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"They should be fired": Ex-Bengals WR issues major warning against paying Brandon Aiyuk 'crazy amount of money' after 49ers fallout Sportskeeda
The Cincinnati Bengals continue to address their defense during the 2026 offseason.According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Bengals signed Ja’Sir Taylor to a one-year contract. Bengals signed former Chargers free-agent CB Ja’Sir Taylor to a one-year contract. — Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 2, 2026 “Bengals signed former Chargers free-agent CB Ja’Sir Taylor to a one-year […] The post Bengals Sign Veteran CB to Buffer Struggling Defense appeared first on Heavy Sports.
While the Cincinnati Bengals may have one of the more explosive offenses in the NFL, when healthy, their defense still needs plenty of work. The Bengals are at least trying to remedy their secondary ahead of the NFL Draft. Cincinnati has signed corner Ja’Sir Taylor to a one-year contract, via Adam Schefter of ESPN. The […] The post Bengals sign another defensive player ahead of NFL Draft appeared first on ClutchPoints.
Since our lost NFL mock draft, there have been numerous significant roster transactions — including the blockbuster Jaylen Waddle trade. Now a month away from draft weekend, it’s the perfect time to run an updated 2026 first-round mock draft. Let’s dive right into it. Which prospects will go high in the 2026 NFL Draft? 1. Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando MendozaFernando Mendoza (Photo by Imagn Images) This one is obvious and has been explained a million times. The Raiders need a quarterback, and despite pushback, Mendoza is heads-and-shoulders above every other signal-caller in the 2026 NFL Draft class. The Raiders hired Klint Kubiak to fill their head coaching vacancy. The cherry on top is giving the savvy offensive-minded head coach his quarterback. 2. New York Jets: Arvell ReeseArvell Reese (Image Credits: Imagn) There aren’t any guarantees after the Raiders and Mendoza, but Reese still feels like the best option for the Jets. Their defense needs new game-changers following the Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams trades. New York’s defense is multiple pieces away from returning to elite status, but snagging the Ohio State edge rusher is the way to start. 3. Arizona Cardinals: Francis MauigoaFrancis Mauigoa (Image Credits: Imagn) The Cardinals already have one budding star at offensive tackle in Paris Johnson Jr. Pairing him with the Miami product would give Arizona’s next signal-caller elite protection at the bookend spots. 4. Tennessee Titans: Rueben Bain Jr.Rueben Bain Jr (Image Credits: Imagn) New Titans head coach Robert Saleh is thrilled about the chance to work with Jeffery Simmons, and the John Franklin-Myers signing in free agency greatly bolsters the pass-rush. Well, the Titans could quickly turn this front seven into one of football’s best with the addition of Rueben Bain Jr. via the NFL Draft. He’s a day-one starter who would do plenty of damage on a defensive line anchored by Simmons, who’s never had the luxury of an elite pass-rusher teammate in Tennessee. 5. New York Giants: Caleb DownsCaleb Downs (Image Credits: Imagn) New Giants head coach John Harbaugh had the fortune of working with all-world safeties like Ed Reed, Eric Weddle, Earl Thomas, and Kyle Hamilton in Baltimore. So if the Ohio State product is still on the board here, the Giants have an easy decision to make. The Giants have quickly built up one of the league’s top pass-rushing units. Adding a five-star safety like Downs would be the finishing touch on turning this defense into one of the NFL’s best. 6. New Orleans Saints (From Cleveland Browns): David BaileyTexas Tech’s David Bailey rushes the Kent State offense during a non-conference football game, Saturday, September 6, 2025, at Jones AT&T Stadium. Projected trade alert! The Saints acquire the No. 6 selection from the Browns in exchange for picks numbers 8 and 132 and a 2027 fifth-rounder. Knowing the Washington Commanders also need pass-rushing help, the Saints move forward to take the best edge rusher remaining. With Bailey in the fold, New Orleans now has Cam Jordan’s successor. And it’s a dandy. 7. Washington Commanders: Sonny StylesFeb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles (LB25) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images The Commanders miss out on Bailey, but they can stand pat and let another game-wrecking menace fall into their laps. No harm, no foul. Dan Quinn has had the luxury of working with all-time great linebacker Bobby Wagner in both Seattle and Washington. Styles is a well-rounded linebacker who can replace the future Hall of Famer as the heart and soul of Washington’s rebuilt defense. 8. Cleveland Browns (From New Orleans Saints): Carnell TateOhio State Buckeyes wide receiver Carnell Tate (17) catches a touchdown pass during the first half of the NCAA football game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Ohio Stadium in Columbus on Oct. 4, 2025. The decision to drop two spots works well for the Browns. They get two extra picks in the draft and still snag the best wide receiver available. There’s a nice foundation on offense here with Jerry Jeudy, Harold Fannin Jr., and Quinshon Judkins. Adding an explosive pass-catcher like Tate could take the offense to another dimension, provided, of course, that the Browns find a suitable QB option. 