- Romeo Doubs (WR) — 4yr/$68M ($39M gtd, up to $80M w/incentives). 25-year-old WR1 investment (4yr/$68M) replaces Diggs with multi-year commitment; led Packers in receptions and yards in 2025
- Alijah Vera-Tucker (IOL) — 3yr/$42M ($21M gtd, max $48M). Former 1st-round LG steps in after Bradbury trade; PFF's 10th-best guard in 2024 but carries significant injury risk
- Dre'Mont Jones (EDGE) — 3yr/$36.5M ($23.1M gtd). Career-high 7 sacks/51 pressures in 2025; mid-tier edge upgrade replacing departing Chaisson with 2-year guaranteed commitment
- Kevin Byard (S) — 1yr/$9M (no guarantees). 3x All-Pro, NFL's 2025 INT leader (7) reunites with Vrabel; fills Hawkins' starting spot next to Craig Woodson
- Reggie Gilliam (FB) — 3yr/$12M ($6M gtd). McDaniels-scheme fullback signals commitment to power run game alongside Stevenson and Henderson
- Stefon Diggs (WR) → TBD/unsigned. Team's WR1 (85 rec, 1,013 yds, 4 TD in 2025) released for cap reasons; Doubs signing is partial replacement
- K'Lavon Chaisson (EDGE) → Washington Commanders. Team's top pass rusher (10.5 sacks, 73 pressures) walks to NFC East rival; Dre'Mont Jones is the in-house replacement
- Garrett Bradbury (IOL) → Chicago Bears. Starting center (17 regular season + 4 playoff starts) traded away; Jared Wilson slides to C, Vera-Tucker fills LG
- Khyiris Tonga (IDL) → Kansas City Chiefs. Top DT run-stuffer and surprise pass rusher earns big payday from Chiefs; interior D-line now thin
- Jaylinn Hawkins (S) → Baltimore Ravens. Starting safety (4 INTs in 2025) departs; Kevin Byard signed as the direct replacement
Scheme: Under Mike Vrabel, the Patriots run a multiple defense that leans 3-4 with versatile edge rushers. Vrabel values power EDGE players who can set the edge against the run AND rush the passer — pure speed rushers are less ideal. The OL needs to fit Josh McDaniels' offense, which relies on play-action and requires strong run-blocking. OT prospects should be plus run-blockers. At WR, McDaniels values route precision and reliability over raw athleticism. At LB, the scheme needs a three-down player with coverage ability who can also blitz through gaps.
New Orleans Saints
The Saints finished 6-11 in Kellen Moore's first year as HC but found their franchise QB in second-round pick Tyler Shough, who led the team to a 5-3 record in his 8 starts. The 2026 offseason is about building around Shough — the OL tackles are set with back-to-back first-rounders Kelvin Banks Jr. and Taliese Fuaga, and the team made splash FA signings (Etienne, Edwards, Elliss, Fant). But the defense lost three major pieces: Demario Davis (LB to Jets), Alontae Taylor (CB to Titans), and Cameron Jordan (EDGE, still unsigned UFA). WR remains thin behind Chris Olave. Cap situation is still tight but improving.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| WR | Critical | After trading Rashid Shaheed to Seattle mid-season in 2025, the Saints have no proven WR2 behind Chris Olave. Devaughn Vele projects as the WR2 but is a former 7th-round pick who was underutilized for much of 2025. Ja'Lynn Polk was acquired from New England but was on IR the entire 2025 season. Trey Palmer, Ronnie Bell, and others are fringe roster players. Free agency was intentionally left untouched at WR because the draft class is elite. Tyler Shough needs weapons to take the next step. |
| EDGE | Critical | Cameron Jordan (36, 10.5 sacks in 2025) hit free agency for the first time in 15 years and remains unsigned. Even if Jordan returns on a cheap deal, the Saints need a long-term pass rush partner for Chase Young. Carl Granderson had a down 2025 season. The team has not signed an edge rusher in free agency, leaving a clear hole for the draft or second-wave FA. |
| CB | Important | Alontae Taylor, who played the critical 'star' position in Brandon Staley's defense (the same role Derwin James and Jalen Ramsey filled for Staley), signed a 3-year, $60M deal with the Titans. This is a massive loss. Kool-Aid McKinstry showed improvement in his second year (NFC Defensive Player of the Week in Week 5) and is the CB1, while 2025 4th-rounder Quincy Riley projects as CB2. But the slot/star role is vacant and needs addressing. |
| S | Moderate | Justin Reid is under contract on a 3-year deal and is the starter, but he had an inconsistent 2025 season and will be 29. Tyrann Mathieu retired before the 2025 season, and 2025 3rd-round pick Jonas Sanker stepped into the starting role as a rookie. Sanker showed promise but is still developing. The secondary needs another playmaker, especially with Taylor's departure — a versatile safety/slot hybrid like Caleb Downs could address both the star and safety needs. |
| LB | Moderate | Demario Davis, a franchise cornerstone and team captain for years, signed with the Jets in free agency. The Saints replaced him with Kaden Elliss (3-year, $33M), a former homegrown product returning from Atlanta. Pete Werner and 2025 4th-rounder Danny Stutsman are also in the mix. Elliss is a solid starter with 100+ tackle seasons, but the room lost significant leadership and the depth behind the top three is thin. |
| IDL | Moderate | Bryan Bresee, a former first-round pick, has struggled mightily in the NFL (37.3 PFF grade in 2024). Vernon Broughton was drafted in the 3rd round in 2025 but missed most of the season with injury. John Ridgeway was re-signed as a depth run stuffer. Nathan Shepherd and Davon Godchaux are replacement-level players who are possible cut candidates. The interior line needs an infusion of talent. |
| IOL | Minor | The David Edwards signing (4-year, $61M) was the offseason's top guard acquisition and fills the massive LG hole. Erik McCoy returns as starter at center but has missed 20 of his last 34 games due to injuries. Luke Fortner, the backup C who started 10 games in 2025, signed with the Panthers. Center depth behind the injury-prone McCoy is now a concern. Cesar Ruiz at RG is adequate but could be upgraded. |
- Travis Etienne Jr. (RB) — 4yr/$52M ($28M gtd). Louisiana native returns home on elite deal to fix the Saints' 28th-ranked rushing attack
- David Edwards (IOL) — 4yr/$61M ($45M gtd). Top guard on the market lands in New Orleans on fully committed deal to anchor offensive line for Tyler Shough
- Kaden Elliss (LB) — 3yr/$33M ($23M gtd). Original Saints 7th-round pick returns from Atlanta as a proven starter to fill the Demario Davis void
- Noah Fant (TE) — 2yr/$8.75M ($4.5M gtd). Former first-round TE adds receiving and blocking depth to give Saints a legitimate two-TE threat
- Ryan Wright (P) — 4yr/$14M ($8M gtd). Tulane alum ends years of punter instability with top-5 contract and 49 ypp average in 2025
- Demario Davis (LB) → New York Jets. 8-year Saints captain and defensive play-caller departs to rejoin the Jets, ending one of the franchise's greatest free agent success stories
- Alontae Taylor (CB) → Tennessee Titans. Saints' best cornerback lands top-of-market deal in Tennessee, creating the team's most pressing draft need heading into the top-10
- Cameron Jordan (EDGE) → TBD. Franchise sack leader (132 career, 10.5 in 2025) hits free agency for first time after 15 seasons; return uncertain with Chiefs interest reported
- Luke Fortner (IOL) → Carolina Panthers. Backup center who stepped up after Erik McCoy's injury leaves for a starting opportunity in Carolina
- Jack Stoll (TE) → Cleveland Browns. Blocking tight end departs after one season; made redundant by Noah Fant signing
Scheme: Brandon Staley's defense uses a versatile 'star' position (hybrid safety/nickel) — the same role Derwin James and Jalen Ramsey played — which Alontae Taylor vacated. A safety with slot coverage ability (like Caleb Downs) has elevated value. Kellen Moore's offense is pass-centric and creative with formations (multiple TE sets with Fant), meaning a WR who can win at all three levels and run after the catch fits best. The Saints ranked 31st in EPA/rush in 2025, so the Etienne signing addresses the run game, but a dynamic pass-catcher is the missing piece for Shough's development.
