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Minnesota Vikings

Vikings’ biggest need to address in 2026 NFL Draft after failing to find it in free agency

This has been an offseason of correction for the Minnesota Vikings. A year ago, the Vikings were content to turn their quarterback position over to a player with no experience and the hope that J.J. McCarthy would step in and become a star. McCarthy had been drafted with the No. 10 pick in 2024, but […] The post Vikings’ biggest need to address in 2026 NFL Draft after failing to find it in free agency appeared first on ClutchPoints.

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2026 NFL Mock Draft 5.0: Post-NFL free agency frenzy

With NFL free agency winding down, teams’ rosters have changed dramatically in the last few weeks. That means needs in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft have shifted as well. What a team did (or did not do) in free agency can be quite telling about its plans in April. So, with that in mind, let’s […] The post 2026 NFL Mock Draft 5.0: Post-NFL free agency frenzy appeared first on ClutchPoints.

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Vikings’ Justin Jefferson Hit With Massive Contract Prediction

Minnesota Vikings wideout Justin Jefferson has seen two wide receivers pass him as the highest-paid players at the position, with the latest being Seattle Seahawks‘ Jaxon Smith-Njigba.On March 23, ESPN reported, citing sources, that the Seahawks and Smith-Njigba agreed on a four-year, $168.6 million contract extension that makes him the highest-paid wide receiver in NFL […] The post Vikings’ Justin Jefferson Hit With Massive Contract Prediction appeared first on Heavy Sports.

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Every NFL Team’s Best 2026 Offseason Moves So Far

