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5 NFL Rivalries That Are Heating Up and 5 That Are Completely Dead

Some rivalries define NFL eras. Others just… fade away. Right now, the NFL landscape is shifting. Legendary coaches are leaving. Young stars are taking over. And some rivalries that were dead for decades? They’re suddenly the most compelling matchups in football. Let’s break down five rivalries that are absolutely heating up—and five that are officially dead. Which NFL rivalries are lighting up, and which ones have died down? HEATING UP: Packers vs Bears The NFL’s oldest rivalry is back—and it might be better than it’s ever been. For years, this “rivalry” was a joke. The Packers and Aaron Rodgers owned Chicago for a decade. It just wasn’t competitive. Then Ben Johnson arrived. Six minutes into his introductory press conference, Johnson turned to reporters and made some choice remarks about beating Matt LaFleur twice a year. Keep in mind, he hadn’t even coached a game in Chicago yet—and he was already picking a fight with Green Bay. LaFleur didn’t take it well. At the NFL’s annual meeting, they exchanged the coldest, most awkward handshake you’ve ever seen. LaFleur later told reporters, “I don’t know Ben Johnson. Do I have beef? I don’t know Ben Johnson.” The tension only grew as the season unfolded. In Week 14, the Packers beat the Bears 28-21 at Lambeau. LaFleur gave Johnson another drive-by handshake.  Two weeks later? Caleb Williams threw a 46-yard touchdown to DJ Moore in overtime. Bears win 22-16. They’d erased a 10-point deficit in the final two minutes, recovered an onside kick, and pulled off a miracle. But the real fireworks came in the playoffs. Wild Card weekend. Soldier Field. The Bears fell behind 21-6 entering the fourth quarter. Green Bay had a 99% win probability. Williams led three consecutive touchdown drives in the fourth quarter, the third coming with the Bears down 27-24 with under two minutes left, when Williams found DJ Moore wide open for a 25-yard touchdown. Bears 31, Packers 27. Johnson became the first Bears coach to win a playoff game in his first season. In the locker room afterward, he grabbed the microphone and screamed: “F*** the Packers! F*** them. I f***ing hate those guys.” That’s not a corporate rivalry anymore. That’s real. And here’s why this matters long-term: Both teams are set. Williams just set the Bears’ single-season passing record with 3,942 yards. Jordan Love is entering his prime. Johnson and LaFleur could be facing off twice a year for the next decade. The NFL’s oldest rivalry finally has stakes again. DEAD: John Harbaugh vs Mike TomlinDec 5, 2021; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh (left) and Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin (right) talk on the field before their teams play at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports For nearly two decades, John Harbaugh and Mike Tomlin defined what an AFC North rivalry should look like. Forty head-to-head meetings. Two Super Bowl-winning coaches. The NFL’s longest-tenured coaching tandem at their respective franchises. But in January of the 2026 offseason, that all changed, as both were gone within a week. Their final meeting was Week 18—winner takes the AFC North, loser goes home. It was the first winner-or-go-home game in AFC North history. Classic Steelers-Ravens: four lead changes in the fourth quarter, brutal defense, everything on the line. With the game tied 24-24 and seconds remaining, Ravens rookie kicker Tyler Loop lined up for a 44-yard field goal to win Baltimore the division.  Unfortunately for Baltimore, he missed it, and the Ravens were eliminated. Two days later, owner Steve Bisciotti fired Harbaugh after 18 seasons.  One week after that, Tomlin stepped down. Nineteen seasons without a losing record—an NFL record—and he walked away. Tomlin hasn’t landed anywhere yet. Jesse Minter is now the Ravens’ head coach. The two longest-tenured coaches in the league are suddenly gone, and now, one of football’s fiercest rivalries is in new hands. The games will still be good, but they will be missing what made this NFL rivalry special—two coaches who genuinely respected each other while doing everything possible to destroy each other twice a year. When all was said and done, Tomlin finished with the advantage 23-17 against Harbaugh in head-to-head meetings. It will be interesting to see how the next evolution of the rivalry comes into form, but for now, one of the NFL’s great coaching rivalries is officially dead. HEATING UP: Mike Vrabel vs Tom Brady Here’s an NFL rivalry nobody saw coming: Two guys who won three Super Bowls together as teammates are now competing against each other—and it’s already getting petty. When Mike Vrabel took over the Patriots in 2025, he immediately transformed one of the NFL’s worst rosters into a Super Bowl contender. New England went 14-3, won the AFC East for the first time since 2019, and reached Super Bowl LX. Meanwhile, Tom Brady became a minority owner of the Las Vegas Raiders–apparently after trying and failing to wiggle his way into the owner’s box in Foxborough. And when it came time for the Raiders to trade Maxx Crosby, Brady reportedly made sure his former teammate didn’t get the player he wanted. Reports quickly started to surface that Tom went out of his way to make sure that the stud defensive end was not sent to his former team. Instead, Brady shipped Crosby to Baltimore for two first-round picks, and the Patriots got nothing. These two are fiercely competitive people. Brady is widely regarded as the most ruthless winner in NFL history. Vrabel is the guy who still practices with his guys from time to time. Now they’re operating in the same conference, making decisions that directly affect each other’s franchises. Brady controls personnel in Las Vegas. Vrabel is building a dynasty in New England. And neither one is going to give the other an inch. DEAD: Jets VS. Patriots Remember when these two teams played meaningful games? Whelp… not anymore! The Patriots may be back under Vrabel’s leadership, but the Jets went 3-14 in 2025. They started 0-7—the last team in the NFL to win a game. Their defense didn’t record a single interception all season.  Meanwhile, the Patriots went 14-3 and made the Super Bowl. When these NFL teams met, it wasn’t a rivalry—it was a glorified practice. New England destroyed the Jets 42-10 in Week 13. The Jets committed a franchise-record 160 penalty yards.  