The Detroit Lions entered the 2026 free agency period with loads of question marks in their secondary. At cornerback, starter Terrion Arnold has been facing some possible legal issues, and the team lost nickelback Amik Robertson in free agency. The safety position is facing injuries to both starters, as Kerby Joseph missed 11 games last […] The Detroit Lions entered the 2026 free agency period with loads of question marks in their secondary. At cornerback, starter Terrion Arnold has been facing some possible legal issues, and the team lost nickelback Amik Robertson in free agency. The safety position is facing injuries to both starters, as Kerby Joseph missed 11 games last year with a knee injury, while Brian Branch tore his Achilles and isn’t expected to be available by the start of the 2026 season. With Detroit yet to re-sign players like defensive back Avonte Maddox and safety Daniel Thomas, the team needed some help, and they found some in defensive back Christian Izien. The team signed him on the opening week of free agency to a reported one-year, $2 million deal. What does Izien bring to the table for the Lions? Let’s discuss his addition and grade the team’s move. Christian Izien’s fit Izien brings a lot of versatility to the table, something we know the Lions love. He can play multiple positions at multiple levels. In his career, he has predominantly played nickelback, but he can also play free safety and is involved in five phases of special teams. Wherever you need him in the secondary, he can fill in. The Lions needed someone versatile in the secondary, similar to what they had with Maddox last year. With the team low on depth in both spots, Izien can fill in at a variety of spots when called upon. The Lions also love having impactful special teams players, and this move also gives them that. The only real concern with him is his starting ability, as he’s only technically started 15 of his 45 games played over his first three seasons, and Detroit may need him to start in 2026. Fit Grade: B+ Izien’s role/talent level Ideally, Izien would take on the role of a super-reserve, stepping in wherever he is needed. If he doesn’t see playing time on defense, he’ll load up on the special teams snaps. If that is all he’s asked to do, he’ll be a great addition to the team. If he’s asked to start for multiple games, that is where the team could run into some issues. The good news is that his run grade has averaged 70.26, according to PFF, in his career so far. His next-biggest impact is on special teams, with an average grade of 66.9. Izien has seen struggles in coverage, averaging a 57.63 coverage grade and a 57.96 tackling grade. In his career, Izien has 165 tackles, five pass deflections, three interceptions, and two forced fumbles. His talent is average and shouldn’t be expected to start, pending the health of the Lions’ safeties or if they don’t sign or draft additional players. He wasn’t the best option that the Lions could’ve signed, but his ability to play in multiple spots helps him stand out. Role/talent grade: B- Are the Lions getting good value in Izien? At a max of $2 million, I see this being a fair value for Izien’s talents. The Lions didn’t overpay for Izien at all, and for what he’ll do for the team, he may have been cheaper than the other options. Also, being on a one-year deal, if he plays well, he could get a multi-year deal with the Lions. If he doesn’t live up to expectations, the team can move on in 2027. Value grade: A- Overall The signing of Izien gives the Lions some relief in the secondary, but it doesn’t jump off the page as a big move. This continues the trend of the 2026 offseason, as the Lions have only signed players to one-year deals, outside of center Cade Mays. Izien can be looked at as a Maddox replacement if the team doesn’t decide to bring him back, and they get younger in the secondary, as the team has moved heavily toward a youth movement. Best case, Izien fills in wherever the team needs it and makes some good plays, not hurting the team, and stands out on special teams. Worst case, Izien doesn’t play much defense and is a special teams only player, and for the price the team paid for him, it’s a fair value for someone in that role. The team is taking a shot on someone young who has some upside to his game and will bring help to a secondary that needs bodies. Overall grade: B See More:
Lions free agent grades: Christian Izien brings options to the secondary
Discussion: Besides DE, which positions do the Lions need to address in free agency?