9. Kansas City Chiefs: Jordyn TysonJordyn Tyson (Image Credits: Imagn) Marquise Brown is gone. Rashee Rice is facing more off-the-field issues. Xavier Worthy hasn’t come as advertised. Other than that, the Chiefs’ receiving corps doesn’t look so bad. KC bolstered its ground game by signing Super Bowl 60 MVP Kenneth Walker III. They can put the last touch on reshaping the offense by taking the big-bodied receiver who should quickly slot in as Patrick Mahomes’ new WR1. 10. Cincinnati Bengals: Keldric FaulkAuburn Tigers defensive end Keldric Faulk (15) blitzes as Auburn Tigers take on Ball State Cardinals at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Auburn, Ala. on Saturday, Sept. 6, 2025. Auburn Tigers defeated Ball State Cardinals 42-3. After losing Trey Hendrickson, the Bengals quickly pivoted to cheaper signings like Boye Mafe and Jonathan Allen to fix the pass rush. Well, this would be a heckuva third “pivot” move if the Bengals landed the 6-foot-6, 285-pound edge rusher out of Auburn. And if 2025 first-round pick Shemar Stewart came as advertised? Woah mama. 11. Miami Dolphins: Makai LemonMakai Lemon (Image Credit: Imagn) After cutting Tyreek Hill and trading Jaylen Waddle to the Denver Broncos, the Dolphins have a pressing need for WR help. Fortunately for Miami, the board plays out in their favor and ensures they come away with one of the “big three” receiver prospects. With Tyson and Tate off the NFL draft board, the Dolphins don’t have to hesitate to turn in the draft card. After all, when life gives you lemons… 12. Dallas Cowboys: Mansoor DelaneSep 13, 2025; Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA; LSU Tigers cornerback Mansoor Delane (4) reacts to Florida Gators quarterback DJ Lagway (not pictured) making an incomplete pass during the first half at Tiger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images Dallas is a team to watch closely, with a pair of first-round picks in Jerry Jones’ pocket. But with Trevon Diggs long gone, the Cowboys are lacking a playmaking cornerback to keep the secondary intact. He already signed ex-Cardinals safety Jalen Thompson to bolster the secondary. Adding a capable shutdown corner could be the last move required to help Dallas’ defense regain that elite form we saw under Dan Quinn for three years. 13. Minnesota Vikings (From Los Angeles Rams via Atlanta Falcons): Jeremiyah LoveJeremiyah Love (Image credit: Imagn) Trade alert! The Vikings land the No. 13 pick from the Rams in exchange for the No. 18, No. 82, and No. 196 picks. With the pick, the Vikings turn the NFL draft upside down by taking Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love. Because why wouldn’t you pair a generational RB prospect with an offense already featuring Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison? Surely, one of Kyler Murray or JJ McCarthy would make the most of this star-studded supporting cast… Right? 14. Baltimore Ravens: Spencer FanoSpencer Fano (Image Credits: Imagn) Losing Tyler Linderbaum in free agency hurts, but the Ravens can reduce some of the damage via the NFL Draft by pairing the Utah offensive tackle with veteran mainstay Ronnie Stanley Jr. Fano is the complete package who will bolster the pass protection but also open up more running lanes for Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry. It’s the perfect match! 15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jermod McCoyTennessee defensive back Jermod McCoy (3) before a college football game between Tennessee and UAB at Neyland Stadium in Knoxville, Tenn., on Sept. 20, 2025. The Buccaneers lost top cornerback Jamel Dean to the Pittsburgh Steelers in free agency. That’s especially tough to stomach when you remember that Tampa’s pass defense still sucked WITH Dean. SO yeah, help is desperately wanted at the corner. This year’s class is deep with quality defensive backs. Todd Bowles would love this well-rounded corner who racked up seven pass breakups and four picks in his final year of college ball. 16. New York Jets (From Indianapolis Colts): Avieon TerrellClemson cornerback Avieon Terrell (8) during Spring Practice in Clemson, S.C. Monday, March 24, 2025. After trading All-Pro corner Sauce Gardner to the Colts, the Jets fittingly use the draft pick they got from Indy on a new hopeful shutdown corner. Terrell had 25 pass breakups, four sacks, eight forced fumbles, and three interceptions in his three years at Clemson. A complete package guy like Terrell would instantly make an impact in Gotham. 17. Pittsburgh Steelers (From Detroit Lions): Ty SimpsonAlabama Crimson Tide quarterback Ty Simpson (15) rolls out to pass during the second half against the Missouri Tigers at Faurot Field at Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images Projected trade alert! The Steelers acquire the No. 17 pick from the Lions in exchange for selections No. 21 and 85. With a trio of third-round picks this year, Pittsburgh can afford to make a big splash in round one. So, the Steelers shake up the NFL draft big time by moving four spots to select the second-best QB available. There’s their long-term quarterback solution as they await final word from Aaron Rodgers. Even if Rodgers returns, he’s got one year left MAX. Simpson is the long-term guy for Mike McCarthy. 