Aaron Glenn’s first season as head coach was a disaster by any measure. The Justin Fields experiment failed spectacularly. By Week 12, Fields was benched, and the Jets held a fire sale at the trade deadline, shipping out Quinnen Williams and Sauce Gardner—two of their best defensive players for future draft assets. The Patriots and Jets used to define the AFC East. Now? The Jets are too bad to be rivals with anyone. This isn’t a rivalry anymore—it’s a recurring embarrassment for New York HEATING UP: Patriots vs Bills While the Jets collapse, the real AFC East rivalry is between New England and Buffalo. The Bills had won the division five straight years. They had the reigning MVP in Josh Allen. Bills fans thought the Pats were a thing of the past, and Buffalo was supposed to run the AFC East forever. Then Mike Vrabel showed up, Drake Maye emerged as a legitimate MVP candidate, and New England’s defense became one of the most feared units in football. The teams split the season series, but the Patriots got the edge this year by taking the AFC crown. This should be quite a battle for years to come… Both quarterbacks were finalists for MVP. Both teams finished with elite records and are young enough to do this for the next decade. DEAD: Patrick Mahomes VS. Josh AllenOct 16, 2022; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen (17) hugs Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) after a game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports For years, this NFL rivalry defined the AFC. Mahomes and Allen are meeting in the playoffs. Kansas City is finding a way to win every single time. Allen was never able to get over the hump. Four playoff losses to the Chiefs. In 2025, it all fell apart. The Chiefs went 6-11. They missed the playoffs for the first time since 2014. Mahomes had his worst statistical season as a starter—a 63.1 completion percentage, his career low, and 22 touchdowns in 14 games. Then came Week 15 against the Chargers. Mahomes scrambled to extend a play and got spun down by defensive lineman Da’Shawn Hand. He grabbed his left knee immediately, and as many feared, it was a torn ACL, and his season was officially over. It even puts his start to the 2026 season in jeopardy. The typical recovery timeline is nine months, but there’s no guarantee Mahomes returns to his MVP form. At least not right away. For this matchup to matter again, Mahomes needs to get healthy. The Chiefs need to rebuild around him. And to be honest, once he is back, Allen needs to actually beat Mahomes in a playoff game to make it feel competitive. Right now, it’s just one great quarterback who can’t get it done in the playoffs and another one on the operating table. Check back in 2027. HEATING UP: Seahawks vs Rams The NFC West has a new defining rivalry—and it might be the most compelling matchup in football. The Seahawks and Rams played each other three times in 2025. Each game felt like a heavyweight fight. Seattle won the first regular-season meeting by three points. Los Angeles won the second by two. In the NFC Championship, the Seahawks pulled out a 31-27 victory to reach Super Bowl LX. But the real story is the chess match between coaches. Sean McVay revolutionized the NFL offense. He made the Rams the most explosive team in football. He’s been to two Super Bowls. Mike Macdonald might be his defensive counterpart. In just his second year as head coach, Macdonald led Seattle to a championship. His defense held opponents to the fewest points in the NFL. His scheme is so complex that McVay himself said playing against Macdonald’s unit “felt like you were playing against 13 players.” What makes this NFL rivalry work is the contrast. McVay’s Rams led the NFL in scoring. Macdonald’s Seahawks led the NFL in points allowed. When they meet, it’s the unstoppable force versus the immovable object. Plus, there is the friction that exists between the Shanahan tree and any good coach that didn’t spawn his career from it. Macdonald isn’t part of that club. He came up through the Ravens organization. He’s the outsider who crashed their party and won a championship. And now these two young coaches could be facing off for NFC supremacy for the next decade.  DEAD: Cowboys VS. 49ers Once upon a time, this was the NFL’s marquee rivalry. The 1990s saw Dallas and San Francisco meet in three consecutive NFC Championship games. The winner went on to win the Super Bowl each time. It was must-see television. Now? The Cowboys can’t even make the playoffs. Dallas missed the postseason for the second consecutive year in 2025—the first back-to-back playoff absences since 2000-2002.  Largely because their defense was one of the worst we’ve seen in some time. The 49ers, meanwhile, remain annual contenders–even in spite of all the injuries. They’ve won the last four meetings between these franchises and made a couple of Super Bowl appearances in recent years.  For this rivalry to matter, both teams need to be relevant. The Cowboys haven’t won a playoff game since January 2023. They haven’t won multiple playoff games in a single postseason since 1996. Their Super Bowl drought has reached 30 years. Jerry Jones keeps promising things will change, but we have heard that before, and until it does, this rivalry will remain a sleeping giant. HEATING UP: Ben Johnson vs Shanahan Coaching Tree This one’s personal. When Ben Johnson was hired by the Bears, he immediately positioned himself as an outsider. He called out Matt LaFleur. He dismissed the Packers. And he made it clear he wasn’t interested in making friends. What he didn’t realize—or maybe he did—was that he was picking a fight with an entire coaching ecosystem. LaFleur is part of the Kyle Shanahan coaching tree. So is Sean McVay. So is Matt LaFleur’s brother, Mike LaFleur, who serves as the Rams’ offensive coordinator. These guys vacation together. They share schemes. They’re a network. Johnson came up through the Dan Campbell and Miami Dolphins system. He’s an outsider to their world. After Johnson’s drive-by handshake with Matt LaFleur went viral, reports emerged that his antics “did not go over well with the McVay tree.”  Whatever that means… what are they? The coaching mafia?! But Johnson isn’t backing down. At the NFL Combine, he was asked about his relationship with LaFleur. His answer was blunt: “We don’t talk. Nope. No.” This isn’t just Bears-Packers anymore. It’s Ben Johnson versus an entire coaching fraternity. The Shanahan tree includes some of the most successful offensive minds in football. Johnson is the guy trying to prove he doesn’t need their approval. He’s made himself the villain, and he seems to love it. DEAD: Giants VS. Jets Two teams. One city. Zero reasons to care. The Giants went 4-13 in 2025. The Jets went 3-14. Combined record: 7-27… YIKES! The Giants dismissed Brian Daboll after a 2-8 start, while the Jets stuck with first-year coach Aaron Glenn despite historically bad results. I mean, we are talking about a Jets team that recorded zero interceptions all season.  The Giants showed some life early but lost Malik Nabers to a torn ACL in Week 4, further derailing their already-struggling offense.  Neither franchise has made the playoffs since 2010 for the Jets and 2022 for the Giants. Neither inspires any serious confidence heading into 2026. For years, Giants fans and Jets fans would argue about which team was better. Now? Nobody in New York or New Jersey has any fight left in them.