The offseason is the time of year when every NFL team either hits the reset button and/or finds that missing piece to further build upon a playoff or Super Bowl-contending roster for years to come. While some teams make questionable decisions for the upcoming season, each team also makes a wise decision that will shape their future in a very positive direction for long-term success.  Here are all 32 NFL teams’ best offseason moves so far. What were the best offseason moves for each NFL team? Arizona Cardinals: Bolstering the offensive lineJan 5, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of an Arizona Cardinals helmet at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The Cardinals had offensive line troubles in 2025, as Jacoby Brissett was sacked 43 times and Kyler Murray was sacked 16 times during the season. However, they made some good moves, signing some new offensive linemen to protect either Brissett or Gardner Minshew, depending on who’s under center. The Cardinals signed Isaac Seumalo to a three-year deal, signed offensive guard Matt Pryor to a one-year deal, and signed Elijah Wilkinson to a two-year deal this NFL offseason. Even though the Cardinals’ options at quarterback are bleak at the moment, having a stronger offensive line always helps, and a good offensive line is good for long-term solutions. Atlanta Falcons: Re-Signing Austin HooperAtlanta Falcons helmet (Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images) The Falcons’ offense has superb talent in Drake London, Kyle Pitts, and Bijan Robinson. However, re-signing Austin Hooper to a one-year deal helps the passing attack very well. Hooper is coming off a 2025 season that saw him catch 21 receptions for 263 yards and two touchdowns, while also helping the New England Patriots reach Super Bowl LX. Not the flashiest of numbers, but he still made an impact for the team in 2025. Hooper’s best years were in Atlanta, as he made two Pro Bowls during his first tenure with the team. He should form a good offensive chemistry with Michael Penix Jr. if he stays healthy for the long run.  Baltimore Ravens: Signing Trey Hendrickson after the Maxx Crosby Trade fell throughJan 11, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; A view of Baltimore Ravens players’ helmets on a heated bench against the Pittsburgh Steelers in an AFC wild card game at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images After the Maxx Crosby trade fell through after he failed a physical and the team showed concerns with his knee long-term, the Ravens signed Hendrickson to a four-year, $112 million deal.  Hendrickson brings elite pass-rushing production, which the Ravens’ defense needs, as they ranked 24th in total defense and 18th in defensive scoring in 2025, which wasn’t great. Hendrickson will work with Roquan Smith, Nnamdi Madubuike, Trenton Simpson, and Travis Jones, as they look to get the team’s defense back on track on being formidable and dangerous in 2026. Buffalo Bills: Trading for D. J. MooreJan 26, 2025; Kansas City, MO, USA; A detailed view of the Buffalo Bills helmet before the AFC Championship game against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images Josh Allen needs a game-changing wide receiver to work with, and the Bills trading a second-round pick for Moore and a fifth-round pick gives Allen that elusive playmaker he’s been lacking. Moore reunites with head coach Joe Brady, who was the Panthers’ offensive coordinator from 2020 to 2021, when Moore had two 1,000-yard seasons under his watch. Moore is a massive upgrade compared to Khalil Shakir and Keon Coleman, who both didn’t have 1,000-yard seasons, and is a couple of years younger than Brandin Cooks, who was 32 when he was on the Bills’ roster in 2025.  We can’t wait to see what Allen and Moore will accomplish in the Bills’ offense in the 2026 season. Carolina Panthers: Signing Devin LloydDec 8, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Carolina Panthers helmet rests on the bench against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images The Panthers may have overpaid for Jalean Phillips this offseason, but they also signed Devin Lloyd, who is coming off an NFL Pro Bowl season with the Jaguars in 2025. Lloyd signed a three-year, $45 million deal with the team and looks to be a long-term anchor on the Panthers’ defense that ranked 16th in 2025.  Lloyd’s strength and skill set give Carolina an elite defender in the pass-rush since Luke Kuechly was on the team. We can’t wait to see what he and Phillips can do in the 2026 season. Chicago Bears: Trading for Garrett BradburyNov 3, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Chicago Bears helmet at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images When Drew Dalman retired, the Bears immediately made their move and traded for Garrett Bradbury, as he has started in 105 games so far in his career. Adding Bradbury to the Bears’ offensive line further adds necessary protection for Caleb Williams, as they look to repeat their offensive success from 2025 into 2026.  