Super Bowl buzz: Latest on NFL free agency, trades, coaches

The Seahawks-Patriots duel in Super Bowl LX takes center stage in the NFL, but let’s not overlook that the offseason kicks off right after the confetti falls on Sunday night. Super Bowl week is an ideal time to gather insights about potential future developments for all 32 teams.

National reporters Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano have been in San Francisco throughout the week, engaging with executives, coaches, agents, scouts, players, and team insiders. Who are likely free agents in March? What’s the forecast for quarterbacks in free agency? What coaching adjustments lies ahead with coordinator spots being filled? We cover all of this, including the latest on Maxx Crosby’s potential trade, the open NFLPA director role, and of course, the Super Bowl matchup.

Here’s what Jeremy and Dan have discovered on the ground this week.

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Super Bowl teams | Coaching moves
QB market | Trades | Free agents | NFLPA

Insights on the Super Bowl teams

Graziano: In preparing for the Super Bowl, it’s important to note that Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold faces a $15 million roster bonus for 2026 that becomes fully guaranteed on February 13, along with $2.5 million of his salary. The Seahawks are stringent with veteran contracts and won’t guarantee funds outside of the first year. so, when he signed with Seattle last offseason, Darnold’s guaranteed compensation was limited to his $32 million signing bonus and $5.5 million for salary and bonuses in 2025. (He also amassed $3 million in incentives, and can claim an extra $1 million if the Seahawks win on Sunday.) but, the early triggering of the 2026 guarantees necessitates that Seattle decides on Darnold (and others with similar structures) well before free agency kicks off.

If they’re unsatisfied, the Seahawks might release him before February 13 without owing him money. since Seattle made it to the Super Bowl in his inaugural season, it seems a foregone conclusion that they will gladly pay him that roster bonus along with his remaining non-guaranteed salary for a total of $27.5 million in 2026. A significant question will be whether they opt to extend his contract with two years still left, a move they’ve hesitated to make with other players in recent seasons.

This offseason will also provide insight into Seattle’s approach to compensating running backs. Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet were second-round picks in consecutive years. Walker is eligible for unrestricted free agency, while Charbonnet suffered an ACL tear during the postseason. Walker and the Seahawks have emphasized their focus is on Sunday’s game, not his impending free agency, yet Walker, an explosive player at just 25, hasn’t been over-utilized during his time in Seattle. He might pique the interest of other teams in free agency, raising the potential that he could become too expensive for Seattle’s future as they aim for lucrative extensions for key positions, like wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba and cornerback Devon Witherspoon.

Lastly, rookie safety Nick Emmanwori will take the field on Sunday despite spraining his ankle in practice on Wednesday, though there’s uncertainty regarding how the injury may hinder his performance. He didn’t practice Thursday but fully participated on Friday. Emmanwori has been crucial to Seattle’s defensive game plans, thanks to his versatility in various roles. If he’s not performing at his best, it could create an opportunity for Drake Maye and the struggling Patriots offense.

Insights on coaching and GM changes

Fowler: Coaching developments will occur in Seattle following the Super Bowl, particularly with Klint Kubiak moving to Las Vegas, leaving them in need of an offensive coordinator. Seattle quarterbacks coach Andrew Janocko stands out as a natural option. He has a history with Kubiak across Minnesota, New Orleans, and Seattle. I anticipate him gaining traction for the role, possibly in-house within Seattle. also, offensive passing game coordinator Jake Peetz has been cycling through coordinator opportunities recently and could earn an in-house interview as well. Running backs coach Justin Outten has also surfaced in discussions as a potential candidate.

Conversations I’ve had in San Francisco indicate Seattle coach Mike Macdonald may want to retain a Kubiak-style system. One name to remember: Seattle was notably impressed with Mike Kafka during head coach interviews two years ago. He’s currently serving as a senior assistant in Detroit and might be worth watching closely.

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What does expected hiring of Klint Kubiak mean for Raiders?