Read more5 NFL Rivalries That Are Heating Up and 5 That Are Completely Dead

Bears Prime Suitors for ‘Best Available’ Edge-Rusher Amid Myles Garrett Trade Rumors

The Chicago Bears are among the likeliest candidates to ink the best remaining free agent pass-rusher, while they are also being mentioned as trade suitors for Myles Garrett. The post Bears Prime Suitors for ‘Best Available’ Edge-Rusher Amid Myles Garrett Trade Rumors appeared first on Heavy Sports.

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Grading the 20 Biggest NFL Free Agent Signings of 2026 — Who Won & Who Failed?

With most of the top NFL free agents of 2026 finding a new home this offseason, report card season is now in order. Without further ado, let’s dive into our final grades for the 20 biggest NFL free agent signings of 2026. Which offseason signings have the highest remarks in the NFL? Trey Hendrickson: A-Trey Hendrickson (Photo via Imagn Images) $112 million over four years is a lot of money for an injury-prone defensive end who turns 32 next season. But if you’re the Baltimore Ravens, it was simply a deal that had to be done this NFL offseason. In case you missed it, the Ravens nixed a blockbuster trade that would have netted them Maxx Crosby for two first-round picks. So, they keep those two selections and get another elite pass-rusher anyway. No harm, no foul. The Ravens haven’t had an elite edge rusher since Matt Judon left in 2021. Hendrickson fills the void for a team that’s built to win now. Malik Willis: B+Dec 27, 2025; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Malik Willis (2) runs the ball during the third quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Kayla Wolf-Imagn Images After releasing Tua Tagovailoa, the Miami Dolphins quickly pivoted to Willis. The ex-Green Bay Packers backup agreed to a three-year deal worth $67.5 million, immediately taking over as Miami’s new QB1. It’s a lot of money for a guy with six career starts, yet. But Willis was excellent as Jordan Love’s understudy in 2024 and 2025. He had a 78.7 completion percentage, six touchdowns, zero interceptions, 261 rushing yards, and three rushing scores.  Based on where the QB market is these days, it’s a fair contract for Willis. Miami had to move on from Tua, and they’re not in a position to draft a quality QB prospect this year. With plenty of cap space to spare, they can afford to take a big swing here. Kenneth Walker III: A+Dec 18, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III (9) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Los Angeles Rams in the second half at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images The Kansas City Chiefs had one of the league’s worst rushing offenses last season. Ageing veteran Kareem Hunt led the team with 611 yards and a lousy 3.7 yards per carry. Coming off the most disappointing season in franchise history, the Chiefs didn’t want to play around in the NFL offseason. GM Brett Veach inked the Super Bowl 60 MVP and hero on a three-year deal worth $43.05 million. So, Patrick Mahomes finally gets some help on offense with a game-changing running back. Remember, KC hasn’t had a 1,000-yard rusher since 2017, when rookie Mahomes was Alex Smith’s backup. The Chiefs get a two-time 1,000-yard rusher and big-game machine at a very reasonable rate. There is nothing to dislike about this deal, folks. Jaelan Phillips: B-Dec 14, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Jaelan Phillips (50) walks off the field after win against the Las Vegas Raiders at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images We won’t blame any Carolina Panthers fans who jumped for joy when their team landed Phillips on a four-year deal worth $120 million. He makes their defense better. He’s also a giant overpay. Both things can be true. Phillips has never topped 8.5 sacks in a season, so the contract is overly generous. But he immediately slots in as their new lead pass-rusher and will also shore up a leaky run defense.  Coming off a surprise NFC South division crown, the Panthers had to be aggressive — and Phillips unquestionably improves the unit. It’ll just be hard to live up to his $30 million average salary. Tyler Linderbaum: AJun 10, 2025; Baltimore, MD, USA; Baltimore Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum (64) looks on during an NFL OTA at Under Armour Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images The Las Vegas Raiders landed the top free agent offensive lineman available, inking the former Raven to a three-year deal worth $81 million this NFL offseason. The Raiders’ offensive line was dreadful last year. Linderbaum can single-handedly change the dynamic, which is vital for both incoming No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza and running back Ashton Jeanty after a tough rookie year. Linderbaum ranked fourth in ESPN’s pass-rush win-rate for interior offensive linemen in 2025. Pro Football Focus also gave Linderbaum a run-blocking grade of 80 or better in three seasons with Baltimore. Yeah, Mendoza and Jeanty are going to love this guy. Mike Evans: A+Mike Evans (Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images) After spending his first 12 seasons with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Evans stunned the NFL by leaving for the NFC rival San Francisco 49ers. The future Hall of Famer signed a three-year deal worth $42.4 million to join Kyle Shanahan’s star-studded offense. We know Evans is 33 and coming off the first major injury of his career. But he’ll get plenty of favorable matchups with opposing teams having to focus on Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, and Ricky Pearsall. Evans will stretch the field and should rack up the touchdowns in the red zone. He’s the ideal fit for Shanahan’s offense and will have a golden opportunity