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The United States and Israel are obliterating Iran’s military and targeting its leaders as the war expands. Iran is continuing its strategy of firing missiles and cheap explosive drones across the Middle East with new strikes on an oil facility in the United Arab Emirates, an explosion and fire near the U.S. consulate in Dubai and launching more missiles at Tel Aviv. Meanwhile, the son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reportedly emerged as the leading candidate to become the next Supreme Leader. NBC’s Richard Engel reports for TODAY.March 4, 2026
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Minnesota’s welfare fraud scandal is returning to Capitol Hill months after it intensified into a national political flashpoint and federal agents swarmed the Twin Cities in an unprecedented immigration crackdown.Wednesday morning, the House Oversight Committee will hear testimony from Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz – who dropped his gubernatorial reelection bid amid the scandal – and state Attorney General Keith Ellison as part of the long-anticipated sequel to a tense January hearing over purported fraud rampaging the North Star State.Hours before the hearing was set to begin, the GOP-run committee released a report alleging Walz and Ellison knew about credible fraud concerns years ago and didn’t act on them, despite their assertions otherwise, purportedly costing taxpayers billions.Wednesday’s hearing, which will mark Walz’s and Ellison’s first official appearances in the federal probe into the fraud scandal, is expected to focus on similar threads. Republican Chairman Rep. James Comer declared the hearing part of the Congress’ duty “to conduct rigorous oversight of this heist and enact stronger safeguards.”“We look forward to questioning Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison under oath to ensure transparency and accountability for the American people and to consider meaningful reforms that prevent waste, fraud, and abuse of taxpayer funds,” Comer said.Allegations of fraudulent safety net programs go back nearly a decadePurported fraud in Minnesota shifted back into the national spotlight a day after Christmas, when a 23-year-old conservative content creator claimed – with little evidence – on YouTube that Somali-run childcare centers in Minnesota were fraudulently taking funding meant to provide childcare for low-income families. The video, which has racked up almost 4 million views, was boosted by Vice President JD Vance, FBI Director Kash Patel and tech billionaire Elon Musk.As a result, the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI ramped up their presence across the Twin Cities, and federal funding for childcare in the entire state was temporarily frozen pending a federal investigation of the allegations.The purported schemes go back nearly a decade and include allegations of fraud in the Somali community focused on Feeding Our Future, a nonprofit prosecutors said falsely claimed to provide meals to needy children during the COVID-19 pandemic.Federal charges were brought against dozens of people — most of them Somali — beginning in 2022.The latest allegations of scandal prompted a fresh gush of fury and vitriol from the Trump administration and state GOP leaders, who have demanded a crackdown on the spending of taxpayer dollars for social services they said were never provided.Committee releases report with new testimony hours before hearing set to beginAfter the committee first launched its investigation into the scandal in December, Chairman Comer wrote to Walz and Ellison asking for “documents and communications” showing what they knew about the fraud, and whether they did anything to limit the investigation into it.Comer later expanded the investigation, requesting resources and reports from the U.S. Treasury and Department of Justice.Walz and Ellison have defiantly denied any wrongdoing during their time as Minnesota officials.Ellison “will discuss his strong record of prosecuting and convicting people who steal from Medicaid, as well as his work going after private sector fraudsters,” during Wednesday’s hearing, a spokesperson for his office told CNN. The attorney general also plans to “encourage members of the committee to set partisan politics aside and work across party lines to fight fraud and protect Medicaid.”CNN has reached out to Walz for comment.The committee released a lengthy report in the hours before the two were set to testify Wednesday, asserting that they failed to act in the face of fraud, despite their authority to intervene.“As a result, potentially billions of American taxpayer dollars were allowed to flow to fraudulent actors, while vulnerable populations were harmed and whistleblowers were ignored, sidelined, and retaliated against,” the report said. The committee said its investigation remains ongoing.The 54-page report includes portions of transcribed interviews with several former and current Minnesota state officials who committee members questioned for roughly 40 hours over the course of its investigation. Officials answered questions about alleged integrity issues, pressures to keep quiet and oversight processes in Walz’s administration.“Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison are appearing before the Committee because the American people deserve clear answers about how this rampant fraud was allowed to flourish under their watch,” Comer said in a statement.First hearing over fraud drew shouting and partisan furyThe committee’s first fraud hearing in January featured ardent testimony from three Republican members of the Minnesota House of Representatives who, the chairman of the Oversight Committee says, “sounded the alarm” on the fraud years ago: Kristin Robbins, Walter Hudson and Marion Rarick.They said tax dollars intended for childcare aid in their state are being absconded by criminals to purchase luxury homes and cars, property in Turkey and apartment buildings in Kenya – and that local Democrats have known about it.“The Tim Walz administration has utterly failed to protect Minnesota taxpayers and vulnerable citizens, ignoring years of credible reports,” Robbins said in her opening statement.As the contentious hearing unfolded in Washington, an ICE agent shot and killed 37-year-old Renee Good hundreds of miles away on the streets of Minneapolis, setting off what would become weeks of unrelenting protests and lawsuits against the administration.The January hearing grew heated at moments, with lawmakers accusing one another of going “off the rails” and calling for decorum, as flaring tensions delivered more political sparring than clarity.Much of January’s discussion was framed around how the Feeding Our Future scandal informed the new fraud allegations. Some Republicans on the committee moved beyond claims that Walz’s administration overlooked the fraud, but that it actually had political incentive to perpetuate it after taking office in 2019.Further contention erupted during the hearing following claims by witnesses and some Republican congressmembers that individuals have weaponized false accusations of racism to deter the investigation into alleged fraud.Robbins denied what she called “fake allegations of racism and Islamophobia” regarding investigations of fraud in Minnesota. “It is true that the majority of the fraud in Minnesota has taken place in the Somali community, and it is also true that some of our best whistleblowers are from the Somali community.”Democratic Rep. Rashida Tlaib of Michigan, one of the first Muslim women to join the U.S. Congress, asked the Minnesota lawmakers to keep investigating fraud, but to be cautious of their work being applied as a “racist trope.”“Do your job, but don’t allow your job and what you’re doing to be utilized as a racist trope, that all Somali Americans are criminals, that Muslims are demons,” the congresswoman said. “It’s incredibly dangerous.”CNN’s Whitney Wild contributed to this report.
WASHINGTON —
Minnesota’s welfare fraud scandal is returning to Capitol Hill months after it intensified into a national political flashpoint and federal agents swarmed the Twin Cities in an unprecedented immigration crackdown.
Wednesday morning, the House Oversight Committee will hear testimony from Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz – who dropped his gubernatorial reelection bid amid the scandal – and state Attorney General Keith Ellison as part of the long-anticipated sequel to a tense January hearing over purported fraud rampaging the North Star State.
