{"id":388156,"date":"2026-01-04T23:03:22","date_gmt":"2026-01-04T23:03:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/388156\/"},"modified":"2026-01-04T23:03:22","modified_gmt":"2026-01-04T23:03:22","slug":"2026-nfl-offseason-free-agents-draft-notes-predictions","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/388156\/","title":{"rendered":"2026 NFL offseason: Free agents, draft notes, predictions"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">2026 NFL offseason<\/a> has begun for the 10 teams that did not made the postseason and played their final regular-season games. How can each improve over the next seven months to have better results next season? What big decisions are on deck for each front office? We have next steps for all 10 franchises.<\/p>\n<p>To start, our NFL Nation reporters picked out two key offseason priorities for the teams they cover and weighed in on the most interesting <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/46437226\/2025-nfl-coaching-changes-latest-news-rumors-firings-hires\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">coaching situations<\/a> that bear watching. National reporters Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano laid out early rumblings on one looming <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/nfl-free-agency\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">free agent<\/a> decision for each franchise, and draft analysts Matt Miller and Jordan Reid called out one thing to know about each team&#8217;s 2026 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/draft\/news\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">draft<\/a> outlook. And finally, NFL analysts Aaron Schatz and Ben Solak made a big offseason prediction for every eliminated team.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s all here as we get ready for the offseason. Projected salary cap spaces from Roster Management System are as of Jan. 4. We&#8217;ll add more teams as they&#8217;re eliminated later on Sunday and during the postseason.<\/p>\n<p align=\"center\">Jump to a team:<br \/><a href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/47454831\/2026-nfl-offseason-guide-every-team-priorities-free-agents-draft-predictions#atl\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">ATL<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/47454831\/2026-nfl-offseason-guide-every-team-priorities-free-agents-draft-predictions#cin\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">CIN<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/47454831\/2026-nfl-offseason-guide-every-team-priorities-free-agents-draft-predictions#cle\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">CLE<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/47454831\/2026-nfl-offseason-guide-every-team-priorities-free-agents-draft-predictions#dal\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">DAL<\/a><br \/><a href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/47454831\/2026-nfl-offseason-guide-every-team-priorities-free-agents-draft-predictions#ind\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">IND<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/47454831\/2026-nfl-offseason-guide-every-team-priorities-free-agents-draft-predictions#min\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">MIN<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/47454831\/2026-nfl-offseason-guide-every-team-priorities-free-agents-draft-predictions#no\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">NO<\/a><br \/><a href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/47454831\/2026-nfl-offseason-guide-every-team-priorities-free-agents-draft-predictions#nyg\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">NYG<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/47454831\/2026-nfl-offseason-guide-every-team-priorities-free-agents-draft-predictions#tb\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">TB<\/a> | <a href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/47454831\/2026-nfl-offseason-guide-every-team-priorities-free-agents-draft-predictions#ten\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">TEN<\/a><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/1756395437_46__end_rule.png\" width=\"100%\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"floatleft\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/atl.png\" width=\"31\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2025 record: 8-9<br \/>Estimated 2026 cap space: minus-$12.7 million<\/p>\n<p>What is their top offseason priority? Decide who stays and who goes. Owner Arthur Blank has several decisions to make with the coaching staff and front office. General manager Terry Fontenot has not produced a winning season in five years with the team, while the Falcons regressed in Year 2 under coach Raheem Morris.<\/p>\n<p>What is one secondary priority to watch? Figuring out who will play quarterback in Week 1. <a data-player-guid=\"28022fa1-9050-eee1-5160-c77a6a379ec2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4360423\/michael-penix-jr\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Michael Penix Jr<\/a>. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/47064455\/falcons-michael-penix-jr-set-acl-reconstruction-surgery\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">tore his ACL<\/a> in November and will be out at least nine months, which could push up on training camp. The Falcons are committed to Penix, but they could try to bring in someone if he isn&#8217;t ready and <a data-player-guid=\"53bec012-c2ed-bc7c-a8d5-438611f9faa1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/14880\/kirk-cousins\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Kirk Cousins<\/a> isn&#8217;t a viable option.<\/p>\n<p>Editor&#8217;s Picks<\/p>\n<p>2 Related<\/p>\n<p>Latest on the head coach situation: Blank is more patient than most NFL owners, and he seems to have a genuine affection for Morris. The fact that the Falcons are playing better as of late &#8212; despite Penix&#8217;s injury &#8212; could be a mark in Morris&#8217; favor. &#8212; Marc Raimondi<\/p>\n<p>Latest on whether they will re-sign tight end <a data-player-guid=\"7290d27f-bdc5-21fe-0800-c4ae5597cd34\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4360248\/kyle-pitts-sr\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Kyle Pitts Sr<\/a>.: He came on strong at the end of his fourth season with the team, finishing with 928 receiving yards. But with top wide receiver <a data-player-guid=\"4eb7948a-431b-ee11-32de-2f4044548c60\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4426502\/drake-london\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Drake London<\/a> extension-eligible, I don&#8217;t see the Falcons handing out top tight end money to a player who hasn&#8217;t been consistently healthy or consistently