to catch a second Super Bowl ring. Odafe Oweh: C-Nov 2, 2025; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Odafe Oweh (98) celebrates his sack with linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu (45) against the Tennessee Titans during the second half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images One of our biggest pet peeves in free agency and the offseason is when a desperate NFL team overpays superstar money to a player who’s never been close to a superstar. Case in point: Odafe Oweh. The Washington Commanders gave Oweh a four-year contract worth $96 million after a strong finish to the 2025 season with the Los Angeles Chargers. That’s too much cash for a guy who’s logged double-digit sacks once in his career. The other issue? Washington’s defense is more than an Odafe Oweh away from becoming elite. How much is he really gonna move the needle? They would have been better off spreading that $96 million across various areas of need. Wan’Dale Robinson: C-Oct 6, 2024; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Seahawks safety Rayshawn Jenkins (2) tackles New York Giants wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson (17) following a reception by Robinson during the second quarter at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images Yes, the Tennessee Titans had to overpay to upgrade the league’s worst pass-catching corps. It doesn’t mean they get a full pardon for giving Robinson an outrageous four-year, $70 million deal. Robinson had a career year in his final season with the New York Giants, catching 92 passes for 1,014 yards and four touchdowns. But folks, the guy was targeted 140 times for crying out loud. He’d better have good numbers. Also, his production didn’t spike until after superstar wideout Malik Nabers suffered a season-ending ACL tear in Week 4. The Titans regrettably gave Calvin Ridley big money in 2024 free agency. How has that worked out? And he’s a better receiver than Robinson. The only reason for optimism here is that new Titans OC Brian Daboll was Robinson’s coach in New York. Maybe that familiarity will help? But we’re not counting on it. Devin Lloyd: A+Jan 11, 2026; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Devin Lloyd (0) runs on the field before an AFC Wild Card Round game against the Buffalo Bills at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images We may have our questions on the Jaelan Phillips signing this NFL offseason. But good luck finding a legitimate complaint about the bargain three-year, $42 million deal the Panthers agreed to with Lloyd in free agency. Lloyd had five interceptions, seven pass breakups, and 81 combined tackles in his final season with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He might not repeat that production in Carolina, but Lloyd nevertheless provides Carolina with the do-it-all linebacker they haven’t had since Luke Kuechly retired. Lloyd will instantly bolster Carolina’s pass rush, run defense, and coverage in the middle of the field. And he only cost $42 million. Perhaps the most underrated move in free agency. Travis Etienne Jr.: C+Dec 29, 2024; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back Travis Etienne Jr. (1) runs the ball against the Tennessee Titans during the second quarter at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Morgan Tencza-Imagn Images The New Orleans Saints stunned everyone by winning the Etienne Jr. sweepstakes, landing the ex-Jacksonville star on a four-year deal worth $47.4 million. But only $24 million of it is guaranteed, all through the first two seasons. So if Etienne doesn’t pan out, the Saints have an easy out of his contract in 2028. It’s a risk worth taking. Tyler Shough had a superb rookie year and needs more weaponry. Alvin Kamara is past his best-before date. So the contract is fair for a three-time 1,000-yard rusher, though it might be difficult to sustain that type of production on a rebuilding New Orleans squad. Romeo Doubs: AGreen Bay Packers wide receiver Romeo Doubs (87) rides a bicycle to practice in the DreamDrive before the eighth practice of training camp on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis. Tork Mason/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin The New England Patriots released top receiver Stefon Diggs in a cap-saving move, opting to land a new No. 1 pass-catcher in free agency and/or the NFL offseason. They signed ex-Packers standout Romeo Doubs to a four-year, $68 million contract. It seems like a lot of money for a non-superstar receiver. But Doubs should have no issue slotting in as Drake Maye’s new favorite target. Doubs put up good numbers on a Green Bay team loaded with playmakers, namely Josh Jacobs, Jayden Reed, Tucker Kraft, Christian Watson, and Dontayvion Wicks. He led the Pack with 724 yards in 2025, so imagine what he’ll do in an expanded role with his new team. 2026 is the year Doubs emerges as a Pro Bowl-caliber receiver. And that’s why we love this signing for both parties. Boye Mafe: BDec 8, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Seattle Seahawks linebacker Boye Mafe (53) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The Cincinnati Bengals had to move quickly after losing Pro Bowler Trey Hendrickson in free agency. They found a suitable replacement in Boye Mafe, who helped the Seattle Seahawks win the Super Bowl last season. Mafe’s playing time was reduced in Seattle thanks to their deep group of pass rushers in 2025. But he had nine sacks in 2023 and six in 2024. The potential is there, and now he’ll get starter’s playing time in Cincinnati. Jamel Dean: ADec 15, 2024; Inglewood, California, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Jamel Dean (35) celebrates after a fumble recovery in the second half against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images