NFL Football 8-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: March 12, 2026, 4:45 PM ET
AFC East & North Moves
The Cincinnati Bengals bolstered their defensive line by agreeing to a two-year, $28 million contract with defensive tackle Jonathan Allen, while simultaneously securing their offensive line with a two-year extension for left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. These moves address key areas after a season where protecting the quarterback and pressuring opponents were inconsistent. In the AFC West, the Kansas City Chiefs added cornerback help by signing Kader Kohou, a former Miami Dolphin known for his physicality and special teams contributions, to provide depth behind a secondary that faced significant challenges last season.
NFC West & East Transactions
The Los Angeles Rams are reuniting former Chiefs starters by adding cornerbacks Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson, aiming to replicate the tandem's success from Kansas City to solidify a secondary that struggled in coverage. Meanwhile, the New York Giants, under coach Brian Daboll, have initiated a significant offensive transformation by signing four former Ravens players, including tight end Daniel Bellinger and offensive linemen, a strategy directly influenced by the offensive systems of new coordinator Nathanial Hackett and the presence of former Baltimore staff. The Washington Commanders addressed their backfield by agreeing to terms with free agent running back Rachaad White, who brings a versatile receiving and rushing skill set to complement their existing options.
Offensive Line Shifts in Cleveland
The Cleveland Browns cut starting tackle Jack Conklin, ending a six-year tenure marred by injuries that limited his availability over the past two seasons. This move, alongside attacking offensive line issues head-on in free agency, signals a clear pivot in personnel and philosophy for a unit that failed to consistently support the running game or provide a clean pocket. The team’s early offseason priority has been to rebuild the trenches, making Conklin's release a cap-driven step in a larger roster reconstruction.
Major Departures & Remaining Market
Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans departed as the franchise's statistical leader, exiting in free agency as the team's all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns, leaving a monumental void in the passing attack. With Evans and others off the board, the focus shifts to the remaining top free-agent targets, a list headlined by quarterback Aaron Rodgers and wide receiver Deebo Samuel, whose destinations will significantly reshape the competitive balance for several teams still seeking a final piece.