great since after his rookie season. &#8212; Graziano<\/p>\n<p>Early draft outlook: Even though the Falcons don&#8217;t have a first-round pick, there are still plenty of options to address their need at cornerback. <a data-player-guid=\"7bed6a87-1b6d-3934-8093-ab666e485402\" href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4684543\/julian-neal\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Julian Neal<\/a> (Arkansas) and <a data-player-guid=\"4118f81d-379a-3c4c-8ce7-a70fe61b5e75\" href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4832035\/davison-igbinosun\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Davison Igbinosun<\/a> (Ohio State) are a couple of Day 2 names who could play opposite <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4239995\/aj-terrell-jr\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">A.J. Terrell Jr<\/a>. &#8212; Reid<\/p>\n<p>Big prediction for the offseason: The Falcons will keep Cousins in 2026. Sure, this is finally the year in which it&#8217;s easier to get out of his contract. But the offense has worked better with Cousins than Penix, and Cousins looks far healthier another year removed from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/38793760\/kirk-cousins-undergoes-surgery-torn-achilles\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Achilles injury<\/a>. &#8212; Solak<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"floatleft\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/cin.png\" width=\"31\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2025 record: 6-11<br \/>Estimated 2026 cap space: $60.8 million<\/p>\n<p>What is their top offseason priority? Add juice to the pass rush. Cincinnati&#8217;s young pass rushers showed promise at the end of the season, but they were 30th in pass rush win rate and 26th in team sacks through Week 17. Recreating the magic of 2021, when Cincinnati added <a data-player-guid=\"12e0d326-ccbd-d834-d6f7-b718b36deabb\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/3050122\/larry-ogunjobi\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Larry Ogunjobi<\/a> as an interior pass rusher, could be critical to improving the defense.<\/p>\n<p>What is one secondary priority to watch? Solidify the secondary. While safety <a data-player-guid=\"35f2aa8c-e37b-d712-3c72-c05e407ad66a\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4240575\/geno-stone\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Geno Stone<\/a> deserves due credit for helping fix the defense at the end of the season, he will be a free agent next season. Finding someone to pair with <a data-player-guid=\"b3c68b74-63a6-6c6b-fb9e-f506249fb609\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4567098\/jordan-battle\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Jordan Battle<\/a>, as well as landing a starting slot cornerback, will be critical.<\/p>\n<p>Latest on the head coach situation: Zac Taylor was under significant pressure from the fan base after a third straight season without a playoff appearance. But with at least one year remaining on his contract and a late surge from quarterback <a data-player-guid=\"e6957db5-5b2e-a82d-c788-d889115d9772\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/3915511\/joe-burrow\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Joe Burrow<\/a>, Taylor should remain with the team in 2026. &#8212; Ben Baby<\/p>\n<p>Latest on whether they will re-sign edge rusher <a data-player-guid=\"7ab1c7ee-fd75-435d-b0c5-613879216083\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/3052743\/trey-hendrickson\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Trey Hendrickson<\/a>: This relationship has run its course. The Bengals have the option to franchise-tag Hendrickson, but after a year of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/46053064\/trey-hendrickson-bengals-contract-dispute-trade-offers-money-extension-next\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">contentious contract negotiations<\/a>, the edge rusher appears poised to land elsewhere and capitalize on a booming positional market. &#8212; Fowler<\/p>\n<p>Early draft outlook: The likely loss of Hendrickson, coupled with the lack of impact so far from first-round picks <a data-player-guid=\"ee8dca16-7ec4-3fa6-8c10-6cc028cd1802\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4685562\/shemar-stewart\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Shemar Stewart<\/a> and <a data-player-guid=\"cfd391f6-93c2-3e9f-bfeb-723c48112e9c\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4428985\/myles-murphy\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Myles Murphy<\/a>, should point the Bengals toward edge rushers in Round 1. That matches the strength of this class, where <a data-player-guid=\"e2c3077d-b7fd-3f28-b734-c46f5c97855f\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4685248\/david-bailey\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">David Bailey<\/a> (Texas Tech) and <a data-player-guid=\"e35afc8b-9bf2-3f13-aa5e-a762e7de39cb\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4870707\/keldric-faulk\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Keldric Faulk<\/a> (Auburn) could be realistic options. If Stewart and Murphy are seen as capable of replacing Hendrickson, a space-eating defensive tackle like <a data-player-guid=\"0e06df38-cce1-35e6-8b5e-523afd451c74\" href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4602019\/caleb-banks\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Caleb Banks<\/a> (Florida) would improve the line in a hurry. &#8212; Miller<\/p>\n<p>Big prediction for the offseason: The Bengals will sign more than one veteran edge rusher, such as <a data-player-guid=\"591c8883-7eb1-633e-5283-7bfbb9dbf51e\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/3051389\/joey-bosa\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Joey Bosa<\/a>, <a data-player-guid=\"a548d688-5145-2203-3833-88c93ecbf819\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4259594\/yetur-gross-matos\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Yetur Gross-Matos<\/a>, <a data-player-guid=\"1728bddc-186f-8214-69ca-183e9660d0ae\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4038849\/dj-wonnum\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">D.J. Wonnum<\/a> or <a data-player-guid=\"add4de20-804f-5086-dc40-cc8a8ea5f107\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/3929865\/charles-omenihu\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Charles Omenihu<\/a>. As mentioned above, the Bengals will have to attack the edge rusher free agent class with volume. &#8212; Schatz<\/p>\n<p><img class=\" lazyload lazyload\"\/>play<\/p>\n<p>0:16<\/p>\n<p>Joe Burrow puts Bengals ahead with TD pass to Ja&#8217;Marr Chase<\/p>\n<p class=\"contentItem__subhead\">Joe Burrow fires a 4-yard touchdown pass to Ja&#8217;Marr Chase to give the Bengals a lead.