New York Giants
The Giants went 4-13 in 2025 under Brian Daboll, who was fired and replaced by John Harbaugh. QB Jaxson Dart (2025 1st-round pick) showed promise and is the franchise QB going forward. The roster has elite edge talent (Brian Burns, Abdul Carter, Kayvon Thibodeaux) and a star DT in Dexter Lawrence, but the run defense was historically bad (31st in yards allowed, 5.3 YPC allowed). WR1 Malik Nabers tore his ACL in October 2025 and his Week 1 availability is uncertain. The team is pivoting to a Harbaugh-style physical, run-heavy identity with 12-personnel packages. Cap space is extremely tight (~$12M) after free agency signings, putting heavy pressure on the draft to fill remaining holes.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| LB | Critical | Despite signing Tremaine Edmunds (3yr/$36M), the Giants still have a massive long-term need at off-ball linebacker. Edmunds is 27 but has a groin injury history. Bobby Okereke was released. Micah McFadden was re-signed on a cheap 1-year deal coming off a foot injury that cost him nearly all of 2025. Darius Muasau is the only other LB under contract beyond 2026. Harbaugh has historically built his defense around an elite LB (Ray Lewis, CJ Mosley, Roquan Smith), and the current group needs a foundational piece. Sonny Styles at No. 5 is a very real possibility. |
| IOL | Critical | The interior OL is the biggest non-glamorous hole on the roster. Greg Van Roten (36, UFA) has not re-signed. Austin Schlottmann left for Tennessee. The Giants whiffed on Alijah Vera-Tucker and were reportedly priced out of mid-tier guards like Wyatt Teller and Joel Bitonio. Currently the right guard spot is open with only Aaron Stinnie (depth piece re-signed), Evan Neal (re-signed to 1-year deal, expected to compete at RG after being inactive all 2025), and Marcus Mbow (2025 5th-rounder who showed athleticism but lacked anchor). Jon Runyan Jr. is the LG starter but underperformed and could be a cap casualty ($9.25M). There is no backup center after Schlottmann's departure. This is a critical need that the draft must address. |
| CB | Important | Cor'Dale Flott, the team's best coverage corner in 2025, signed with Tennessee. He was replaced by Greg Newsome II on a 1-year prove-it deal ($10M), but Newsome's production has declined. Paulson Adebo ($54M, 3-year deal) is the CB1 but dealt with injuries in 2025. Deonte Banks, the 2023 first-round pick, has been a bust and lost his starting job. Korie Black (2025 draft pick) and Rico Payton provide depth. The room lacks a true long-term CB2 to pair with Adebo. The Giants may still target CB in round 2 or on Day 3 for both starter competition and depth. |
| DT | Important | The Giants had the league's worst run defense in 2025 (31st, 145 rush yards/game allowed). Dexter Lawrence is elite but was not himself after a 2024 elbow injury. Behind Lawrence, the IDL is thin — Roy Robertson-Harris is solid but a clear No. 2, and Darius Alexander showed flash as a pass rusher but struggled against the run. Rakeem Nunez-Roches and D.J. Davidson are now UFAs and haven't been re-signed. The Giants have not added any IDL talent in free agency despite the glaring need. They need a run-stuffing DT to play next to Lawrence. |
| S | Moderate | Both Jevon Holland ($45.3M, 3-year deal) and Tyler Nubin (2024 2nd-round pick) underperformed significantly in 2025. Nubin regressed in Year 2 with a poor run defense grade (47.1 PFF) and 16.9% missed tackle rate. Holland's first year in New York was disappointing with minimal ball production. Dane Belton left for the Jets. The Giants signed Ar'Darius Washington and Jason Pinnock as depth pieces. Despite the investment, the safety room needs a transformative player — Caleb Downs at No. 5 remains a live possibility given Harbaugh's history of drafting safeties in Round 1 (Kyle Hamilton, Malaki Starks). |
| WR | Moderate | Malik Nabers is the WR1 but tore his ACL in October 2025 — his Week 1 availability is uncertain. Wan'Dale Robinson (92 rec, 1,014 yards in 2025) left for Tennessee. The Giants signed Darnell Mooney (1yr/$10M) and Calvin Austin III (1yr/$4.5M) to replace Robinson's production, and re-signed Isaiah Hodgins. Darius Slayton returns. The room has adequate short-term depth but lacks a true high-ceiling WR2 to pair with Nabers long-term — Mooney, Austin, and Slayton are all on 1-year deals. Carnell Tate at No. 5 has been a popular mock pick, but FA additions have reduced the urgency. |
| RB | Minor | The Giants have a viable three-man committee with Cam Skattebo (returning from a dislocated ankle suffered in Week 8), Tyrone Tracy Jr. (back-to-back 1,000+ total yard seasons), and Devin Singletary (restructured contract). Skattebo says he'll be ready for OTAs. However, Harbaugh is coming from Baltimore where he had Derrick Henry, and there are reports the Giants are 'seriously looking' at RBs in both the draft and free agency. They were priced out on Kenneth Walker III. Jeremiyah Love at No. 5 remains a possibility given Harbaugh's desire for a physical, smash-mouth identity, but this is not a true need — more of a luxury upgrade. |
| TE | Minor | The signing of Isaiah Likely (3yr/$40M from Baltimore) was a scheme-defining move, pairing him with Theo Johnson in a 12-personnel heavy attack. Chris Manhertz was re-signed as the blocking TE. Daniel Bellinger left for Tennessee. The TE room is now a strength, not a need. |
- Isaiah Likely (TE) — 3yr/$40M (up to $47.5M). Harbaugh reunion piece and Dart's new security blanket; 3rd-highest paid TE makes NYG 12-personnel a base identity
- Tremaine Edmunds (LB) — 3yr/$36M ($23.7M gtd). Two-time Pro Bowler replaces Okereke as defensive QB, bringing 900 career tackles and 14 interceptions to a much-needed LB overhaul
- Jermaine Eluemunor (OT) — 3yr/$39M ($25.45M gtd) — re-sign. Giants lock in starting RT to protect Dart; bookend tackles secured with Andrew Thomas through 2027
- Greg Newsome II (CB) — 1yr/$10M. Former first-round pick on prove-it deal attempts to stabilize a CB room gutted by Flott's departure
- Darnell Mooney (WR) — 1yr/$10M. Speed and outside threat joins Nabers and Slayton to replace Robinson's production — 992 yards and 5 TDs in 2024 peak
- Wan'Dale Robinson (WR) → Tennessee Titans. Giants' 2025 leading receiver (92/1014/4 TDs) departs as a free agent, leaving a significant slot production hole
- Cor'Dale Flott (CB) → Tennessee Titans. Developing starter (24 starts in final 2 seasons, 11 PDs in 2025) commands top-market CB deal NYG couldn't match
- Bobby Okereke (LB) → TBD. Three-year Giants captain and 143-tackle performer cut for cap room to facilitate Edmunds signing
- Austin Schlottmann (IOL) → Tennessee Titans. Underrated swing C/G departs, leaving Giants with no experienced backup behind injury-prone John Michael Schmitz
Scheme: New HC John Harbaugh and DC Dennard Wilson are installing a physical, run-heavy scheme with heavy 12-personnel usage. Harbaugh historically builds around elite off-ball LBs (Lewis, Mosley, Roquan Smith) and versatile safeties (Kyle Hamilton), making LB and S premium picks. The offense under OC Matt Nagy will lean on play-action, with Dart's mobility a key asset. IOL prospects who excel in run-blocking and can handle DUO/gap schemes are a priority. CB prospects must be comfortable in press-man coverage to fit Wilson's aggressive secondary scheme. EDGE is NOT a need — Burns, Abdul Carter, and Thibodeaux form one of the NFL's best pass-rush trios. Harbaugh's Baltimore history: never drafted EDGE or RB in Round 1, but took WR four times, CB three times, and Safety/LB multiple times.