A longtime mainstay in the Bucs’ secondary, Dean left Tampa after seven seasons to join the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Super Bowl 55 champion signed a three-year contract worth $36.75 million with Mike McCarthy’s squad. Dean finished as PFF’s third-graded cornerback for 2025 at 80.6. He allowed a passer rating of just 63.1 and a completion percentage of 49.2 last season, per Pro Football Reference. Dean has also allowed just three touchdowns in coverage since 2024. In other words, he’ll significantly bolster a Steelers secondary that already has a quality cornerback tandem of James Pierre and Joey Porter Jr. John Franklin-Myers: B+Dec 7, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Denver Broncos defensive end John Franklin-Myers (98) reacts after a sack against the Las Vegas Raiders during the first half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images The Titans may have overpaid the likes of Wan’Dale Robinson and Alontae Taylor in NFL free agency, but we can totally get behind the JFM deal this offseason. After two strong seasons with the Denver Broncos, Franklin-Myers signed a three-year deal with Tennessee for $63 million. That’s a very fair contract for a player who logged 14.5 sacks over his two years in Denver. The Titans have one of the league’s premier defensive tackles in Jeffery Simmons. Now he has a running mate to help him off the edge. Bradley Chubb: CJul 24, 2024; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins linebacker Bradley Chubb (2) looks during training camp at Baptist Health Training Complex. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports The first big move for Buffalo Bills GM Brandon Beane was trading for Chicago Bears star wideout DJ Moore. The second was signing veteran edge rusher Bradley Chubb to a three-year deal worth $43.5 million. It’s nice to see Beane being aggressive after winning a power struggle with Sean McDermott. But it’s odd that he chose to pay top dollar for a player with an injury history as long as Chubb’s. Chubb missed 12 games in 2019, 10 in 2021, and all of 2024. He’s not young anymore at 30. And he’s hit double-digit sacks once since 2019. There’s a lot of risk in Chubb, but we suppose he at least bolsters a pass rush devoid of real playmakers. Riq Woolen: ARiq Woolen (Photo By Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images) After winning his Super Bowl 60 ring with the Seahawks, Woolen stayed in the NFC to take a one-year, $12 million deal with the Philadelphia Eagles. Now, Woolen hasn’t returned to that All-Pro form we saw in his 2022 rookie year. But this is a guy who’s allowed a career completion percentage of just 54.2 and a 70.6 passer rating through four seasons. Borderline elite. Woolen joins a lights-out secondary featuring the young cornerback tandem of Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. This is a great deal for both sides. If Woolen proves to be a good fit in Philly, he’ll score a lucrative multi-year deal next year. Quay Walker: CJan 12, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Green Bay Packers linebacker Quay Walker (7) before action against the Philadelphia Eagles in an NFC wild card game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images The Raiders had money to spend in the NFL offseason, we get it. But $40.5 million for three years? That’s a little much for a player who’s never put it all together. If Walker couldn’t unlock his potential on a well-coached Packers team…how sure are the Raiders that they’ll get it out of him? Elite athleticism has always been there, but this is a guy who posted a 48.5 PFF grade last year. A one-year “prove-it” deal would have been better. Tua Tagovailoa: CTua Tagovailoa (Photo Via Imagn Images) After he was released by the Dolphins, Tagovailoa quickly signed a one-year pact with the Atlanta Falcons for the veteran’s minimum of $1.3 million. The signing is cheap, but it boggles us. Atlanta has poured all these resources into Michael Penix Jr. Now they want to make it an open competition between him and one of the league’s worst starting QBs of the last two years? Not sure what message that sends to Penix and the Atlanta locker room. If you’re Tagovailoa, it would have been wiser to go to a more QB-desperate team like the Cleveland Browns, New York Jets, or even the Pittsburgh Steelers if Aaron Rodgers doesn’t return. Jaylen Watson: A+Nov 27, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Jaylen Watson (35) returns an interception against Dallas Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson (87) at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images After completing a blockbuster trade for former Chiefs superstar cornerback Trent McDuffie, the Los Angeles Rams reunited the super-duo by signing Watson to a three-year, $51 million contract in free agency. Not sure about you, but that seems totally unfair to us. As if the NFC runner-ups weren’t already scary enough. The two-time Super Bowl champion has allowed a passer rating of under 80 in consecutive seasons. Throw in superb ball-hawking skills, and Watson will help significantly in reshaping the Rams’ secondary. It won’t just be McDuffie. Kyler Murray: A+Kyler Murray. Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images Everyone knew the Minnesota Vikings would find competition for JJ McCarthy. Mission accomplished. Thanks to his release from the Arizona Cardinals, Minnesota was able to sign the No. 1 pick of 2019 to the veteran’s minimum: A one-year deal worth $1.3 million. Worst-case for Minnesota, McCarthy plays well enough to keep the QB1 job. And then they have the league’s best backup. Best-case: Murray wins the QB competition and gets to take over one of the league’s most star-studded offensive units. No risk, and a potentially very high reward here.

