Top 6 Worst Free Agent Signings of 2026

Bassyonni

Published: March 19, 2026 3:43 PM ET

As the NFL free agency phase of 2026 continues, several contracts have raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. Here, we examine the top six worst free agent signings of 2026, focusing on the implications these deals may have for the teams involved.

Top 6 Worst Free Agent Signings of 2026

1. Tyler Linderbaum – Las Vegas Raiders

The Raiders have made headlines by signing center Tyler Linderbaum to a staggering three-year, $81 million deal. The contract includes a massive $60 million in guarantees, resetting the center market. Linderbaum’s average annual value of $27 million surpassed the previous top-paid center by a notable margin.

Percentage of salary cap occupied: 8.5%.
Comparison: Previous record holder Creed Humphrey at 7%.

This contract raises concerns about affordability and team flexibility going forward.

2. Matt Johnson – Cleveland Browns

The Browns signed offensive lineman Matt Johnson to a three-year pact worth $49.5 million, with $32.39 million guaranteed. However, Johnson’s performance in the NFL has been underwhelming.

PFF grade: 56.5, ranked 54th among qualifying guards.
Best career grade: 64.9 in 2024.

Investing heavily in a player who has struggled to maintain starting-caliber performance raises alarms about the Browns’ strategic approach.

3. Wan’Dale Robinson – Tennessee Titans

In a surprising move, receiver Wan’Dale Robinson inked a four-year, $70 million contract with Tennessee. This signing coincided with his potential to elevate the team’s passing game.

2024 stats: 93 receptions, 699 yards.
2025 breakout: 92 receptions, 1,014 yards.

Despite this breakout, doubts linger about Robinson’s longevity and value at such a high salary.

4. Isaiah Likely – New York Giants

Following his former head coach John Harbaugh to New York, Isaiah Likely signed a three-year, $40 million contract, positioning him among the highest-paid tight ends.

Best season stats: 42 receptions, 477 yards, and six touchdowns.

With limited production and skill set, this deal questions Likely’s value in the saturated tight end market.

5. Jaelan Phillips – Carolina Panthers

The Panthers made a bold move by signing defensive end Jaelan Phillips to a four-year, $120 million deal featuring $80 million guaranteed. This contract marks him as one of the league’s top-paid edge rushers despite injury concerns.

Career sacks: 28 over five seasons.
Played only 12 games in 2023-2024.

This large investment raises concerns given Phillips’ injury history and inconsistent performance.

6. Malik Willis – Miami Dolphins

As Miami aims for a rebuild, they signed quarterback Malik Willis to a three-year, $67.5 million contract with $45 million guaranteed. The fit appears misaligned, given the team’s current trajectory.

Expectations: Transition into a full rebuild, looking toward 2027.
Current team adjustments: Trading star WR Jaylen Waddle for picks.

This situation raises questions about the long-term viability of Willis within a now restructured Dolphins team.

These six contracts highlight the risks teams take during free agency, especially when investing heavily in underperforming players. Strong evaluations and strategic foresight will be crucial for these franchises moving forward.