New York Jets
Coming off a historically bad 3-14 season that included zero interceptions (an NFL first) and only 26 sacks (second-fewest in league). Traded Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams at midseason deadline for future draft capital. HC Aaron Glenn is taking over defensive play-calling and transitioning to a hybrid 3-4 front. The franchise lacks a long-term QB and is in full rebuild mode but must show improvement in 2026 to save Glenn's job. Aggressive defensive free agency has addressed safety, IDL, EDGE depth, and LB — but WR remains completely unaddressed beyond Garrett Wilson. Four picks in the top 44 provide enormous draft capital to reshape roster.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| EDGE | Critical | The Jets recorded the second-fewest sacks in the NFL (26) in 2025 and traded Jermaine Johnson to the Titans. Will McDonald IV is a talented pass-rush specialist but a liability against the run and not a starter in Glenn's base 3-4. Signings of Ossai and Enagbare are solid rotational pieces, but neither is an elite difference-maker. The defense needs a true closer — a game-wrecking edge rusher to anchor the front. Arvell Reese (Ohio State) is the overwhelming consensus pick at No. 2 overall. |
| WR | Critical | The Jets did not have a single receiver reach 400 receiving yards in 2025. Garrett Wilson led the team with just 395 yards before a knee injury ended his season after 7 games. After Wilson, the depth chart is barren: Adonai Mitchell (acquired in Gardner trade, showed flashes), Isaiah Williams (primarily a returner), Arian Smith, and John Metchie III. No WR has been added in free agency. This is the clear-cut No. 1 offensive need and the team is expected to address it at No. 16 overall. |
| QB | Critical | Geno Smith (age 35) was acquired via trade from Las Vegas as a bridge quarterback at minimal cost (~$3.3M). Justin Fields is expected to be released (post-June 1 cut likely) after a disastrous 2025 season. This is not a long-term solution — Smith has had two consecutive bad seasons. The 2026 QB class is considered weak beyond Fernando Mendoza (No. 1 pick), so the Jets may take a Day 2 QB or wait for the 2027 class where they hold three 1st-round picks. Still a franchise-altering need. |
| CB | Important | The Sauce Gardner trade left a massive void. Brandon Stephens proved he's a quality CB2 but not a true CB1 (PFF grade 67, ranked 40th). Azareye'h Thomas (2025 3rd-rounder) showed promise but had rookie growing pains. Jarvis Brownlee Jr. emerged as a solid slot corner. The Jets signed Nahshon Wright (NFL leader in takeaways with 5 INTs in 2025), which helps, but there's no true shutdown CB1 on the roster. For a team that recorded zero interceptions in 2025, this remains a significant need. |
| S | Moderate | The acquisition of Minkah Fitzpatrick (3-year, $40M) via trade from Miami was a home run. He's still playing at a high level (81.8 PFF grade in 2025) and brings leadership and ball-hawking ability. Andre Cisco was re-signed on a 1-year deal and Dane Belton was added for depth. The position is markedly improved from 2025 but Fitzpatrick is 29 and Cisco is on a prove-it deal. A young developmental safety could be targeted on Day 2 or 3. |
| IOL | Moderate | Both starting guards from 2025 departed in free agency: John Simpson (signed with BAL) and Alijah Vera-Tucker (signed with NE). The Jets signed Dylan Parham from the Raiders as the new starting LG, and Joe Tippmann remains at RG after a breakout season. Josh Myers is the starting center on a team-friendly extension. The starting 5 is set but OL depth is thin — only Max Mitchell (re-signed) and Xavier Newman provide backup. One injury could expose the unit. |
| LB | Moderate | Demario Davis (37, 2-year/$22M) was signed to be the MIKE linebacker and defensive leader with the green dot. Jamien Sherwood enters year 3 but regressed significantly in 2025 after C.J. Mosley's departure. Mykal Walker was re-signed as quality depth. Davis addresses the immediate need but is 37 — his coverage metrics declined last year. A young LB to develop behind Davis and push Sherwood would be valuable. |
| DT | Minor | Significantly addressed via trade and free agency. T'Vondre Sweat (acquired from TEN for Jermaine Johnson) is a 366-pound nose tackle who anchors Glenn's 3-4 front. David Onyemata (33, FA signing) adds another 310-pound run stuffer. Harrison Phillips and Jowon Briggs round out a deep rotation. This was a critical need entering the offseason but has been adequately addressed. A Day 3 developmental piece could add long-term value. |
- Minkah Fitzpatrick (S) — 3yr/$40M (via trade, ~$20M gtd). 5x Pro Bowl safety acquired for a 7th-round pick; immediately the Jets' best defensive player
- Geno Smith (QB) — Trade (1yr/~$1.3M, Raiders paying majority). Smith returns to his original team on a near-minimum bridge deal, solving 2026 QB at essentially no cost
- T'Vondre Sweat (IDL) — Trade (2 remaining rookie contract years, ~$3.5M/yr). Cost-controlled 24-year-old DT (PFF's 5th-ranked DT in 2025) acquired for Jermaine Johnson in a clear rebuild win
- Joseph Ossai (EDGE) — 3yr/$34.5M ($22.5M gtd). 25-year-old ascending edge rusher signed as Jets' starter in new 3-4 front with career-high pressure metrics in 2025
- Demario Davis (LB) — 2yr/$22M ($15M gtd). Legendary LB returns for 3rd Jets stint under HC Aaron Glenn; elite run defender and locker-room leader at 37
- Sauce Gardner (CB) → Indianapolis Colts. 2x All-Pro cornerstone traded in full teardown; CB1 remains the biggest unsolved hole entering the draft
- Quinnen Williams (IDL) → Dallas Cowboys. All-Pro interior pass rusher traded in rebuild; T'Vondre Sweat and Onyemata are partial replacements
- Jermaine Johnson II (EDGE) → Tennessee Titans. Former first-rounder traded to clear path for top EDGE at No. 2 overall in 2026 NFL Draft
- John Simpson (IOL) → Baltimore Ravens. 2-year starting LG departs on an overpay; Dylan Parham signed as direct replacement
- Alijah Vera-Tucker (IOL) → New England Patriots. Former first-round pick joins rival Patriots; three major injuries in 5 seasons made re-signing impractical
Scheme: Aaron Glenn is transitioning to a hybrid 3-4 front after firing DC Steve Wilks and taking over play-calling. Glenn ran a one-gap, Eagle-front 3-4 in Detroit with heavy use of odd fronts but still leans on even-front principles in sub-packages. This means the Jets need versatile EDGE players who can play as 3-4 OLBs (force players against the run) AND rush the passer from a two-point stance. A true 0-tech nose tackle (Sweat) anchors the front. Off-ball LBs must be smart, physical, and able to stack-and-shed in a react-attack scheme. On offense, new OC Frank Reich runs an Erhardt-Perkins system that favors big pocket passers, play-action, and screen concepts — WR versatility and route-running matter more than pure speed.
Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles won Super Bowl LIX after the 2024 season but regressed to 11-6 in 2025 with a Wild Card loss to the 49ers. The offense stalled badly under coordinator Kevin Patullo (since replaced by Sean Mannion), leading the league in three-and-outs. The defense remained elite under Vic Fangio but lost three key starters in free agency (EDGE Jaelan Phillips, S Reed Blankenship, LB Nakobe Dean). A.J. Brown trade discussions are tabled for now but remain fluid — a post-June 1 trade is widely expected. Dallas Goedert re-signed on a 1-year deal. OL starters Lane Johnson and Landon Dickerson both confirmed returns despite retirement speculation. Howie Roseman is balancing a championship-caliber roster core with significant cap management challenges.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| EDGE | Critical | Lost Jaelan Phillips ($120M deal with Panthers), Joshua Uche (Dolphins), and Azeez Ojulari (Falcons) in free agency — three edge rushers gone. Signed Arnold Ebiketie on a 1-year, $7.3M prove-it deal, but ESPN noted the Eagles 'will continue to look for edge rushing help.' Current group of Nolan Smith Jr., Jalyx Hunt, and Ebiketie are solid rotational pieces but lack an elite pass-rushing presence. Brandon Graham may return for a 17th season but is a depth piece at best. This is the single biggest hole on the roster. |
| S | Critical | Reed Blankenship signed a 3-year, $24.75M deal with the Texans. He was the full-time starting safety for three seasons and a team captain. The Eagles invested a 2025 2nd-round pick in Andrew Mukuba, but he is unproven. Michael Carter II had his contract renegotiated and could see looks at safety. There is no clear starting-caliber safety on the roster to pair with C.J. Gardner-Johnson's replacement (CJGJ was traded in 2025). This is a critical need. |
| WR | Important | A.J. Brown remains on the roster for now, but trade discussions with the Rams and Patriots were described as 'serious' before being tabled. A post-June 1 trade is widely expected due to cap implications ($43.5M dead cap before June 1 vs. $16.4M after). Even if Brown stays, the WR room behind him and DeVonta Smith is barren — Jahan Dotson signed with the Falcons. The Eagles met with WR prospect Omar Cooper Jr. at the Combine, signaling they may draft a replacement proactively. The offense led the league in three-and-outs in 2025 and desperately needs more explosive passing-game weapons. |
| LB | Important | Nakobe Dean signed a 3-year, $36M deal with the Raiders. Zack Baun is an elite LB1 but the LB2 spot is now a question mark. 2025 1st-round pick Jihaad Campbell has a serious shoulder injury that will keep him out for most of the offseason, per DC Vic Fangio. The Eagles called the Steelers about a trade for Patrick Queen. This is a real need given Dean's departure and Campbell's injury concerns. |
| OT | Important | Lane Johnson (turns 36 in May) confirmed his return but suffered a Lisfranc injury that cost him the final 8 games of 2025 — the Eagles went 3-5 without him. He is elite when healthy but his age and injury history make succession planning critical. Jordan Mailata is locked in at LT. The team lost backup OL Brett Toth (49ers) and Matt Pryor (Cardinals). Mock drafts consistently project the Eagles targeting an OT in Round 1 to develop behind Johnson. |
