Top 5 Potential Busts in 2026 NFL Free Agency

Bassyonni

Published: March 18, 2026 9:42 AM ET

As the 2026 NFL free agency approaches, several contracts have raised eyebrows due to their potential risks. Here are the top five potential busts based on recent signings.

Top 5 Potential Busts in 2026 NFL Free Agency

1. Jaelan Phillips, Edge, Carolina Panthers

Jaelan Phillips stands out as a potential bust for two primary reasons. He has faced significant injury challenges, including a torn Achilles tendon and a torn ACL in consecutive years. Despite this, he signed a lucrative four-year contract worth $120 million.

Phillips has never surpassed 8.5 sacks or 25 quarterback hits in a season. If his performance does not improve, this could become a highly scrutinized contract.

2. Wan’Dale Robinson, WR, Tennessee Titans

The Titans have signed Wan’Dale Robinson to a four-year deal valued at up to $78 million. At 25 years old, Robinson is improving, but he lacks consistency as a primary receiving threat.

While this contract positions him as potentially a No. 2 receiver, he has only achieved a 700-yard season once. If he remains the focal point of the passing attack, Tennessee may find themselves regretting this investment.

3. Alec Pierce, WR, Indianapolis Colts

Alec Pierce, who logged 1,003 yards last season, was awarded a four-year, $114 million contract with $84 million guaranteed. Although he is younger and has shown flashes of ability, his production comes from a limited, deep-ball strategy.

This hefty contract may prove excessive if he fails to diversify his route tree and elevate his game beyond a big-play receiver.

4. Trey Hendrickson, DE, Baltimore Ravens

Trey Hendrickson’s signing with the Ravens for four years and $112 million has been met with skepticism. At 31, he struggled with injuries last season, playing only seven games.

To justify his substantial contract, Hendrickson must replicate his performance from earlier in his career. If he cannot maintain his level of play, the Ravens might regret this signing, especially if they missed out on a more reliable option.

5. Bradley Chubb, Edge, Buffalo Bills

Bradley Chubb secured a three-year, $43.5 million contract with the Bills, which may be risky given his injury history. At 30 years old, Chubb’s performance has been inconsistent, with only 8.5 sacks last season.

If he cannot remain healthy, the Bills will not only lose out on a key defensive piece but also find themselves constrained by their salary cap situation.

As free agency unfolds, teams must weigh these potential pitfalls carefully. The large dollar amounts attached to these contracts could lead to significant repercussions in performance and cap management.