2026 NFL Offseason: The Biggest Questions Shaping Every Franchise
The 2026 NFL offseason is already buzzing with speculation. From defensive overhauls to quarterback dilemmas, each of the 32 clubs faces a defining question that will steer their free‑agency moves, draft strategy, and roster construction.
Defensive Schemes in Transition
Buffalo Bills – Who will shape the new defense? With Jim Leonhard stepping in as defensive coordinator, the Bills must decide which pieces to keep and which to replace. Leonhard’s background as the Broncos’ defensive pass‑game coordinator (the unit allowed the second‑fewest yards per game at 278.2) suggests a focus on shutdown corners like Pat Surtain II.
[espn.com](https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/47787500/sources-bills-hire-jim-leonhard-defensive-coordinator)
Miami Dolphins – How critical is a quarterback fix? Although Tua Tagovailoa remains under contract, the Dolphins are reportedly exploring a trade. GM Jon‑Eric Sullivan emphasizes building a supporting infrastructure before committing to a new signal‑caller, hinting at a bridge veteran or a seventh‑round pick such as Quinn Ewers.
[espn.com](https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/47865873/dolphins-cardinals-face-challenges-trades-tua-tagovailoa-kyler-murray)
New England Patriots – Will Christian Gonzalez push for an extension? The rookie cornerback, eligible for a contract extension after a strong Super Bowl LX showing, must decide whether to force the issue or wait for the process to unfold.
[espn.com](https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/47908954/2026-nfl-offseason-biggest-questions-afc-nfc-free-agency-draft)
Quarterback Quandaries Across the League
New York Jets – Resetting at quarterback With Justin Fields and Brady Cook under contract yet underperforming, the Jets could target veterans like Malik Willis, Kirk Cousins, Kyler Murray, or Jacoby Brissett. The team holds three first‑round picks for 2026, giving them leverage to acquire a bridge starter whereas developing a long‑term option.
[espn.com](https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id=47908954/2026-nfl-offseason-biggest-questions-afc-nfc-free-agency-draft)
Baltimore Ravens – Upgrading Lamar Jackson’s supporting cast A new deal for Jackson could free $25‑30 million in cap space, enabling the Ravens to re‑sign Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum (their top free agent) and add depth at guard. Enhancing the passing game is too a priority, given Jackson’s low target rate and limited deep throws in 2025.
[espn.com](https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id=47908954/2026-nfl-offseason-biggest-questions-afc-nfc-free-agency-draft)
Cleveland Browns – Re‑imagining the offense After hiring Todd Monken, the Browns must address a scoring rank of 14.5 points per game over the past two seasons. With two first‑round picks and ten total selections in the 2026 draft, they face decisions on the offensive line, playmakers, and the quarterback room.
[espn.com](https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id=47908954/2026-nfl-offseason-biggest-questions-afc-nfc-free-agency-draft)
Cap Space Realities and Free‑Agent Targets
Baltimore Ravens – $7 million cap space, top free agent Tyler Linderbaum The franchise’s modest cap situation forces strategic spending. Draft projections include seven picks in 2026, offering a blend of youth, and flexibility.
[espn.com](https://dynamic.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/47898678/2026-nfl-offseason-overhaul-tiers-rebuild-18-teams-turnarounds)
Detroit Lions – Minus‑$23.1 million, top free agent Al‑Quadin Muhammad Despite a deep roster, the Lions’ negative cap space and upcoming extensions (e.g., Jahmyr Gibbs) will shape their ability to add impact players.
[espn.com](https://dynamic.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id=47898678/2026-nfl-offseason-overhaul-tiers-rebuild-18-teams-turnarounds)
Power Rankings Snapshot: Early Favorites and Underdogs
Seattle Seahawks – “Break the bank” With Pro Bowl talent like Jaxon Smith‑Njigba and Devon Witherspoon eyeing $30 million‑plus extensions, Seattle’s front office may demand to spend heavily to keep the Super Bowl core together.
[espn.com](https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id=47807175/nfl-way-too-early-power-rankings-poll-2026-offseason-three-words)
New England Patriots – “Late‑round draft picks” Following a surprising Super Bowl run, the Patriots will likely lean on value picks rather than high‑profile free agents to sustain success.
[espn.com](https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id=47807175/nfl-way-too-early-power-rankings-poll-2026-offseason-three-words)
Did You Know?
The Raiders’ All‑Pro edge rusher Maxx Crosby is 29 and entering his fifth non‑interim coach era. Owner Mark Davis and new head coach Klint Kubiak have hinted they’d like him to stay, but a strong trade offer could shift the franchise’s rebuild strategy.
[espn.com](https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id=47881764/raiders-officially-name-klint-kubiak-new-head-coach)
Pro Tips for Fans Tracking the Offseason
- Bookmark the official NFL free‑agency tracker (March 11, 4 p.m. ET) to catch every contract move.
- Employ the 2026 draft order (first‑round picks) to gauge which teams have the most leverage in trade talks.
- Follow team‑specific reporters on ESPN’s “NFL Nation” for insider questions and daily updates.
FAQ
- Which teams have the most cap space for 2026?
- The Seahawks are projected to have $7‑8 billion valuation, while the Ravens have $7 million in cap space and the Lions are facing a negative $23.1 million.
- Are there any quarterback markets that look particularly thin?
- Yes. The overall market is described as “hard” for QBs, with many teams either looking for bridge veterans or relying on late‑round draft picks such as Quinn Ewers.
- What is the biggest free‑agent target for the Patriots?
- Christian Gonzalez’s possible contract extension is the focal point, as he proved his elite status in Super Bowl LX.
- Will the Jets sign a veteran quarterback?
- The Jets are exploring veterans like Malik Willis, Kirk Cousins, Kyler Murray, and Jacoby Brissett while also leveraging their three first‑round picks.
Grab the Next Step
What do you think will be the defining move of the 2026 offseason? Share your predictions in the comments, explore our deep‑dive articles on free‑agency strategy, and subscribe to our newsletter for real‑time updates straight to your inbox.