| IOL | Moderate | Landon Dickerson confirmed his return after retirement speculation, but had a brutal 2025 dealing with knee surgery, back, and ankle injuries (PFF grade 67.2, 30th among guards). Cam Jurgens struggled with back surgery recovery and had the highest blown run block rate among starting centers. Tyler Steen is adequate but unspectacular at RG. New OL coach Chris Kuper replaces the legendary Jeff Stoutland. The starting 5 returns intact, but depth was gutted and the health/performance of Dickerson and Jurgens are genuine concerns. Drew Kendall (2025 draft pick) provides center depth. |
| TE | Moderate | Dallas Goedert re-signed on a 1-year, $7M deal (announced March 15). He had a career-high 11 TDs in 2025 but is 31 years old and on a short-term contract — the Eagles need to find his long-term replacement. Re-signed Grant Calcaterra and added blocking TE Johnny Mundt. The tight end group lacked quality blocking in 2025, contributing to a significant dip in run game production. Multiple mock drafts project the Eagles targeting a TE like Kenyon Sadiq or Justin Joly. |
| CB | Minor | The Eagles invested heavily here in free agency, signing Tariq Woolen (1-year, $15M) and Jonathan Jones (1-year deal) to join All-Pros Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. This was a need before free agency with Adoree' Jackson and Kelee Ringo as the CB3 options, but Woolen and Jones address it for 2026. Both are on 1-year deals though, so a long-term CB3 could be a draft target. The secondary is a strength. |
- Jordan Davis (IDL) — 3yr/$78M ($65M gtd) extension through 2029. Record-setting extension locks up nose tackle through 2029 as highest-paid NT in NFL history
- Tariq (Riq) Woolen (CB) — 1yr/$12M (fully gtd, max $15M). Former Pro Bowl CB and Super Bowl LX champion fills CB2 vacancy opposite All-Pro Quinyon Mitchell
- Dallas Goedert (TE) — 1yr/$7M ($4.25M gtd). Franchise-record 11-TD tight end returns for 9th Eagles season on bridge deal
- Arnold Ebiketie (EDGE) — 1yr/$7.3M ($4.3M gtd). Pass-rush rotation reinforcement adds depth to a thin EDGE group post-Phillips departure
- Johnny Mundt (TE) — 1yr (terms undisclosed). Elite blocking TE (top-10 PFF blocking grades) fills key run-game void, familiar with new OC Mannion
- Jaelan Phillips (EDGE) → Carolina Panthers. Top pass rusher walks on massive $30M/yr deal Eagles declined to match, leaving a gaping EDGE need
- Reed Blankenship (S) → Houston Texans. Starting safety and team captain departs without a replacement signed, creating a new starter-level void
- Nakobe Dean (LB) → Las Vegas Raiders. Young starting LB leaves; Jihaad Campbell projects as internal replacement
- Adoree' Jackson (CB) → TBD. CB2 starter from 2025 departs as UFA; Woolen signing directly replaces him
- Jahan Dotson (WR) → Atlanta Falcons. Rotational WR depth piece departs; Brown and Smith remain as the elite WR1/2 duo
Scheme: Vic Fangio's defense values versatile defensive backs who can play multiple roles (safety/slot), making a safety who can also cover the slot extremely valuable. His 4-3 under scheme needs edge rushers who can set the edge in the run game AND rush the passer — pure speed rushers are less ideal. On offense, new OC Sean Mannion is installing a Shanahan-style outside zone scheme, which elevates the importance of athletic offensive tackles who can move in space and tight ends who can both block and create mismatches. Lane Johnson's successor needs to be a zone-blocking fit. The run-heavy identity means the Eagles value blocking at every position, including TE and WR.
Pittsburgh Steelers
First year under HC Mike McCarthy after Mike Tomlin's resignation. Won AFC North at 10-7 in 2025 but lost in Wild Card round to Houston. QB Aaron Rodgers (42) remains unsigned as a free agent and hasn't committed to 2026. Front office aggressively addressed WR2, CB2, safety, and RB in free agency/trade, but lost starting LG Isaac Seumalo and have major uncertainty at LT with Broderick Jones recovering from spinal fusion surgery. Team has a league-high 12 draft picks and roughly $27M in remaining cap space, giving enormous flexibility to address remaining needs.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| IOL | Critical | Starting LG Isaac Seumalo signed a 3-year, $31.5M deal with Arizona, leaving a massive hole at left guard. Spencer Anderson is the top internal option but has limited starting experience. The team is expected to sign a veteran guard, but IOL remains a critical need regardless. With a potential rookie or aging QB behind center, protecting the blindside is paramount. The Steelers met with top guards at the Combine and this is a likely first-round target. |
| WR | Important | Traded for Michael Pittman Jr. and have DK Metcalf as WR1, which addresses the top two spots. However, Calvin Austin III signed with the Giants, Adam Thielen retired, and Marquez Valdes-Scantling is likely gone. McCarthy's system is WR-heavy and the roster currently has only Metcalf, Pittman, Roman Wilson, and Ben Skowronek — far from enough. A dynamic WR3 with speed and explosiveness is still a significant need. |
| OT | Important | LT Broderick Jones had spinal fusion surgery after a Week 12 neck injury and his 2026 availability is uncertain. His 5th-year option ($19.07M in 2027) decision is due by May 1 and will likely be declined. UDFA Dylan Cook played well as an emergency fill-in but is unproven as a long-term answer. Troy Fautanu is solid at RT. The Steelers released veteran backup Calvin Anderson. If Jones can't go, LT is a crisis. |
| S | Important | Lost Kyle Dugger, Jabrill Peppers, and Chuck Clark in free agency. Signed Jaquan Brisker (1-year, $5.5M) and Darnell Savage (vet minimum), and have DeShon Elliott returning from a season-ending knee injury. Jalen Ramsey (turns 32 next season, overpriced) slides between slot CB and safety. Brisker is a quality add but is on a one-year prove-it deal. The position has more depth now but still lacks a long-term answer, especially if Elliott doesn't fully recover. |
| QB | Important | Aaron Rodgers (42) is an unsigned free agent who hasn't committed to playing in 2026. Reports suggest positive conversations and he's expected to return, but nothing is guaranteed. If Rodgers retires, the only QBs on the roster are Will Howard (2025 6th-rounder, zero NFL starts) and Mason Rudolph. The 2026 QB draft class is considered thin. The Steelers are reportedly comfortable rolling with Howard if needed, but this could become a tier 1 need overnight if Rodgers retires. |
| IDL | Moderate | Cameron Heyward was extended for another year and was a 2nd-team All-Pro in 2025, but he's approaching his late 30s. Keeanu Benton and 2025 rookie Derrick Harmon form a strong young core. Sebastian Joseph-Day was signed for depth. The starting trio is excellent but Heyward's age means the team needs to invest in his eventual replacement. DraftTek lists NT as a medium-priority starter need. |
| TE | Moderate | Released Jonnu Smith ($7M cap savings) and lost Connor Heyward (signed with Las Vegas). Pat Freiermuth is the clear TE1 on a $48.4M extension and Darnell Washington is a quality TE2/blocker. However, the room is dangerously thin with only Freiermuth, Washington, and JJ Galbreath (no regular season experience). McCarthy's offense uses multiple TE sets, so at least one more body is needed. |
| CB | Minor | Signed Jamel Dean (3-year, $36.75M) as CB2 opposite Joey Porter Jr. Re-signed Asante Samuel Jr. as versatile depth. Jalen Ramsey can play slot. Brandin Echols provides additional depth. This position was completely overhauled in free agency and is now a strength. However, adding a young developmental corner on Day 3 makes sense for long-term depth. |
- Michael Pittman Jr. (WR) — 3yr/$59M (trade + extension; $41M gtd per OTC). Physical WR2 (80 catches, 7 TDs in 2025) pairs with DK Metcalf, finally giving Pittsburgh a legitimate receiving duo; acquired for a mere 6th-for-7th pick swap
- Jamel Dean (CB) — 3yr/$36.75M ($12M gtd). Second-biggest free agent deal in Steelers history fills CB2 slot opposite Joey Porter Jr.; Dean had 3 INTs and 9 PDs in 14 starts in 2025
- Rico Dowdle (RB) — 2yr/$12.25M. Back-to-back 1,000-yard rusher reunites with head coach Mike McCarthy (shared time in Dallas) to replace departing team MVP Kenneth Gainwell
- Jaquan Brisker (S) — 1yr/$5.5M. Pittsburgh native and Penn State product returns home on a prove-it deal; started all 17 regular-season games in 2025 for Chicago
- Cameron Heyward (IDL) — 2yr/$32.25M ($16.25M gtd, extension). 2025 2nd-team All-Pro re-signs on historic deal (largest ever for an NFL defensive player age 36+), anchoring Pittsburgh's defense through 2027
- Isaac Seumalo (IOL) → Arizona Cardinals. Three-year starter and 2024 Pro Bowl LG departs for a raise in Arizona, creating Pittsburgh's biggest remaining need on the roster
- Kenneth Gainwell (RB) → Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Team MVP departs after becoming Pittsburgh's most reliable receiving weapon in 2025; partially replaced by Dowdle but the pass-catching role is unfilled
- Aaron Rodgers (QB) → TBD/unsigned. 42-year-old starter remains unsigned and non-committal about 2026; Pittsburgh has only Mason Rudolph and Will Howard under contract, leaving QB as the franchise's biggest open question
- Calvin Austin III (WR) → New York Giants. Primary punt returner departs after four seasons, leaving Pittsburgh without a clear return specialist heading into 2026
- Connor Heyward (TE) → Las Vegas Raiders. Cam's younger brother and special teams captain departs after 4 seasons, removing a key F-back piece and over 1,100 career special teams snaps from Pittsburgh's roster
Scheme: Under new HC Mike McCarthy, Pittsburgh is shifting to a more pass-heavy, WR-centric offense compared to Arthur Smith's run-first approach. McCarthy's system demands three capable WRs and utilizes RPOs and quick-game concepts — making a dynamic WR3 especially valuable. On defense, new DC Patrick Graham runs a multiple front that can flex between 3-4 and 4-3 alignments. The EDGE group (Watt/Highsmith/Herbig) is elite, so interior DL and safety prospects who can play multiple techniques/roles are prioritized. IOL prospects who excel in pass protection are especially valuable given the likelihood of a 42-year-old immobile QB or an unproven young QB behind center. The defensive backfield now emphasizes press-man coverage with Porter and Dean on the boundary, so any drafted CB should have man-coverage skills.
