The 2026 NFL offseason has come and gone, and with it, a flurry of trades and free-agent signings that reshaped the league's landscape. As we look back on these moves, it's clear that some teams made bold, risky decisions, while others played it safe. In this article, I'll take a deep dive into the biggest trades and free-agent signings of the 2026 offseason, analyzing each move and grading them on a scale of A to F. From the blockbuster trade of Myles Garrett to the surprising signing of Kyler Murray, we'll explore the strategic decisions that will shape the NFL's future.
The Big Trades
Browns and Rams Swap Edge Players
Grade: C for the Browns, A for the Rams
The Los Angeles Rams made a bold move by acquiring Myles Garrett, the NFL's top pass-rusher, from the Cleveland Browns. In return, the Rams gave up a promising young edge rusher, Jared Verse, along with several draft picks. While the Browns may have been able to get more from the Rams with Garrett, the move signals a shift in the team's strategy, prioritizing proven talent over draft capital.
Chiefs Trade CB Trent McDuffie to the Rams
Grade: A for the Chiefs, B- for the Rams
The Kansas City Chiefs traded Trent McDuffie, an All-Pro cornerback, to the Rams in exchange for draft picks. This move was a strategic decision to bolster the Rams' defense, which ranked 19th in pass defense the previous season. The Chiefs, in turn, received a favorable package of picks, potentially adding two immediate impact rookie starters.
The Surprising Free-Agent Signings
Panthers Sign Edge Jaelan Phillips
Grade: B
The Carolina Panthers signed Jaelan Phillips, a premier free agent, to a long-term deal. While Phillips has a history of injuries, the Panthers had the cap space to invest in a position of need. However, his track record suggests that his pass-rushing numbers may be closer to average than exceptional.
Vikings Sign QB Kyler Murray
Grade: A
The Minnesota Vikings signed Kyler Murray to a one-year deal, a surprising move given his age and recent injuries. Despite inconsistent quarterback play, the Vikings barely missed the 2025 postseason. Murray's signing gives the team a chance to re-evaluate their plan for J.J. McCarthy and revitalize their passing attack.
The Costly Moves
Bears Trade WR DJ Moore to the Bills
Grade: B+ for the Bears, C for the Bills
The Chicago Bears traded DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills for a second-round pick and a fifth-round pick. While Moore's receiving yard totals have been on the decline, he could be Buffalo's lead pass-catcher. The Bills, however, paid a costly price for a player who hasn't eclipsed 1,000 receiving yards since 2023.
Broncos Acquire WR Jaylen Waddle from the Dolphins
Grade: B+ for the Broncos, B for the Dolphins
The Denver Broncos traded for Jaylen Waddle, the Dolphins' lead receiver in 2025. Waddle will have competition for targets, but his big-play ability could lead to gaudy weekly numbers. The Dolphins, in turn, added draft capital to infuse the roster with young talent.
The Strategic Decisions
Giants Trade DT Dexter Lawrence II to the Bengals
Grade: B+ for the Bengals, A for the Giants
The New York Giants traded Dexter Lawrence II to the Cincinnati Bengals for a first-round pick. The Bengals, looking to maximize their winning opportunities, added an established three-time Pro Bowl veteran to their defensive front. The Giants, in turn, used the Bengals' pick to select an offensive lineman.
Patriots Acquire WR A.J. Brown from the Eagles
Grade: A for the Patriots, B- for the Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles traded A.J. Brown to the New England Patriots for a fifth-round pick and a first-round pick in 2028. The Eagles, in turn, added Hollywood Brown and Dontayvion Wicks to their receiver corps. The Patriots, meanwhile, picked up a No. 1 receiver without giving up a first-round pick in the 2027 draft.
The Low-Risk, High-Reward Moves
Raiders Sign C Tyler Linderbaum
Grade: A
The Baltimore Ravens allowed Tyler Linderbaum, a three-time Pro Bowler, to test the open market, and he signed with the Las Vegas Raiders. Linderbaum's impact on the Raiders offense could be similar to that of former NFL center Rodney Hudson. The move sets the foundation for the offense and provides help for the team's young quarterback.
Ravens Sign Edge Trey Hendrickson
Grade: B-
The Baltimore Ravens signed Trey Hendrickson to a four-year deal, a premium for an edge-rusher coming off an injury-shortened campaign. The Ravens felt more comfortable with Hendrickson's physical than with Maxx Crosby, but his short-term durability remains a question mark.
In conclusion, the 2026 NFL offseason was a mix of bold, risky decisions and strategic, low-risk moves. As we look back on these moves, it's clear that some teams made significant strides, while others took a step back. The grades assigned to each move are subjective, but they provide a snapshot of the strategic decisions that will shape the NFL's future.
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