The Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots are bracing for significant roster changes following their matchup in Super Bowl LV, as numerous key contributors are expected to explore free agency. Both teams have multiple players whose contracts are expiring, which could lead to substantial shifts in their lineups.
Quarterbacks Sam Darnold and Drake Maye are both under contract for at least two more seasons, providing stability at the position for their respective teams. However, the situation is more precarious for the Seahawks, who have nine players entering unrestricted free agency, alongside seven set for restricted free agency. Additionally, they have two exclusive rights free agents, totaling 18 players potentially on the move. Conversely, the Patriots have six unrestricted free agents and four restricted free agents, plus three exclusive rights free agents, summing up to 12 players.
Unrestricted free agents have played at least four seasons and can sign with any team, while restricted free agents have three years of experience and can be tagged by their former teams. Among the notable offensive players for Seattle, wide receiver Rashid Shaheed, acquired during the midseason of 2025, and running back Kenneth Walker III, who has rushed for over 1,000 yards in his first two seasons, stand out as potential departures.
On the defensive side, key players such as former First-Team All-Pro cornerback Tariq Woolen and cornerback Coby Bryant will be unrestricted free agents. Additionally, weakside linebacker Drake Thomas, who emerged as a solid contributor with a 73 Pro Football Focus grade, is among the restricted free agents for Seattle.
The list of unrestricted free agents for the Seahawks includes:
- Rashid Shaheed
- Josh Jones
- Boye Mafe
- Kenneth Walker III
- Josh Jobe
- Chazz Surratt
- Coby Bryant
- Tariq Woolen
- Darek Young
Restricted free agents for Seattle are:
- Brady Russell
- Cody White
- Brandon Pili
- Drake Thomas
- Jake Bobo
- Chris Stoll
- AJ Finley
The exclusive rights free agents include Ty Okada and George Holani.
In contrast, the Patriots are largely set to retain their Super Bowl roster for the upcoming 2026 season. The primary offensive player facing potential departure is tight end Austin Hooper, who serves as Maye”s second tight end. On defense, they have some impactful players set to enter free agency, including defensive lineman K”Lavon Chaisson, who recorded 7.5 sacks in 2025, nose tackle Khyiris Tonga, recognized as one of the league”s top run-stoppers, and safety Jaylinn Hawkins, who achieved a high Pro Football Focus grade among qualifying safeties.
The unrestricted free agents for the Patriots consist of:
- Austin Hooper
- K”Lavon Chaisson
- Khyiris Tonga
- Jaylinn Hawkins
- Thayer Munford Jr
- Vederian Lowe
The restricted free agents include:
- Jack Gibbens
- Tommy DeVito
- Yasir Durant
- Alex Austin
- Jaquelin Roy
The exclusive rights free agents consist of Deneric Prince, Isaiah Iton, and Jack Westover.