Seattle Seahawks
Defending Super Bowl LX champions with a stacked core returning. Lost Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III (KC), S Coby Bryant (CHI), EDGE Boye Mafe (CIN), CB Riq Woolen (PHI), and WR Dareke Young (LV) in free agency. Re-signed key pieces WR Rashid Shaheed, CB Josh Jobe, LB Drake Thomas. RB Zach Charbonnet recovering from torn ACL suffered in divisional round (Jan 2026), unlikely to be ready for start of season. EDGE DeMarcus Lawrence considering retirement at age 34. Only 4 draft picks — league-low — so every selection is critical. New OC Brian Fleury replaces Klint Kubiak (now Raiders HC). Team retains most of its championship core including QB Sam Darnold, WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba, CB Devon Witherspoon, DT Leonard Williams, DT Byron Murphy II, LB Ernest Jones IV, S Julian Love, S Nick Emmanwori, LG Grey Zabel, and LT Charles Cross.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| EDGE | Critical | Boye Mafe signed with Cincinnati ($60M/3yr), DeMarcus Lawrence (34) is considering retirement and has not committed to playing in 2026, and Uchenna Nwosu (29) enters a contract year. Derick Hall is also on an expiring deal. If Lawrence retires, Seattle has a major hole at one starting OLB spot with no proven young replacement. Even if Lawrence returns, the position desperately needs youth and long-term investment given the age/contract profile of the entire group. |
| RB | Critical | Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III signed with Kansas City ($45M/3yr). Zach Charbonnet tore his ACL in the divisional round (Jan 2026) and is unlikely to be ready until mid-to-late season at the earliest. Only additions are Emanuel Wilson (journeyman from GB, 2 career starts) and ERFA George Holani. The run-first offense under the new OC absolutely needs a capable lead back for the first half of the season at minimum. |
| CB | Important | Lost Riq Woolen to Philadelphia ($15M/1yr) after he and Josh Jobe split time in 2025. Re-signed Jobe (3yr/$24M) who will start opposite Devon Witherspoon. But depth behind Witherspoon and Jobe is extremely thin — only Nehemiah Pritchett (raw 2024 pick), newly signed Noah Igbinoghene (career 38.9 PFF coverage grade), and Shemar Jean-Charles. Need a quality CB3/nickel who can develop into a potential starter. |
| S | Important | Lost starting safety Coby Bryant to Chicago ($40M/3yr). Julian Love and Nick Emmanwori anchor the safety group, but the third safety role now falls to Ty Okada (ERFA) or newly signed Rodney Thomas II (mostly a special teamer with Colts). Emmanwori's versatility helps, but losing Bryant leaves the room thinner than ideal for a defense that deploys multiple safety looks. |
| IOL | Moderate | The starting five returns intact (Cross-Zabel-Sundell-Bradford-Lucas), but right guard Anthony Bradford was inconsistent and center Jalen Sundell is unproven long-term despite a strong 2025 finish. John Schneider talked about wanting an 'old-school offensive line,' and the team could use an upgrade at RG or C depth. Christian Haynes (2024 3rd-rounder) has failed to win a starting job. Adding competition/depth at guard or center makes sense. |
| DT | Moderate | Leonard Williams (31, turning 32 in June) and Byron Murphy II are elite starters, but Williams carries a massive $29.6M cap hit in 2026 and his contract voids after the season with $22M+ in dead money. Jarran Reed (33) provides veteran depth but is aging. The team re-signed Brandon Pili ($2M/1yr) but acknowledged they need youth in the D-tackle rotation. A young nose tackle to complement Murphy and eventually replace the aging veterans is a smart investment. |
- Rashid Shaheed (WR) — 3yr/$51M ($34.7M gtd). Pro Bowl returner and playmaker re-signed; only player in NFL with both kick and punt return TDs in 2025
- Josh Jobe (CB) — 3yr/$24M ($14.25M gtd). Starting CB locked up at elite value — 4th-lowest completion rate allowed in NFL (47.7%) in 2025
- Drake Thomas (LB) — 2yr/$8M ($3M gtd). First-year starter and potential Pro Bowler retained at steal-of-offseason value after 96 tackles, 3.5 sacks
- Emanuel Wilson (RB) — 1yr/$2.1M. Bridge RB addition after Walker departure; 4.5 YPC career average and 226-lb frame fits run-first scheme
- Rodney Thomas II (S) — 1yr (terms TBD; likely near minimum). Former two-year Colts starter adds safety competition and special teams depth to replace Coby Bryant
- Kenneth Walker III (RB) → Kansas City Chiefs. Super Bowl LX MVP departs as highest-paid RB ever; leaves massive hole with Charbonnet on ACL timeline
- Boye Mafe (EDGE) → Cincinnati Bengals. 4-year Seahawk with 20 career sacks departs for AFC, thinning an EDGE rotation already aging at the top
- Coby Bryant (S) → Chicago Bears. Starting safety with 7 INTs over past two seasons leaves; Ty Okada expected to inherit starting role
- Riq Woolen (CB) → Philadelphia Eagles. Former Pro Bowler exits on prove-it deal; softer market than expected signals he had lost starting role to Jobe
- Dareke Young (WR) → Las Vegas Raiders. Special teams/depth receiver follows OC Klint Kubiak to Las Vegas; minimal impact on WR depth
Scheme: Mike Macdonald's defense is a multiple-front, disguise-heavy scheme ('Dark Side Defense') that relies on versatile DBs and pass rushers who can line up in multiple alignments. EDGE prospects need to be capable of standing up and dropping into coverage, not just 4-3 hand-in-dirt DEs. The secondary is built around interchangeable pieces — Witherspoon and Emmanwori roam freely — so CB prospects who can play press, zone, and slot are ideal. On offense, the new OC Brian Fleury runs a zone-blocking, run-first scheme (similar to predecessor Kubiak), so IOL prospects with athleticism, lateral agility, and zone-blocking experience are preferred over pure power blockers. RB prospects should excel in outside-zone schemes with vision and burst through creases.