Read moreGrading the 20 Biggest NFL Free Agent Signings of 2026 — Who Won & Who Failed?

Ravens Get Clear Message on Their Team Needs Before NFL Draft

The Baltimore Ravens will have a lot to address when it comes to the NFL draft.According to ESPN, the team has to address three positions to become a better team in 2026. The top three needs are Wide Receiver, Interior Offensive Line, and Defensive Tackle.“The Ravens’ biggest need is clearly fortifying the interior offensive line […] The post Ravens Get Clear Message on Their Team Needs Before NFL Draft appeared first on Heavy Sports.

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Watch the Ravens interview Jesse Minter before his hiring

The Baltimore Ravens are entering unfamiliar territory in 2026. Baltimore hired Jesse Minter at head coach after parting ways with John Harbaugh after 18 seasons leading the team. Ravens fans may now have a better idea of who their new head coach is after the team’s latest social media post. The Ravens released some behind-the-scenes […] The post Watch the Ravens interview Jesse Minter before his hiring appeared first on ClutchPoints.

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Logan Paul’s NSFW reaction to Odell Beckham Jr.’s signature 1-handed catch goes viral

It’s one thing to watch highlights of Odell Beckham Jr.’s one-handed catches in the NFL, but it’s another thing to see it with your own eyes, as Logan Paul did at the Fanatics Flag Football Classic. In his latest vlog, Paul showed his reaction to Beckham’s one-hander. He was standing on the sideline and was […] The post Logan Paul’s NSFW reaction to Odell Beckham Jr.’s signature 1-handed catch goes viral appeared first on ClutchPoints.

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2026 NFL Mock Draft: Big Trades, Surprises in New 4-Round Forecast

Is Alabama's Ty Simpson really QB1? Find out in this deep-dive outlook for the 2026 NFL Draft, complete with projected trades and detailed scouting reports.

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Ravens’ 3 sleeper prospects to target in 2026 NFL Draft

Even by the Baltimore Ravens’ standards, this offseason carries a different kind of weight. There’s a new voice on the headset, a new defensive vision taking shape, and a roster that feels just incomplete enough to be dangerous. This is where Baltimore has historically thrived: in the margins and finding players who don’t just fit […] The post Ravens’ 3 sleeper prospects to target in 2026 NFL Draft appeared first on ClutchPoints.

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5 Best and 5 Worst Trades of the 2026 Offseason (So Far)