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"floatleft\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/1767567794_543_cle.png\" width=\"31\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2025 record: 5-12<br \/>Estimated 2026 cap space: minus-$65 million<\/p>\n<p>What is their top offseason priority? Gaining clarity under center. Cleveland needs to figure out its quarterback situation after neither <a data-player-guid=\"2126efde-bc9b-0168-dd5a-49fe11331807\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4427238\/dillon-gabriel\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Dillon Gabriel<\/a> nor <a data-player-guid=\"fecbc03c-f8bf-342e-82be-991901cf6449\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4432762\/shedeur-sanders\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Shedeur Sanders<\/a> established themselves as long-term options. The Browns might have played themselves out of position for a top quarterback in the 2026 draft after beating the Steelers in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/game\/_\/gameId\/401772807\/steelers-browns\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Week 17<\/a>. ESPN&#8217;s Adam Schefter reported in December that the Browns are planning to keep <a data-player-guid=\"b6ec8e9e-3d85-a1de-9d0a-5a51621a9c20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/3122840\/deshaun-watson\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Deshaun Watson<\/a> on their 2026 roster.<\/p>\n<p>What is one secondary priority to watch? Rebuild the rest of the offense. The Browns need to get younger and more athletic along the offensive line, where only one Week 1 starter is under contract for 2026. They could use more dynamic players at skill positions, too.<\/p>\n<p>Latest on the head coach situation: Kevin Stefanski&#8217;s job security has come into question with a 7-26 record in the past two seasons. And when asked if he would like to continue beyond 2025 as Browns coach, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/47446171\/kevin-stefanski-mum-future-privileged-browns-coach\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Stefanski only said<\/a>, &#8220;I&#8217;m privileged to have this job.&#8221; &#8212; Daniel Oyefusi<\/p>\n<p>Breaking news from Adam Schefter<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/contributor\/adam-schefter\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"floatright\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/schefter_adam.png\" width=\"40%\"\/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Download the ESPN app and enable <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/contributor\/adam-schefter\" target=\"new\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Adam Schefter&#8217;s news alerts<\/a> to receive push notifications for the latest updates first. Opt in by tapping the alerts bell in the top right corner. For more information, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/espn\/story\/_\/id\/43511398\/introducing-espn-reporter-breaking-news-alerts-faq-fans\" target=\"new\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">click here<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Latest on whether they will re-sign tight end <a data-player-guid=\"792d89f8-09a7-3009-63cc-09f2df5f947d\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/3123076\/david-njoku\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">David Njoku<\/a>: The emergence of rookie tight end <a data-player-guid=\"32593c89-2e72-352a-a204-a2e034ca9a81\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/5083076\/harold-fannin-jr\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Harold Fannin Jr<\/a>. has affected Njoku&#8217;s playing time, and it could affect his future with the team. He likes it in Cleveland, and the Browns like him, so it&#8217;s possible &#8212; even likely &#8212; they find common ground on a reasonable deal. The decision could also be affected by potential changes to the Browns&#8217; coaching staff. &#8212; Graziano<\/p>\n<p>Early draft outlook: Cleveland is not in contention to draft one of the top two passers after falling out of the top two picks, but it could use its two first-round picks to trade up and take a QB. If the Browns elect to go elsewhere, offensive tackle and wide receiver are clear needs on the roster. Miami offensive tackle <a data-player-guid=\"da8b73dd-ac91-3476-871e-69f1e9a97a0b\" href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4870914\/francis-mauigoa\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Francis Mauigoa<\/a> would bring immediate stability at guard or tackle. <a data-player-guid=\"58f8add5-078d-3663-9249-0f48f77ce044\" href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4871023\/carnell-tate\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Carnell Tate<\/a> (Ohio State) and <a data-player-guid=\"378653f9-6b58-363d-a709-85e11465a73c\" href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4880281\/jordyn-tyson\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Jordyn Tyson<\/a> (Arizona State) could be instant impact starters at receiver. &#8212; Reid<\/p>\n<p>Big prediction for the offseason: The Browns will bring in 49ers wide receiver <a data-player-guid=\"adf56900-5f5b-78ef-7309-892ec10e85d3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4360438\/brandon-aiyuk\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Brandon Aiyuk<\/a>, as they continue their tradition of signing receivers on low-cost contracts in the hopes of hitting it big. Aiyuk&#8217;s days in San Francisco are likely over; the Browns can offer him more money and opportunity compared to any other team in the NFL. &#8212; Solak<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"floatleft\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/1767567796_930_dal.png\" width=\"31\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2025 record: 7-9-1<br \/>Estimated 2026 cap space: minus-$79.4 million<\/p>\n<p>What is their top offseason priority? Rebuild the defense. Owner Jerry Jones said in Week 16 that he believes the &#8220;bones&#8221; of a good defense are in place. That can be debated because the Cowboys allowed 30 points per game through Week 17. Their strength is at defensive tackle with <a data-player-guid=\"b299da3f-168e-d279-dc79-8d7b0d926def\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4040982\/quinnen-williams\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Quinnen Williams<\/a>, <a data-player-guid=\"99fef066-3b7b-f035-c202-879446d10d7c\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/3122752\/kenny-clark\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Kenny Clark<\/a> and <a data-player-guid=\"14dce701-e0e3-9693-9ff3-8f5e8df6ffc4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4035840\/osa-odighizuwa\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Osa Odighizuwa<\/a>, but they have questions at every other position group.