Hours before the hearing was set to begin, the GOP-run committee released a report alleging Walz and Ellison knew about credible fraud concerns years ago and didn’t act on them, despite their assertions otherwise, purportedly costing taxpayers billions.
Wednesday’s hearing, which will mark Walz’s and Ellison’s first official appearances in the federal probe into the fraud scandal, is expected to focus on similar threads. Republican Chairman Rep. James Comer declared the hearing part of the Congress’ duty “to conduct rigorous oversight of this heist and enact stronger safeguards.”
“We look forward to questioning Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison under oath to ensure transparency and accountability for the American people and to consider meaningful reforms that prevent waste, fraud, and abuse of taxpayer funds,” Comer said.
Allegations of fraudulent safety net programs go back nearly a decade
Purported fraud in Minnesota shifted back into the national spotlight a day after Christmas, when a 23-year-old conservative content creator claimed – with little evidence – on YouTube that Somali-run childcare centers in Minnesota were fraudulently taking funding meant to provide childcare for low-income families. The video, which has racked up almost 4 million views, was boosted by Vice President JD Vance, FBI Director Kash Patel and tech billionaire Elon Musk.
As a result, the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI ramped up their presence across the Twin Cities, and federal funding for childcare in the entire state was temporarily frozen pending a federal investigation of the allegations.
The purported schemes go back nearly a decade and include allegations of fraud in the Somali community focused on Feeding Our Future, a nonprofit prosecutors said falsely claimed to provide meals to needy children during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Federal charges were brought against dozens of people — most of them Somali — beginning in 2022.
The latest allegations of scandal prompted a fresh gush of fury and vitriol from the Trump administration and state GOP leaders, who have demanded a crackdown on the spending of taxpayer dollars for social services they said were never provided.
Committee releases report with new testimony hours before hearing set to begin
After the committee first launched its investigation into the scandal in December, Chairman Comer wrote to Walz and Ellison asking for “documents and communications” showing what they knew about the fraud, and whether they did anything to limit the investigation into it.
Comer later expanded the investigation, requesting resources and reports from the U.S. Treasury and Department of Justice.
Walz and Ellison have defiantly denied any wrongdoing during their time as Minnesota officials.
Ellison “will discuss his strong record of prosecuting and convicting people who steal from Medicaid, as well as his work going after private sector fraudsters,” during Wednesday’s hearing, a spokesperson for his office told CNN. The attorney general also plans to “encourage members of the committee to set partisan politics aside and work across party lines to fight fraud and protect Medicaid.”
CNN has reached out to Walz for comment.
The committee released a lengthy report in the hours before the two were set to testify Wednesday, asserting that they failed to act in the face of fraud, despite their authority to intervene.
“As a result, potentially billions of American taxpayer dollars were allowed to flow to fraudulent actors, while vulnerable populations were harmed and whistleblowers were ignored, sidelined, and retaliated against,” the report said. The committee said its investigation remains ongoing.
The 54-page report includes portions of transcribed interviews with several former and current Minnesota state officials who committee members questioned for roughly 40 hours over the course of its investigation. Officials answered questions about alleged integrity issues, pressures to keep quiet and oversight processes in Walz’s administration.
“Governor Walz and Attorney General Ellison are appearing before the Committee because the American people deserve clear answers about how this rampant fraud was allowed to flourish under their watch,” Comer said in a statement.
First hearing over fraud drew shouting and partisan fury
The committee’s first fraud hearing in January featured ardent testimony from three Republican members of the Minnesota House of Representatives who, the chairman of the Oversight Committee says, “sounded the alarm” on the fraud years ago: Kristin Robbins, Walter Hudson and Marion Rarick.
They said tax dollars intended for childcare aid in their state are being absconded by criminals to purchase luxury homes and cars, property in Turkey and apartment buildings in Kenya – and that local Democrats have known about it.
“The Tim Walz administration has utterly failed to protect Minnesota taxpayers and vulnerable citizens, ignoring years of credible reports,” Robbins said in her opening statement.
As the contentious hearing unfolded in Washington, an ICE agent shot and killed 37-year-old Renee Good hundreds of miles away on the streets of Minneapolis, setting off what would become weeks of unrelenting protests and lawsuits against the administration.
The January hearing grew heated at moments, with lawmakers accusing one another of going “off the rails” and calling for decorum, as flaring tensions delivered more political sparring than clarity.
Much of January’s discussion was framed around how the Feeding Our Future scandal informed the new fraud allegations. Some Republicans on the committee moved beyond claims that Walz’s administration overlooked the fraud, but that it actually had political incentive to perpetuate it after taking office in 2019.
Further contention erupted during the hearing following claims by witnesses and some Republican congressmembers that individuals have weaponized false accusations of racism to deter the investigation into alleged fraud.
Robbins denied what she called “fake allegations of racism and Islamophobia” regarding investigations of fraud in Minnesota. “It is true that the majority of the fraud in Minnesota has taken place in the Somali community, and it is also true that some of our best whistleblowers are from the Somali community.”
Democratic Rep. Rashida Tlaib of Michigan, one of the first Muslim women to join the U.S. Congress, asked the Minnesota lawmakers to keep investigating fraud, but to be cautious of their work being applied as a “racist trope.”
“Do your job, but don’t allow your job and what you’re doing to be utilized as a racist trope, that all Somali Americans are criminals, that Muslims are demons,” the congresswoman said. “It’s incredibly dangerous.”
Quick: Tell me Walt Disney Animations highest-grossing movie ever.
Nope, it’s not Frozen or Frozen II. It’s not Moana or Moana 2 either. It’s not even the hugely popular The Lion King “live-action” reboot. It’s Zootopia 2, which grossed an incredible $1.859 billion in the winter of 2025 and into early 2026.
The massive blockbuster, based on 2016’s Zootopia — which was itself a surprising billion-dollar smash — follows the adventures of mismatched animal buddy cops Judy Hopps (Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (Jason Bateman), teaming up to solve another mystery in their fantasy world populated entirely by animals. This installment in the franchise involves the addition of snakes, including the cheerful Gary De Snake (Ke Huy Quan), as they to prove they mean no harm to an animal kingdom that assumes that they are dangerous because they are, well, snakes.
Based on its gargantuan box-office total, it seems like most interested parties have already watched Zootopia 2. But the handful of people who missed it, or those that want to use its narcotizing effects to occupy their children for 108 minutes, will soon be able to do so on Disney+.
I certainly wouldn’t rank Zootopia 2 among Disney’s animated highlights, but it was a pleasant enough children’s film. As I wrote in my review last fall, it’s not hard to understand why it turned out better (creatively and financially) than other recent Disney sequels like Mufasa: The Lion King and Moana 2.