18. Los Angeles Rams (From Minnesota Vikings): Olaivavega IoaneDec 31, 2024; Glendale, AZ, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions offensive lineman Olaivavega Ioane (71) against the Boise State Broncos during the Fiesta Bowl at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images With Kevin Dotson and Steve Avila entering the final year of their contracts, this is a good opportunity for the Rams to think long-term and draft a succession plan for their NFL squad. As good as Dotson and Avila have been, neither has the upside of the Penn State product. With no immediate weaknesses on their roster, the Rams can bank on long-term upside and take their time developing Ioane. 19. Carolina Panthers: Kadyn ProctorSep 27, 2025; Athens, Georgia, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide offensive lineman Kadyn Proctor (74) celebrates with quarterback Ty Simpson (15) after defeating the Georgia Bulldogs at Sanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images Bryce Young went from a horrible offensive line to a half-decent one in one year. The result? A career year that led Carolina to a surprise NFC South division crown, its first title in a decade. So, imagine what Young could do if Carolina’s offensive line takes yet another step forward? Alabama’s Kadyn Proctor is listed as a tackle but can also shift to guard. That versatility would make him a valuable weapon for an up-and-coming Panthers squad. 20. Dallas Cowboys (From Green Bay Packers): T.J. ParkerT.J. Parker (Image Credits: Imagn) Trading for Rashan Gary was a nice way to bolster the Cowboys’ pass-rush. But, we can’t help but wonder how much this D could take off if Jerry Jones added a player like Parker to complement Gary AND Quinnen Williams. Now you’d have three capable game-changing pass-rushers. Just like that, Gary, Williams, and Parker make the Micah Parsons trade look a lot better for Dallas. 21. Detroit Lions (From Pittsburgh Steelers): Caleb LomuOct 11, 2025; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Utah Utes quarterback Devon Dampier (4) celebrates scoring a touchdown against the Arizona State Sun Devils with Utah Utes offensive lineman Caleb Lomu (71) during the second quarter at Rice-Eccles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images The Lions released fan favorite Taylor Decker in a surprise move. That came a year after Frank Ragnow retired, leaving Detroit’s once-elite offensive line in limbo. Well, the decision to trade down for Pittsburgh works out nicely as they watch Utah product Caleb Lomu slip on the blue and white jersey. 22. Los Angeles Chargers: Cashius HowellNov 15, 2025; College Station, Texas, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive end Cashius Howell (9) reacts after a defensive play during the first quarter against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images The Chargers brought back Khalil Mack, yes, but they need more edge rushers to break through in a crowded AFC. Texas A&M product Cashius Howell fits the bill here. Another hard-hitting, plug-and-play guy who fits the mould of a Jim Harbaugh-coached defense. 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Denzel BostonSep 6, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Washington Huskies wide receiver Denzel Boston (12) returns a punt for a touchdown against the UC Davis Aggies during the second quarter at Husky Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images Regardless of how the AJ Brown drama plays out, it’s clear the Eagles sorely need more receiving help. Here’s Howie Roseman’s chance to get another playmaking weapon on a rookie deal. Boston averaged 14.2 yards per catch in his final season at Washington. His ability to stretch the field could easily solve Philly’s struggles in the aerial attack game. 24. Cleveland Browns (From Jacksonville Jaguars): Monroe FreelingNov 9, 2024; Oxford, Mississippi, USA; Georgia Bulldogs offensive lineman Monroe Freeling (57) blocks during the first half against the Mississippi Rebels at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images The Browns lost Joel Bitonio and Wyatt Teller and tried to find reinforcements by signing Zion Johnson and Elgton Jenkins. It’s a start, but they need more juice up front via the NFL Draft. Georgia’s Monroe Freeling is another capable day-one starter who will provide ample protection up front for Cleveland’s next starting QB. His run-blocking needs work, but the pass protection skills are worth banking on. 25. Chicago Bears: Peter WoodsPeter Woods (Image Credits: Imagn) If there was one weakness on the surprising 2025 Bears, it was the lack of pass-rushing depth after Montez Sweat. That can be addressed immediately here by taking the 315-pound defensive tackle out of Clemson. Woods would fix up Chicago’s leaky run defense while providing more pass-rushing support alongside Sweat. 26. Buffalo Bills: Dillon ThienemanDillon Thieneman (Image Credits: Imagn) The Bills’ secondary has gotten worse with each passing year. And we’re not sure it can improve much, with this current group, now that defensive wiz Sean McDermott is no longer here to help. Buffalo addressed its need for a receiver by acquiring DJ Moore from the Bears. They can focus on their next major issue, the secondary, by grabbing this do-it-all workhorse out of Oregon. 