Signing free agents isn’t the only way a team can bring in high-level talent. Teams can also trade players and or draft picks for other players during the offseason. In the NFL, trading talent and/or draft picks can lead to high rewards or send teams back to the drawing board, wondering what went wrong with said trade. This offseason, we’ve seen some wild trades that almost happened, some trades that were massive wins for certain teams, and some trades that have us scratching our heads as to why they happened. Here are 5 Of The Best and 5 of The Worst Trades This Offseason So Far. What were the best and worst trades that happened this offseason? Worst: The Jets trading for Geno Smith for a sixth-round pickLas Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith (7) looks towards the sideline during the game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images As fun as it is seeing a well-known NFL star return to the team that drafted him, the Jets’ trading for Geno Smith raises a ton of eyebrows in the wrong direction this offseason. Smith said returning to the Jets, “He’s got a real plan, and I believe in the GM and everyone over there. Just to be a part of that is going to be special. It’s kind of like a movie, kind of like a movie script.” As we all know, Smith had a disastrous 2025 season in “Sin City,” as he was the most sacked quarterback in the league (taking 55 sacks) and led the league in interceptions with 17 of them. Sure, Smith is serviceable and is a temporary bandage to a long-term problem, but the Jets eventually have to tear that bandage off and solve their dire problem at quarterback, instead of relying on a recyclable option. However, Smith’s Pro Bowl days are way behind him, as the Jets are not a playoff-caliber team and don’t have the roster Smith had when he was on the Seattle Seahawks. Some fans speculate that adding Smith to the roster is a sign that the Jets are preparing to tank for the 2026 season in hopes of landing a high draft pick in 2027 and entering the sweepstakes for Arch Manning or Dante Moore.  Will that plan work? Probably not. However, we’ll have to wait and see what Smith and Gang Green accomplish during the regular season.  Best: Rams trading for Trent McDuffie for a first, fifth, and sixth round picks in the 2026 DraftSep 28, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs cornerback Trent McDuffie (22) takes the field prior to a game against the Baltimore Ravens at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images The Rams trading for McDuffie this offseason is a massive game-changer, as they look to compete for control of the crowded NFC West against the Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers. McDuffie, along with the recently signed Jaylen Watson, improves the strength of the Rams’ secondary.  Unlike Watson, McDuffie is a First-Team All-Pro, a Second-Team All-Pro, and has better statistical numbers than Watson, including more tackles, one-and-a-half more sacks, more pass deflections, and eight forced fumbles so far in his career.  McDuffie will flourish in defensive coordinator Chris Shula’s schemes and give headaches to the division’s best wide receivers. McDuffie and the Rams’ defense will give the Seahawks’ “Dark Side” defense a run for its money in the upcoming season. Don’t be surprised if the Rams potentially return to the Super Bowl, thanks to McDuffie’s elusive talent on defense, shutting out the opposition.  Worst: The Maxx Crosby trade falling throughDec 25, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby (98) reacts during the second half against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports On March 7, the Baltimore Ravens originally traded two first-round picks from the 2026 and 2027 NFL Draft to the Raiders for Crosby’s services, as he was frustrated with the current direction of the team. However, just three days later, the Ravens reversed course and backed out of the trade due to a failed physical.  The Ravens were also concerned with Crosby’s meniscus after he had surgery to repair it, as they worried about the long-term longevity of Crosby’s health rather than the short-term window of having one of the league’s best edge rushers in their lineup. The Ravens got both of their first-round draft picks back and signed Trey Hendrickson to a four-year, $112 million deal, but it would’ve been wild to see both Hendrickson and Crosby in the lineup if it wasn’t for that failed physical. The trade makes the Ravens look like bad-faith actors, as teams want to make sure a trade is fair for both parties. It could be tougher for the Ravens to make trades with other teams in the future, with all that has come to light in this debacle.  Crosby is still a Raider for now, and we look forward to seeing him cause havoc against opposing offenses in the 2026 season when he gets fully healthy. Best: Bears Trade D.J. Moore to the Bills for a second-round pickNov 9, 2023; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver D.J. Moore (2) cannot make a diving catch against the Carolina Panthers during the first quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Bartel-USA TODAY Sports The Bears traded wide receiver D. J. Moore and a fifth-round pick to the Buffalo Bills in exchange for a second-round pick this offseason, which is a win for both teams as the Bills get Josh Allen an elite wideout to work with for the 2026 season, while the Bears get stronger draft capital for the upcoming draft. Moore will also reunite with the Bills’ head coach Joe Brady, who was the Carolina Panthers’ offensive coordinator from 2020 to 2021, when Moore had back-to-back 1,000-receiving-yard seasons.  The move on the Bills’ side allows the Bills to potentially retake control of the AFC East from the New England Patriots, who won the division in 2025 and made a run to the Super Bowl. Allen will finally have an elite wide receiver to work with for the first time since Stefon Diggs was on the roster. And Moore is a massive upgrade at the position when we compare him to guys like Keon Coleman and Khalil Shakir, who aren’t 1,000-yard caliber receivers. Meanwhile, the trade on the Bears’ side opens the door for a younger playmaker to step up, whether it’s Rome Odunze or Luther Burden III, to step up and see their production increase in the lineup.  Will Moore help the Bills reach their first Super Bowl since the 1993 season? We’ll have to watch and find out. Worst: Cowboys Trading a 2027 fourth-round pick for Rashan GaryNov 10, 2025; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers defensive lineman Rashan Gary (52) during the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images The Cowboys traded a 2027 fourth-round pick to the Green Bay Packers for Gary, with the hope that he can solve their defensive woes.  The trade for Gary’s services may seem nice on paper, but Gary saw a dip in his production in 2025 and was inconsistent on the field. Gary was a non-factor after Micah Parsons suffered a torn ACL, and a now-deleted Instagram post emerged of him thanking Packers’ fans for his time in Title Town, with others speculating his account was hacked. If the Packers had released Gary, the Cowboys could’ve signed him for a minimum deal instead of throwing away draft capital. Critics of the trade have said this move was cheap on the Cowboys’ part, for wanting to avoid paying top dollars for elite pass-rushers, who would give opposing offenses a run for their money.  