Not to mention, Bradbury helped the Patriots reach the Super Bowl in 2025, and he has a high football IQ, which is a nice bonus for the Bears moving forward. Cincinnati Bengals: Signing Boye MafeDec 1, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; A general view of the helmet of Cincinnati Bengals long snapper Cal Adomitis (48) during warmups before the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images When the Bengals released Trey Hendrickson, they immediately needed help in the pass rush this NFL offseason. So they signed Super Bowl LX champion Boye Mafe to a three-year, $60 million deal, hoping he can revamp their defense. Mafe is coming off a 2025 season where he had 31 tackles and two sacks, five pass deflections, and a forced fumble in Seattle.  Mafe should be able to improve his numbers under defensive coordinator Al Golden for the start of the 2026 season.  Cleveland Browns: Signing Elgton JenkinsNov 17, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Detailed view of the Cleveland Browns helmets on a time out against the New Orleans Saints during the first half at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images Even though the Browns likely overpaid for Zion Williamson, they did add Pro Bowler Elgton Jenkins on a two-year, $24 million deal.  Jenkins protected Aaron Rodgers and Jordan Love during his tenure with the Packers and should provide Shedeur Sanders or whoever else under center the protection they need in the 2026 season. Jenkins also brings stability and longevity to the Browns’ offensive line, which is very needed for the team moving forward. Dallas Cowboys: Re-Signing Javonte WilliamsDallas Cowboys helmet before the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images A sneaky move the Cowboys made was re-signing Williams to a three-year, $24 million deal. Williams had his best statistical season and rushed for over 1,000 yards for the first time in his career. Williams is still young, as he’s going to be 26 when the 2026 season kicks off, and having him on the roster for a low price is crucial for a long-term solution for other positions.  Denver Broncos: Trading for Jaylen WaddleOct 12, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; A general view of a Denver Broncos helmet against the Kansas City Chiefs prior to a game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports The Broncos made the move of the NFL offseason by trading their first (30th overall), third (94th overall), and fourth-round (130th overall) picks to the Dolphins for Waddle’s services. Waddle further bolsters the team’s passing attack, which already has Courtland Sutton and Marvin Mims, by giving Bo Nix another Pro Bowl-caliber wide receiver to throw to.  Waddle will do wonders in head coach Sean Payton and Davis Webb’s offense in the 2026 season. If the Broncos kept him, he would’ve been able to clean things up  Detroit Lions: Signing Center Cade MaysHelmet of Detroit Lions place kicker Jake Bates (not in the photo) before the NFC divisional round between Detroit Lions and Washington Commanders] at Ford Field in Detroit on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025. After losing Frank Ragnow to retirement before the start of the 2025 season, the Lions found their solution at center with Mays, who signed a three-year, $25 million deal. Mays’ addition to the Lions is a low-cost move with a lot of upside, as it provides the Lions’ offensive line more stability and further protection for Jared Goff.  Mays should continue to develop and become a mainstay on the Lions’ offensive line.  Green Bay Packers: Trading for Zaire FranklinJan 12, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Green Bay Packers helmet on the sidelines against the Philadelphia Eagles in an NFC wild card game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images The Packers traded DT Colby Wooden to the Colts for linebacker Zaire Franklin, who is coming off a season where he had 125 tackles, five pass deflections, and a forced fumble in 2025.  Franklin bolsters the Packers’ run defense and provides veteran leadership for the team, which was ranked 12th in 2025.  Watch out for the Packers’ defense making noise in the 2026 season. Houston Texans: Upgrading the offensive lineAug 9, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; A Houston Texans helmet sits on the sidelines during the 4th quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-USA TODAY Sports The Texans’ offensive line was bad in 2025, even though C. J. Stroud wasn’t the most sacked quarterback in 2025. The Texans decided to bolster their offensive line this NFL offseason by signing Braden Smith, Wyatt Teller, and Evan Brown.  These three guys should be able to strengthen the team’s offensive line and provide Stroud with the protection he needs in 2026, and provide a running route for newly acquired running back David Montgomery.  Indianapolis Colts: Keeping Alec PierceDec 1, 2024; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; An Indianapolis Colts helmet sits on an equipment case during the first half against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-Imagn Images Pierce has been a mainstay on the Colts’ offense, as he produced his first of hopefully many 1,000 receiving yard seasons in 2025.  