27. San Francisco 49ers: K.C. ConcepcionKC Concepcion (Image Credits: Imagn) Now that we know Brandon Aiyuk is DEFINITELY not returning to the 49ers, they have an easy call to take the best remaining wide receiver here. Yes, the 49ers signed Mike Evans in free agency. But like All-Pro tight end George Kittle, Evans is in his mid-30s and carries plenty of injury risk. The 49ers can draft and develop Concepcion to eventually take over as the long-term WR1 that Aiyuk couldn’t become in the NFL. 28. Seattle Seahawks (From Houston Texans): Colton HoodSep 27, 2025; Starkville, Mississippi, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive back Colton Hood (8) runs with the ball after an interception against the Mississippi State Bulldogs during the first half at Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field. Mandatory Credit: Wesley Hale-Imagn Images Projected trade alert! The defending champs acquire the No. 28 pick from the Texans in exchange for the No. 32 selection and a 2027 third-round pick. Seattle makes the aggressive move for another stud defensive back after losing Tariq Woolen and Coby Bryant in free agency. Their secondary won’t miss a beat with Hood, Devon Witherspoon, and Nick Emmanwori leading the way. 29. Kansas City Chiefs (From Los Angeles Rams): Brandon CisseBrandon Cisse (Image Credits: Imagn) It’d be a surprise if the Chiefs didn’t use one of their first-round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft on a corner after trading Trent McDuffie to the Rams, who also signed away another stud KC cornerback in Jaylen Watson. Cisse might be a bit of a reach here, but the Chiefs develop talent better than any other franchise. Even if he has some growing pains as a rookie, it’s worth betting on his upside. 30. Miami Dolphins (From Denver Broncos): Blake MillerClemson offensive lineman Blake Miller (78) during Spring Practice in Clemson, S.C. Monday, March 24, 2025. The Dolphins signed Malik Willis to be their new QB1. We had them using the No. 11 pick on a receiver. Now they can shift the attention toward rebuilding a leaky offensive line. Clemson’s Blake Miller earned back-to-back First Team All-ACC selections in 2024 and 2025. He might not be a day-one starter, but the rebuilding Dolphins don’t have to rush him into the lineup. They can be patient with his development. 31. New England Patriots: Kenyon SadiqKenyon Sadiq (Image Credits: Imagn) Judging by their moves in free agency, it looks like the Pats will wait until the NFL draft to bring in more weaponry for Drake Maye. That’s fine as long as they use the picks wisely. Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq would be an excellent value pick here. If other teams aren’t valuing tight ends this year, it would work out very well for the defending AFC champs. Sadiq could immediately step in as the Pats’ top receiving target. 32. Houston Texans (From Seattle Seahawks): Omar Cooper Jr.Feb 27, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana wideout Omar Cooper Jr. (WO17) speaks to members of the media during the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images Trading down proves worthwhile for the Texans, who get a quality wide receiver that the offense sorely needs. CJ Stroud really missed Tank Dell last year, and his game was terrible when opposing defenses contained Nico Collins. Stroud could regain that star-like form from 2023 with a player like Cooper taking the pressure off of Collins.
Athlon Sports NFL Draft expert Luke Easterling puts on his GM hat for every team picking in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft with this updated projection.
It was all in good spirits when longtime Denver Bronco Von Miller played an April Fool’s prank on Instagram, posting that he signed with the Las Vegas Raiders.Even Tom Brady and Maxx Crosby were in on the joke, with Brady commenting,”🔥🔥🔥” and Crosby commenting, “👀👀👀👀🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥.”But despite the prank, a lot of Raiders fans are curious […] The post Is Von Miller A Genuine Option for the Raiders Despite Recent News? appeared first on Heavy Sports.
The Cincinnati Bengals identified which players they wanted early in free agency, as they made three key additions during the first week. Since then, the team has added only two quarterbacks who will be behind Pro Bowl quarterback Joe Burrow on the depth chart.The largest contract the Bengals handed this offseason was a three-year, $60 […] The post Bengals Pushed to Sign $110 Million Starter in Free Agency appeared first on Heavy Sports.
A look at Jalon Kilgore’s parents: the pastor father and supportive mother behind the South Carolina defensive back
Bengals can make one of their best players uniquely happy by drafting fan favorite prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft A to Z Sports
The Cincinnati Bengals can’t afford distractions. Every move, every contract, every draft pick now exists under a different lens. Does it help win a Super Bowl right now? That urgency changes everything. It eliminates the luxury of long-term experiments. The 2026 NFL Draft is no longer about potential for Cincinnati but about precision. With a […] The post 2 players Bengals must avoid picking in 2026 NFL Draft appeared first on ClutchPoints.
Joe Burrow and his rumored girlfriend, Olivia Ponton, are continuing to spend time together in Los Angeles.
The Las Vegas Raiders need to improve their QB room, as Aidan O’Connell is the only player on the roster. Nonetheless, many expect the Silver and Black to take former Indiana Hoosiers QB Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick.As for who could be the third QB in the room for the Raiders, it […] The post Insider Shares Major Kirk Cousins Update Amid Raiders Prediction appeared first on Heavy Sports.
