Ranking the best NFL free agents for 2026: Our early top-25 list, plus who might re-sign
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Ranking the best NFL free agents for 2026: Our early top-25 list, plus who might re-sign
"The second half of the 2025 NFL season is kicking into gear, and 18 teams are looking at playoff chances below 50% heading into Week 11, per ESPN's Football Power Index. It won't be long before many front offices are starting to think about offseason plans, including 2026 free agency. The negotiation period will begin March 9, and free agents will be able to officially sign two days later on March 11."
"NFL analyst Matt Bowen and national NFL reporter Jeremy Fowler looked at the current group of players primed to hit unrestricted free agency (expiring contracts or deals in line to void) and ranked the top 25 who might be available. Only one quarterback made the list this far out, but Bowen broke down multiple playmakers on both sides of the ball, including a few real difference-makers at receiver, running back and edge rusher."
Eighteen NFL teams had playoff chances below 50% entering Week 11, increasing offseason and free-agency focus as the negotiation period begins March 9 and signings start March 11. A projected top-25 list of potential 2026 unrestricted free agents emphasizes playmakers at receiver, running back and edge rusher, with only one quarterback included this far out. Evaluation factors include age, positional value, expected future production and scheme versatility. Past instances show players do not always reach free agency due to trades, restructures or extensions, so the list could change significantly by March.
Read at ESPN.com
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