NFL Free Agency 2026: Ranking Top Players Who Could Hit the Market

Assessing the NFL Free Agency Landscape: Who to Watch for in 2026

As the excitement of Super Bowl LX approaches with the New England Patriots clashing against the Seattle Seahawks, NFL franchises are already strategizing for the upcoming free agency period. Commencing on March 11, front offices are scrambling to analyze potential free agents, secure contracts, and bolster their teams.

With the landscape changing rapidly due to contract negotiations, franchise tags, and player evaluations, CBS Sports provides an early glimpse of the top 50 unrestricted free agents expected to change teams. These rankings consider various factors, including performance stats, injury histories, and age, all vital in constructing rosters that will contend in the future.

Star Players Set for Free Agency

Among the most talked-about players heading into the 2026 free agency is George Pickens, the dynamic wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys. At just 24 years old, Pickens enjoyed a career year after being traded from the Pittsburgh Steelers. His statistics showcase his elite talent: ranked third in receiving yards (1,429) and eighth in receptions (92). The Cowboys are likely to prioritize extending his contract, significantly affecting their wide-receiver depth chart.

Another notable name is Trey Hendrickson, an edge rusher for the Cincinnati Bengals. Despite battling injuries throughout the 2025 season, Hendrickson’s track record speaks volumes: he ranked sixth among edge defenders with a pass-rush grade of 90.0. His ability to generate pressure makes him a hot commodity, and with estimates suggesting he could command $21 million annually, expect teams to pursue his services vigorously.

The Backfield Blitz: Notable Running Backs Joining Free Agency

As teams adapt their offensive strategies, running backs will play a crucial role. Breece Hall of the New York Jets and Travis Etienne of the Jacksonville Jaguars are among those expected to attract significant interest. Hall, who rushed for over 1,000 yards, excels at making elusive plays, whereas Etienne rebounded well with consistency after an injury-laden season.

The value of both players showcases the demand for running backs with proven abilities to impact game dynamics. This year's free agency offers teams an opportunity to enhance their offensive game-plans by targeting standout rushers.

Position Battles: Depth and Strategy

Free agency is not merely about acquiring stars; it’s about strategic depth-building. The Indianapolis Colts have a generous crop of free agents, including quarterback Daniel Jones, a standout performer who led the team in scoring offense. His potential departure could shift the Colts’ approach entirely.

Pairing young talent with seasoned veterans like Khalil Mack may define team strategies moving forward. Evaluating these complex dynamics becomes essential for franchises looking to capitalize on free agency while ensuring immediate and long-term success.

Risks and Opportunities: Navigating the Uncertainty of Free Agency

While showcasing exciting opportunities for teams and their front offices, free agency comes with inherent risks. Relying on players who have suffered recent injuries or may struggle to replicate past success adds an element of uncertainty. Malik Willis is a case in point as young quarterbacks have high stakes during free agency. Evaluating whether teams can support them properly to avoid regression is critical to success.

This year's free agency will further shape future seasons and team strategies, particularly as notable franchises strengthen or diversify their rosters.

A Call to Action for NFL Fans: Stay Engaged!

As March approaches, prepare yourself for the flurry of activity that characterizes NFL free agency. Stay updated on the moves of your favorite teams and watch as the landscape of the league changes in front of your eyes. Will your team land a top player, or will a rival scoop them up? The NFL's future may just hinge on the decisions made in the coming weeks!