2026 NFL Offseason: Key Questions Facing Each Team

The 2026 NFL offseason is underway, with teams now focused on addressing critical needs through free agency (beginning March 11th at 4 p.m. ET) and the upcoming draft (April 23rd). From quarterback dilemmas to defensive rebuilds, NFL Nation reporters have identified the biggest question each team faces as they prepare for the 2026 season.

AFC East

Buffalo Bills: How will the defense be built under new coordinator Jim Leonhard?

Following nine seasons under Sean McDermott, the Bills’ defense will undergo a transformation under new coordinator Jim Leonhard. Free agency and the draft will be crucial in determining which players Leonhard will build around. Leonhard previously served as the defensive pass game coordinator for the Broncos, a unit that allowed the second-fewest yards per game (278.2) with shutdown corner Pat Surtain II ESPN.

AFC North

Baltimore Ravens: How will the Ravens upgrade quarterback Lamar Jackson’s supporting cast?

Baltimore faces the task of negotiating a new deal with Lamar Jackson to alleviate salary cap pressure and create space to improve his supporting cast. Addressing the offensive line and adding targets in the passing game are priorities. Last season, Jackson was sacked on 9.8% of his dropbacks, his highest rate to date. Re-signing center Tyler Linderbaum, a Pro Bowl selection, is also key ESPN.

Cincinnati Bengals: How will Cincinnati fix the defense?

Despite a coordinator change, the Bengals’ defense struggled in 2025, allowing significant plays and failing to adequately support quarterback Joe Burrow. Adding defensive playmakers in free agency and developing drafted players are essential for a team in a three-year playoff drought ESPN.

Cleveland Browns: How will the Browns remake their offense?

With the hiring of Todd Monken as coach, the Browns aim to revitalize an offense that ranked last in scoring (14.5 points per game) over the past two seasons. General manager Andrew Berry must acquire talent, particularly with the team holding 10 selections in the 2026 draft, to address multiple offensive line positions and add playmakers ESPN.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Who will be the Steelers’ starting quarterback in 2026?

The Steelers continue to search for a long-term solution at quarterback following Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement. Options include Aaron Rodgers, drafting a quarterback, or starting Mason Rudolph while developing Will Howard. A free agent acquisition is also possible ESPN.

AFC South

Houston Texans: How can Houston improve around quarterback C.J. Stroud?

Building on a strong base of rookie talent, the Texans aim to further support C.J. Stroud, particularly by improving the offensive line. The team will focus on shrewd moves rather than overspending in free agency ESPN.

Indianapolis Colts: How much work does the Colts’ defense need?

Despite showing improvement, the Colts’ defense lacked consistency in 2025. Addressing the pass rush and bolstering the linebacker unit are key priorities. General manager Chris Ballard acknowledged the need for increased speed on defense ESPN.

Jacksonville Jaguars: How will the Jaguars address their pass rush?

The Jaguars must prioritize generating more sacks, despite ranking third in quarterback pressures (222) but 27th in sacks (32) in 2025. The 2026 draft class of edge rushers is considered deep, and the possibility of pursuing Raiders’ Maxx Crosby has been mentioned ESPN.

Tennessee Titans: Can quarterback Cam Ward take the next step under Brian Daboll?

With the hiring of Brian Daboll as offensive coordinator, the Titans hope to unlock Cam Ward’s potential. Ward’s recovery from a shoulder sprain and learning a new offense will be challenges, but Daboll’s track record with quarterbacks like Josh Allen offers optimism ESPN.

AFC West

Denver Broncos: What will the playbook seem like when quarterback Bo Nix returns?

The Broncos face questions regarding playcalling responsibilities between coach Sean Payton and new offensive coordinator Davis Webb, as well as how to utilize Nix’s skillset upon his return from a broken ankle. Nix has had previous ankle surgeries and back fractures, raising concerns about his durability ESPN.

Kansas City Chiefs: Can the Chiefs offense make sizable improvements while quarterback Patrick Mahomes rehabs?

While Patrick Mahomes recovers from a torn ACL, the Chiefs must address salary cap issues and improve their running back depth and receiving corps. Re-signing tight conclude Travis Kelce is also a priority ESPN.

Las Vegas Raiders: Will the Raiders actually trade defensive end Maxx Crosby?

Despite the new coach and owner expressing a desire to retain Crosby, his age (29 in August) and the team’s rebuilding status raise the possibility of a trade. A strong offer could benefit both the Raiders and Crosby ESPN.

