Major Moves Predicted for Upcoming NFL Free Agency

Bassyonni

Published: March 8, 2026 3:14 PM ET

The NFL offseason is rapidly approaching, with free agency officially starting on March 11 at 4:00 PM ET. However, the legal tampering window opens earlier, on March 9 at 12:00 PM ET. As teams gear up for this busy period, several noteworthy trades and transactions have already taken place.

Major Moves Predicted for Upcoming NFL Free Agency

Maxx Crosby Trade

One of the most significant trades so far is the transfer of edge rusher Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders to the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens finalized the deal, which included two first-round picks for 2026 and 2027. Interest from teams like the Philadelphia Eagles did not materialize into a trade.

Daniel Jones Transition Tag

The Indianapolis Colts have placed a transition tag on quarterback Daniel Jones. This strategic move allows the Colts to assess his market value while retaining the option to match any offers he receives. Jones had a strong start to the season before being sidelined by injuries, leaving his future uncertain.

Player Swaps Between Packers and Colts

In a rare occurrence, the Green Bay Packers traded defensive tackle Colby Wooden to the Indianapolis Colts in exchange for linebacker Zaire Franklin. Such player exchanges are uncommon between these two teams.

Lions and Texans Trade

The Detroit Lions traded running back David Montgomery to the Houston Texans. The compensation included a 2026 fourth-round pick, a 2027 seventh-round pick, and offensive lineman Juice Scruggs. Montgomery’s departure was unexpected after he recently stated he wanted to remain with the team.

Retirements Impacting Center Position

This offseason has seen several centers retire, prompting teams to respond with trades and re-signings. Notable retirements include:

Drew Dalman (Bears)
Ryan Kelly (Vikings)
Will Clapp (Saints)

The Chicago Bears traded for center Garrett Bradbury from the New England Patriots, while the Los Angeles Chargers signed Tyler Biadasz to a three-year deal worth $30 million after releasing him from the Washington Commanders. The Buffalo Bills also re-signed Connor McGovern for four years at $52 million.

Trent McDuffie Trade

The Los Angeles Rams made headlines by trading for cornerback Trent McDuffie from the Kansas City Chiefs. This blockbuster deal involved three 2026 draft picks—a first, a fifth, a sixth, and a third-round pick in 2027. McDuffie, a two-time Super Bowl winner, will be a valuable addition for the Rams.

Tight End Developments

As teams begin to finalize their rosters, the tight end market remains active. Key transactions include:

T.J. Hockenson’s restructured contract with the Vikings.
Dalton Schultz’s one-year extension with the Texans valued at $12.6 million.
Tyler Higbee’s two-year contract extension worth $8 million with the Rams.

The Philadelphia Eagles remain in conversation regarding tight end Dallas Goedert, weighing whether to re-sign him or allow him to enter free agency. As the offseason progresses, eyes will be on the Eagles’ strategy amidst rising interest in key players across the league.