Pierce signed a four-year, $116 million extension with the Colts as he’s becoming the cornerstone of the team’s passing attack.  We can’t wait to see what Pierce can do in 2026. Jacksonville Jaguars: Re-Signing Montaric BrownNov 3, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars helmets on the sidelines against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images The Jaguars didn’t make much noise in the 2026 NFL offseason, but they did re-sign cornerback Montaric Brown to a three-year, $33 million extension with the team. Brown had 51 tackles, 12 pass deflections, and two interceptions in the 2025 season. Keeping Brown on the roster solidifies the Jaguars’ secondary and makes them more threatening to square off against in 2026. Kansas City Chiefs: Signing Kenneth Walker IIIFeb 9, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; Detailed view of a Kansas City Chiefs helmet in Super Bowl LIX at Ceasars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The Chiefs made a massive upgrade in the ground game by signing Super Bowl LX-MVP Kenneth Walker III to a three-year, $43 million deal. Walker III gives the Chiefs a new explosive runner who’ll cause havoc on the ground compared to Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt, who didn’t rush for 1,000 rushing yards in 2025.  Las Vegas Raiders: Signing Tyler LinderbaumAug 23, 2024; Paradise, Nevada, USA; A Las Vegas Raiders Riddell speedflex helmet on the field at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports The Raiders made a massive move this NFL offseason, signing Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum to a three-year, $81-million deal.  Linderbaum brings veteran leadership, Pro Bowl-caliber talent, and incredible protection for quarterbacks in the line. Linderbaum should do wonders with the Silver and Black in the 2026 regular season, as he’ll protect incoming quarterback Fernando Mendoza from a lot of sacks and pressures. Los Angeles Chargers: Signing Tyler BiadaszAug 12, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Chargers helmets on the bench at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports The Chargers’ offensive line was downright awful in 2025, as Justin Herbert was running for his life in most of the games he played in. Signing Tyler Biadasz to a three-year, $30 million deal will bolster the offensive line and provide Herbert with much-needed protection for the 2026 season.  Biadasz allowed three penalties and three sacks in the 2025 season and will make a great addition to the Chargers’ offensive line moving forward. Los Angeles Rams: Trading for Trent McDuffie and signing Jaylen WatsonJan 19, 2025; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Los Angeles Rams helmet on the sidelines against the Philadelphia Eagles in a 2025 NFC divisional round game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images The Rams gave their secondary a maximum boost, trading for McDuffie and signing Watson.  Both McDuffie and Watson are Super Bowl champion cornerbacks and provide the Rams’ secondary with more competitive depth that’ll compete well against opposing wide receivers in the league and in the NFC West. Watch out for Jackson Smith-Njigba.  Miami Dolphins: Signing Malik WillisAug 3, 2022; Miami Gardens, Florida, US; A general view of a Miami Dolphins helmet on the field during training camp at Baptist Health Training Complex. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports After releasing Tua Tagovailoa, the Dolphins needed an upgrade at quarterback, so they signed Malik Willis, reuniting him with head coach Jeff Hafley. Willis played well in games when Jordan Love was injured in 2025 with the Packers, and we expect Willis to do the same thing in Miami in 2026. Minnesota Vikings: Signing Kyler MurrayJan 13, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Detailed view of a Minnesota Vikings helmet during an NFC wild card game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The Vikings signed Kyler Murray to a one-year deal this NFL offseason, opening up quarterback competition between him and J. J. McCarthy. If Murray pans out and becomes the starter, he can potentially revive his career with the team, as Kevin O’Connell is a quarterback Guru. Just look at what he accomplished with Kirk Cousins and Sam Darnold, who won the Super Bowl with the Seahawks. New England Patriots: Signing Kevin ByardPatriots Helmet (Photo By Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports) The Patriots spent the NFL offseason upgrading the secondary by signing former Bear Kevin Byard to a one-year, $9 million deal. The Pats are getting a Pro Bowl safety who not only reunites with Mike Vrabel, but will also receive a ball hawk who led the league with seven interceptions in 2025.  New Orleans Saints: Signing David EdwardsDec 23, 2024; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; General view of a New Orleans Saints helmet during the game against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images The Saints had one of the worst offensive lines in the league in 2025, so they decided to sign David Edwards to a four-year, $61 million deal.  