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Graziano: This week brought surprising news with the resignation of long-time Eagles offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland after 13 years with the organization. Though he wasn’t dismissed, the Eagles hinted that they were contemplating a change in his role, considering giving the run game coordinator title to someone else. Stoutland, at this stage of his career, felt he should not have to accept a reduction in responsibilities; thus, he departed. Most view this as a significant loss for the Eagles, as Stoutland has been a steady presence amidst coaching shifts and is credited with much of the Eagles’ offensive triumphs throughout the years.

besides, whispers suggest that 35-year-old right tackle Lane Johnson and 27-year-old left guard Landon Dickerson are both contemplating retirement this offseason. Dickerson played through numerous injuries last season, and there’s speculation suggesting he might be weary of enduring the physical toll required for consistent weekly play. Many players face such decisions each offseason, and while it’s possible both Dickerson and/or Johnson may return in 2026, Stoutland’s absence signifies potential for considerable change on an offensive line that has been foundational to Philadelphia’s success over the past decade.

Fowler: The appointment of Davis Webb as the Broncos’ offensive coordinator is noteworthy beyond the title itself. Several league insiders believe coach Sean Payton may eventually pass playcalling duties to Webb, a rising star who received multiple head coaching interviews this cycle. While nothing is finalized, Payton, who has a history of successful playcalling, will have the final say on this transition.

Graziano: The Browns were optimistic about convincing defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz to remain after hiring Todd Monken instead of him as head coach, but Schwartz notified the team Thursday of his resignation. Rumors connect Schwartz with Klint Kubiak in Las Vegas for the defensive coordinator position, though it seems more likely he will take a year off and reappear as a defensive coordinator in the next cycle when inexperienced offensive-minded head coach candidates may secure jobs next offseason.

Meanwhile, Texans defensive passing game coordinator Cory Undlin is a name to keep an eye on for the defensive coordinator role in Cleveland; he previously worked with Monken when part of Jack Del Rio’s staff in Jacksonville a decade ago. Houston’s defensive staff might lose a couple of members to coordinator roles. Cornerbacks coach Dino Vasso is both a candidate for the defensive coordinator position on Mike LaFleur’s staff in Arizona and a potential option under Kubiak in Las Vegas. (Giants outside linebackers coach Charlie Bullen is also a name to monitor for Arizona’s defensive coordinator role.)

Fowler: The dismissal of Kwesi Adofo-Mensah in Minnesota brings significant ramifications for the Vikings. He expressed mild surprise but not shock at the firing, realizing that his role demanded results. After the quarterback situation did not favor Minnesota, with former Viking Sam Darnold heading to the Super Bowl, the pressure mounted. This situation began with the lackluster efforts to pursue Darnold, which a source described as “essentially a one-year commitment.” but, Seattle’s offer included more favorable second-year money. Minnesota attempted to attract Daniel Jones, who had received $14 million from Indianapolis and a more certain starting role.

Adofo-Mensah deserves acknowledgment for initially signing Darnold to a one-year deal; he had been monitoring Darnold for years and had categorized available quarterbacks during an early brainstorming session. For Adofo-Mensah, extending Darnold’s contract would have been a firm endorsement of a quarterback he admired. in the end, however, the quarterback dilemma and failures in draft productivity proved inescapable challenges.

Insights on QB availability

Fowler: The Bengals have shown interest in re-signing quarterback Joe Flacco, viewing him as a valuable backup who could step in as a starter should Joe Burrow face injuries again. but, Flacco could attract traction elsewhere as a potential bridge quarterback. The Vikings contemplated signing Flacco last offseason, and the Steelers may have an opening should Aaron Rodgers not re-sign there; Pittsburgh had previously liked his free agency profile.

As for Rodgers, he seems rejuvenated following the 2025 season. One source mentioned that he feels significantly better after his time with the Steelers compared to his past two years with the Jets. He greatly appreciated his experience in Pittsburgh, with teammates praising him both publicly and in exit discussions. The Steelers have been open regarding a potential Rodgers return since the early season, and that sentiment appears unchanged. The combination of head coach Mike McCarthy and offensive coordinator Brian Angelichio provides a seamless transition if Rodgers were to return.

Conversely, the Steelers are optimistic about Will Howard’s development. though a preseason hand injury hindered his progress, Pittsburgh thinks they may have found a notable talent; his leadership, decisiveness at the line, and ability to connect with teammates have caught attention. Rodgers took pride in mentoring Howard, which suggests another year together could prove fruitful.