<\/p>\n<p>What is one secondary priority to watch? Spend in free agency. The Cowboys will never be big spenders in free agency, but they have to do more than just nibble around the edges, especially defensively. Finding a high-end pass rusher and cornerback is difficult in free agency, but they can do more at linebacker and safety. There have been more questions than answers in recent drafts, so they need a more proactive approach to free agency. &#8212; Todd Archer<\/p>\n<p>Latest on whether they will re-sign wide receiver <a data-player-guid=\"ab0fe70b-0fb4-fc8e-55e1-8f5204851a9d\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4426354\/george-pickens\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">George Pickens<\/a>: This may grab as many headlines as any free agent situation in the league, mainly because it&#8217;s the Cowboys. Pickens has been spectacular for Dallas since the team acquired him in a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/45036163\/sources-cowboys-nearing-trade-steelers-wr-george-pickens\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">trade<\/a> with Pittsburgh, catching 93 balls for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns. He comes with concerns due to some of the effort and concentration issues he had with the Steelers, even though those haven&#8217;t shown up in Dallas. Based on everything I&#8217;ve heard, the franchise tag is the likely option here. &#8212; Graziano<\/p>\n<p>Look ahead to the 2026 NFL draft<img decoding=\"async\" data-lazyload=\"true\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/nfl_jordan-reid-mock-draft_5x2.jpg\" class=\"round lazyload\"\/><\/p>\n<p>\u2022 Early mock drafts: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/draft2026\/story\/_\/id\/47243299\/2026-nfl-mock-draft-first-round-predictions-32-picks-field-yates\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Yates<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/draft2026\/story\/_\/id\/47000736\/2026-nfl-mock-draft-first-round-predictions-32-picks-matt-miller\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Miller<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/draft2026\/story\/_\/id\/46583887\/2026-nfl-mock-draft-first-round-predictions-32-picks-jordan-reid\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Reid<\/a><br \/>\u2022 Early rankings: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/draft2026\/story\/_\/id\/46573669\/2026-nfl-draft-rankings-mel-kiper-big-board-top-prospects-players-positions\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Kiper<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/draft2026\/story\/_\/id\/47190881\/2026-nfl-draft-rankings-matt-miller-top-prospects-players-positions\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Miller<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/draft2026\/story\/_\/id\/47027232\/2026-nfl-draft-rankings-jordan-reid-top-prospects-players-positions\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Reid<\/a><br \/>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/draft2026\/story\/_\/id\/47097046\/2026-nfl-draft-questions-top-prospects-qb-class-risers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">30 questions<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/draft2026\/story\/_\/id\/45531306\/2026-nfl-draft-notebook-questions-latest-updates-risers-cfb-prospects\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">CFB notes<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/draft2026\/story\/_\/id\/46532548\/2026-nfl-draft-ranking-top-quarterbacks-hot-board-team-fits-strengths-weaknesses\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">QB Board<\/a><br \/>\u2022 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/draft2026\/story\/_\/id\/46149416\/2026-nfl-draft-rankings-top-prospects-position\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Best by position<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/draft2026\/story\/_\/id\/46146676\/2026-nfl-draft-order-projections-32-first-round-picks\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Draft order<\/a> | <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/draft\/news\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">More<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Early draft outlook: One of the worst defenses in the league, the Cowboys are in dire need of new players at every position. Texas Tech&#8217;s <a data-player-guid=\"e2c3077d-b7fd-3f28-b734-c46f5c97855f\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4685248\/david-bailey\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">David Bailey<\/a> is arguably the best pass rusher in this class, logging 14.5 sacks this season, tied for the most in the FBS. If they opt to add to the secondary in Round 1, <a data-player-guid=\"a6f0f3d2-1d19-38b0-955b-6ff5c631af23\" href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/5076652\/brandon-cisse\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Brandon Cisse<\/a> (South Carolina) would make a lot of sense, as his skill set matches previous Cowboys defensive backs. &#8212; Reid<\/p>\n<p>Big prediction for the offseason: The Cowboys &#8212; after a classic prolonged and public negotiation &#8212; will make Pickens the fourth-highest-paid receiver in the NFL, just under teammate <a data-player-guid=\"2994891b-8927-33cb-6999-e809560d0545\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4241389\/ceedee-lamb\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">CeeDee Lamb<\/a> ($34 million per year) but ahead of Pittsburgh&#8217;s <a data-player-guid=\"c6727be7-1ac0-315c-437d-e281fe9a2e84\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4047650\/dk-metcalf\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">DK Metcalf<\/a> ($33 million). And with Pickens back, quarterback <a data-player-guid=\"5f09781b-6b0b-7325-049b-a91e60d794e6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/2577417\/dak-prescott\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Dak Prescott<\/a> goes on to win MVP in 2026. &#8212; Solak<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"floatleft\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/1767567798_31_ind.png\" width=\"31\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2025 record: 8-9<br \/>Estimated 2026 cap space: $36.3 million<\/p>\n<p>What is their top offseason priority? Resolve their quarterback situation. <a data-player-guid=\"5ad1bcc2-57bc-bb72-bcd0-0cdd0d945444\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/3917792\/daniel-jones\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Daniel Jones<\/a> lit it up in his first season with Indy, but he&#8217;ll be a free agent in March, when he&#8217;ll still be recovering from a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/47236840\/colts-qb-daniel-jones-suffers-achilles-injury-ruled-out\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">torn right Achilles<\/a>. The Colts seem inclined to run it back with Jones, but they&#8217;ve got to reach a deal and confirm his injury progress.