San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco went 12-5 in 2025 and won a Wild Card game before a 41-6 Divisional Round loss to Seattle exposed depth issues. The roster was ravaged by injuries: Nick Bosa (ACL), Mykel Williams (ACL), George Kittle (Achilles in playoffs), Fred Warner (broken ankle). The 2025 offseason purge of Greenlaw, Ward, Hufanga, Banks, and Floyd created holes the team is still filling. New DC Raheem Morris replaces Robert Saleh (now Titans HC). The 49ers are in win-now mode around Brock Purdy's prime but need significant roster replenishment, especially on the edges and at WR.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| EDGE | Critical | The 49ers recorded a league-low 20 sacks in 2025 — the NFL's worst by a wide margin. Nick Bosa and 2025 1st-rounder Mykel Williams are both returning from torn ACLs with uncertain timelines. Bryce Huff retired. Beyond Bosa and Williams, the cupboard is bare. Keion White is a rotational piece acquired mid-season from New England. The team pursued John Franklin-Myers in free agency but was outbid by Tennessee. Joey Bosa remains a free agent target but hasn't signed yet. Even if Bosa and Williams return healthy, the 49ers desperately need edge depth and a legitimate No. 2 rusher. |
| WR | Critical | Brandon Aiyuk missed all of 2025 and is being released/traded. Jauan Jennings is an unsigned free agent who likely priced himself out. Kendrick Bourne signed with Arizona. Skyy Moore signed with Green Bay. The 49ers signed Mike Evans (3 years, $60.4M) but he is 32 and coming off an injury-limited 8-game 2025 season. Behind Evans, the room is Ricky Pearsall (injury-prone, 20 games in 2 years), Demarcus Robinson, Jacob Cowing (hamstring issues), and Jordan Watkins. George Kittle's Achilles tear further reduces passing weapons. This position still needs a young, dynamic WR2 via the draft. |
| OT | Important | Trent Williams will turn 38 in July and is embroiled in a contract standoff with a $39M cap hit. While a restructured deal is the most likely outcome, the 49ers have no viable successor. Vederian Lowe was signed as a swing tackle but is a backup, not a starter. Long-term, the 49ers must find Williams' replacement — multiple mock drafts project an OT at pick 27. Even if Williams returns for 2026, drafting his heir is prudent. RT Colton McKivitz is solid and signed through 2028. |
| IOL | Important | Left guard is a clear hole. Spencer Burford ranked as the worst starting LG in pass protection per PFF in 2025 (48.5 grade). Ben Bartch couldn't stay healthy. Both are now free agents. The 49ers signed Brett Toth (one-year deal), but he's best at center and is a depth piece. Center Jake Brendel (34) and RG Dominick Puni are adequate starters, but LG needs a clear upgrade. The draft's guard class (Pregnon, Ioane, Proctor) offers options. |
| S | Important | The safety room lacks a true single-high free safety. Malik Mustapha (SS) had a strong 2025 return from ACL surgery (76 tackles, 12 starts) and is the best player in the group. Ji'Ayir Brown has been erratic and graded poorly in coverage (62.5 PFF coverage grade in single-high). Jason Pinnock re-signed with the Giants. Richie Grant is gone. Marques Sigle (2025 5th-rounder) is unproven. The scheme under Raheem Morris will demand more Cover 3, requiring a rangy FS — neither Mustapha nor Brown fits that mold well. |
| CB | Moderate | Deommodore Lenoir is a solid CB1. Renardo Green showed talent but was inconsistent and fell out of favor. 2025 3rd-rounder Upton Stout developed well as the nickel. The 49ers added Nate Hobbs on a 1-year deal from Green Bay, giving slot competition. The room has young pieces but lacks a proven, consistent CB2 opposite Lenoir. Lost Charvarius Ward last offseason. Could use another outside corner but not a top-2 priority given Hobbs addition. |
| DT | Moderate | The trade for Osa Odighizuwa (from Dallas for a 3rd-round pick) was a significant move to address interior pass rush. The 2025 rookies Alfred Collins and CJ West improved the run defense but provided little pass rush. Jordan Elliott signed with Tennessee. Kalia Davis signed with Cleveland. Odighizuwa should be the interior pass-rush presence they lacked, but additional depth is still needed, especially with the team's overall D-line health concerns. |
| TE | Moderate | George Kittle tore his Achilles in the Wild Card game (Jan 11) and is targeting a return 'well before November' but realistically may miss the first several weeks. He turns 33 in October. Jake Tonges was re-signed (2-year deal) and filled in admirably, but the 49ers need insurance and a long-term succession plan given Kittle's age and injury history. Could be addressed in mid-rounds. |
- Mike Evans (WR) — 3yr/$60.4M. Future Hall of Famer (11 straight 1,000-yard seasons) departs Tampa after 12 years to become the 49ers' new WR1 opposite Ricky Pearsall
- Osa Odighizuwa (IDL) — 3yr remaining/$56.25M ($16.25M gtd in 2026); via trade (gave up 3rd-round pick No. 92). Trade acquisition addresses the 49ers' catastrophic interior pass rush — Odighizuwa led all DTs with 23 QB hits in 2025 and is under contract through 2028
- Dre Greenlaw (LB) — 1yr/$7.5M. Fan-favorite LB returns to reunite with Fred Warner after one injury-shortened year in Denver — high-upside reclamation if healthy
- Eddy Piñeiro (K) — 4yr/$17M ($10M gtd) — extension. Re-signed before free agency: Piñeiro went 28-of-29 on FGs in 2025 (96.6%, NFL-best) and locks in long-term stability at kicker
- Nate Hobbs (CB) — 1yr/$4.5M. One-year upside play on a 26-year-old CB with elite run-defense grades who was released by Green Bay after injury-plagued 2025
- Brandon Aiyuk (WR) → TBD. 49ers officially part ways with Aiyuk after he missed all of 2025 with ACL/MCL injuries and cut off communication with the team — ~$29.6M in dead cap
- Jauan Jennings (WR) → Unsigned/TBD. Team's most reliable WR in 2025 (9 TDs, 55 catches) prices himself out of SF range after Evans signing — still unsigned on the open market
- Bryce Huff (EDGE) → Retired. 27-year-old edge rusher shockingly retires, leaving a gaping hole opposite Nick Bosa with no FA replacement signed — SF's most critical remaining draft need
- Jordan Elliott (IDL) → Tennessee Titans. Starting DT departs to reunite with HC Robert Saleh in Tennessee — his departure (alongside Davis) prompted the Odighizuwa trade
- Kendrick Bourne (WR) → Arizona Cardinals. Fan favorite and locker-room leader signs with NFC West rival Cardinals on a 2yr/$12M deal
Scheme: New DC Raheem Morris brings a versatile scheme background. Expect more Cover 3 with a single-high safety, elevating the need for a rangy FS. Morris has his edge rushers stand up at times, so versatile EDGE prospects who can rush from 2-point and 3-point stances have added value. Kyle Shanahan's wide-zone offense demands athletic OL who can move laterally, making pure power blockers less ideal at guard. WR prospects with RAC ability and route-running nuance fit the Shanahan scheme — think versatile playmakers, not pure deep threats.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Coming off a disappointing 8-9 season that saw them miss the playoffs for the first time since 2019. Lost franchise icon WR Mike Evans to the 49ers and CB1 Jamel Dean to the Steelers in free agency, creating significant voids. The defense collapsed in the second half of the season (2-7 after a 6-2 start), exposing critical weaknesses at edge rusher and linebacker. New OC Zac Robinson replaces fired Josh Grizzard. Baker Mayfield remains the franchise QB at 31. The front seven is the clear priority this offseason per GM Jason Licht and HC Todd Bowles.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| EDGE | Critical | The Bucs' most glaring need for years running. Tampa Bay finished with just 37 total sacks in 2025, and Yaya Diaby led the team with only 7 sacks. Haason Reddick left as a free agent after a disappointing 2.5-sack season on a one-year deal. The signing of Al-Quadin Muhammad (11 sacks with Detroit in 2025, 1-year deal) helps but he's 31 and on a short-term deal. Chris Braswell (2024 2nd-round pick) is not athletic enough to be more than rotational. David Walker suffered a season-ending knee injury in training camp. Bowles acknowledged at the combine that upgrading the front seven is a priority. |
| LB | Critical | Lavonte David (age 36) is deciding between retirement and a return — either way he cannot be the long-term answer. SirVocea Dennis was below average in coverage in 2025. The signing of Alex Anzalone (2-year, $17M from Detroit) helps in the short term but he's on the wrong side of 30. The Bucs have not had a viable starting-caliber ILB alongside David for multiple seasons. Multiple mock drafts project LB at pick 15 for Tampa Bay. |
| CB | Important | Lost Jamel Dean to the Steelers (3-year, $36.75M) — Dean was PFF's 4th-ranked CB in 2025 and their best coverage player. Now relying on Zyon McCollum and 2025 2nd-round pick Benjamin Morrison as outside corners, with Jacob Parrish in the slot. Morrison showed promise with 359 snaps as a rookie but the room is thin and young. Kindle Vildor also departed. The Bucs' secondary was already injury-plagued; losing Dean makes this a real need. |
| DT | Important | Logan Hall signed with the Texans (2-year deal) and Greg Gaines remains unsigned, leaving the interior depleted behind Vita Vea and Calijah Kancey. A'Shawn Robinson was signed but is primarily a run-stuffing depth piece. Kancey has missed time with injuries in each of his first three seasons. Vea is entering his 9th season and is 30 years old. The team needs another interior presence to pair with Vea and give Kancey insurance. |