Those films might have been drawn from stronger source material, but they weren’t as well-suited for ongoing franchises. Stories about heroes on epic quests of discovery and self-actualization rarely are unless you draw those quests out across multiple films. With buddy cops, though, there’s always another case. Toss in enough new wrinkles — like reptiles characters (and reptile-related jokes) — and as long as the action is exciting and the audience cares about the characters, they can keep solving mysteries forever.
Here is the film’s official synopsis:
In Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Zootopia 2, rookie cops Judy Hopps (voiced by Ginnifer Goodwin) and Nick Wilde (voiced by Jason Bateman) find themselves on the twisting trail of a great mystery when Gary De’Snake (voiced by Academy Award® winner Ke Huy Quan) arrives in Zootopia and turns the animal metropolis upside down. To crack the case, Judy and Nick must go undercover to unexpected new parts of town, where their growing partnership is tested like never before.
Zootopia 2 starts streaming on Disney+ on March 11. And after breaking box-office records, I would assume it will only be a matter of time before we get Zootopia 3. Zootopia 2’s post-credits scene even teased what new species of animal will be added into the mix next.
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I enjoyed seeing the reactions to Fernando Mendoza’s size on social media during the combine. Yes, the 6-foot-5, 230-pound QB who had Miami defenders (some of whom will be early picks) bounce off him during his TD run in the title game is big. Who would’ve thunk it?
I’ve seen some mocks drop Arvell Reese after the combine, but I’m holding strong here. As far as what he already is, and what he may yet become, Reese remains the most enticing defensive prospect in this class.
I had the Cardinals go OT here last time, and while it’s the more pressing need, David Bailey strikes me as a better value for the Cardinals with this pick than the available tackles.
Everything the Titans do should be to support Cam Ward, and that includes a ground game. The Titans had one of the least explosive rushing attacks in the NFL last year. Love immediately fixes that.
Would we all prefer if Carnell Tate ran a 4.2? Of course. You take his size and skill and throw 4.2 speed on it, and you have a guy who is probably the No. 1 pick in the draft! While I still prefer Makai Lemon slightly, Tate strikes me as a better fit for Jaxson Dart’s skill set.
The Browns have already begun addressing their offensive line via trade, but there’s still more work to be done. Francis Mauigoa is another big step in the right direction.
Arm length is the conversation du jour in draft circles (thanks, Will Campbell), and I understand why teams will be concerned about Rueben Bain Jr’s. Still, I don’t care. Watch him play football. Maybe he won’t get 20 sacks in a season, but he’s going to make your defense better in all facets.
The memes of Makai Lemon staring into your soul during his combine press conference were amusing, but don’t let them distract you from the fact that he’s the most natural wide receiver in the class.
Sonny Styles wowed everyone at the combine and helped his stock. So much so that the Cowboys are willing to move into the top 10 to swipe him before somebody else can.
The Jets have plenty of draft capital, so it wouldn’t shock me to see them move up for their second bite at the apple. With Caleb Downs still available, this makes a lot of sense, as Aaron Glenn is able to add Arvell Reese and Downs to his defense. It’s suddenly a much stronger unit in the front and back end.
The Chiefs move down a few spots, accumulate some extra picks and then draft a long-term Travis Kelce replacement. It’ll be a lot of fun to see what Andy Reid cooks up with both Kelce and Sadiq on the field together.
It may not be the most pressing need for the Rams, but with two first-rounders, they take a swing on Monroe Freeling’s potential and look to grab somebody who could be the franchise’s left tackle for the next decade.
Maybe this is too early for Olaivavega Ioane, but aside from the “tackles who might be guards,” he’s the best guard on my board. The Ravens could use some reinforcements on the interior of their line.
The production didn’t always match the traits during his time at Clemson, but T.J. Parker would add another body to a Tampa pass rush that could use more help.
I could see the Bengals taking a shot on an offensive lineman at this spot after trading down, but for my money, Caleb Banks is the better value. The Bengals OL gets plenty of attention, but it’s not the only line of scrimmage Cincinnati can improve upon.
The Lions have begun overhauling their offensive line, and Taylor Decker isn’t getting any younger at left tackle. It may make more sense to go defense here as it’s a more pressing need, but Kadyn Proctor is an enticing prospect who could begin his career at guard while being groomed as Decker’s long-term replacement.
Dillon Thieneman is another player who did himself a world of good during the combine. He was excellent for Oregon last year, and his athleticism was blinding in Indianapolis. The Vikings have to replace Harrison Smith, and Thieneman might just be the answer.
I really like Keldric Faulk as a prospect, though I do wonder where his long-term position is. He’s a big boy, and he’s still very young. There’s room to grow, but he already shows a good understanding of how to get after the QB.
The Cowboys need to help their pass rush, and while Akheem Mesidor is pretty tapped out by now (he turns 25 in April), he’s a good player who will have an immediate impact in Dallas.
I had the Steelers take a QB here last time, but I sense some of the steam is fading on Ty Simpson lately, and I’m no longer as confident we’ll see two QBs go in the first. So this time, I have the Steelers taking Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson, who is great value here and could fly up boards depending on how he performs at his pro day.
Utah
• Jr
• 6’6″
/ 311 lbs
Spencer Fano takes a tumble compared to where I had him in my last mock, but it’s not because I like him less. It’s because teams seem rattled about arm length at OT after watching Will Campbell get wrecked in the Super Bowl. Fano could be best suited as a guard in the NFL, and that’s where I think the Chargers would put him.
Avieon Terrell is not huge, but he’s sticky, tough, mean and confident. If he were two inches taller, he’d be a top-10 pick. As is, he’s an excellent late-first-round value for the Eagles.
Having added another offensive lineman with their first pick, the Browns now look to help their passing attack, taking Washington’s Denzel Boston. He isn’t a burner, but he’s an excellent route runner with strong hands and a big body that will help move the chains and score points in the red zone.
Zion Young is, well, young, compared to a lot of the other EDGE prospects in this class. The Bears have needs all over their defense, but their pass rush was anemic in 2025. Young may not make an immediate impact but could prove to be a monster with further development.
Omar Cooper Jr. had a great combine that helped his stock considerably. Buffalo needs weapons at receiver, and Cooper strikes me as the kind of player who would know how to find the space to help Josh Allen when he extends plays for 20 minutes.
Utah
• Soph
• 6’6″
/ 308 lbs
I don’t know what the plan is with Trent Williams (my plan would be to always want Trent Williams on your team), but whether he’s back or not, the 49ers should look to improve their offensive line. Caleb Lomu is a prospect who could go much earlier than this.
Blake Miller had an outstanding combine. In a class with a lot of tackles who might not be tackles, there’s no questioning Miller’s measurements for the position. He also showed outstanding strength and athleticism in on-field drills. All of that said, he’s never been someone who truly stands out on tape when I watch him. He’s always struck me as good, not great.
