🏈 2026 NFL Free Agency Watchlist: Ranking the Top 10 Players Who Could Shake Up the Market

The second half of the 2025 NFL season is heating up, and while playoff dreams are still alive for some teams, others are already turning their attention to what’s next — the offseason.

With 2026 NFL free agency just months away, front offices are preparing to make big moves, fans are speculating on landing spots, and bettors are watching closely to see which stars could change a franchise — or an entire futures market.

The legal tampering window opens March 9, and players can officially sign beginning March 11, meaning the race to lock in elite talent will move fast.

From star pass rushers to emerging quarterbacks and game-breaking receivers, here’s a look at the Top 10 free agents who could headline the 2026 offseason — and possibly swing next season’s odds.

1. Trey Hendrickson, EDGE – Cincinnati Bengals

💰 2025 Salary: $29M | 🕒 Age in 2026: 31

The buzz: Hendrickson is one of the league’s most disruptive defenders — leading the NFL in sacks (17.5) and pressures (65) last year. He’s a relentless edge presence every team covets.

Market outlook: Don’t expect Cincinnati to let him walk easily. A franchise tag (~$36M) or a sign-and-trade could be in play, but if he hits free agency, he’s set for a massive payday.

2. Tyler Linderbaum, C – Baltimore Ravens

💰 2025 Salary: $2.5M | 🕒 Age in 2026: 26

The buzz: One of the best young interior linemen in football, with a 95.5% pass block win rate and elite movement skills.

Market outlook: Baltimore wants to keep him, but talks are reportedly stalled. If he hits the market, expect him to become one of the highest-paid centers in NFL history.

3. Daniel Jones, QB – Indianapolis Colts

💰 2025 Salary: $14M | 🕒 Age in 2026: 29

The buzz: Jones has revived his career under Shane Steichen, posting a top-10 QBR and leading a balanced, efficient offense.

Market outlook: The Colts are all-in on Jones long term. Think $100M+, comparable to deals for Baker Mayfield or Sam Darnold — and likely even higher if he closes strong.

4. George Pickens, WR – Dallas Cowboys

💰 2025 Salary: $3.7M | 🕒 Age in 2026: 25

The buzz: Pickens has emerged as one of the NFL’s top deep threats, with 12 plays of 20+ yards and six touchdowns.

Market outlook: Dallas may tag him at $29M, but if not, expect a bidding war. His chemistry with Dak Prescott has made him a top-tier offensive weapon.

5. Braden Smith, OT – Indianapolis Colts

💰 2025 Salary: $8M | 🕒 Age in 2026: 30

The buzz: Healthy again and dominant, Smith’s pass block win rate jumped to 90.3%, making him one of the top-performing right tackles this year.

Market outlook: Productive linemen get paid — Smith could land a long-term deal worth $70M+ if his strong play continues.

6. Breece Hall, RB – New York Jets

💰 2025 Salary: $3.4M | 🕒 Age in 2026: 25

The buzz: One of the most complete backs in football, averaging 92 total yards per game with elite acceleration and pass-catching ability.

Market outlook: Hall will have a strong free agent market. Expect something around Josh Jacobs’ 4-year, $48M deal as a realistic benchmark.

7. Alec Pierce, WR – Indianapolis Colts

💰 2025 Salary: $3.7M | 🕒 Age in 2026: 26

The buzz: A vertical threat with a league-best 20.9 yards per catch, Pierce stretches defenses and creates big plays with his size-speed combo.

Market outlook: Could push $20M per year. The Colts’ decision may hinge on how much they commit to Daniel Jones and their offensive core.

8. Travis Jones, DT – Baltimore Ravens

💰 2025 Salary: $3.4M | 🕒 Age in 2026: 26

The buzz: A 341-pound wall in the middle with the strength to dominate one-on-one matchups.

Market outlook: Compared to Dalvin Tomlinson (4 yrs, $57M), Jones could draw a similar payday if he tests free agency.

9. Isaiah Likely, TE – Baltimore Ravens

💰 2025 Salary: $3.4M | 🕒 Age in 2026: 26

The buzz: A modern “move” tight end who thrives in open space and can line up anywhere.

Market outlook: The $15.8M franchise tag could come into play. If not, Likely will be one of the most sought-after TEs available.

10. Jaelan Phillips, EDGE – Philadelphia Eagles

💰 2025 Salary: $13.3M | 🕒 Age in 2026: 27

The buzz: Injuries slowed him down, but he’s showing flashes of elite form under Vic Fangio.

Market outlook: If he finishes strong, expect the Eagles to try to re-sign him quickly — or let him walk for a valuable compensatory pick.

Final Takeaway

The 2026 free-agent class could be one of the most unpredictable in years — with a mix of breakout stars, proven veterans, and high-upside talents ready to cash in.

For bettors and fans alike, these names could shape the offseason headlines and shift Super Bowl futures odds before training camps even begin.