| IOL | Moderate | The starting OL when healthy (Wirfs, Bredeson, Barton, Mauch, Goedeke) is strong, but the 2025 season was ravaged by injuries — only Barton stayed healthy. Cody Mauch is returning from a torn ACL. Ben Bredeson has never graded above 57 per PFF. Dan Feeney was re-signed for depth but is not a long-term answer. Michael Jordan departed. An upgrade or quality depth at guard would improve reliability. |
| WR | Moderate | Lost franchise legend Mike Evans to the 49ers (3-year, $60.4M). However, the Bucs have prepared for this: Chris Godwin is under a long-term deal, Emeka Egbuka was outstanding as a rookie (63 catches, 938 yards, 6 TDs), and Jalen McMillan showed promise. Tez Johnson and Kameron Johnson provide depth. The bigger issue is the lack of a true outside 'X' receiver with Evans' size (6-5) — all remaining WRs are slot/underneath types. Could use a big-bodied outside receiver. |
| S | Minor | Antoine Winfield Jr. is an All-Pro and one of the best safeties in football. Tykee Smith played well as a strong safety and was labeled the team's best tackler and tone-setter by Bowles. Christian Izien left for the Lions, but Miles Killebrew was signed as a special teams ace/reserve safety. This is more of a depth concern than a starting need. |
- Alex Anzalone (LB) — 2yr/$17M. 5-time Lions team captain brings elite coverage skills and leadership to stabilize the LB corps
- Cade Otton (TE) — 3yr/$30M. Re-signed starter with back-to-back 59-catch seasons locks in TE for 3 years
- Kenneth Gainwell (RB) — 2yr/$14M. 2025 Steelers MVP (73 catches, 1,023 scrimmage yards) replaces Rachaad White as Bucky Irving's complement
- Al-Quadin Muhammad (EDGE) — 1yr/$6M (max w/ incentives). Career-year pass rusher (11 sacks in 2025) signed on prove-it deal to anchor edge rush
- A'Shawn Robinson (IDL) — 1yr/$10M. 6'3", 320-lb run-stuffer bridges Logan Hall departure alongside Vita Vea for 2026
- Mike Evans (WR) → San Francisco 49ers. Franchise legend and all-time Bucs leading scorer departs after 12 seasons, creating a WR1 void
- Jamel Dean (CB) → Pittsburgh Steelers. PFF's 3rd-highest graded CB in 2025 (46.9 passer rating allowed) leaves a massive hole at CB1
- Logan Hall (IDL) → Houston Texans. Versatile 2022 2nd-round pick departs for Houston after career-high 16 starts and 39 tackles
- Rachaad White (RB) → Washington Commanders. Four-year Buc with 4,100+ career scrimmage yards exits as Gainwell steps in as replacement
- Christian Izien (S) → Detroit Lions. Versatile DB/nickel hybrid described as 'invaluable' departs, thinning secondary depth
Scheme: Todd Bowles runs a 3-4 base defense that heavily blitzes and uses varied pressure packages. Edge rushers must be able to set the edge against the run AND rush the passer — pure speed rushers with no anchor struggle. Bowles values length on the edge and at DL (Keldric Faulk at 6-6 appeals). Inside linebackers need to be three-down players who can cover and tackle in space, not just run-stuffers. Cornerbacks must be versatile — Bowles' system asks CBs to play man and zone and be physical in press. On offense, new OC Zac Robinson comes from Atlanta's scheme — the loss of Evans' boundary presence means they may value a big-bodied WR prospect or a dynamic TE who can create mismatches downfield (hence Kenyon Sadiq buzz at pick 15).
Tennessee Titans
Year 2 of full rebuild under new GM Mike Borgonzi. New HC Robert Saleh (hired Jan 2026) with OC Brian Daboll. Went 3-14 in 2025 with sophomore QB Cam Ward (took a league-worst 55 sacks). Titans spent aggressively in free agency (~$300M in contracts on Day 1), primarily restocking the secondary and adding veteran pieces with Saleh/Daboll connections. Still have critical holes at EDGE, WR1, IOL, and LB heading into the draft. Pick #4 overall gives them a shot at elite defensive talent.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| EDGE | Critical | The Titans' most glaring need. Lost Arden Key (signed with Colts), Jihad Ward (FA), and traded Dre'Mont Jones to BAL during the 2025 season. Acquired Jermaine Johnson from NYJ but he's coming off a torn Achilles (2024) and managed only 3 sacks in 2025. Jaylen Harrell showed late-season promise (4.5 sacks) but is a rotational piece, not a true starter. The Titans did not pursue a top-tier FA edge like Trey Hendrickson, strongly suggesting they intend to use the #4 pick on EDGE (Rueben Bain Jr., David Bailey, or Arvell Reese). Johnson is on an expiring contract ($13.4M 5th-year option) with no guaranteed extension. |
| WR | Important | Signed Wan'Dale Robinson (4yr/$78M from NYG) to be the top target and restructured Calvin Ridley's contract to keep him for 2026. However, Ridley is 31, coming off a broken fibula (missed final 10 games of 2025 with only 17 catches/303 yards), and has underperformed his contract. Robinson is a slot receiver, not a true outside X. Rookie WRs Elic Ayomanor and Chimere Dike showed promise but neither is a proven WR1. Cam Ward still needs a true boundary alpha receiver to develop. Lost Van Jefferson in FA. |
| IOL | Important | Released Lloyd Cushenberry (C) and Kevin Zeitler (RG) is an unsigned free agent at age 36. Currently have no proven starters at center or right guard. Signed Austin Schlottmann (C, 1yr from NYG, career backup with 4 starts in 2025) and Cordell Volson (G, 1yr from CIN, missed all of 2025 with shoulder surgery). 2025 5th-round pick Jackson Slater could compete but is unproven. Peter Skoronski (LG) is elite, but both IOL spots beside him are wide open. Zeitler may still return but at 36, he's not a long-term answer regardless. |
| LB | Important | Cedric Gray had a strong 2025 season and is locked in as one starter. However, the Titans need someone to start alongside him. Cody Barton is not viewed as a long-term solution. The Titans did not sign a premier inside linebacker in free agency, which strongly suggests they're targeting one in the draft. Sonny Styles (Ohio State) is being discussed as a possible #4 overall pick. In Saleh's defense, the off-ball LB next to the MIKE is a critical role. |
| S | Moderate | The safety room has been overhauled. Released Xavier Woods. Quandre Diggs (32, played in 2025 on 1-year deal) is a free agent and has not re-signed — status unclear. Amani Hooker was released during the 2025 season. Signed Tony Adams (1yr from NYJ, Saleh connection) and re-signed Jerrick Reed. Adams started 35 of 42 games over three years with the Jets but is unproven as a long-term starter. Marcus Harris (2025 6th-rounder) and Elijah Molden provide depth. The position lacks a true long-term answer at free safety. |
| OT | Moderate | Dan Moore Jr. (LT, signed to 4yr/$82M in 2025 FA) was serviceable but graded as a middle-of-the-pack tackle. JC Latham (RT, 2024 1st-round pick) had struggles in Year 1 and is still developing. Neither tackle is a proven above-average starter, but both have long leashes due to their investments. The Titans need developmental competition, not immediate starters. Ward took 55 sacks as a rookie — tackle play must improve. |
| DT | Moderate | Traded T'Vondre Sweat (young run-stuffing NT) to Jets. Jeffery Simmons remains elite but needs a capable partner. Signed John Franklin-Myers (3yr/$63M from DEN, 7.5 sacks in 2025) as the new IDL starter opposite Simmons. Added Jordan Elliott (2yr/$8M from SF) and traded for Solomon Thomas (DAL) for depth. Lost Sebastian Joseph-Day in FA. The Franklin-Myers signing addresses the immediate need, but long-term depth behind Simmons is thin, especially after trading Sweat. |
| RB | Minor | Tony Pollard was retained rather than released for cap relief, signaling the Titans plan to keep him as RB1 in 2026. Pollard ran for 1,079 yards in 2024 but production slowed with an ankle injury. Tyjae Spears provides complementary depth. Kalel Mullings (2025 6th-rounder) adds to the room. Pollard's retention makes RB a lower priority, though Jeremiyah Love at #4 has been discussed as a possibility. Not a pressing need. |
- Alontae Taylor (CB) — 3yr/$60M ($42M gtd). Physical, blitz-capable CB1 anchors a completely rebuilt secondary under Robert Saleh
- Cor'Dale Flott (CB) — 3yr/$45M ($32M gtd). Starting CB2 with 11 PDs in 2025 pairs with Taylor to give Titans their best CB room in years
- Wan'Dale Robinson (WR) — 4yr/$70M (~$40M gtd). Record-setting slot WR (1,014 yards in 2025) becomes Cam Ward's top target in Daboll's system
- John Franklin-Myers (IDL) — 3yr/$63M ($42M gtd). 7.5-sack interior pass rusher reunites with Saleh, forms elite DL pairing with Jeffery Simmons
- Jermaine Johnson II (EDGE) — Acquired via trade (T'Vondre Sweat to Jets). Former 26th overall pick with 13 career sacks brings immediate EDGE impact for Saleh's defense
- L'Jarius Sneed (CB) → TBD/unsigned. Bust-level investment ends after only 12 games across two injury-plagued seasons in Tennessee
- Chig Okonkwo (TE) → Washington Commanders. Primary receiving TE and most dynamic offensive weapon at the position departs after 4 seasons
- T'Vondre Sweat (IDL) → New York Jets. 2024 second-round NT traded to Jets in value-positive swap that brought EDGE Johnson to Nashville
- Kevin Zeitler (IOL) → TBD/unsigned. Starting right guard and veteran leader departs, leaving another hole on an unsettled interior line
- Arden Key (EDGE) → Indianapolis Colts. Rotational pass rusher joins division-rival Colts, thinning an already undermanned EDGE room
Scheme: Robert Saleh runs a 4-3 wide-zone defense with heavy Cover 3/Cover 1 principles. Edge rushers who can set the edge and win with speed-to-power are ideal (Saleh's defenses in NYJ and SF featured athletic 4-3 DEs). LBs must be rangy and athletic to cover in zone — Sonny Styles' size/speed profile fits perfectly. Franklin-Myers' versatility to play inside and out aligns with Saleh's scheme. CB additions (Taylor, Flott) are lengthy press corners who fit Saleh's man/zone hybrid coverage preferences. On offense, Daboll runs a play-action heavy scheme with RPOs and pre-snap motion; a true outside X receiver with contested-catch ability would unlock the offense alongside Robinson's slot work.
