NFL Football 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: March 12, 2026, 3:45 AM ET
NFL Free Agency Moves
The Jets acquired Geno Smith in a trade with the Raiders, reuniting the quarterback with his original team where he began his NFL career in 2013. Pete Carroll, who was fired by the Raiders, took responsibility for Smith's struggles in Las Vegas during his first interview since the dismissal. Meanwhile, the Jets secured offensive line help by agreeing to a two-year, $20 million contract with guard Dylan Parham.
The Colts locked in Daniel Jones with a two-year, $88 million deal that could reach $100 million, while the Ravens restructured Lamar Jackson's contract to create nearly $40 million in salary cap space. The Bills added pass rush depth by signing Bradley Chubb to a three-year, $43.5 million contract with $29 million guaranteed.
Defensive Reinforcements
The Packers signed Javon Hargrave to a two-year, $23 million deal, bringing the veteran defensive tackle back to the NFC North. The Commanders bolstered their defense by agreeing to terms with tight end Chig Okonkwo on a three-year contract, while also adding edge rusher K'Lavon Chaisson on a one-year deal.
The Patriots signed safety Kevin Byard to a one-year, $9 million contract, adding the 2025 interception leader to their secondary. The team is also set to release linebacker Anfernee Jennings, saving approximately $3.8 million against the salary cap.
Contract Extensions and Restructures
The Vikings kept running back Aaron Jones by restructuring his deal, preventing his release. The Giants surprised many by re-signing Evan Neal despite the first-round pick's disappointing four-year tenure that included being a healthy scratch for most of the past season.
Trades and Transactions
The Cowboys traded defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa to the 49ers for a 2026 third-round pick, while also sending Solomon Thomas to the Titans in a seventh-round pick swap. The Chargers retained offensive lineman Trey Pipkins III with a two-year, $10 million contract.
Front Office Developments
The NFL is reinstating its accelerator program, which had been paused in 2025, and will now include nonminority participants according to a memo sent to teams. The Giants' ownership structure is undergoing a transition as co-owners Steve, Laurie, and Jonathan Tisch request to transfer their stakes to their children's trusts.
Upcoming Schedule Changes
The league is considering adding a Thanksgiving Eve game to this season's schedule, expanding its holiday lineup as it continues to explore additional broadcast windows. This potential addition would create another high-profile matchup the day before the traditional Thanksgiving Day games.
Free Agency Analysis
The early free agency period has seen the edge rush market explode, with several teams aggressively pursuing pass rushers. The Titans have called on former players while Mike Evans found a new home, and some players have been particular about their contract numbers during negotiations.