Jermod McCoy missed all of 2025 with an ACL tear and did not work out at the combine. Because of that, I have dropped him from where I initially had him. Still, he was outstanding in 2024, and as long as teams are happy with his medicals by draft day, he’s likely going to remain a first-round pick. The question is, how early does he go? Right now, this could be an absolute steal for the Rams.
CJ Allen doesn’t have the elite athleticism of other Georgia linebackers who have gone in the first round this decade, but he’s still a good athlete with strong instincts and the kind of leadership skills you look for at the position.
Will Eli Stowers ever be the kind of tight end you’re thrilled to leave in-line helping block pass rushers or set the edge in the run game? Probably not. But he will be a matchup nightmare for linebackers and safeties in the passing game, and a useful chess piece for a smart offensive coordinator.
Just what Seattle needs: another defensive back. I don’t know which direction the Seahawks go here. I can just as easily see them trading out of the spot (they only have four picks) as making a pick, but for this exercise, I’ve got them taking yet another aggressive corner who helps in both the pass and run game.
Israeli officials told journalists Wednesday that intelligence indicated Iran could have enriched uranium to 90%, or weapons grade, within two weeks if it had decided to do so, before the U.S. and Israel launched strikes over the weekend.
They said, however, that Iran’s weaponization group was “still far from producing a classic nuclear bomb.”
In terms of risk management, the officials said there was a clear decision that they had to act when they did. Iran’s nuclear capacity was not totally wiped out, and they “still maintained certain capabilities,” according to Israel.
President Trump on Tuesday defended his decision to launch the war with Iran, saying there would have been a nuclear war without the intervention, and that Iran “would have taken out many countries.”
Mr. Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff said Monday that Iranian officials claimed during recent negotiations to have enough enriched uranium to make 11 nuclear bombs, before the U.S. and Israel launched their attack
Witkoff told Fox News that Iran’s negotiators had told him before the strikes that the country had about 460 kilograms of uranium at 60% enrichment, echoing reports from the U.N.’s IAEA nuclear watchdog, but adding that it could have been enriched to weapons-grade within a week to 10 days.
Iran insisted right up until the war began that it would not seek to build a nuclear weapon, and the IAEA chief said 10 days before strikes started that the agency had seen no evidence of Iran working toward developing such a capability.
Iran is now preparing for three to four weeks of war and is preserving its weapons stockpiles, the Israeli officials said, adding that, “Israel did not drag the U.S. into the war.”
RIO RANCHO, N.M. (KRQE) – Voters headed to the polls on Tuesday to decide the future of Rio Rancho. The contest for mayor is a crowded field with six candidates competing, and if the current results hold, this race could be headed to a runoff. The current mayor, Gregg Hull, recently announced he would not seek […]
The death of Deadliest Catch deckhand Todd Meadows is now under investigation.
The 25-year-old fisherman died on Feb. 25 after falling overboard while working aboard the fishing vessel Aleutian Lady in Alaska. According to the United States Coast Guard, Meadows was recovered by his crew shortly after the fall, but attempts to save him were unsuccessful.
Now, federal officials are looking into what exactly happened.
What Happened at Sea
In a statement to People, a spokesperson for the U.S. Coast Guard Arctic District confirmed that watchstanders in Juneau were notified after Meadows fell overboard around 5 p.m. local time.
The crew of the Aleutian Lady reported the incident roughly 170 miles north of Dutch Harbor. According to the Coast Guard, Meadows was recovered from the water about 10 minutes after the fall, but he was unresponsive.
“As the nation’s leading marine safety organization, the Coast Guard investigates marine casualties and accidents to uncover their causes and initiate necessary corrective actions,” the statement said.
A Tragic Loss for the Crew
News of Meadows’ death was first shared publicly by Captain Rick Shelford in a social media post on Monday (March 2).
“February 25, 2026, was the most tragic day in the history of the Aleutian Lady on the Bering Sea,” Shelford wrote. “We lost our brother, Todd Meadows.”
Shelford described Meadows as the newest member of the crew who quickly became part of the family.
His love for fishing and his strong work ethic earned everyone’s respect right away. His smile was contagious, and the sound of his laughter coming up the wheelhouse stairs or over the deck hailer is something we will carry with us always.
Shelford added that Meadows’ love for his children and family was evident in everything he did. “He worked hard, loved deeply, and brought joy to those around him,” he wrote. “Right now, our hearts are broken in a way that words can’t fully express.”
Discovery Channel Responds
A spokesperson for the Discovery Channel, which airs Deadliest Catch, also shared a statement following the news.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Todd Meadows,” the network said. “This is a devastating loss, and our hearts are with his loved ones, his crewmates, and the entire fishing community during this incredibly difficult time.”
Meadows was known for his work in the high-risk world of Bering Sea crab fishing — the dangerous industry documented on the long-running Discovery series.
Season 21 of Deadliest Catch concluded in fall 2025; season 22 is expected to air in 2026.
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Matt Bowen is a fantasy football and NFL writer for ESPN. He joined ESPN in 2015, writes regularly for ESPN+ and spent multiple years on “NFL Matchup.” After graduating from the University of Iowa, Matt played safety in the NFL for St. Louis, Green Bay, Washington and Buffalo over seven seasons.
Multiple Authors
NFL free agency unofficially opens at noon ET on March 9 with the negotiation window (when players can agree to terms), and it officially opens at 4 p.m. ET on March 11 (when players can actually be signed). At the end of January, we ranked the NFL’s top 50 free agents available this offseason. Now that the franchise tag deadline is behind us, we’re expanding our list to the top 100 free agents.
My ranking factors in age, positional value, expected future production, scheme versatility and buzz around the league. This list only includes unrestricted free agents and a few players who are expected to released at the start of the new NFL league year on March 11 (i.e. Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray).
Who is the top player in the class? How do the quarterbacks stack up? And which positions run deepest? Let’s dive in and look at the best available players from 1 to 100. (And I will update this list periodically over the next few days before we hit the negotiating window.)
What he brings: Hendrickson is a relentless defender off the edge, with a deep toolbox of counters and a knack for making plays late in the down. In seven games last season, he had four sacks. His 17.5 sacks and 65 pressures in 2024 were league highs. Hendrickson would immediately upgrade just about any team’s defensive line.
What he brings: Linderbaum has a tone-setting mentality on the interior of the front, using elite foot speed and body control to match pass rushers or climb to the second level in the run game. His pass block win rate of 97.2% tied for second among 31 qualifying centers last season.
What he brings: With his long 6-foot-5 frame, Phillips can play as both an edge setter and pocket disrupter. After being traded to the Eagles on Nov. 3, he had two sacks and 27 pressures in coordinator Vic Fangio’s system, flashing improved range to the ball. Over his five-year career, Phillips has accounted for 28 sacks and 150 pressures.