Washington Commanders
Coming off a disastrous 5-12 season after reaching the NFC Championship Game in 2024. Jayden Daniels was shut down with a recurring elbow injury (non-throwing arm) that ended his season early. New coordinators on both sides: David Blough (OC) and Daronte Jones (DC). Washington was aggressive in free agency, signing 9+ external free agents — primarily on defense — but whiffed on top WR targets (Pierce, Doubs). Still expected to sign Brandon Aiyuk on a prove-it deal once SF releases him. Defense ranked last in yardage allowed and 28th against the pass in 2025. Roster was gutted of aging veterans and rebuilt with younger, faster defensive pieces. Only 6 draft picks (missing rounds 2 and 4) limits flexibility.
| Pos | Tier | Analysis |
|---|---|---|
| CB | Critical | Washington ranked 28th against the pass in 2025. Released Marshon Lattimore (torn ACL, $18.5M cap savings). Lost Jonathan Jones and Noah Igbinoghene to free agency. Signed Amik Robertson (slot/outside versatility) but still need a true outside CB1. Trey Amos showed promise as a rookie before breaking his fibula in Week 10 — he's the long-term hope but unproven. Mike Sainristil has been inconsistent, ranked in the bottom quartile in yards per coverage snap. The Commanders' own podcast identified CB as a possibility at No. 7 overall. |
| WR | Critical | Terry McLaurin is the only established receiver on the roster and missed 7 games in 2025 with injuries. Deebo Samuel left via free agency. Washington failed to sign Alec Pierce and Romeo Doubs. Signed depth pieces Dyami Brown and Van Jefferson but neither is a viable WR2. Luke McCaffrey showed flashes before a broken collarbone. Jaylin Lane averaged 14.7 air yards per target but only had 16 catches. The team is expected to sign Brandon Aiyuk on a prove-it deal, but even then they need another WR — Aiyuk hasn't played since 2024. Already scheduled a top-30 visit with WR Makai Lemon. 2026 may be McLaurin's final year in Washington due to his cap hit. |
| S | Critical | Washington allowed 8.1 yards per pass attempt (3rd worst in NFL) and had only 8 interceptions (4th worst). Safety Quan Martin allowed the 5th-highest passer rating in coverage. Will Harris was an underwhelming free agent signing in 2025. Percy Butler and Tyler Owens proved best suited for special teams. Signed Nick Cross (2-year, $14M) which helps, but the safety group still lacks a true playmaker. New DC Daronte Jones utilizes three-safety looks with interchangeable pieces — this draft class has three potential first-round safeties (Downs, McNeil-Warren, Thieneman). |
| EDGE | Important | This was the biggest need entering free agency and was addressed aggressively: signed Odafe Oweh (4-year, $100M), K'Lavon Chaisson (1-year, $12M), Charles Omenihu (1-year, $7M), and re-signed Drake Jackson and Deatrich Wise Jr. Dorance Armstrong returns from a torn ACL (had 5.5 sacks in 6 games before injury). However, the pass rush was still inconsistent — Washington got pressure less than 20% of the time in 2025. Lost Von Miller (37, FA) and Jacob Martin (signed with Titans). Still need a long-term young edge rusher opposite Oweh, as Chaisson and Omenihu are one-year deals. Multiple mock drafts have Washington taking an EDGE at No. 7. |
| IOL | Important | Released starting center Tyler Biadasz, who signed with the Chargers for $30M. This leaves a significant hole at center. Nick Allegretti was extended and is the leading candidate to slide to center, but he has minimal NFL experience there (78 career snaps pre-2025). Chris Paul was re-signed at left guard on a 1-year deal. If Allegretti moves to center, the guard depth behind Paul and Brandon Coleman is unproven. The team missed on Tyler Linderbaum (signed with Raiders) and Connor McGovern (re-signed with Bills). May look at Lloyd Cushenberry or address in the draft. |
| LB | Important | Signed Leo Chenal (3-year, $24.75M) to add speed and blitzing ability — a major upgrade. Re-signed Bobby Wagner, who at 36 remains a leader but was a liability in coverage (allowed 3 TDs, 551 yards in coverage). Frankie Luvu is the anchor and should thrive under Daronte Jones. Jordan Magee provides rotational depth. Still need a long-term athletic LB who can cover — Wagner is a one-year bridge at best. Sonny Styles (Ohio State) and Arvell Reese are both mocked to Washington at No. 7. |
| DT | Moderate | Re-signed Tim Settle (3-year, $24M) and retained Javon Kinlaw. Added Shy Tuttle. Lost Eddie Goldman (FA). Interior run defense was inconsistent and lacked a dominant interior pass rusher. The additions of Settle and the returning Kinlaw provide adequate starters, but depth and a 3-technique pass rushing threat would help the overall defensive rebuild. |
| RB | Moderate | Jacory Croskey-Merritt showed flashes as a rookie 7th-round pick but was inconsistent. Chris Rodriguez left for Jacksonville (not tendered). Signed Rachaad White (1-year, $2-4M) as a pass-catching complement. Austin Ekeler, Chase Edmonds, Jeremy McNichols all departed. The backfield is functional but lacks a true feature back. Dan Quinn openly discussed taking a RB at No. 7 (Jeremiyah Love). Not a top-tier need given other holes, but could be addressed if BPA falls. |
- Odafe Oweh (EDGE) — 4yr/$100M ($68M gtd). Elite pass rusher (17.5 sacks over 2 seasons) fills the biggest defensive need on a maximum 4-year commitment
- Laremy Tunsil (OT) — 2yr/$60.2M ($61.5M gtd) extension. Record-breaking extension ($30.1M AAV, highest-paid OL ever) locks in Jayden Daniels' blindside protector through 2028
- Leo Chenal (LB) — 3yr/$24.75M ($12.4M gtd). 25-year-old two-time Super Bowl champion replaces Bobby Wagner at linebacker with youth and elite blitzing ability
- Amik Robertson (CB) — 2yr/$16M ($9.3M gtd). Versatile slot/outside CB adds much-needed depth to a thin cornerback room that lost both Lattimore and Jonathan Jones
- Nick Cross (S) — 2yr/$14M (~$8M gtd). 24-year-old box safety upgrades a position of need after ranking 2nd among all DBs in tackles over the past two seasons
- Tyler Biadasz (IOL) → Los Angeles Chargers. Starting center released to save cap space, leaving a genuine void with only Nick Allegretti as the internal replacement option
- Marshon Lattimore (CB) → TBD/unsigned. Four-time Pro Bowl CB released after torn ACL, deepening an already thin cornerback room entering the draft
- Deebo Samuel (WR) → TBD/unsigned. 2025 WR1 acquisition departs after underwhelming season, leaving Terry McLaurin as the only proven receiver on the roster
- Jacob Martin (EDGE) → Tennessee Titans. Career-high 5.5-sack edge rusher departs, but impact is mitigated by Washington's aggressive EDGE spending led by Oweh
- Jonathan Jones (CB) → Philadelphia Eagles. Veteran CB who started 7 games in 2025 departs to division rival, further thinning the secondary depth
Scheme: New DC Daronte Jones brings zone blitz concepts from his time under Brian Flores in Minnesota. He uses three-safety looks with interchangeable defenders and disguised coverages. This means Washington needs CBs who can play in zone and match coverage (not just man), and athletic safeties who can rotate between deep, box, and slot roles. Caleb Downs' versatility makes him a perfect scheme fit at No. 7. On offense, new OC David Blough runs a system similar to Detroit's, emphasizing play-action, a featured WR1 (McLaurin), and a dynamic slot receiver — hence the interest in Makai Lemon. The scheme values pass-catching RBs (White signing) and move TEs (Okonkwo signing). Edge rushers with length are preferred by Dan Quinn and Adam Peters, who noted they ideally want to 'err on the side of length' for EDGE prospects.