Edwards is very reliable, as he helped the Rams win Super Bowl LVI and has protected quarterbacks like Jared Goff, Matthew Stafford, and Josh Allen.  Edwards should work nicely protecting Tyler Shough.  New York Giants: Signing Isaiah LikelyOct 28, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; New York Giants helmets on the sidelines against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the third quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images The Harbaugh effect is real, TPSers. Signing Likely to a three-year, $40 million deal is worth every penny. Likely gives Jaxson Dart a new passing target and a security blanket for the 2026 season. Likely will also complement fellow tight end Theo Johnson as a one-two punch heading into the upcoming season.  New York Jets: Trading for Minkah FitzpatrickAug 17, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; New York Jets helmets during the second half against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports The Jets broke an NFL record by not recording an interception in the 2025 season, which was a new low for the franchise So the Jets traded for Minkah Fitzpatrick this offseason, who’ll boost the secondary and give them a fighting chance in the 2026 NFL season.  Fitzpatrick is a hard-hitting safety who’ll fit in quite nicely in Aaron Glenn’s and defensive coordinator Brian Duker’s schemes in 2026. Philadelphia Eagles: Signing Arnold EbiketieFeb 9, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; Detailed view of a Philadelphia Eagles helmet during Super Bowl LIX at Ceasars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The Eagles strengthened their pass-rush by signing Arnold Ebiketie to a one-year, $7.3 million deal. The Eagles got a steal for Ebiketie’s services, as he had 36 tackles, two sacks, and a pass deflection in 2025 with the Falcons. He should replicate Jaelan Phillips’ production quite nicely. Pittsburgh Steelers: Trading for Michael Pittman Jr.Steelers helmet (Photo via Eric Hartline-Imagn Images) The Steelers’ passing attack took a nice step forward by acquiring Michael Pittman Jr. via trade. Pittman Jr. will complement DK Metcalf quite nicely, no matter who’s under center, whether it’s Aaron Rodgers, if he chooses to come back to the Steelers, or if it’s Will Howard.  San Francisco 49ers: Signing Mike EvansSep 15, 2024; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; San Francisco 49ers helmets sits idle during the game against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images The 49ers will not have Brandon Aiyuk on the roster in 2026, so they addressed that issue by signing Mike Evans to the roster this NFL offseason. Evans is a massive upgrade, as he had 11 1,000-receiving-yard seasons during his tenure with the Buccaneers.  He and Purdy will do wonders together in the 2026 season, and we can’t wait to see it. Seattle Seahawks: Retaining Defensive TalentDec 8, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Seattle Seahawks helmet at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The defending Super Bowl champion Seahawks may have lost guys like Coby Bryant to free agency, but they managed to sign Josh Jobe to a three-year, $24 million extension and Drake Thomas to a two-year, $8 million contract. Retaining those guys keeps the “Dark Side” defense intact and allows the unit to continue being formidable and fierce during the 2026 season.  Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Signing Alex AnzaloneNov 4, 2024; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; A general view of Tampa Bay Buccaneers helmets against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first half at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images With Lavonte David in his mid to late 30s, the Bucs signed Alex Anzalone to a two-year, $17 million deal to bolster the team’s pass-rush. Anzalone is younger than David, also brings veteran leadership to the Bucs’ defense, and brings juice and firepower the unit truly needs to succeed in 2026. Tennessee Titans: Signing Wan’Dale RobinsonAug 25, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Detailed view of the Tennessee Titans helmet against the New Orleans Saints during the first half at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-USA TODAY Sports The Titans signed former Giants wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson to a three-year, $70 million deal, reuniting him with Brian Daboll, the team’s new offensive coordinator.  Robinson gives quarterback Cam Ward a brand new target to throw the ball to on offense. Robinson is also 25 and has plenty of years to continue producing at the professional level. Washington Commanders: Signing Nick CrossSep 29, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of a Washington Commanders helmet at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The Commanders bolstered their secondary by signing underrated safety Nick Cross to a two-year, $14 million deal. Cross is a low-risk move that adds excellent experience to the position and is a younger and more powerful replacement for Marshon Lattimore, who was released. We look forward to seeing Cross flourish in defensive coordinator Daronte Jones’ system.

