2026 NFL Free Agency: Early Predictions, Top Playmakers, and Key Contracts to Watch

Early Look at 2026 NFL Free Agency

As the dust settles from the 2025 NFL free agency frenzy, it's time to turn our attention to the 2026 offseason. With key veterans like Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson still making headlines, the focus shifts to the next wave of free agents. Here's a comprehensive breakdown of the top players who could be available and the factors that will shape their market value in 2026.

Quarterbacks

Brock Purdy, San Francisco 49ers Purdy has shown consistent performance with a 70.1 QBR and 67.5% completion rate. Leading the 49ers to Super Bowl LVIII, Purdy's future looks bright in Kyle Shanahan’s system.

Geno Smith, Las Vegas Raiders After revitalizing his career in Seattle, Smith has emerged as a reliable pocket passer. Completing 70.4% of his passes last season, he remains a solid option for any team.

Running Backs

James Cook, Buffalo Bills Cook led the league with 16 rushing touchdowns last season. His dual-threat capabilities make him a valuable asset.

Breece Hall, New York Jets Hall has bounced back from his ACL injury, averaging 4.3 yards per carry. His three-down traits make him a high-demand player.

Wide Receivers

Mike Evans, Tampa Bay Buccaneers Evans has consistently delivered over 1,000 yards in each of his 10 seasons. His experience and production will attract many suitors.

Terry McLaurin, Washington Commanders McLaurin’s route-running skills and three-level playmaking abilities have made him a standout. He has recorded five straight 1,000-yard seasons.

Tight Ends

George Kittle, San Francisco 49ers Kittle’s dual-threat capabilities as a blocker and receiver make him a top-tier tight end. He has surpassed 1,000 receiving yards in back-to-back seasons.

Trey McBride, Arizona Cardinals McBride broke out with 111 catches last season. His seam-pressing abilities and movement skills make him a future All-Pro.

Defensive Linemen

Trey Hendrickson, Cincinnati Bengals Hendrickson led the league with 17.5 sacks last season. His speed and power make him one of the top defensive ends in the NFL.

Micah Parsons, Dallas Cowboys Parsons is a game-wrecking talent with an elite pass rush win rate. His 52.5 sacks since 2021 rank fifth in the league.

Defensive Backs

DaRon Bland, Dallas Cowboys Bland’s record-breaking five pick-sixes in 2023 highlight his playmaking abilities. He’s set to cash in with a strong 2025 season.

Kerby Joseph, Detroit Lions Joseph’s league-high nine interceptions last season earned him first-team All-Pro honors. His range and playmaking skills are top-notch.

Franchise Tags and Fifth-Year Options

Trey Smith, Kansas City Chiefs Smith’s powerful run-blocking and foot speed make him one of the top interior linemen. A franchise tag extension is likely.

Sauce Gardner, New York Jets Gardner’s length and shutdown capabilities on the perimeter make him a top cornerback. Despite a less impressive 2024, his potential remains high.

Conclusion

The 2026 NFL free agency class is shaping up to be an exciting mix of proven veterans and emerging stars. While many top players are expected to sign extensions before hitting the open market, these names are ones to watch as the offseason approaches.