The 2026 NFL offseason saw a flurry of trades and free-agent signings, with teams making bold moves to bolster their rosters. As we reflect on these transactions, it's clear that some deals were more impactful than others. Here's a breakdown of the biggest trades and signings, along with my analysis and grades.
Bears Trade WR DJ Moore to the Bills
Grade: B+ (Bears) / C (Bills)
The Bears traded a fading WR for a 2nd-round pick, which is a solid move. Moore's declining production and the Bills' need for a pass-catcher make this a reasonable trade. However, the Bills paid a high price for a player who hasn't eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards since 2023.
Broncos Acquire WR Jaylen Waddle from the Dolphins
Grade: B+ (Broncos) / B (Dolphins)
The Broncos got a quality receiver in Waddle, who can be their lead pass-catcher. The Dolphins, in rebuilding mode, received valuable draft capital, which they used to select young talent.
Browns and Rams Swap Edge Myles Garrett and Edge Jared Verse
Grade: C (Browns) / A (Rams)
The Rams made a bold move to acquire Garrett, a proven pass-rusher, for a package of picks. The Browns, despite their playoff aspirations, traded a star edge-rusher for draft capital, which may not be enough to fix their timeline for contention.
Chiefs Trade CB Trent McDuffie to the Rams
Grade: A (Chiefs) / B- (Rams)
The Chiefs used their draft capital wisely, acquiring a versatile cornerback in McDuffie. The Rams, in need of a pass defense overhaul, got a player with All-Pro potential.
Giants Trade DT Dexter Lawrence II to the Bengals
Grade: B+ (Bengals) / A (Giants)
The Bengals, in a potential playoff push, traded for Lawrence, a three-time Pro Bowl veteran. The Giants received a top-10 pick, a significant return for a player coming off a down year.
Panthers Sign Edge Jaelan Phillips
Grade: B
The Panthers took a risk on Phillips, a premier free agent, despite his injury history. His pass-rushing numbers may be average, but he could lead the team in sacks if healthy.
Patriots Acquire WR A.J. Brown from the Eagles
Grade: A (Patriots) / B- (Eagles)
The Patriots got a quality receiver without giving up a first-round pick. The Eagles, in a rebuild, received valuable draft capital, which they can use to build their roster.
Raiders Sign C Tyler Linderbaum
Grade: A
Linderbaum, a three-time Pro Bowler, signed a lucrative deal with the Raiders. His presence will solidify the offensive line and help the team's passing attack.
Ravens Sign Edge Trey Hendrickson
Grade: B-
The Ravens paid a premium for Hendrickson, an edge-rusher coming off an injury-shortened season. His short-term durability is a concern, but he's a proven producer.
Vikings Sign QB Kyler Murray
Grade: A
Murray, a two-time Pro Bowler, signed a low-risk deal with the Vikings. His presence will improve the team's passing attack and give them a chance to re-evaluate their quarterback plan.
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