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Anonymous NFL GM predicts Anthony Richardson’s next team

The NFL free agency period and trade market have slowed down after a flurry of moves at the start of the new league year. One name still floating around is Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson. The Colts allowed Richardson to seek a trade, and as of now, nothing has materialized for the former No. 4 … The post Anonymous NFL GM predicts Anthony Richardson’s next team appeared first on Larry Brown Sports.

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Minnesota Vikings should seriously consider trading down from No. 18 in the NFL Draft. Here are multiple offers that make sense – A to Z Sports

Minnesota Vikings should seriously consider trading down from No. 18 in the NFL Draft. Here are multiple offers that make sense  A to Z Sports

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Bills Insider Shares True Reason for Ryan Van Demark Exit to Vikings

The Minnesota Vikings bolstered their roster on March 20 by signing offensive tackle Ryan Van Demark, a move that adds valuable depth after injuries sidelined both of their starting tackles in 2025.Van Demark spent the majority of his career with the Buffalo Bills and entered the offseason as a restricted free agent. Buffalo placed the […] The post Bills Insider Shares True Reason for Ryan Van Demark Exit to Vikings appeared first on Heavy Sports.

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DeAndre Hopkins is interested in signing with 1 team

DeAndre Hopkins thinks he can still be a big help to an NFL team, and there is one particular franchise he seems to have in mind. The free agent wide receiver sounded extremely interested in playing for the Minnesota Vikings and teaming up with Kyler Murray, who he played with in Arizona. “Kyler … that’s … The post DeAndre Hopkins is interested in signing with 1 team appeared first on Larry Brown Sports.