What he brings: A vertical stretch target at 6-foot-3 and 211 pounds, Pierce averaged a league-best 21.3 yards per catch in 2025. He also topped the 1,000-yard receiving mark and brought in six touchdowns. Pierce has the straight-line speed to lift the safeties, creating open coverage voids underneath for other targets. With more volume and an increased role, he has the skills to produce as a multilevel route runner.
play
1:00
Schefter: Anthony Richardson granted permission to seek trade
Adam Schefter joins “SportsCenter” and breaks the news that the Indianapolis Colts have given Anthony Richardson permission to seek a trade.
What he brings: Walker’s pass block win rate of 93.8% ranked 11th among 68 qualifying offensive tackles. His technique could still improve and he lacks a strong anchor, but he has the footwork and mobility to match the speed of edge rushers. At a premium position, Walker will see heavy interest in free agency.
What he brings: An explosive pass rusher who gets off the ball in a hurry, Oweh can also flatten his path to maneuver around offensive tackles. After getting traded from the Ravens on Oct. 7, Oweh had 7.5 sacks and 27 pressures in Los Angeles. Plus, he recorded three sacks in the team’s wild-card loss to the Patriots.
What he brings: He is a big-bodied drive blocker at 6-foot-6 and 312 pounds, easily matching power in pass protection. Injuries have been a concern, as Smith has missed 17 games over his past three seasons. He started 13 games at right tackle for the Colts in 2025, and his pass block win rate jumped 7% from 2024.
What he brings: Franklin-Myers lacks the lateral speed and bend to turn pressures into a bunch of sacks from edge alignments. But he’s an active inside rusher who can play as a defensive tackle or 5-technique with his 6-foot-4, 288-pound frame. He had 7.5 sacks and 23 pressures last season.
What he brings: Taylor’s versatility and urgent play style show up on tape. He has the speed to cover receivers on the perimeter, but he can also play a disruptive role in the slot. In four seasons with the Saints, Taylor has 4 interceptions, 40 pass breakups and 7 sacks.
What he brings: Walker’s explosive traits create playmaking upside; he can cover ground as a run-and-hit defender. Plus, he diagnosed the run game at a quicker rate in 2025, averaging 4.9 tackles on designed rushes per game (11th highest). Overall, Walker had 2.5 sacks, 8 tackles for loss and 4 pass breakups.
What he brings: Woolen has 12 interceptions and 36 pass breakups so far in his four-year career. A lack of consistent eye discipline has prevented him from reaching his ceiling in coverage, but he has the physical traits and speed at 6-foot-4 to help a defense majoring in man coverage and two-deep zone.
What he brings:Injuries limited Evans to eight games last season, but he had topped the 1,000-yard receiving mark in 11 straight seasons entering 2025. He’s a classic boundary receiver, with 6-foot-5 size and great ball skills. Evans can still get loose in the red zone and produce as a No. 2 option.
play
0:46
Riddick: Mike Evans will be in high demand
Louis Riddick and Booger McFarland react to Mike Evans playing in 2026 and being set to be a free agent.
What he brings: Watson isn’t a high-end playmaker, but he has the length to challenge in press and the route awareness to play top-down on the ball in zone schemes. He has three career interceptions and 23 pass breakups.
What he brings: With his dual-threat traits and positive signs of development in Green Bay, Willis is one of the top quarterbacks in free agency. In four appearances (one start) last season, Willis completed 85.7% of his throws, rushed for 123 yards and scored four touchdowns. He’ll be signed to start somewhere this March.
What he brings: Walker is a decisive runner who can press the edges with speed, find cutback lanes in zone schemes and provide big-play ability. His 33 rushes of 10 or more yards were the sixth most in the regular season, and he can be targeted on screens or swing routes out of the backfield. He has had at least 25 receptions in all four of his NFL seasons.
What he brings: Lloyd’s on-the-ball production increases his value heading into free agency. He had five interceptions in 2025, returning one for a touchdown. He’s a solid starter who has flashed high-level ability in the NFL.
What he brings: Murray, who played in only five games last season due to a foot injury, is expected to be released by the Cardinals at the start of the league year. When healthy, Murray has the talent to produce in a system that maximizes his dual-threat ability, and he should draw strong interest as a free agent. In seven seasons with Arizona, he threw for 121 touchdowns and rushed for 3,193 yards.
What he brings: Likely’s alignment versatility gives offensive playcallers more flexibility, and he has the catch-and-run traits to produce on high-percentage throws. He should be viewed as a “move” tight end who can get favorable matchups in the passing game. He had 27 catches for 301 yards and a touchdown in 2025, which was down from his six scores in 2024.
What he brings: Doubs has the route-running traits and foot quickness to uncover, and he is more than willing to work the middle of the field on in-breaking concepts. While the Packers missed Jayden Reed, Christian Watson and Tucker Kraft over parts of the season, Doubs averaged 13.2 yards per reception and caught five of his six touchdowns on red zone targets. In short, he’s a reliable pass catcher.
What he brings: An elbow injury forced Mack to miss five games early in the season, yet he finished with 5.5 sacks and 28 pressures. He will need to be used more as a situational rusher at this stage of his career, but he is still a powerful defender who can create impact plays off the edge.
What he brings: Etienne looked more explosive in 2025, slashing through creases of daylight as a runner. His 26 rushes of 10 or more yards were tied for the 12th most in the NFL, and he’s more than capable as a receiver out of the backfield (36 catches in 2025). He had 116 total yards and a touchdown in Jacksonville’s wild-card loss to Buffalo.
What he brings: A rangy safety with top-down speed, Cook fits in both split-field and single-high schemes. The 2022 second-round pick is the highest-ranked player at his position on this list. He had six pass breakups in 2025, playing 82.6% of Kansas City’s defensive snaps.
What he brings: Shaheed can stretch defenses vertically, plus he can turn screens or underneath throws into chunk plays. He also provides an upgrade on special teams, making the Pro Bowl last season as a fearless kickoff returner with open-field speed. Shaheed has had 29 receptions of 20 or more yards in his four-year career.
What he brings: Chaisson plays with an extra gear off the edge, using his vertical burst to get around offensive tackles. And he has the short-area speed to close on quarterbacks off stunts or inside loops. The former first-rounder had a career-best 7.5 sacks and 32 pressures in 2025, plus he added three more sacks in the playoffs.
What he brings: At 6-foot-3, 213 pounds, Jennings is a consistent route runner who plays through contact and makes himself available to the quarterback on in-breaking targets. He caught 55 passes last season for an injury-riddled 49ers unit, scoring nine touchdowns. Jennings was even better in 2024, when he ranked 12th in ESPN’s receiver scores and had 975 receiving yards.