This offseason trade also ended their pursuit of potentially trading for Maxx Crosby in the future. Best: Broncos trading first-round Draft Pick for Jaylen WaddleOct 12, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (17) catches a pass against the Los Angeles Chargers during the second quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-Imagn Images The Dolphins are cleaning up shop in South Beach and are preparing to potentially tank for the 2026 season in hopes of landing a high draft pick in 2027 and potentially drafting Arch Manning or Dante Moore. Trading Waddle off of the sinking ship to the Denver Broncos, who are currently in “Win-Now” mode, makes a lot of sense, as Waddle will flourish in head coach Sean Payton’s and offensive coordinator Davis Webb’s system.  Waddle was the Dolphins’ best wide receiver in 2025, as he caught 64 receptions for 910 yards and scored six touchdowns.  Waddle joins an offense led by Bo Nix and Courtland Sutton, and will very likely become the team’s number one wideout for the 2026 season.  He joins a passing attack that has Sutton, Marvin Mims, Lil’Jordan Humphrey, and tight end Evan Engram, making the Broncos offense a must-watch team for the 2026 season. As for the Dolphins, getting another first-round pick opens the door for the team to start getting young talent they can develop over time if their next rebuild succeeds.  The Dolphins could likely draft a young safety or new wideout to help Malik Willis during the 2026 season with the draft pick they got from the Broncos in the trade. Worst: Lions trading David Montgomery to the Houston Texans for Juice Scruggs and draft capitalDetroit Lions running back David Montgomery (David Reginek-Imagn Images) The Lions made a bold move before the start of the new league year by trading away running back David Montgomery to the Houston Texans for a 2026 fourth-round pick, a 2027 seventh-round pick, and center Juice Scruggs this offseason. The trade was criticized by many NFL fans as the Lions gave away a veteran culture builder, who formed a one-two punch on the ground with Jahmyr Gibbs during Montgomery’s time in the “Motor City.” Sure, Montgomery wasn’t utilized as much in 2025, but he did rush for 716 yards on 158 carries, scored eight rushing touchdowns, and caught 24 receptions for 192 yards. Those numbers aren’t Pro Bowl-like, but they’re still above average. Although the draft capital will help the Lions in the long run, trading Montgomery away is going to sting on offense, as his production on the ground is going to be missed, and he served as a good backup if anything happened to Gibbs. The Texans are getting an upgrade at running back, but they need an offensive line that can protect him and C. J. Stroud. Otherwise, the trade would be a lose-lose for both the Texans and Lions. Best: Colts Trade Michael Pittman Jr. to the SteelersDec 29, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. (11) celebrates his touchdown during the second half against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images As the Colts extended Alec Pierce, the Colts traded Michael Pittman Jr. and a seventh-round pick to the Steelers for a sixth-round pick.  The trade is win-win for both teams as Pittman Jr. is a great wide receiver to pair with DK Metcalf for a low draft cost.  Pittman Jr.’s statistical numbers weren’t great in Indy, but sometimes a change of scenery can improve an athlete’s stats.  The Steelers’ passing attack gets a nice upgrade whether Aaron Rodger plays in 2026 or not, or if Will Howard commands the offense in the 2026 season.  The Colts get some financial relief as they have $24 million in salary cap space, and can find Pittman Jr.’s replacement with the sixth-round pick they acquired from the Steelers. The Colts also avoided having to release Pittman Jr. by finding a suitable trade partner in the Steelers. Other than that, that’s a win-win in our book, and we can’t wait to see what Pittman Jr. can do in a Steelers’ jersey. Worst: Cowboys trading Osa Odighizuwa to the 49ersJan 4, 2026; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa (97) takes the field with a flag honoring late Dallas Cowboys defensive end Marshawn Kneeland before the game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images The Cowboys traded away Osa Odighizuwa to the San Francisco 49ers for a third-round draft pick this offseason, with fans criticizing the deal as the team throwing away a consistent and high-performing interior pass-rusher from the defense. Odighizuwa had 44 tackles and 3.5 sacks with the Cowboys in the 2025 season, and seeing him get traded to a historical rival is a massive loss. The 49ers, on the other hand, are getting a very versatile and reliable defensive tackle who’ll cause mayhem against opposing offenses in the NFC West. The third-round pick the Cowboys received from the 49ers also won’t help them find an immediate competitive player out of college right from the get-go, as it’s tough to draft steals in later rounds of the NFL Draft. The Cowboys and 49ers will face each other in the 2026 season, as 49ers fans will reap the benefits of the trade, while Cowboys fans will continue to question Jerry Jones’ decision-making.  Best: Jets trading for Minkah FitzpatrickAug 23, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins safety Minkah Fitzpatrick (29) looks on before the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images Even though the Jets are in complete rebuild or potential tank mode, they did acquire Minkah Fitzpatrick from the Miami Dolphins for a seventh-round pick, and he immediately signed a three-year, $40 million extension with Gang Green, which is brilliant.  The Jets need a strong all-around safety patrolling the secondary, as the unit had zero interceptions in the 2025 season, becoming the first team with no interceptions since the NFL started tracking interceptions in 1933.  The Jets acquired Fitzpatrick for basically nothing from a division rival, and he’ll likely become the leader of the Jets’ secondary when the 2026 season kicks off. Fitzpatrick will work very nicely under head coach Aaron Glenn’s and defensive coordinator Brian Duker’s schemes.  We, as sports fans, can’t wait to see what Fitzpatrick will do for the Jets as the 2026 regular season slowly approaches.

Read more5 Best and 5 Worst Trades of the 2026 Offseason (So Far)

Ravens’ 7-round 2026 NFL Draft according to PFF mock draft simulator after NFL Free Agency

The Baltimore Ravens lost more players than they gained in 2026 NFL free agency. Although they did make one of the biggest moves of the offseason, signing Trey Henderson after reneging on the Maxx Crosby trade (and damaging the front office’s reputation in the process). Now, as the franchise turns its attention to the draft, […] The post Ravens’ 7-round 2026 NFL Draft according to PFF mock draft simulator after NFL Free Agency appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Read moreRavens’ 7-round 2026 NFL Draft according to PFF mock draft simulator after NFL Free Agency