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5 Absolute Steals of the 2026 NFL Offseason (And 5 Biggest Rip-offs)

Every single NFL offseason, the same thing happens… Teams fall in love with names. They start bidding against themselves on players they can’t quite afford. They sign a guy who had one great season and tell their fan base it’s the missing piece — and then the rest of the league quietly moves on, picking up legitimate contributors for a fraction of the price while nobody’s watching. This offseason has been a masterclass in both. There are teams that saw opportunity and pounced. And there are teams that saw a name on a jersey and just started writing checks. We’re going to break all of it down—the five best value deals of the 2026 NFL offseason and the five biggest rip-offs—let’s get into it. Which offseason deals are the best and the worst in the NFL? Value: Kyler Murray, QB, Minnesota VikingsKyler Murray. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images While Kyler Murray’s stock is just about as low as it’s ever been, the Vikings still have to be thanking their lucky stars that they were able to bring in the former first overall pick, given the price tag that they got him at. One-year on the veteran minimum—that’s what the Vikings paid to bring in a former top overall pick, a dual-threat quarterback, and a much-needed insurance policy to avoid spending another full season watching J.J. McCarthy look lost behind center. The Cardinals released Murray after he landed on injured reserve with a foot injury last November. But because his contract still had fully guaranteed money left on it, Arizona doesn’t get to just walk away from that obligation. The Cardinals are still on the hook for the bulk of his contract, so Minnesota was able to scoop him up for literal pennies on the dollar. For all his flaws, Kyler has shown repeatedly that he can play at a high level in this league.  The injury history is real, and nobody’s pretending it isn’t. But that’s a risk Minnesota is taking for $1.3 million this NFL offseason. That’s not a gamble — that’s essentially a free lottery ticket with real upside attached to it. If Murray stays healthy, this is the steal of the entire offseason. If it doesn’t work out, they cut him, and they’ve lost almost nothing. That’s how you win free agency. Ripoff: Daniel Jones, QB, Indianapolis ColtsIndianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones (Kirby Lee-Imagn Images) There is no denying that Daniel Jones looked like a man revived last season before he went down with the injury… but the context matters here, and there is no doubt that the devil is in the details! This is why so many eyebrows were raised when the Colts gave Daniel Jones such a large contract, considering he is currently recovering from a torn Achilles, and how much of his game relies on his mobility. It is fair to say here that the Colts were in a difficult position this NFL offseason. The transition tag they placed on Jones created leverage issues. But the follow-up question is one that nobody in Indianapolis seems to want to answer: who else was bidding for Daniel Jones? Who was the competition that drove this price to the largest two-year deal in NFL history? The Achilles compounds everything. A torn Achilles for a quarterback who relies on mobility is one of the more serious injury concerns you can have entering a season. The recovery is typically a full year. Indianapolis is going to spend most of 2026 managing his workload and hoping the leg holds — while paying him like he’s already proven to be a franchise cornerstone, when in reality it was… what? 7 or 8 good games? He has not proven himself as a franchise QB… He has proven to be a solid backup and a capable game manager. That’s not worth fifty million guaranteed. Not even close. Value: Mike Evans, WR, San Francisco 49ersMike Evans (Photo By Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images) The 49ers went 12-5 last season in spite of a litany of injuries… but bowed while the output was impressive, they did still bow out in the divisional round for the third time in four years.  They made it work at quarterback with Brock Purdy and Mac Jones… Christian McCaffrey was a stud… George Kittle was a beast… But what they didn’t have on offense was a true number one receiver, a proven commodity who could win on contested catches, command double teams, and give Brock Purdy a genuine downfield weapon. And then they went out and got exactly that this NFL offseason. Evans signed a three-year deal worth $42.4 million in base value, with incentives that push it toward $60 million if he earns them. For a player who has eleven consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons to start his career — tying Jerry Rice — that base number is extraordinarily reasonable. Now, the caveat is real, and we’re not going to bury it. Last season, Evans dealt with hamstring and collarbone injuries and played just eight games. He turns 33 in August. There is a version of this deal where the injuries have piled up, and the Evans that San Francisco is getting is not the Evans who dominated for over a decade in Tampa Bay. That is a legitimate concern. But considering Evans forwent the hometown discount in Tampa and signed with the 49ers for less money, San Fran should be feeling good… really good.  Evans is determined to get back to the big game and add a second Lombardi Trophy to his massive trophy case. Long story short— if Mike Evans has anything left in the tank, San Francisco just found their missing piece for a very reasonable price. Ripoff: Kenneth Walker III, RB, Kansas City ChiefsKenneth Walker III (Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images) The Chiefs needed a running back. That’s true. Their running game last year was genuinely bad — Kareem Hunt and Isiah Pacheco combined for just one run of more than twenty yards all season. One. Kenneth Walker had twelve such runs, including the postseason. The contrast is real, and the Chiefs identified a legitimate need. Here’s the problem with their prized signing this NFL offseason. Three years, $43 million is buy-high territory on a running back who just had the biggest stretch of his career, and it’s money committed to the one position in football where value craters the fastest. Walker is explosive when he’s on. But consistency has been an issue throughout his career, and the Chiefs are now paying him like he’s the version that dominated the playoff stretch rather than the guy who disappears for four-game stretches during the regular season.  Not to mention, running back contracts at this price almost never age well, and in Kansas City specifically, the offensive line is going to make whoever takes handoffs look better than they actually are. They could have found competent production at the position for significantly less money and allocated those resources elsewhere. Especially considering how many holes they had on their roster coming into this offseason. Value: Coby Bryant, S, Chicago BearsDec 8, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Seattle Seahawks cornerback Coby Bryant (8) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images This one doesn’t have the flash of some of the other moves this offseason, but it’s exactly the kind of signing that builds a real defense. Three years, $40 million for Coby Bryant coming off a Super Bowl run in Seattle. The Bears had both of their starting safeties from last season hit free agency, which left a significant hole at the back end of a defense that was already trying to find its identity. They needed a real answer. Bryant is a real answer. Here’s what the tape says. Bryant played a pure deep safety role in Seattle last season — lining up at that position on 94 percent of his snaps, which was third most among all safeties in the league. His on-ball production was outstanding—and he is just now starting to really enter his prime years. It is fair to say that it’s hard to separate what Bryant did individually from the benefit of playing in a well-organized Seattle system around elite teammates.  