What he brings: Mafe has a quick first step, which allows him to attack the edges of offensive tackles. His effort level and pursuit from the backside also lead to second-reaction sacks. Mafe can still refine his pass-rushing plan, but the traits are there to produce in a system that schemes favorable matchups out of multiple fronts. Mafe had two sacks and 33 pressures last season.
What he brings: The 10-year veteran has the foot quickness to redirect defenders and the body control to wrestle back against power rushers. Seumalo’s 97.3% pass rush win rate ranked second among 65 qualifying guards last season, and his 76.9% run block win rate checked in at fourth.
What he brings: Blankenship can spin to the post, but he’s at his best in split-field alignments, matching the seams and playing top-down on the ball. With nine interceptions over his four years with the Eagles, Blankenship makes plays from depth, plus he is a solid alley defender versus the run game.
What he brings: A young and durable interior blocker with movement traits, Johnson fits in both zone and gap run schemes. He is just entering his prime playing years, with a 90.7% pass block win rate over his four-year career.
What he brings: Newsome has only four career interceptions, but he has created on-ball production with 33 pass breakups over five seasons. He has the tools to match in man coverage, but he’s at his best in zone schemes that allow him to play with backfield vision. Newsome was traded to the Jaguars from the Browns on Oct. 8.
2025 team:Buffalo Bills | Age entering 2026 season: 28
What he brings: A steady pass blocker in the middle of the front, McGovern has the mobility to climb and play in space versus linebackers. He had a 97.2% pass block win rate in 2025, which was tied for second among 31 qualifying centers.
2025 team:Buffalo Bills | Age entering 2026 season: 29
What he brings: Edwards played option quarterback and basketball in high school, and you can see the light feet to redirect in pass protection and effectively climb to the second level in his game. He has played his best football as a pro over the past couple of seasons, and his 95% pass block win rate in 2025 ranked 12th among 65 qualifying guards.
2025 team:Chicago Bears | Age entering 2026 season: 27
What he brings: A long, linear cornerback at 6-foot-4, 199 pounds, Wright had a career-best five interceptions in 2025. He took one back for a touchdown and also broke up seven passes. Though Wright lacks high-end recovery speed, his length, play instincts and production will increase his value for a defense that needs help in man coverage and Cover 2.
2025 team:Buffalo Bills | Age entering 2026 season: 31
What he brings: Bosa has played in at least 14 games over the past two seasons after injuries limited him to a total of 13 games from 2022 to 2023. Averaging 36.3 snaps per game for the Bills, he had 5 sacks, 5 forced fumbles and 42 pressures. Bosa should be viewed as a situational rusher who can still win with speed-to-power. His effort level also leads to production late in the play.
What he brings: At 6-foot-3, 238 pounds, Okonkwo can be schemed as a motion/movement player in the passing game. In addition to running seam and corner routes, Okonkwo gets loose on screens, crossers and unders. He caught 56 passes for 560 yards and two touchdowns last season, with 61.8% of his total receiving production coming after the catch. Elusive in space, he is a matchup piece for the right playcaller.
What he brings: A 5-foot-8, 185-pound slot receiver with the short-area speed to uncover, Robinson displayed more vertical ability last season for the Giants. He produced a career-best 14 receptions of 20 or more yards for New York, which was withoutMalik Nabers for much of the season. With at least 92 receptions in each of his past two seasons, Robinson is a volume target who can work multiple levels between the numbers.
What he brings: A durable defender who has played in at least 16 games over his past three seasons, Curl can limit vertical throws in the deep areas of the field. He’s also a strong tackler in the run front, finishing with a career-high 122 tackles last season (along with two interceptions and two sacks).
What he brings: The 12-year pro has started 178 NFL games. He’s a savvy technician who had a 96.4% pass block win rate in 2025 (third best among 65 qualifying guards), while allowing only two sacks. If Bitonio opts to return for a 13th season, he would provide both consistent play and a veteran voice to any offensive line room.
What he brings: Mays has some athletic limitations, but his 6-foot-6 length and power put him in a position to win in pass protection. And he can displace defenders in the run game. Mays had a 94.3% pass block win rate in 2025, which ranked 20th out of 31 qualifying centers.
2025 team:Chicago Bears | Age entering 2026 season: 27
What he brings: A downhill safety who creates disruption near the line of scrimmage, Brisker played in all 17 games last season after missing 12 in 2024 with a concussion. He’s an alley filler who can blitz, plus he can play over the top in the deep half. In four seasons with the Bears, Brisker has had four interceptions, seven sacks and 14 pass breakups.
What he brings: Chenal brings some versatility to any game plan as a defender who can play off-the-ball, insert into the front or even line up as a stand-up defensive tackle. Chenal is good at tracking the ball in the run game from the second level. In four seasons, he has recorded 193 total tackles, seven sacks and 28 pressures.
What he brings: Dowdle rushed for 1,076 yards this past season, and he had 26 carries of 10 or more yards. An explosive runner, he can work the edges or get vertical with the ball in zone schemes. And he gets up to top speed quickly. Dowdle also had 39 receptions for the Panthers in 2025, tying a career high.
What he brings: An interchangeable safety with the vision to get a jump on the ball from depth, Bryant had four interceptions in 2025. A good fit as a deep half defender in a zone scheme, Bryant can also spin down to patrol the edges as a cutoff defender. There’s some urgency to his game. Bryant has 7 interceptions, 2 forced fumbles and 5 passes broken up over his past two seasons.
What he brings: Dean bounced back from a knee injury in the 2024 playoffs to produce 4 sacks, 2 forced fumbles and 55 total tackles in 10 games in 2025. He’s the best blitzing linebacker in the league, arriving angry versus running backs in pass protection. And he has the pursuit speed to track the ball on the edges.
What he brings: A change-of-pace runner, Gainwell caught a career-high 73 passes last season and was vital on third downs for Pittsburgh. He produces on backfield releases and can even draw positive matchups when flexed from the formation. Gainwell would fit a backfield rotation that caters to his dual-threat traits.
2025 team:Detroit Lions | Age entering 2026 season: 31
What he brings: A nine-year veteran, Anzalone is quick to key the run game and can be schemed a blitzer. In coverage, Anzalone has the lateral quickness and eye discipline to match running backs in the pass game. He had 2.5 sacks and eight pass breakups in Detroit last season.
What he brings: Rodgers displayed more mobility last season when working the edges of the pocket, while throwing for 24 touchdowns and only seven interceptions. He ranked 16th in completion percentage (65.7%) and 23rd in QBR (44.4). With his quick release and high-end coverage recognition, he can still be a capable starter in the NFL.
play
2:21
Why the Vikings are the best fit for Aaron Rodgers
The “Get Up” crew agrees the Vikings are the top fit for Aaron Rodgers heading into his 22nd year in the NFL.