If this doesn’t sum up the Cleveland Browns, I don’t know what does. The NFL released their annual coaches photo yesterday, a group shot of all of the league’s head coaches that’s taken annually during the league’s spring meeting. Well, almost all of them. This year’s photo featured 30 of the 32 head coaches, with Los Angeles Rams coach Sean McVay missing out on the photo along with new Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken. Annual NFL head coach photo […] The post Cleveland Browns Head Coach Misses Annual Coaches Photo – Because He Was Getting His Hair Cut For The Photo first appeared on Whiskey Riff.
Not many college football programs produced multiple future NFL head coaches, but Michigan was once home to Jim Harbaugh, Mike Macdonald and Jesse Minter, all in the last five years. Cincinnati Bengals cornerback DJ Turner II, who played for all three in Ann Arbor, knew what was in store for his former defensive coordinators from […] The post Bengals DB heaps praise on Seahawks, Ravens head coaches appeared first on ClutchPoints.
ESPN's latest mock draft predicts the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will draft "Below Average" QB Luke Altmyer in 7th round. The post Bucs Draft Prediction Lands ‘Below Average’ Big Ten QB appeared first on Heavy Sports.
Analysts predict the Cincinnati Bengals will draft Florida DT Caleb Banks despite an injury history making him a major risk.
The craziness of NFL free agency is mostly over this offseason, as the top free agents have all signed big-money deals and found their home for the 2026-27 NFL season. With players like Kenneth Walker III, Malik Willis, Travis Etienne, Jaylen Waddle, and Mike Evans all latching on to new teams this offseason, there has […] The post NFL Power Rankings, Post Free Agency: Seahawks remain atop the league appeared first on ClutchPoints.
The Cincinnati Bengals’ offseason has gone as expected. The team is not known for taking big swings, and despite reports revealing that the team had interest in Pro Bowl pass rusher Maxx Crosby, the Bengals have not made any shocking additions during free agency.Perhaps the biggest news is something that Bengals fans had long expected, […] The post Bengals Urged to Sign $20 Million Starter in Free Agency appeared first on Heavy Sports.
SPOTTED: Joe Burrow’s rumored GF Olivia Ponton takes casual stroll with Bengals QB in L.A. Sportskeeda
The Cincinnati Bengals entered the offseason with a chance of altering the course of their immediate future. Unlike the rest of the NFL teams that will be picking alongside them in the top 10 of the NFL Draft, the Bengals already possess an elite quarterback and one of the best skill groups in the league. What […] The post Bengals Get New Information on Potential Maxx Crosby Trade appeared first on Heavy Sports.
The Cincinnati Bengals entered free agency with a chance of making a big splash and improving their defense ahead of the 2026 season. With over $50 million in available cap space and a top-10 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, the Bengals possessed capital to pull off major moves.Instead, the Bengals followed a more patient […] The post Bengals Pitched Signing of $74 Million Starter in Free Agency appeared first on Heavy Sports.
After a Super Bowl appearance during the 2021 season, the Cincinnati Bengals seemed poised for a decade of success with their young core of players. They followed that with an AFC Championship appearance during the 2022 season. However, since then, things have taken a turn for the worse as the team has now missed the […] The post Former Bengals Player Doesn’t Hold Back on Joe Burrow and Team appeared first on Heavy Sports.
Free agency is a tricky time of year… it is challenging for front offices when their hopes meet reality, and they need to find a way to fill all the holes on their NFL teams and keep their current talent in place. So every offseason we see good players leave, at times, good teams, for one reason or another—and in some cases, they end up being the kind of moves that haunt a front office for years. Let’s run through all 32 teams and break down the players that they absolutely shouldn’t have let walk in the 2026 free agency period. Which players for each NFL team should have stayed in free agency? Arizona Cardinals: Calais Campbell, DLNov 9, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Calais Campbell (93) looks on before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images Campbell is 39 years old and came back to Arizona in 2025 to finish his career where it started… And the man was still producing at a rotational level most 30-year-olds would envy. His contract expired, and while retirement remains on the table, most analysts around the league expect him to lace them up for another year… but Arizona missed the boat on bringing him back. Which is a shame because he could have been a big piece for them in the rebuild post Kyler Murray. Atlanta Falcons: Leonard Floyd, EdgeDec 21, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Atlanta Falcons defensive end Leonard Floyd (56) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Floyd was a reliable edge presence for the Falcons—a veteran who could set the edge, generate a pass rush, and give a young defense the structure it needed. And it is safe to assume that his downturn in production was a result of the Falcons’ team struggles more than anything. Letting a veteran edge rusher of his caliber leave when your NFL team is still trying to establish an identity is a bigger mistake than it looks. Baltimore Ravens: Tyler Linderbaum, CJun 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 This one still stings… Linderbaum made three straight Pro Bowls, anchoring the Ravens’ interior line, and Baltimore declined his fifth-year option rather than pay him market rate because of the myth of positional value. The Raiders blew the entire center market apart with a three-year, $81 million deal—$27 million per year, nine million more annually than the previous record. The Ravens reportedly offered $22 million annually… Which is… just $1million more. Considering the window that they are