NFL Free Agency Predictions 2026: Top Players and Potential Landings
With the NFL’s legal negotiating window opening on March 16th, 2026, and the new league year beginning on March 18th, 2026, speculation is rife about where top free agents will land. Based on current reporting, here’s a snapshot of potential moves for 20 of the most sought-after players.
Contract Projections and Predicted Landings
Willis (Quarterback)
Contract Projection: Two years, $44 million with $32 million guaranteed. This represents a $1 million-per-year improvement over the contract Justin Fields signed with the Jets last year. While lacking extensive NFL game experience, Willis has generated positive buzz.
Predicted Landing Spot: Arizona Cardinals
K. Walker (Running Back)
Contract Projection: Three years, $44 million with $22 million guaranteed. Coming off a Super Bowl MVP performance, Walker is poised to capitalize on a strong market for explosive running backs.
Predicted Landing Spot: Washington Commanders
Etienne (Running Back)
Contract Projection: Three years, $39 million with $20 million guaranteed. Etienne, coming off a season with 1,107 rushing yards, is expected to attract multiple offers. Jacksonville’s recent drafting of running backs may lead them to move on.
Predicted Landing Spot: Tennessee Titans
Pierce (Wide Receiver)
Contract Projection: Three years, $80 million with $55 million guaranteed. Pierce, who led the league in yards per reception for the past two years, is likely to command a significant contract, potentially exceeding the franchise tag value.
Predicted Landing Spot: Los Angeles Chargers
Evans (Wide Receiver)
Contract Projection: One year, $15 million fully guaranteed. Despite interest from other teams, Evans’ strong relationship with the Buccaneers suggests a potential return to Tampa Bay.
Predicted Landing Spot: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Shaheed (Wide Receiver/Return Specialist)
Contract Projection: Three years, $40 million with $20 million guaranteed. Shaheed’s speed and versatility as both a receiver and return specialist will attract interest from multiple teams.
Predicted Landing Spot: Washington Commanders
Doubs (Wide Receiver)
Contract Projection: Three years, $49 million with $30 million guaranteed. Doubs, still only 25 years old, is viewed as a receiver capable of thriving in various schemes.
Predicted Landing Spot: San Francisco 49ers
R. Walker (Offensive Tackle)
Contract Projection: Four years, $80 million with $50 million guaranteed. A three-year starter and proven left tackle, Walker is expected to secure a lucrative deal.
Predicted Landing Spot: Cleveland Browns
Linderbaum (Center)
Contract Projection: Four years, $90 million with $60 million guaranteed. At 25 years old, Linderbaum is poised to develop into the highest-paid center in the league, benefiting from a strong market and a recent unexpected retirement in the league.
Predicted Landing Spot: Chicago Bears
Hendrickson (Defensive Conclude)
Contract Projection: Three years, $84 million with $42 million guaranteed. Despite a shortened 2025 season, Hendrickson’s previous performance (17.5 sacks in each of the two seasons prior) makes him a valuable asset.
Predicted Landing Spot: Indianapolis Colts
Phillips (Defensive End)
Contract Projection: Four years, $92 million with $32 million guaranteed. Phillips, despite an injury history, played well for the Eagles after being traded from Miami.
Predicted Landing Spot: Washington Commanders
Oweh (Defensive End)
Contract Projection: Four years, $76 million with $42 million guaranteed. Oweh had a successful stint with the Chargers after a mid-season trade from Baltimore.
Predicted Landing Spot: Los Angeles Chargers
Mack (Defensive End)
Contract Projection: One year, $18 million. At 35 years old, Mack is likely to seek a short-term deal with a contender.
Predicted Landing Spot: Seattle Seahawks
Mafe (Linebacker)
Contract Projection: Three years, $48 million with $25 million guaranteed. Seattle is likely to lose some free agents, and Mafe could identify a new home elsewhere.
Predicted Landing Spot: New England Patriots
Franklin-Myers (Defensive Line)
Contract Projection: Three years, $40 million with $15 million guaranteed. Franklin-Myers, turning 30, has been a productive player for Denver.
Predicted Landing Spot: Tennessee Titans
Lloyd (Linebacker)
Contract Projection: Four years, $56 million with $40 million guaranteed. Lloyd, a second-team All-Pro, is expected to generate significant interest.
Predicted Landing Spot: Jacksonville Jaguars
Q. Walker (Linebacker)
Contract Projection: Three years, $42 million with $20 million guaranteed. Walker, 25, had 128 tackles in 2025 and is expected to leave Green Bay.
Predicted Landing Spot: Las Vegas Raiders
Brown (Cornerback)
Contract Projection: Three years, $30 million with $15 million guaranteed. Brown, with two interceptions last season, is a rising name in the cornerback market.
Predicted Landing Spot: Philadelphia Eagles
Watson (Cornerback)
Contract Projection: Three years, $50 million with $20 million guaranteed. The Chiefs may attempt to retain Watson, but the cost could be prohibitive.
Predicted Landing Spot: Kansas City Chiefs
Cook (Cornerback)
Contract Projection: Three years, $42 million with $20 million guaranteed. Cook, a product of the Steve Spagnuolo coaching system, is expected to attract offers.
Predicted Landing Spot: Houston Texans