That’s a real question.  But at $13.3 million per year, the Bears aren’t paying for certainty, rather a high-probability outcome at a reasonable price for the position. Chicago’s defense needed a cornerstone at safety. This signing gives them one, and it doesn’t break the bank getting there. Ripoff: Trey Hendrickson, Edge, Baltimore RavensTrey Hendrickson (Sam Greene/The Enquirer-USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images) The Ravens backed out of the Maxx Crosby trade due to alleged medical concerns, and in doing so, they saved two first-round picks and preserved significant draft capital.  The problem is what happened next this NFL offseason. Four years. $112 million. Sixty million fully guaranteed. For Trey Hendrickson. Look… Hendrickson is a good football player. There is no doubt about that… many can get after the quarterback. In 2024, he had 17.5 sacks and led the league in pressures. That’s an elite season. But here’s what that number is missing: Hendrickson is entering his age-31 season. He played just seven games last year before landing on injured reserve. He has never been able to stay healthy for a full season consistently. And most importantly, he is, at his best, roughly 75 percent of the player that Maxx Crosby is. He is a liability in the run game, whereas Crosby is rock solid in all phases. You have to respect that the Ravens are pushing their chips into the middle of the table, but I don’t know if this was the right move. Value: K'Lavon Chaisson, Edge, Washington CommandersNov 9, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; New England Patriots linebacker K’Lavon Chaisson (44) walks downfield during the third quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images Two days after the Commanders signed Odafe Oweh to a big-money contract, they went out and added a second edge rusher at a fraction of the price, and this might actually be the smarter of the two deals. One year, $11 million for Chaisson, who broke out last season with 7.5 sacks for New England after managing just 10 total sacks across the first five years of his career.  His pass rush win rate coming off the edge was way up last season, and while he’s not a franchise cornerstone one year at $11 million, you’re not paying for a superstar. You’re paying for a legitimate pass rusher who just had the best season of his career. The bet Washington is making is reasonable… This isn’t a situation where Chaisson has to be a week-in, week-out difference maker all by himself. He needs to be a legitimate contributor in a rotation, and at $11 million on a one-year deal, that’s exactly what Washington is asking for. Ripoff: Wan'Dale Robinson, WR, Tennessee TitansNov 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 The Titans had $90 million in cap space coming into this offseason, the kind of financial freedom that is genuinely rare in the NFL. It should be used to build a foundation for Cam Ward to grow, not to massively overpay a middle-of-the-road receiver. Four years, $78 million. $19.5 million per year. For a player who has never had a 1,000-yard season in his NFL career. To be clear—Wan’Dale Robinson is a real player. He’s quick, elusive, and capable of making things happen in the short and intermediate game. He is a good receiver. But $19.5 million per year puts him in the same neighborhood as receivers who can align outside and win against top corners in the league. Robinson has never done that. His entire value is predicated on being a nice complementary option… a couple of big plays here and there, but he’s never had to be the guy. That’s a $10 or $12 million per year player. Not $19.5 million. I get that Tennessee was looking for a wideout to help facilitate Ward’s growth, but I don’t know if this was the move! Value: Jamel Dean, CB, Pittsburgh SteelersDec 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 Three years, $36.75 million with $12 million guaranteed for a cornerback who led the entire NFL in coverage DVOA last season. Not a good cornerback. Not a solid contributor. The best coverage cornerback in the league by that metric, ahead of players like Derek Stingley Jr. and Quinyon Mitchell. Now, the honest caveat is that cornerback statistics are notoriously inconsistent year to year. One great season doesn’t mean the next one looks the same. Dean turned in an above-average performance in 2024 as well, which suggests this isn’t purely a one-year outlier, but you can’t crown him a perennial All-Pro based on a single dominant year, either. Either way… Pittsburgh needed cornerback help, and they got the best available option at a number that doesn’t crush their cap flexibility moving forward. If Dean plays like himself, this is a bargain. If he regresses to average, it’s still a manageable contract. That’s exactly the kind of risk-reward balance you want in free agency. Ripoff: Michael Pittman Jr., WR, Pittsburgh 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 Picking up Pittman via trade for essentially a late-round pick swap was smart roster management… the trade itself was fine—they snagged a strong player for almost nothing in terms of draft capital. No complaints there. The extension, though? That’s a different conversation. Three years, $59 million for a receiver who is coming off a down year? Seems strange…  Pittman is an excellent deep-ball specialist who led the league in yards per reception in each of the last two seasons. He is fast, he creates explosive plays, and he is a legitimate weapon in the right system. But can he handle volume? Can he win on the outside against top corners consistently? Can he be the guy the team’s game plan for? The honest answer to all three of those questions is: we don’t know, because he’s never had to be.  In Pittsburgh, he’s going to be asked to step into that role, and the Steelers paid him as if the answer is already yes. The trade: smart. The extension at $19.6 million per year for an unproven number one?  That’s the part that makes you pause. Time will tell if Pittsburgh just unlocked him — or if they just overpaid for someone else’s very good second option.

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Carson Wentz lands a new contract with an NFC team

The Minnesota Vikings are beefing up their depth in the quarterback room. Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network broke the news on Thursday that the Vikings are reuniting with veteran signal-caller Carson Wentz. This move on Wentz comes on the heels of Minnesota’s decision to sign Kyler Murray. For Wentz, this is just the first … The post Carson Wentz lands a new contract with an NFC team appeared first on Larry Brown Sports.

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Vikings are signing a 6-time All-Pro in free agency

The Minnesota Vikings are adding a very decorated free agent (albeit at a less-heralded position). Minnesota announced on Tuesday that they have agreed to sign veteran punter Johnny Hekker in free agency. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network adds that Hekker is getting a one-year contract from the Vikings. The 36-year-old Hekker was long known as … The post Vikings are signing a 6-time All-Pro in free agency appeared first on Larry Brown Sports.

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