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McCarthy on Rodgers: ‘It’s important for him to decompress’

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In Arizona, it appears possible that Kyler Murray will remain with the Cardinals. New coach Mike LaFleur understands Murray’s game well. Nothing is finalized as LaFleur addresses staffing issues, but keeping Murray could be the most straightforward route. Should he stay, Jacoby Brissett could become a viable trade asset. His base salary of $4.88 million is reasonable, and he has connections in the league—like Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski and Jets offensive coordinator Frank Reich—who may show interest in acquiring him.

Insights on a high-profile trade candidate

Fowler: Maxx Crosby’s future with the Raiders has become a hot topic this week in San Francisco. Currently, he’s focused on rehabbing from knee surgery, aiming to be ready for the offseason program. He hasn’t communicated with the team since the season ended, so there are no trade requests or discussions known yet. Crosby maintains a close relationship with owner Mark Davis; expect a meeting between Crosby, Davis, general manager John Spytek, and new coach Klint Kubiak soon.

What I’ve gathered is that Crosby wants to be part of a winning team, and that remains his priority. How he communicates this is still uncertain. He has shown loyalty to Las Vegas, which may be tested in upcoming weeks. The reality is the Raiders have a long way to go before becoming competitive, and there’s considerable trade interest for Crosby. I estimate that over a dozen teams, potentially up to 20, will express serious interest. Among those likely contenders are the Bills, Lions, 49ers, Cowboys, and Ravens. A team that typically stays out of such high-profile moves but could be a great fit is the Buccaneers; this trade could significantly elevate Tampa Bay.

Insights on free agency

Fowler: The Bengals are prone to a few surprises, yet tagging defensive end Trey Hendrickson could qualify as a mild one. Their relationship has likely reached its limit, and the tag would exceed $30 million. A sign-and-trade may be an option, but letting him hit free agency could net a third-round compensatory pick for Cincinnati if navigated correctly. He’ll attract plenty of interest as a top free agent pass rusher from teams like the Cowboys, Buccaneers, and Colts.

Concerning the Colts, they seem likely to prioritize Daniel Jones and view receiver Alec Pierce as a secondary option. The Colts should intensify their pursuit of Jones as the combine approaches. though the franchise and transition tags for wide receivers are substantial—between $25 million and $28 million as projected—the Colts previously tagged Michael Pittman Jr. as a strategy to enable a long-term agreement. so, I wouldn’t dismiss a similar scenario for Pierce.

The Packers may attempt to re-sign receiver Romeo Doubs and/or extend tight end Tucker Kraft, who becomes a free agent in 2027. The door remains ajar for Doubs in Green Bay, and I anticipate discussions between both parties to explore the feasibility of a return. The Raiders and Titans are also teams to watch in free agency, each in dire need of impactful receivers on the outside.

Two teams I’ll be monitoring who might pursue Malik Willis—if they can find a taker for their current quarterbacks—are the Cardinals and Dolphins. The connections are clear: New Dolphins GM Jon-Eric Sullivan and coach Jeff Hafley have unique insights on Willis from Green Bay, while new Cardinals coach Mike LaFleur can draw valuable knowledge of Willis’ abilities from his brother, Matt. The Cardinals and Dolphins are both encumbered by hefty guarantees for Kyler Murray and Tua Tagovailoa, respectively. Initially, I viewed the Browns as a potential sleeper for Willis, but with Todd Monken’s hiring, that might alter the dynamics; he seems open to working with the existing quarterbacks on the roster, including Shedeur Sanders.

Insights on NFLPA leadership

Graziano: The NFLPA is continuing its search for a permanent executive director. David White has been acting in the role since Lloyd Howell’s resignation last year, but the players’ union is conducting a thorough search for a full-time successor. The goal is to have candidates prepared for a vote at the forthcoming player rep meeting next month. While there’s no guarantee that this process will conclude swiftly, that remains the union’s preference. There’s a possibility this search could extend into summer or beyond.

Attention across the league is on who will lead the NFLPA as they navigate five years left on the collective bargaining agreement signed in 2020 and the NFL’s aim to extend the regular season from 17 to 18 games.