<\/p>\n<p>What is one secondary priority to watch? Re-tool the defensive line. The Colts have stuck with this group for years, but the results have been too intermittent to assume this group returns en masse. This will be tricky with no first-round pick, but the Colts need more juice on the edge.<\/p>\n<p>Latest on the head coach situation: Shane Steichen will miss the playoffs for the third time in his three seasons, which is not ideal for his r\u00e9sum\u00e9. His fate might be tied to that of general manager Chris Ballard, who has been with the Colts since 2017. But only time will tell if the Colts brass makes a change. &#8212; Stephen Holder<\/p>\n<p>Latest on whether they will re-sign Jones: He has proved to be the Colts&#8217; steadiest quarterback option since Andrew Luck. The Colts will monitor his Achilles tear recovery before free agency, and assuming all goes well, Indy should attempt to keep Jones, via a tag or a new deal. &#8212; Fowler<\/p>\n<p>Early draft outlook: With no first-round pick, the Colts won&#8217;t be on the clock until Friday night. When that happens, finding impact players on the defensive front seven is crucial. Linebacker has been a weak point for the defense, and this draft is loaded with talented prospects with second-round grades. <a data-player-guid=\"988096c6-44b3-3d12-9eb9-4a1c7f30658e\" href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4870805\/anthony-hill-jr\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Anthony Hill Jr<\/a>. (Texas) has the range and versatility to be a good fit. &#8212; Miller<\/p>\n<p>Big prediction for the offseason: The Colts give a big extension to 25-year-old safety <a data-player-guid=\"128929e5-654a-69c4-c16e-a3d2a0c20dff\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4426403\/nick-cross\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Nick Cross<\/a>. He did well in my coverage DVOA metric and was involved in 14.0% of Colts defensive plays, seventh among safeties through Week 17. His average run tackle came after a gain of just 4.4 yards (ranked sixth among safeties through Week 17). &#8212; Schatz<\/p>\n<p><img class=\" lazyload lazyload\"\/>play<\/p>\n<p>1:31<\/p>\n<p>Philip Rivers opens up about call he received to come back to Colts<\/p>\n<p class=\"contentItem__subhead\">Colts quarterback Philip Rivers joins &#8220;The Rich Eisen Show&#8221; to discuss coming out of retirement to play for Indianapolis.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"floatleft\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/1767567798_110_min.png\" width=\"31\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2025 record: 9-8<br \/>Estimated 2026 cap space: minus-$58.1 million<\/p>\n<p>What is their top offseason priority? Figure out the <a data-player-guid=\"460fbf74-c64d-3862-b942-852d104e94dd\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4433970\/jj-mccarthy\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">J.J. McCarthy<\/a> conundrum. He had a mostly brutal first season as the Vikings&#8217; starter and the team must decide whether to give him another season, acquire a replacement or pair him with a veteran backup who could take over if he fails to make progress.<\/p>\n<p>What is one secondary priority to watch? Settle the Brian Flores situation. He has been one of the NFL&#8217;s best defensive coordinators during his three seasons in Minnesota, but his contract is expiring and he&#8217;ll have the opportunity to consider options elsewhere even if he doesn&#8217;t get a head coaching job. It&#8217;ll be a challenge to replace him with an equal performer. &#8212; Kevin Seifert<\/p>\n<p>Latest on whether they will re-sign safety <a data-player-guid=\"db16d7bd-d012-85a3-9ab5-b49cb65b1445\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/14945\/harrison-smith\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Harrison Smith<\/a>: This is a legacy consideration. Harrison has played all 14 seasons with the Vikings and is still productive. If he plays a 15th, it should be in Minnesota. But he turns 37 in February and appeared to have a career send-off at the end of Minnesota&#8217;s Week 18 win. Any commitment will most likely be short term. &#8212; Fowler<\/p>\n<p>Early draft outlook: If Flores isn&#8217;t hired away as a head coach, he&#8217;ll want to bolster the secondary. Ohio State&#8217;s <a data-player-guid=\"12c8597c-e9ff-36ba-a51a-61c91d87abf7\" href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4870706\/caleb-downs\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Caleb Downs<\/a> is unlikely to last until the late teens, but he would be an ideal pick in a <a data-player-guid=\"5830595f-a479-c804-6cbb-fbc86b9a9350\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/3925345\/minkah-fitzpatrick\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Minkah Fitzpatrick<\/a>-type role. Either <a data-player-guid=\"a6f0f3d2-1d19-38b0-955b-6ff5c631af23\" href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/5076652\/brandon-cisse\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Brandon Cisse<\/a> (South Carolina) or <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4921249\/colton-hood\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Colton Hood<\/a> (Tennessee) might be more likely options to fill a need at cornerback. &#8212; Miller<\/p>\n<p>Big prediction for the offseason: With little cap space, the Vikings will say goodbye to tight end <a data-player-guid=\"632b52a0-c5f6-fadd-3e6f-a358218982f9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4036133\/tj-hockenson\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">T.J. Hockenson<\/a>, who has had injury issues and is coming off two straight years with fewer than 500 receiving yards. He was tied for 33rd among tight ends in ESPN&#8217;s <a href=\"https:\/\/espnanalytics.com\/receivers\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">receiver scores<\/a> through Week 17. Cutting Hockenson would save the Vikings nearly $9 million in cap space before June 1 and $16 million if designated after June 1. &#8212; Schatz<\/p>\n<p><img class=\" lazyload lazyload\"\/>play<\/p>\n<p>1:20<\/p>\n<p>Schefter: Brian Flores will have coaching options<\/p>\n<p class=\"contentItem__subhead\">Adam Schefter joins &#8220;The Pat McAfee Show&#8221; to discuss where Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores might end up next season.