NFL Football 3d Briefing
×Major Free Agency Moves
The Texans agreed to a $40 million deal espn.com with defensive end Danielle Hunter, adding a proven pass rusher to their defensive line. Meanwhile, the Rams re-signed safety Kam Curl espn.com to a three-year, $36 million contract, strengthening their secondary after already trading for Trent McDuffie. The Seahawks reached a deal with linebacker Drake Thomas espn.com on a two-year, $8 million contract, while the Texans also re-signed offensive tackle Trent Brown espn.com to a one-year extension worth up to $7 million.
Contract Situations Heating Up
The Ravens are hoping to extend Lamar Jackson's contract espn.com sooner rather than later, as his situation has significant ramifications for Baltimore's future plans. The Bengals face pressure to make meaningful changes this offseason after being challenged by Joe Burrow and Zac Taylor, particularly with defensive end Trey Hendrickson not receiving the franchise tag espn.com and becoming available in free agency. The Commanders are expected to be aggressive in free agency, targeting players at edge rusher, receiver, and corner to provide star-level help for Jayden Daniels.
Trades and Cap Moves
The NFL's trade market has been active, with the Bills dealing for DJ Moore espn.com and the Rams adding Trent McDuffie. The Chiefs' decision to trade McDuffie echoes their previous trade of a player of similar caliber, which preceded three straight Super Bowl appearances. The Bears are releasing linebacker Tremaine Edmunds espn.com, creating $15 million in cap space, while the Steelers are releasing veteran tight end Jonnu Smith espn.com after acquiring him via trade last summer. The Chargers released guard Mekhi Becton espn.com, saving $9.7 million against the cap.
Quarterback Carousel Developments
The Cardinals informed quarterback Kyler Murray that they intend to release him espn.com on the first day of the league year, barring a trade. Murray is expected to become a sought-after free agent, with the Vikings needing help at the position but also facing interest from the Cardinals. The Colts placed the transition tag on Daniel Jones espn.com, preserving their right to match any offer sheet. Aaron Rodgers remains undecided on his playing status for next season despite the Steelers hiring Mike McCarthy, with whom he won a Super Bowl in Green Bay.
Draft and Combine Updates
With the NFL draft approaching, Mike Clay provides his rankings and analysis of 80 top skill position players from the combine, with Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love ranking at the top of his fantasy football rookie rankings for 2026. The Titans came away impressed from the combine with Love, the draft's top running back prospect, and could potentially select him at No. 4 overall. The Bucs are showing interest in bringing back Lavonte David, while teams are evaluating wide receiver prospects for the upcoming draft.
Coaching and Staff Changes
The 49ers are hiring former Bears head coach Matt Eberflus espn.com to their defensive staff, adding experienced leadership to Kyle Shanahan's team. Former Packers special teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia will take on the same role at the college level with Clemson. The annual Hall of Fame exhibition game is set for August 6, featuring the Cardinals and Panthers, with Cardinals legend Larry Fitzgerald and Panthers great Luke Kuechly among those being honored.
Veteran Players Moving On
The Bears are releasing starting middle linebacker Bobby Okereke espn.com, freeing up $9 million in salary cap space after three years with the team. The Vikings are expected to release defensive tackle Jonathan Allen espn.com as they continue to whittle down their salary cap deficit. The Giants are moving on from veteran linebacker Kam Curl, who is signing with the Rams. These moves reflect teams' efforts to create cap space and adjust their rosters for the upcoming season.
Notable Retirements and Health Updates
Pro Bowl center Drew Dalman has informed the Bears that he's retiring at age 27 espn.com after four seasons with the Falcons and one with Chicago. Browns star Myles Garrett was issued his ninth speeding citation since entering the NFL in 2017, raising questions about his off-field judgment. These developments highlight both the physical toll of the NFL and the personal challenges players face.
As free agency approaches, teams are positioning themselves for the market. The Saints' defensive end Cameron Jordan will become a free agent when the new league year begins, while the Vikings are open to trading outside linebacker Jonathan Greenard as they seek salary cap relief. Our NFL Nation reporters have played GM and made contract offers for free agent quarterback Malik Willis, while also identifying potential sleepers and players who might break the bank in the upcoming free agency period.