What he brings: Paye had four sacks and 27 pressures last season after producing at least eight sacks in both 2023 and 2024. With his speed off the ball and laterally, he can be schemed off stunts while he continues to develop a more versatile rush plan.
2025 team:Chicago Bears | Age entering 2026 season: 28
What he brings: Byard’s seven interceptions led the league in 2025. A top-level communicator with the route awareness to make plays on the ball, Byard also showed more range over the top last season. Since he can play both safety spots, he would be a fit for teams that need a proven veteran in the secondary.
What he brings: Dean’s three interceptions in 2025 were a career high, and he had 40 pass breakups over seven seasons with the Bucs. He would fit best in a zone coverage/pressure defense that allows him to clue in to the quarterback and tackle on the perimeter.
What he brings: Expected to be cut, Cousins played in 10 games last season — including eight starts — while Michael Penix Jr. dealt with injuries. Cousins threw for 1,721 yards with 10 touchdowns and five interceptions; his QBR of 47.6 would have ranked 22nd if he qualified. With limited mobility, he grades out as a lower-tier starter in a play-action system that would cater to his field vision and timing.
What he brings: Thompson has a really good feel for route concepts when playing over the top or lying in the weeds as an underneath zone defender. Plus, he can match and carry versus vertical releases from receivers. He’s also an aggressive downhill run defender. In seven seasons with the Cardinals, Thompson had nine interceptions and 24 pass breakups.
What he brings: An instinctive corner who can create ball disruption and match up underneath, Brown had two interceptions and 10 pass breakups last season. A lack of top-end speed impacts his ability to stay connected with receivers consistently downfield, but Brown has the eyes and short-area juice to produce in a more zone-heavy system.
What he brings: Samuel caught 72 passes and scored five touchdowns in his one season with the Commanders, with 63.7% of his receiving totals coming after the catch. A power strider, he would benefit from a system that allows him to get loose on catch-and-run targets.
play
1:33
Why Dan Quinn is such a big fan of Commanders QB Jayden Daniels
Dan Quinn tells Rich Eisen a healthy Jayden Daniels can elevate the Commanders and establish himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL next season.
What he brings: Ingram has a smaller frame for the position (6-foot-3, 307 pounds), but he has shown positive signs of development on tape. He had a pass block win rate of 91.1% in 2025, and he can protect his edges and move in space as a run blocker.
What he brings: An explosive, linear safety who can create chaos as a run-and-hit defender, Cross has the versatility to play at multiple levels of the field in the right system. In four seasons with the Colts, he had five interceptions, 3.5 sacks and 12 tackles for loss.
What he brings: Nailor is more than willing to work the middle of the field, and he has the foot quickness to separate on out-breaking routes. With the ability to line up inside or outside, he has proved himself as a solid No. 3 option. He averaged 15.3 yards per catch and scored three touchdowns in 2025.
What he brings: After missing the entire 2024 season with a knee injury, Chubb played in all 17 games for Miami in 2025. He finished with a team-high 8.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and 35 pressures. He’s a quality edge rusher who can slot in for a contender.
What he brings: Kelce caught 76 passes last season, his lowest total since 2015, and his play speed has noticeably declined. However, he can still use his elite coverage awareness to find open grass or uncover as an outlet for the quarterback. If Kelce continues to play, a return to Kansas City seems likely.
What he brings: Jones, who was traded from Tennessee to Baltimore midseason, had seven sacks and 45 pressures in 2025. The veteran can be displaced in the running game, but he brings inside/outside alignment flexibility and the first-step quickness to disrupt the pocket.
What he brings: Goedert is a multi-level target who can also produce on manufactured touches in the low red zone. He set career highs in touchdowns (11, tied for second most in the NFL) and receptions (60) this past season in just 15 games.
2025 team:New York Jets | Age entering 2026 season: 27
What he brings: Vera-Tucker missed the entire 2025 season with a torn triceps, and he has played only 43 games over his five-year career due to injuries. A team could take a shot on him, however, given his first-round traits, play strength and mobility on the interior.
What he brings: Hall played most of his snaps last season at defensive tackle for the Bucs, but he can also be featured as a 4-3 defensive end. With a long, 6-foot-6, 283-pound frame, he has the physical profile and traits to play on the edges. In four seasons, he had 10 sacks and 42 pressures.
What he brings: Robinson has all of the desired tools at his position. He’s 6-foot-6, 335 pounds, with the ability to engulf pass rushers and the foot speed to redirect during a play. Plus, his 92.1% pass block win rate in 2025 was a career best. However, technical lapses have prevented him from playing at a much more consistent rate.
What he brings: Paul has the strength and movement skills to fit in multiple run schemes, playing at left guard throughout his four-year career. In 2025, he allowed only two sacks and ranked eighth among 65 qualifying guards in pass block win rate (95.4%).
What he brings: Bush made some splash plays in Cleveland this past season. He returned two of his three interceptions for touchdowns, and added two forced fumbles and two sacks. A run-and-hit defender with range at the second level, Bush also had a career-best 125 total tackles.
What he brings: A long and lean corner (6-foot-1, 175 pounds), Flott lacks big-time ball production with three career interceptions. But he has the recovery speed to create disruption at the catch point. In 14 starts last season, Flott had one interception and seven pass breakups.
What he brings: With his frame and physical tools, Njoku is a seam stretcher who can create isolation matchups in the low red zone. However, he missed 11 games in the past two seasons because of injuries. In 12 games this past season, he caught 33 passes for 293 yards and four touchdowns.
What he brings: With 20.5 career sacks, Elliss should be viewed as a versatile off-ball linebacker who can insert into the front and pressure. Elliss totaled 10 tackles for loss last season, adding one interception and five passes defensed. He would fit in a defensive system that leans on schemed fronts and gets him matchups versus running backs in pass protection.
What he brings: A lack of playmaking numbers (one career interception) moves Stokes down in the rankings, but he has the long speed and downhill quicks to play as a denial defender in coverage. At 6-foot-1, he has the length to play press-man coverage or stay on top of routes as an outside-third zone defender.
play
1:10
Are the Cowboys the best fit for Maxx Crosby?
Peter Schrager and Jason McCourty discuss the impact Maxx Crosby could make if he were to join the Cowboys.
What he brings: At 6-foot-5, 247 pounds, Otton is a big target on middle-of-the-field throws with the foot speed to uncover. He can also be targeted at the third level on seams and corners. Otton caught 59 passes in each of the past two seasons, combining for five touchdowns.
2025 team:Buffalo Bills | Age entering 2026 season: 27
What he brings: Epenesa is a long, powerful mover who can set the edge of the front with his 6-foot-6, 260-pound frame. He can also create disruptive plays, recording 24.5 sacks and four interceptions in six NFL seasons.