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"floatleft\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/1767567798_76_no.png\" width=\"31\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2025 record: 6-11<br \/>Estimated 2026 cap space: minus-$26.5 million<\/p>\n<p>What is their top offseason priority? Make decisions about veterans. Linebacker <a data-player-guid=\"87e9c42b-e44f-e088-fce0-cae06ba20349\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/14958\/demario-davis\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Demario Davis<\/a> will be 37 in January, and defensive end <a data-player-guid=\"cfd6d317-0d17-cb31-2766-cd6062d001e4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/13971\/cameron-jordan\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Cameron Jordan<\/a> will turn 37 next summer. Both have voiding contracts this year, but they have continued to play at a high level despite their age. The Saints will need to decide whether to bring them back, as well as 35-year-old <a data-player-guid=\"b4348fe9-fd28-0531-ad90-dbc8d5e0d11e\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/2468609\/taysom-hill\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Taysom Hill<\/a>. If not, they could get younger at those positions.<\/p>\n<p>What is one secondary priority to watch? Surround rookie quarterback <a data-player-guid=\"0eb2837a-e6ed-bbd7-d7d5-cbeb2cd7ab11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4360689\/tyler-shough\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Tyler Shough<\/a> with a better offense. He was playing with a cast of backups by the end of the season due to injuries, but even a healthy Saints offense needs a refresh. The Saints need to get Shough some pass catchers and build around him in free agency or the draft. &#8212; Katherine Terrell<\/p>\n<p>Pigskin Bracket Challenge<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/fantasy.espn.com\/games\/nfl-playoff-football-challenge-2026\/make-picks?addata=pigskinbracket2026_nfl_web_inline\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"imageLoaded\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/48557fd0-b1fd-4337-a953-8446c23ba8bb.jpeg\" width=\"100%\"\/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Welcome to ESPN&#8217;s NFL playoff bracket game! $50K+ in prizes. <a href=\"https:\/\/fantasy.espn.com\/games\/nfl-playoff-football-challenge-2026\/make-picks?addata=pigskinbracket2026_nfl_web_inline\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">FREE to play<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Latest on whether they will re-sign Jordan: He could very well decide to retire. If he doesn&#8217;t, will he fit into the Saints&#8217; 2026 cap picture? That picture is cloudy as always, but it&#8217;s impossible to imagine Jordan in a different uniform &#8212; and I think he feels the same way. Either he retires or they find a way to bring him back. &#8212; Graziano<\/p>\n<p>Early draft outlook: Shough has quickly changed the course of the rebuild, as he looks to be the franchise quarterback. This has positioned the Saints to take a true &#8220;best player available&#8221; approach in the first round. With a top-15 pick, they could add another wide receiver. <a data-player-guid=\"58f8add5-078d-3663-9249-0f48f77ce044\" href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4871023\/carnell-tate\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Carnell Tate<\/a> (Ohio State) or <a data-player-guid=\"378653f9-6b58-363d-a709-85e11465a73c\" href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4880281\/jordyn-tyson\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Jordyn Tyson<\/a> (Arizona State) would provide the team with a true go-to target alongside <a data-player-guid=\"b36899c0-cd91-5c48-6b32-ec65159c9bb3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4361370\/chris-olave\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Chris Olave<\/a>. &#8212; Reid<\/p>\n<p>Big prediction for the offseason: The Saints will sign ex-Bills guard <a data-player-guid=\"6839db77-0f27-24b4-087c-bbfdace83800\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/3917660\/david-edwards\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">David Edwards<\/a> to a big deal, as he&#8217;s the lone exciting player who could be available in the guard market. The offensive line is a sneakily solid group when center <a data-player-guid=\"ee083b79-dd00-f52b-63d1-33515ef1dcc6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/3917331\/erik-mccoy\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Erik McCoy<\/a> is healthy, but it needs better guard play. &#8212; Solak<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"floatleft\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/nyg.png\" width=\"31\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2025 record: 4-13<br \/>Estimated 2026 cap space: $21.2 million<\/p>\n<p>What is their top offseason priority? Re-signing at least two of their three biggest free agents. Right tackle <a data-player-guid=\"8a56ee52-363d-9dbc-2cd4-6f1172bcc139\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/3115303\/jermaine-eluemunor\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Jermaine Eluemunor<\/a>, wide receiver <a data-player-guid=\"8dc02010-f5af-f9d0-a382-58bd2200ae8d\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4569587\/wandale-robinson\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Wan&#8217;Dale Robinson<\/a> and cornerback <a data-player-guid=\"10e92a3e-3908-9104-747b-d662baa76e55\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4429607\/cordale-flott\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Cor&#8217;Dale Flott<\/a> are all valuable and coming off the best seasons of their careers. This team can&#8217;t afford to let any more good players walk.<\/p>\n<p>What is one secondary priority to watch? The Giants need to add run-stuffing defensive linemen to the mix in the worst of ways. There is a reason they allowed a league-worst 5.35 yards per carry entering Week 18. Rookie <a data-player-guid=\"2e48b606-47a0-af19-cbda-84cd004b7d23\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4426542\/darius-alexander\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Darius Alexander<\/a> isn&#8217;t the answer. He&#8217;s more of a 3-technique pass rusher and <a data-player-guid=\"ac126158-4522-b807-e3bc-bc4256320611\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4035483\/dexter-lawrence-ii\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Dexter Lawrence II<\/a> can&#8217;t do it all by himself. The run defense has been a problem for three consecutive seasons.