Los Angeles Chargers: Will Mike McDaniel unlock something in quarterback Justin Herbert?

Herbert enters his seventh season having had four different playcallers, none of whom have led him to a playoff win. The Chargers are hoping McDaniel can facilitate Herbert realize his potential ESPN.

NFC East

Dallas Cowboys: How will the Cowboys fix their defense?

After allowing the most points in franchise history in 2025, the Cowboys need to invest in defensive improvements through free agency and the draft. Owner Jerry Jones has indicated a willingness to spend, but action will be needed to back up those words ESPN.

New York Giants: How will new coach John Harbaugh reshape the roster?

Harbaugh’s arrival signals significant roster changes. Decisions regarding free agents Wan’Dale Robinson, Jermaine Eluemunor, and Cor’Dale Greator, as well as linebacker Bobby Okere, will be crucial. Improving the offensive line and adding playmakers are also priorities ESPN.

Philadelphia Eagles: Will the Eagles trade WR A.J. Brown?

Despite his success in Philadelphia, A.J. Brown’s frustrations with the offense have led to speculation about a potential trade. The front office must decide whether to address his concerns or move on from one of their top players ESPN.

Washington Commanders: Can the Commanders build a strong defense?

The Commanders have hired Daronte Jones as defensive coordinator but need to add talent to a unit that ranked 24th in scoring defense and 28th in yards allowed. With significant cap space and the No. 7 pick in the draft, they have the resources to make improvements ESPN.

NFC North

Chicago Bears: How will the Bears add to their pass rush?

Despite adding players in free agency and through the draft, the Bears struggled to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks in 2025. Landing a dominant edge rusher to complement Montez Sweat is a key priority ESPN.

Detroit Lions: How will the Lions adjust to new offensive coordinator Drew Petzing?

Following a disappointing playoff exit, the Lions have brought in Drew Petzing as their new offensive coordinator. The team will look to improve its running game and reshape the offensive line under his guidance ESPN.

Green Bay Packers: How will the Packers upgrade their roster?

The Packers face a challenging offseason with limited cap space and no first-round draft pick. Addressing needs, particularly at cornerback, will require strategic moves and shrewd drafting ESPN.

Minnesota Vikings: What will turn into of quarterback J.J. McCarthy?

The firing of the general manager has increased the pressure on J.J. McCarthy’s development. The Vikings must decide whether to continue building around McCarthy or acquire a veteran quarterback as a backup plan ESPN.

NFC South

Atlanta Falcons: What will the Falcons do with James Pearce Jr.?

The Falcons face a difficult situation with James Pearce Jr., who was arrested on felony charges. His legal issues and potential absence will impact the defense, requiring the team to address the pass rush ESPN.

Carolina Panthers: Will Carolina take a massive swing on a linebacker?

The Panthers need to significantly improve their pass rush, and adding an edge rusher is a top priority. Options include free agents like Trey Hendrickson or drafting a prospect ESPN.

New Orleans Saints: Will the Saints extend wide receiver Chris Olave?

After a breakout season, Chris Olave is eligible for an extension. The Saints must decide whether to secure his future with a long-term contract, especially given the lack of other offensive playmakers ESPN.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Will wide receiver Mike Evans and linebacker David Lavonte return?

The Buccaneers face the potential loss of two franchise icons in Mike Evans and David Lavonte, both of whom are unrestricted free agents. Their decisions will significantly impact the team’s future ESPN.

NFC West

Arizona Cardinals: What will the Cardinals do with quarterback Kyler Murray?

The Cardinals must decide whether to retain Kyler Murray for at least another season or trade/release him. His contract and the arrival of a new coach add complexity to the decision ESPN.

Los Angeles Rams: What does making “the most of the time we have” with quarterback Matthew Stafford look like?

The Rams aim to maximize Matthew Stafford’s remaining years, potentially through aggressive moves in free agency and the draft. Balancing short-term contention with long-term sustainability is key ESPN.

San Francisco 49ers: How aggressive will the 49ers be in adding to the roster?

With many key veterans nearing the end of their careers, the 49ers may be motivated to make significant roster additions. They must balance contending now with building for the future ESPN.

Seattle Seahawks: How much can the Super Bowl champs stay intact?

The Seahawks, coming off a Super Bowl victory, face the challenge of retaining key players. Addressing the pass rush and cornerback positions will be crucial as they aim to remain competitive ESPN.