The NFL is gearing up for another exciting free agency period, and several teams are poised to make significant moves in 2026. Here's a breakdown of five franchises that must make a major splash to contend for championships.
1. The Rams: Reviving the Super Bowl Formula
Los Angeles Rams should be licking their wounds after missing out on the Lombardi Trophy in 2025. With quarterback Matthew Stafford entering the final years of his contract, the Rams must decide whether to build around him or make a change. General Manager Les Snead has the cap space to improve a weak spot on the roster, such as the cornerback position, by signing free agents like Jaylen Watson, Jamel Dean, Alontae Taylor, Greg Newsome II, or Riq Woolen. The Rams need to go all-in to revive the formula that worked in their Super Bowl-winning season of 2021.
2. Patriots: Building on Success
The New England Patriots, led by new head coach Mike Vrabel, have already made significant strides in 2025. With a solid cap situation, Executive Vice President Eliot Wolf should focus on building on that success. The Patriots need to address concerns around quarterback Drake Maye and the supporting cast. Potential free agent acquisitions include Alec Pierce, Romeo Doubs, Wan'Dale Robinson, Jaelan Phillips, Odafe Oweh, Leo Chenal, Coby Bryant, and Kam Curl. The Patriots should aim to sustain the momentum they built last season.
3. Commanders: Filling the Roster Holes
The Washington Commanders, with over $70 million in projected salary-cap space, have a complicated roster situation. With 29 players from last season's 5-12 team set to become unrestricted free agents, and key starters entering the final years of their contracts, the franchise needs to make savvy moves. GM Adam Peters should address aging veterans with expiring contracts and potential extensions while filling holes in the offense and defense. Potential free agent acquisitions include Kenneth Walker III, Isaiah Likely, Alec Pierce, Jaelan Phillips, Quay Walker, Devin Lloyd, Bryan Cook, and more.
4. Chargers: Opening the Pocketbook
The Los Angeles Chargers, led by General Manager Joe Hortiz, have a solid foundation but need to address major holes in their offensive line. With roughly $84.5 million in projected cap space, Hortiz can target free agents like Tyler Linderbaum, Connor McGovern, Tyler Biadasz, Daniel Faalele, David Edwards, Alijah Vera-Tucker, and John Simpson to bolster the offensive line. The Chargers, under head coach Jim Harbaugh, aim to keep a good thing going by opening up the pocketbook in free agency.
5. Bengals: Fortifying the Defense
The Cincinnati Bengals, with $47.7 million in projected salary-cap space, need to fortify their defense. With versatility and leadership high on the list of characteristics, the Bengals should target free agents like Jonathan Franklin-Myers, Leo Chenal, Devin Lloyd, Coby Bryant, and Kam Curl. The Bengals have promising young talent, including edge rushers Myles Murphy and Shemar Stewart, and defensive backs Dax Hill and DJ Turner II. They aim to continue the momentum they built in the second half of the season and get back into the mix in the AFC North.
