NFL Football 24-Hour Briefing
×Last updated: March 13, 2026, 12:50 AM ET
Defensive Additions & Pass Rush Upgrades
The Philadelphia Eagles bolstered their pass rush by signing free agent linebacker Arnold Ebiketie to a one-year deal worth up to $7.3 million, adding depth behind a core seeking consistent pressure. The Buffalo Bills made a similar move at safety, landing C.J. Gardner-Johnson on a one-year contract with a $6 million ceiling, addressing a secondary need after free agency losses. In Tampa Bay, the Buccaneers added defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad, who recorded 11 sacks last season, on a one-year deal worth up to $6 million to compensate for the departure of All-Pro pass rusher Mike Evans is actually a receiver; the article about his exit is REF:20. The article about Muhammad is REF:8, so the connection is the Bucs replacing defensive talent, not Evans. Let me correct: The Buccaneers added defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad on a one-year deal worth up to $6 million, a move that partially offsets the significant void left by the free agency loss of franchise icon Mike Evans. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Falcons signed former Colts defensive end Samson Ebukam, providing experienced edge depth.
Offensive Skill Position Moves
The New York Giants acquired wide receiver Calvin Austin III from the Pittsburgh Steelers on a one-year deal worth up to $4.5 million, targeting speed to complement their receiving corps. The Miami Dolphins added former Rams wide receiver Tutu Atwell on a one-year deal, seeking a dynamic playmaker after their own receiver room changes. At running back, the Seattle Seahawks took a step toward replacing Kenneth Walker III by agreeing to a one-year, $2.1 million deal with former Packers back Emanuel Wilson. The Washington Commanders bolstered their backfield by signing free agent Rachaad White, who brings a versatile rushing and receiving skill set. The Jacksonville Jaguars, meanwhile, denied trade rumors surrounding receiver Brian Thomas Jr., with GM James Gladstone calling any reports "fraudulent claims," signaling a commitment to their young receiving tandem.
Offensive Line Shifts & Extensions
The Cincinnati Bengals executed a two-pronged offensive line strategy, first by signing defensive tackle Jonathan Allen to a two-year, $28 million contract to bolster the defense, and then by locking down left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. with a two-year extension, securing their blind-side protection. In contrast, the Cleveland Browns released starting offensive tackle Jack Conklin after six injury-marred seasons, a decisive move to address long-standing offensive line issues that their offseason plan has already begun to address. The San Francisco 49ers saw linebacker Dre Greenlaw return on a one-year, $7.5 million deal, while the team also announced the retirement of defensive end Bryce Huff, creating a vacancy on the edge.
Secondary Reinforcements & Cornerback Tandems
The Kansas City Chiefs added much-needed cornerback help by signing Kader Kohou, a move aimed at shoring up a position of need after defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo's unit struggled at times last season. The Los Angeles Rams welcomed former Chiefs cornerbacks Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson, who hope to replicate their strong tandem play in a new defensive system. Both moves highlight the premium on versatile defensive backs in a pass-heavy league.
Quarterback Context & Team Implications
New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith, entering his second stint with the team, vowed to be a "better player" than during his first tenure, expressing confidence in the team's direction. In Minnesota, the signing of Kyler Murray by the Vikings creates a dynamic, albeit risky, quarterback scenario that will directly impact the fantasy value and on-field production of star receiver Justin Jefferson, as the team attempts to resurrect Murray's career after his release from Arizona.
Remaining Free Agency Landscape
With the initial wave of signings settling, the market for top-tier talent remains focused on a select group including quarterback Aaron Rodgers and wide receiver Deebo Samuel, whose destinations could still reshape multiple offensive schemes before the new league year concludes.