trying to capitalize on, maybe they should have exercised the option and tried to figure out the long-term deal down the road! Buffalo Bills: Tre'Davious White, CBBuffalo Bills cornerback Tre’davious White (27) celebrates the game-deciding interception during the fourth quarter of an NFL football AFC Wild Card playoff matchup, Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Bills defeated the Jaguars 27-24. [Corey Perrine/Florida Times-Union] White posted 40 tackles and a team-high 10 passes defensed, his best mark since 2020, and by the back half of the season, analysts were noting he resembled the cornerback who was one of the best in football before his ACL tear. The Bills are already thin in the secondary after losing Taron Johnson, Darius Slay, and Jordan Poyer this offseason… maybe they should’ve tried to bring the vet back into the fold for one more year instead of asking a group of unproven corners to hold up behind a defense that needs to be elite if this NFL team is going to finally get over the hump. Carolina Panthers: Rico Dowdle, RBNov 9, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle (5) during player introductions at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images Dowdle finished 2025 with 1,076 yards on the ground and was the engine that kept the offense moving and this team relevant in the back half of the year. His production gave Bryce Young a legitimate running game to lean on, and when you have a young quarterback still finding his footing, a ball carrier who takes pressure off your passing game is worth more than the raw stats suggest. Chicago Bears: Nahshon Wright, CBChicago Bears cornerback Nahshon Wright (26) throws the game ball into the crowd as Green Bay Packers wide receiver Christian Watson (9) reacts to losing the game at the end of their wild-card playoff football game Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. Wright picked off five passes in 2025. He’s 26 years old. And the Bears just let him walk to the Jets on a one-year, $5.5 million deal. That’s not a market-breaking number — that’s a number that his NFL team could have matched without blinking. Have to wonder what they were thinking on this one. Cincinnati Bengals: Joseph Ossai, DENov 3, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Joseph Ossai (58) runs onto the field before the game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images Ossai joined the Jets on a three-year, $36 million contract, meaning Cincinnati is now rolling with Boye Mafe, Myles Murphy, and Shemar Stewart at defensive end. Mafe is the only proven one in that group, and he’s never cracked six sacks in a season. Not exactly a group that instills hope that a defensive revival is in the making. Cleveland Browns: Devin Bush, LBDevin Bush (Ken Blaze-Imagn Images) Bush came to Cleveland on cheap one-year prove-it deals two straight years and turned his career completely around. In 2025, he started all 17 games, posted a career-high 125 tackles, two sacks, two forced fumbles, and three interceptions. That’s not a depth piece. That’s an NFL starter playing at an All-Pro level for a team that was paying him almost nothing. Chicago saw it, signed him to a three-year, $30 million deal with $21 million guaranteed, and now Cleveland is starting over at the position. Dallas Cowboys: Jadeveon Clowney, DENov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Dallas Cowboys defensive end Jadeveon Clowney (42) celebrates after he sacks Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) during the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Arizona Cardinals at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images Say what you will about Jadeveon Clowney, but he still led the Cowboys with 8.5 sacks in 2025 at age 32. Now he’s expected to leave as a free agent, and Dallas hasn’t replaced him with anyone. Here’s the thing about Clowney — everybody forgets about him in March, and then he goes out and puts up numbers every year. Dallas is going to be hurting without him, as that defense really left a lot to be desired. Denver Broncos: Dre Greenlaw, LBSep 21, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Denver Broncos linebacker Dre Greenlaw (57) on the sidelines prior to the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images Greenlaw was brought to Denver last offseason specifically to bring championship experience into that building… and now they were a healthy Bo Nix away from a Super Bowl in January… That window is open right now—and you have to think this team will be kicking themselves come playoffs next year without an NFL player of his pedigree. Detroit Lions: Alex Anzalone, LBDetroit Lions linebacker Alex Anzalone celebrates a tackle against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland, on Monday, Sept. 22, 2025. Tampa Bay signed Anzalone to a two-year, $17 million deal that Detroit apparently wasn’t interested in matching. The Lions are betting their younger linebackers can step up… and maybe they can. But Anzalone was the guy who understood Dan Campbell’s defense from the inside, including the communication at the second level, the disguise work before the snap, and the situational awareness in late-game situations. That’s not something you replace by plugging in whoever is next on the depth chart. Green Bay Packers: Romeo Doubs, WRGreen Bay Packers wide receiver Romeo Doubs (87) flashes a heart with his hands to the fans as he walks off the field after defeating the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, October 13, 2024, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis. The Packers won the game, 34-13 Tork Mason/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin Doubs signed with New England and now gives Drake Maye a legitimate option underneath… Good for the Patriots… But for the Packers, that’s a problem. Jordan Love needs weapons to throw the ball to, and instead of adding to their already thin wide receiver room, they are bleeding talent. Houston Texans: Tim Settle, DTOct 20, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Houston Texans defensive tackle Tim Settle (98) warms up before the game