What he brings: Still one of the top run defenders in the league, Davis’ ability to quickly diagnose plays puts him in a position to make stops. He averaged 8.4 tackles per game last season, but his limited production in coverage and age keep him lower on this list.
What he brings: A steady technician with the play demeanor necessary to win on the interior, Teller has started more than 100 games in the league. His career pass rush win rate sits at 92.6%.
What he brings: With his smaller frame (5-foot-11, 185 pounds), big wide receivers can create matchup advantages versus Durant on the perimeter. However, he can run and play inside. In 2025, Durant had three interceptions, returning one for a touchdown.
What he brings: In eight starts last season, Mariota threw for 1,695 yards with 10 touchdowns and five interceptions. Plus, he ranked 13th out of all QBs in total rushing yards (297). With the dual-threat element he brings to the field, Mariota grades out as a high-level No. 2.
What he brings: A linear pass rusher with a long frame, Ebiketie had 16.5 sacks and 89 pressures over four seasons with the Falcons. The former second-round pick fits as a 3-4 outside linebacker who can also be a part of sub-package rotation on the edges.
What he brings: A long, physical corner who can succeed in press coverage, Jobe had 10 pass breakups in 2025. While his tight lower half can limit his ability to stay connected in man coverage, he has the transition speed to produce as an instinctive zone defender.
What he brings: With length and speed at 6-foot-4, 263 pounds, Ossai would be a fit for teams looking to add some versatility to their sub-package rush front. He can play on the edge or bump inside to gain matchups. Ossai had five sacks in 2025, with a career-high 35 pressures. And he’s still in his prime playing years.
What he brings: Kolar caught only 10 passes (two for touchdowns) in 2025 as the Ravens’ third tight end option behind Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely. But with another team, he could be the No. 1 option with pass-catching upside. A technically sound blocker out of in-line alignments, Kolar had a run block win rate of 75.5%.
What he brings: With his dual-threat ability, White can produce as a receiver while being featured in the running game. Last season in Tampa, White had 40 receptions and 790 total yards. He would fit in a split-backfield approach, adding value on passing downs.
What he brings: Eluemunor started 16 games at right tackle in 2025, with the mass and anchor to take on power rushers. But Eluemunor, who had a below-average 88.8% pass block win rate, should be graded as a lower-tier starter in free agency.
What he brings: A durable defender, Enagbare lacks high-end explosive movement ability and range as a rusher. But he can win with power and technique, making plays in tight quarters. In four seasons with the Packers, Enagbare had 11.5 sacks and 59 pressures.
What he brings: The veteran has a physical inside presence, using his power to displace defensive tackles and movement ability to pull on gap schemes. Zeitler uses his strong base in protection, but his pass block win rate dropped to 92.4% this past season in Tennessee (lowest since 2020).
What he brings: With his first-step quickness and body control, Rankins can still create backfield disruption on the interior of a front. The former first-round pick has had 33.5 sacks over his 10-year career.
What he brings: Hawkins had a career-best four interceptions this past season. He has the range to play from depth or drive downhill versus the run. Hawkins can also play both safety spots, which gives coordinators more flexibility in disguising coverages and rotations.
What he brings: Parham will need the right scheme (likely a wide zone system) to play his best football, but he has the skills to mirror in pass protection. In 2025, his 95.2% pass block win rate ranked ninth among 65 qualifying guards.
What he brings: In 16 games this past season, Brown caught 49 passes for 587 yards and five touchdowns. He still has the third-level speed to attack split-field safeties, plus he can separate from coverage on crossers and unders. Brown missed the majority of the 2024 season because of a sternoclavicular injury.
2025 team:New York Jets | Age entering 2026 season: 30
What he brings: Williams can make splash plays with his perimeter range as a tackler and ability to add pressure from second-level or mugged alignments. He averaged 6.3 tackles per game last season, while adding 3.5 sacks and five pass breakups.
2025 team:Detroit Lions | Age entering 2026 season: 31
What he brings: Muhammad had 11 sacks and 41 pressures last season. He could fit as a designated pass rusher for teams looking to boost their sub packages.
What he brings: At 6-foot-4, 300 pounds, Burford’s length and physical tools create upside for him in this guard market. Plus, he has shown that he can play at either guard spot. Burford registered a pass block win rate of 92.8% in nine starts last season.
What he brings: Onyemata’s pass rush production has declined over the past two seasons (four total sacks, 27 pressures), but he can still help a team in its run front. His 39.2% run stop win rate last season ranked 11th among all defensive linemen.
play
2:55
Kevin Stefanski’s mindset as Falcons’ new head coach
Kevin Stefanski joins “The Rich Eisen Show” and breaks down his mindset going into his first season as head coach of the Atlanta Falcons.
What he brings: With his massive frame (6-foot-8, 370 pounds) and power at the point of attack, Faalele would fit best in a gap run scheme. He’s a durable lineman who recorded a 93% pass block win rate as a starter over his past two seasons.
What he brings: Biadasz will be released by the Commanders at the start of the league year. While he didn’t play his best football in 2025, he should be viewed as a durable, lower-tier starter in the league. In six NFL seasons, Biadasz has a 93.8% pass block win rate.
2025 team:New York Jets | Age entering 2026 season: 26
What he brings: A pectoral tear limited Cisco to eight games this past season. He has range and ball skills that should draw some interest, with eight interceptions and 15 pass breakups over five pro seasons.
What he brings: With the Vikings expected to release Hargrave, the veteran defensive tackle just makes our list because of his ability to rush from the interior. He has 49 career sacks, including 3.5 this past season. Hargrave also had 18 pass rush wins in 2025, which tied for 23rd at his position.
What he brings: Wagner’s 9.5 tackles per game ranked sixth overall in 2025, showing he can still key quickly and rack up run stops. He does have limitations in coverage at this stage of his career, but he would add a veteran voice and early-down production to any NFL defense.
2025 team:Chicago Bears | Age entering 2026 season: 27
What he brings: Jones was benched in Week 4 of the 2025 season and eventually put on IR with a knee injury. He has the mobility to match speed off the edges, but he struggles to handle power down his middle. As a left tackle, Jones will have interest from teams on a short-term deal. He has a 90.2% pass block win rate over his four-year career.
What he brings: Diggs has played in just 22 games over the past three seasons, and he was released by the Cowboys and Packers this past season. However, teams could see Diggs as reclamation project with his playmaking eyes in the secondary. He has had 20 career interceptions, including a league high of 11 in 2021.
What he brings: Rhyan grades out as an average starter with positional flexibility. He had 11 starts last season at both the center and guard spots, with a pass block win rate of 91.8%.
