NFL Football 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: March 12, 2026, 1:44 AM ET
NFL Free Agency Moves
The NFL's free agency period saw several high-profile signings as teams scrambled to upgrade their rosters. The Colts and quarterback Daniel Jones reached agreement on a two-year, $88 million contract that can be worth up to $100 million, while the Ravens restructured Lamar Jackson's deal to create nearly $40 million in salary cap space. The Bills secured Bradley Chubb on a three-year, $43.5 million deal worth up to $52.5 million that includes $29 million guaranteed, adding another elite pass rusher to their defense.
Defensive Reinforcements
Several teams bolstered their defensive lines through free agency. The Packers signed Javon Hargrave to a two-year, $23 million contract, while the Commanders added Chig Okonkwo on a three-year deal and signed K'Lavon Chaisson to a one-year contract to upgrade their pass rush. The Patriots brought in Kevin Byard on a one-year, $9 million deal, and the Texans agreed to terms with Foster Moreau, adding veteran presence to their defense.
Offensive Line Additions
Teams focused heavily on protecting their quarterbacks during free agency. The Jets agreed to a two-year contract worth up to $20 million with guard Dylan Parham, while the Chargers re-signed Trey Pipkins III on a two-year, $10 million deal. The Cowboys traded Osa Odighizuwa to the 49ers for a 2026 third-round pick and sent Solomon Thomas to the Titans in a seventh-round pick swap, reshaping their defensive line.
Veteran Restructures and Returns
Several veteran players found new homes or restructured their deals. Aaron Jones Sr. restructured his contract with the Vikings to avoid being released, while Pete Carroll, in his first interview since being fired by the Raiders, took the blame for Geno Smith's struggles in Las Vegas. The Giants re-signed Evan Neal despite four disappointing years that included being a healthy scratch for most of the past season.
Front Office Developments
The NFL is bringing back its front office and coaching accelerator program, which was paused in 2025 and will now include nonminority participants. Additionally, Giants co-owners Steve, Laurie and Jonathan Tisch are requesting to transfer their stakes to their children's trusts, according to an NFL memo. The league is also considering adding a game the day before Thanksgiving to this season's schedule as it continues to explore additional broadcast windows.
Notable Cuts and Savings
The Patriots are set to release Anfernee Jennings, saving the team about $3.8 million against the salary cap. This move comes as teams across the league work to create cap space for free agency signings and potential future extensions for their star players.
Player Perspectives
Geno Smith expressed excitement about returning to the Jets where his NFL career began, saying he's ready to prove himself with a "chip on his shoulder" after being traded back to New York. The free agency period has been marked by several surprising moves, including the Ravens' aborted trade for Maxx Crosby before ultimately signing Trey Hendrickson, highlighting the complex negotiations that occur during this window.