<\/p>\n<p>Latest on the head coach situation: General manager Joe Schoen was spared, and the attention is on finding the right guy to replace Brian Daboll. The Giants need a candidate who exudes leadership and can develop a sustainable culture. It&#8217;s a tough job. Previous head coaching experience and a track record of success probably wouldn&#8217;t hurt. &#8212; Jordan Raanan<\/p>\n<p>Latest on whether they will re-sign Robinson: He joins <a data-player-guid=\"44a2174b-1d11-3acf-8e75-fe0c13db47a6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4595348\/malik-nabers\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Malik Nabers<\/a> as the Giants&#8217; only 1,000-yard receivers since 2019. Paying Eluemunor is also an option, but Robinson could become Schoen&#8217;s first draft pick extended. &#8212; Fowler<\/p>\n<p>Early draft outlook: The Giants have a strong young nucleus in Nabers, <a data-player-guid=\"13e97d3e-2171-371b-9a7a-2c44670b5a62\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4689114\/jaxson-dart\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Jaxson Dart<\/a>, <a data-player-guid=\"0be760c4-3eb7-338a-9b0b-20de5895543c\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4696981\/cam-skattebo\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Cam Skattebo<\/a> and <a data-player-guid=\"df4ecbf0-8676-3fbd-8563-25721d12b4ba\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4725996\/abdul-carter\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Abdul Carter<\/a>. If Robinson leaves, drafting his replacement could be vital at the top of the first round if a receiver like <a data-player-guid=\"58f8add5-078d-3663-9249-0f48f77ce044\" href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4871023\/carnell-tate\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Carnell Tate<\/a> (Ohio State) emerges as a top-five prospect. Drafting a right tackle that high isn&#8217;t done often, but the Giants could replace Eluemunor with <a data-player-guid=\"1b7b7a1d-60fb-363b-b243-5003a2c98f94\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4921438\/caleb-lomu\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Caleb Lomu<\/a> (Utah) or <a data-player-guid=\"da8b73dd-ac91-3476-871e-69f1e9a97a0b\" href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4870914\/francis-mauigoa\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Francis Mauigoa<\/a> (Miami). &#8212; Miller<\/p>\n<p>Big prediction for the offseason: The Giants will trade down in the first round of the draft. They&#8217;re already set at quarterback and edge rusher, where many mock drafts have <a data-player-guid=\"1fee5fb1-9510-305d-abe2-a522d3ba5ccb\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4950400\/arvell-reese\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Arvell Reese<\/a> and <a data-player-guid=\"7487270a-722c-39f2-9fb5-b21b75bfe614\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4870617\/rueben-bain-jr\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Rueben Bain Jr<\/a>. as the first non-quarterbacks off the board. They need more talent at other positions, which they could address further down. &#8212; Schatz<\/p>\n<p><img class=\" lazyload lazyload\"\/>play<\/p>\n<p>0:29<\/p>\n<p>Daniel Bellinger takes Jaxson Dart&#8217;s flip pass 29 yards for a TD<\/p>\n<p class=\"contentItem__subhead\">Jaxson Dart flips the ball to Daniel Bellinger, who then breaks off a 29-yard Giants touchdown.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"floatleft\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/tb.png\" width=\"31\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2025 record: 8-9<br \/>Estimated 2026 cap space: $26.4 million<\/p>\n<p>What is their top offseason priority? Re-sign wide receiver <a data-player-guid=\"5073fc58-91c1-4e3d-826d-af754f9f40c7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/16737\/mike-evans\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Mike Evans<\/a>. The franchise&#8217;s all-time leading scorer&#8217;s contract expires at the end of 2025 and he&#8217;s undecided about playing next year. He <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/47457339\/bucs-mike-evans-not-thinking-future-ahead-finale\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">did say<\/a> after coming back from his broken collarbone injury, &#8220;I missed the game more than I thought I would. I come back and I still have love for the game. Who knows what it will do for me in the future?&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>What is one secondary priority to watch? Go back to the drawing board at edge rusher. <a data-player-guid=\"8b6e917b-39b0-e82e-13e8-c8b0640b2fa0\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/2980504\/haason-reddick\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Haason Reddick<\/a> didn&#8217;t have the rebound year he was hoping for with 2.5 sacks in 13 games. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4686334\/yaya-diaby\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Yaya Diaby<\/a> took some steps forward with 7.0 sacks in 17 games, and they will get <a data-player-guid=\"71dc702d-e00a-34af-a840-e775d4f329eb\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/5085355\/david-walker\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">David Walker<\/a> back from a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/45840995\/source-buccaneers-david-walker-season-acl-tear\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">torn ACL<\/a> next season. But they need way more impact up front.<\/p>\n<p>Latest on the head coach situation: Todd Bowles led the Bucs to three straight division titles as a head coach before falling just short this season and signed a three-year extension last offseason. But their defensive struggles in the second half of the season were jarring to watch. Offensively, they took several steps backward with Josh Grizzard as coordinator. And on special teams, their coverage units struggled so much that they resorted to touchbacks on kickoffs. How much will the Glazer family factor in the team&#8217;s past success and injuries when making a decision? &#8212; Jenna Laine<\/p>\n<p>All of ESPN. All in one place.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/plus.espn.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"imageLoaded\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/r1531432_1296x729_16-9.jpg\" width=\"100%\"\/><\/a><\/p>\n<p>Watch your favorite events in the newly enhanced ESPN App. Learn more about what plan is right for you. <a href=\"https:\/\/plus.espn.