against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images Settle left for Washington on a three-year, $25.5 million deal, and to say that Houston will be missing him this year is an understatement. Losing a proven interior piece on defense at the same time means this roster is in transition on both sides of the ball simultaneously. Settle wasn’t flashy. He ate blocks, stayed in his lane, and let Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter do their thing. That kind of player is harder to replace for an NFL team than the contract suggests. Indianapolis Colts: Kwity Paye, DEDec 7, 2025; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Indianapolis Colts defensive end Kwity Paye (51) looks on before a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images Paye signed with the Las Vegas Raiders on a three-year, $48 million deal after posting at least four sacks in each of his five NFL seasons, including two years over eight for his previous team. He was the best edge rusher on this roster, and Indianapolis let him walk. The Colts are now piecing together a pass rush to forge their way back towards relevance. Jacksonville Jaguars: Travis Etienne, RBDec 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 Etienne ran for over 1,000 yards in three of his four seasons in Jacksonville, set a career high with 13 touchdowns in 2025, and was the most complete offensive player on this roster. The Saints made him an offer Jacksonville couldn’t… or wouldn’t match. Losing your best offensive weapon while the front office counts future draft slots isn’t the message you want to send to a locker room that already had questions about where this franchise is heading. Kansas City Chiefs: Jawaan Taylor, OTAug 9, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Kansas City Chiefs offensive tackle Jawaan Taylor (74) against the Arizona Cardinals during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Taylor’s $27.3 million cap hit made this a financial necessity, and Kansas City released him on March 4 to clear the space. He was their starting right tackle for three seasons, including a Super Bowl run. Now he’s a free agent, while Patrick Mahomes is rehabbing a torn ACL, and the Chiefs are rebuilding almost every other position on the roster at the same time. Not ideal! Las Vegas Raiders: Jamal Adams, SNov 6, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Las Vegas Raiders linebacker Jamal Adams (33) practices before the game at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images Adams hasn’t been the player he was in New York in years. Multiple knee surgeries, diminishing production — the Raiders knew what they were getting and made the bet anyway… and the output was better than expected. It feels like a safe conclusion that Vegas could have brought him back on a modest 1- or 2-year deal and gotten a lot of value from his skill set and veteran presence. Los Angeles Chargers: Odafe Oweh, EdgeDec 14, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Los Angeles Chargers linebacker Odafe Oweh (98) celebrates a sack against the Kansas City Chiefs during the second half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images Oweh broke out in the second half of 2025 and signed a four-year, $100 million deal with Washington. The Chargers watched that happen without matching it, and now they have a hole at edge rusher with no answer for it. Oweh is 26 years old and clearly figured out how to consistently win against NFL tackles, but now he’s going to hit his prime somewhere else. Jim Harbaugh wants to go deep in the playoffs with Justin Herbert, but right now, that plan has a gap, as this NFL team still has some serious holes to plug. Los Angeles Rams: Tutu Atwell, WROct 2, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Tutu Atwell (5) reacts against the San Francisco 49ers during the second half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images While he never turned into the regular big play guy that Los Angeles was hoping… Tutu Atwell was a nice player for them and filled an important role in this NFL team. The problem for the Rams is that they just lost the fastest receiver on their roster — the one guy who forced safeties to play deep. Without Atwell running past defensive backs, coverage rotations get simpler, defenders crowd the short-to-intermediate game, and Matthew Stafford’s job gets harder. Miami Dolphins: Tyreek Hill, WRDec 8, 2024; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill (10) looks on after making a catch against the New York Jets during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images Hill tore his ACL in Week 4 last season and was done. Before that, the production had already started sliding. Now, the new front office looked at a $51 million cap hit, $16 million about to trigger in guaranteed money, a 32-year-old coming off a torn ACL… and made what was probably the financially correct decision. But that doesn’t make it any less painful for the Dolphins fans. Minnesota Vikings: Jalen Nailor, WRMinnesota Vikings wide receiver Jalen Nailor (83) celebrates scoring a touchdown with teamates during their football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday, December 29, 2024, at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Nailor signed with the Raiders for three years and $35 million with $25 million guaranteed after three years operating in the shadows of Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, quietly doing the work — taking the tough assignments, winning on underneath routes, making third-down catches when the defense had the Vikings’ top options blanketed. Casual NFL fans may not expect it, but this team will miss him big time next year. New England Patriots: Stefon Diggs, WRStefon Diggs. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Diggs was a big part of a Super Bowl run in New England last year… but that didn’t stop Vrabel from releasing him this offseason. At 32, with a sizable cap hit and a history of making things difficult wherever he’s been, this wasn’t a shocking call. But releasing a player of this caliber without a clear plan for who fills that role is the kind of move that could just show up on third and eight in November. New Orleans Saints: Alontae Taylor, CBJun 10, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints cornerback Alontae Taylor (1) looks on during minicamp at Ochsner Sports Performance Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images The Saints are already in a difficult spot, and losing Taylor made it considerably more difficult. He signed with Tennessee for three years and $60 million — and this wasn’t a surprise departure; it was a talent drain for an NFL team that is desperate to be competitive again. New York Giants: Wan'Dale Robinson, WRNov 23, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; New York Giants wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson (17) runs upfield after catching a swing pass in the second quarter against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images Four years, $78 million with the Titans. Gone. Big Blue said that it didn’t fit the budget for a team still rebuilding, and the cap logic makes sense on paper. The Giants have been reconstructing this receiver room for a decade without solving it. Nothing about this offseason suggests that’s about to change. New York Jets: Quincy Williams, LBNew York Jets linebacker Quincy Williams (56) drops back on defense during an NFL Week 10 game between the New York Jets and the Cleveland Browns at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 9, 2025. 2023 wasn’t that long ago… When Williams posted 139 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, and 10 passes defensed and was legitimately one of the best linebackers in football. Then 2025 happened. Shoulder injury, hand injury, a brief benching, his brother Quinnen traded to Dallas mid-season… the whole thing unraveled. His coverage numbers were a disaster, and the Jets moved on. Cleveland saw a different story, though — two years, $17 million for a guy who, in the right scheme, has proven he can be an All-Pro for an NFL team. New York may regret this one… but what else is new?! Philadelphia Eagles: Jaelan Phillips, EdgeNov 16, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Jaelan Phillips (50) reacts after the game against the Detroit Lions at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images It feels like every offseason the Eagles roster gets picked apart, and this year was no different, as Philly lost their best pass rusher. Phillips signed the richest edge contract in the entire offseason — four years, $120 million with Carolina. Cap constraints are real, sure. So is the gap between Phillips and whoever lines up in his spot Week 1. Pittsburgh Steelers: Isaac Seumalo, OGNov 2, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers guard Isaac Seumalo warms up foe a game against the Indianapolis Colts.at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images Isaac Seumalo quietly anchored Pittsburgh’s offensive line through a season where protecting the quarterback position was an absolute must—and he did a heck of a job. Pittsburgh has paid a lot of attention to its skill position players this offseason, but if the line in front of them is a real problem, none of those additions will matter. San Francisco 49ers: Jauan Jennings, WRJan 11, 2026; Philadelphia, PA, USA; San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jauan Jennings (15) reacts in front of Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Cooper DeJean (33) after a first down catch in an NFC Wild Card Round game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images In 2025, with the slew of injuries on the roster, Jennings was the 49ers’ offense. Fifty-five catches, 643 yards, nine touchdowns — team-high. And he did it playing through broken ribs and both high and low ankle sprains simultaneously. Losing him is going to be a bigger problem for this NFL team than most people think. Seattle Seahawks: Kenneth Walker III, RBNov 16, 2025; Inglewood, California, USA; Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III (9) runs the ball against Los Angeles Rams safety Kam Curl (3) during the second half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images Well—this was an easy one… Seattle lost the Super Bowl LX MVP. Over 1,400 yards in 2025 and 5he engine of the entire offense on the biggest stage in the sport. And Seattle didn’t pay him. Time will tell how big a mistake that was! Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Mike Evans, WRMike Evans (Photo By Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images) Twelve seasons. Eleven straight 1,000-yard years — tied with Jerry Rice for the all-time record. The face of the franchise through everything that happened post-Brady. And Evans signed with San Francisco because he looked at this roster and decided Tampa wasn’t going to give him a real shot at a ring. Ouch. Tennessee Titans: L'Jarius Sneed, CBTennessee Titans cornerback L’Jarius Sneed (38) heads off the field after a goal-line stop against the p/ during their game at Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tenn., Sunday, Sept. 22, 2024. Four years, $76.4 million. Two seasons. Zero interceptions. That’s what the Sneed experiment cost this franchise. He played 12 games, needed knee and quad surgeries, and the Titans released him to clear $11.4 million in cap space. Letting him go was the right call… There was nothing else to do… but it still hurts! Washington Commanders: Deebo Samuel, WRSep 28, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Washington Commanders wide receiver Deebo Samuel (1) shown on the field during the game against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images Last season was a disaster, and shockingly, Deebo was one of the few guys who showed up anyway, quietly putting up 72 catches, 727 yards, and five touchdowns. That’s one of the steals of the 2025 offseason… and now the Commanders are letting him walk.
The Baltimore Ravens can fix a Trey Hendrickson problem by selecting a "poster boy" edge-rusher in the first round of the 2026 NFL draft. The post Ravens Can Solve Trey Hendrickson Problem With Draft ‘Poster Boy’ appeared first on Heavy Sports.
