The 2026 NFL free agency period is in full swing, showcasing a flurry of significant trades and signings as teams prepare for the new season. As each transaction unfolds, we are providing live updates and evaluations, assigning grades to each deal based on performance metrics and potential impact.
Green Bay Packers traded edge rusher Rashan Gary to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a 2027 fourth-round pick. Gary, who recorded a PFF grade of 68.9 and a WAR of 0.05 last season, received an average grade for the Cowboys” acquisition while the Packers” deal was rated as good. Despite a declining pass-rush grade over the past four seasons, Gary remains a strong run defender, having tallied 60 quarterback pressures last year.
In another notable move, the Miami Dolphins traded safety Minkah Fitzpatrick to the New York Jets for a seventh-round pick. Fitzpatrick, who achieved a PFF grade of 81.8 and a WAR of 0.10, was signed by the Jets to a three-year, $40 million contract. This transaction earned a very good grade for the Jets due to Fitzpatrick”s impressive performance last season, while the Dolphins received an average grade as they continue their rebuilding process.
The Pittsburgh Steelers re-signed cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. on a one-year, $4 million deal. Samuel”s performance last season earned him a PFF grade of 70.1, and the deal was rated above average. After joining the Steelers late last season, he demonstrated significant potential, making this contract a worthwhile investment.
Additionally, cornerback Montaric Brown re-signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars for three years and $33 million. Brown, whose PFF grade of 72.0 reflects an upward trajectory in his performance, received an average grade for this contract, which aligns with his rising status in the league.
The Buffalo Bills traded cornerback Taron Johnson to the Las Vegas Raiders, involving a swap of sixth and seventh-round picks. Johnson”s PFF grade was recorded at 57.9, and the Raiders received an above-average deal while the Bills” acquisition was graded as average since they were expecting to release Johnson.
Moreover, guard Ed Ingram re-signed with the Houston Texans for three years, totaling $37.5 million. Ingram”s PFF grade of 73.8 signifies a solid performance last season, garnering an average deal grade.
Linebacker Justin Strnad also re-signed with the Denver Broncos for three years and $18 million, receiving an average grade for this contract. Strnad showed improvement last season, which could lead to better outcomes moving forward.
In a blockbuster deal, the Las Vegas Raiders traded edge rusher Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens for significant draft capital, including the 14th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft and a first-round pick in 2027. Crosby”s PFF grade of 79.7 reflects his continued effectiveness, earning the Ravens an above-average deal rating, while the Raiders received an elite grade for their strategic future planning.
As the free agency period continues, more deals are expected, and we will keep our analysis updated to reflect the evolving landscape of the NFL.