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">Sign Up Now<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Latest on whether they will re-sign Evans: A dominant force in Tampa Bay for over a decade, Evans turns 33 in August and must decide whether to retire or continue playing. It&#8217;s hard to imagine him in any other team&#8217;s uniform. Cornerback <a data-player-guid=\"537896f1-aa7f-dc2b-5a56-b9bdae0e9c06\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/3873935\/jamel-dean\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Jamel Dean<\/a> is another key free agent, as he&#8217;s at the end of a four-year deal. &#8212; Fowler<\/p>\n<p>Early draft outlook: This draft should give Tampa Bay plenty of opportunities to add defensive talent. In Round 1, a pass rusher such as Texas Tech&#8217;s <a data-player-guid=\"e2c3077d-b7fd-3f28-b734-c46f5c97855f\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4685248\/david-bailey\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">David Bailey<\/a> would give the Bucs much-needed help off the edge. If he&#8217;s off the board already, cornerback is a second need that should be addressed in the first three rounds. &#8212; Miller<\/p>\n<p>Big prediction for the offseason: With help required at inside linebacker, the Bucs will steal <a data-player-guid=\"29085834-78d9-32de-aff3-568e6d0d92f6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/3124890\/kaden-elliss\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Kaden Elliss<\/a> from the rival Falcons in free agency. He would be perfect in those Bowles blitz packages after 3.5 sacks in 2025. &#8212; Schatz<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" alt=\"\" class=\"floatleft\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/ten.png\" width=\"31\"\/><\/p>\n<p>2025 record: 3-14<br \/>Estimated 2026 cap space: $77.1 million<\/p>\n<p>What is their top offseason priority? Add a playmaking wide receiver. Rookies <a data-player-guid=\"17a0a30b-a7c2-3380-a7a7-dc3364929570\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4883647\/elic-ayomanor\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Elic Ayomanor<\/a> and <a data-player-guid=\"570f2134-7526-3cea-ac53-012280ed5613\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4431268\/chimere-dike\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Chimere Dike<\/a> are the top returning receivers for quarterback <a data-player-guid=\"9f4e87b5-5da8-38c0-9951-e3496b55b3c8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4688380\/cam-ward\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Cam Ward<\/a>. <a data-player-guid=\"4bfb2401-3499-7fb7-2eea-a237345fed6a\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/3925357\/calvin-ridley\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Calvin Ridley<\/a> will likely be a cap casualty. Ward needs a go-to guy who can beat one-on-one coverage in the clutch.<\/p>\n<p>What is one secondary priority to watch? Boost the pass rush. Defensive tackle <a data-player-guid=\"3d2c970c-ba26-bcf9-3e98-bd833dd57be6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4035369\/jeffery-simmons\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Jeffery Simmons<\/a> reestablished himself as a dominant presence. But Simmons needs an impactful running mate who can come off the edge. The Titans tried addressing the position with 2025 second-round pick <a data-player-guid=\"a1ab83a2-e943-3572-810a-67a220a7c4e3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4876057\/oluwafemi-oladejo\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Oluwafemi Oladejo<\/a>. But they need more talent outside of Oladejo and third-year linebacker <a data-player-guid=\"e0106a08-215f-3873-827e-9da159da2350\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4429058\/jaylen-harrell\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Jaylen Harrell<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Latest on the head coach situation: Interim coach Mike McCoy is unlikely to return after <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/story\/_\/id\/46583863\/titans-fire-coach-brian-callahan-1-5-start-2025\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">taking over<\/a> for Brian Callahan in October. Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy figures to be a candidate given general manager Mike Borgonzi&#8217;s history with that team. President of football operations Chad Brinker&#8217;s extensive time with the Packers could also make former Green Bay and Dallas coach Mike McCarthy a candidate. &#8212; Turron Davenport<\/p>\n<p>Latest on whether they will re-sign wide receiver tight end <a href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4360635\/chig-okonkwo\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Chig Okonkwo<\/a>: He drew interest at the trade deadline as a field-stretching tight end, and he has produced 56 catches for 560 yards this season &#8212; noble numbers in a bad offense. He has the combination of athletic traits and youth (26) that could make him a desirable option in free agency. &#8212; Fowler<\/p>\n<p>Early draft outlook: Building an infrastructure around Ward is incredibly important, but there isn&#8217;t a prospect that matches the needs of the team at the top of the draft. That could mean the Titans trade back with a QB-needy team, or they could look to select a top-tier pass rusher. Taking Miami edge rusher <a data-player-guid=\"7487270a-722c-39f2-9fb5-b21b75bfe614\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4870617\/rueben-bain-jr\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Rueben Bain Jr<\/a>. in Round 1 and Alabama wide receiver <a data-player-guid=\"e9fc2458-287b-37fb-a2a2-222f32efdad4\" href=\"http:\/\/www.espn.com\/college-football\/player\/_\/id\/4685261\/germie-bernard\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Germie Bernard<\/a> in Round 2 could give Tennessee two impactful rookies. &#8212; Miller<\/p>\n<p>Big prediction for the offseason: The Titans will make a huge splash by signing <a data-player-guid=\"ab0fe70b-0fb4-fc8e-55e1-8f5204851a9d\" href=\"https:\/\/www.espn.com\/nfl\/player\/_\/id\/4426354\/george-pickens\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">George Pickens<\/a> in free agency. Tennessee&#8217;s biggest need is talented and experienced wide receivers for Ward, and the Titans have a ton of cap space. Pickens ranked fifth in the ESPN&#8217;s receiver scores this season and third in my DYAR values among wide receivers through Week 17. &#8212; Schatz<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"The 2026 NFL offseason has begun for the 10 teams that did not made the postseason and played&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":388157,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[4,450,451,3,452,453],"class_list":["post-388156","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-breaking-news","tag-breaking-news","tag-breakingnews","tag-headlines","tag-news","tag-top-stories","tag-topstories"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/388156","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=388156"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/388156\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/388157"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=388156"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=388156"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=388156"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}