The first week of free agency is in the books, and it has been a controversial one among the Detroit Lions fanbase. While the team did address some positions of need, many among the community would categorize this first week as slow. Outside of center Cade Mays, no player signed for more than one year […] The first week of free agency is in the books, and it has been a controversial one among the Detroit Lions fanbase. While the team did address some positions of need, many among the community would categorize this first week as slow. Outside of center Cade Mays, no player signed for more than one year or eclipsed an average annual value of $6 million (though contract details for some players are still unknown). Modest spending has been the name of general manager Brad Holmes’ game since taking over, rarely shelling out in free agency: With their 2026 quota (potentially) met, attention turns to the rest of the free agency pool. Looking at the roster, everyone immediately notices the lack of defensive end depth, especially following the release of Josh Paschal. Not only do the Lions need immediate starting-level players, but they also need to round out their depth chart. That being said, the discussion about defensive end is dominating the free agency landscape in Detroit. Instead, I want to look at the other spots that need some additions. How can the Lions fill out their remaining needs? Build Your Winning Bracket! SB Nation’s CBB expert Mike Rutherford and resident bracketologist Chris Dobbertean will answer all your questions this week and help guide you to bracket glory! Drop in SB Nation’s March Madness Feed all week long and we’ll have both on hand! (All times ET) Sun 7-10pm: Chris Dobbertean Mon-Wed 10am-1pm: Mike Rutherford Mon-Wed 5-8pm: Chris Dobbertean Thursday 9am-12pm: Chris Dobbertean and Mike Rutherford Join SB Nation’s March Madness Feed! Besides DE, which positions do the Detroit Lions still need to address in free agency? My answers: Defensive tackle and linebacker. On offense, I am somewhat satisfied with free agency thus far. While I would love a better offensive tackle than Larry Borom, the price tag is fine for a higher-caliber swing tackle. Part of my modest satisfaction comes from my assumption that an offensive tackle will be selected early in the 2026 NFL Draft. If such a pick never happens, however, then I would begin to panic about the state of the offensive tackle room. Elsewhere on offense, the signings of Mays, Teddy Bridgewater, Isiah Pacheco, and Tyler Conklin are solid options to bolster and/or replace depth on the roster. I am still concerned about the present outlook for the defense. Defensive end aside, there are two spots I would like to see Detroit add to in free agency prior to the draft. The team is still without a starting linebacker to replace Alex Anzalone. While they did re-sign Malcolm Rodriguez, I am cautious about penciling him as a starter after a subpar 2025 campaign derailed by a torn ACL the season prior. There is a chance that the Lions lean on Derrick Barnes more or forego three-linebacker sets as often, but it is still a group that needs experienced depth. At the very least, I would like someone to challenge Rodriguez for a spot. Perhaps that could be a player like Amen Ogbongbemiga, with a safe floor as a special-teams ace (also helping replace the departed Grant Stuard), or it could be a veteran like Logan Wilson, with plenty of starts under his belt and strong run defense. The loss of defensive tackle Roy Lopez was a surprise to some, as it seemed like a slam dunk that the Lions would bring him back on a relatively affordable contract. Instead, Lopez signed a two-year, $10.5 million deal to return to the Arizona Cardinals. While Detroit seems set with their starters of Alim McNeill and Tyleik Williams, they are still in need of nose tackle depth. It could be as simple as re-signing D.J. Reader, but the price tag for the aging veteran is unclear. Otherwise, the only nose tackle candidate with the team is Chris Smith, a perennial practice squader since 2023. I would like to see Detroit attempt a repeat of Lopez’s 2025 deal by signing a nose tackle with pop to a small, short-term deal. A name to consider could be Greg Gaines, a player drafted by the Los Angeles Rams back when Brad Holmes was their director of college scouting. I think that the signings of Roger McCreary and Christian Izien were solid moves to bolster the defense, but I would still like to see the rest of the defense addressed in the lead-up to the draft. Defensive end is a glaring need, but not the only need. Your turn. What positions do you think the Lions need to address, beyond defensive end? See More:
NY Giants’ roster: What it might look like if there were a game today
The New York Giants’ 2026 roster is in no way complete. And, what you see below is not a roster projection. Rather, it is a look at what the 53-man roster might look like if there were a game to be played now. General managers like to put themselves into a position where they enter the NFL Draft feeling comfortable that if there were a game to be played they had adequate coverage at every position. Perhaps not ideal, but adequate. This exercise might give us an idea where the Giants, just more than five weeks from the draft, have achieved that. And, where they have not. Tony DelGenio made the case on Monday morning that the Giants’ roster might not be better than it was last season despite all of the free agent activity thus far. This might help you judge for yourself. Offense (24) Quarterback (2) Jaxson Dart, Jameis Winston Right now, the Giants don’t have a third quarterback. There will have to be one or two more quarterbacks on the roster before training camp opens. Running back (3) Cam Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy, Devin SingletaryOUT: Eric Gray, Dante Miller Will Jeremiyah Love be joining this group? Fullback (1) Patrick Ricard Yea, I’m old-school (or just old). Regardless, I love having a real fullback on the roster. Tight end (4) Isaiah Likely, Theo Johnson, Chris Manhertz, Thomas FidoneOUT: Tanner Conner I have Fidone on the roster here. Again, it’s mid-March and there is no third quarterback or full complement of offensive linemen. Wide receiver (6) Malik Nabers, Darius Slayton, Darnell Mooney, Calvin Austin, Gunner Olszewski, Dalen CambreOUT: Isaiah Hodgins, Jalin Hyatt, Beaux Collins, Da’Quan Felton, Xavier Gipson, Courtney Jackson, Ryan Miller In all honesty, I have no idea how any of this will work out beyond Nabers, Slayton, Mooney, and Austin. I have Olszewski and Cambre making the roster because of special teams value. Miller could figure there. Austin’s presence could make Olszewski unnecessary. Hodgins could be in the mix. A draft pick might change the calculus, too. This will have to sort itself out on the field. Offensive line (8) Starters: Andrew Thomas (LT); Jon Runyan Jr. (LG); John Michael Schmitz (C); Aaron Stinnie (RG); Jermaine Eluemunor (RT)Reserves: Marcus Mbow, Brian Hudson, Jake KubasOUT: Evan Neal I cannot bring myself to put Evan Neal on the 53-man roster. Even in March. Defense (26) Defensive line (6) Dexter Lawrence, Roy Robertson-Harris, Darius Alexander, Elijah Chatman, Marion Tuipulotu, DeMarvin Leal Yes, something has to be done about that defensive line depth. Outside linebacker (5) Brian Burns, Abdul Carter, Kayvon Thibodeaux, Chauncey Golston, Caleb Murphy Maybe Golston should be considered a defensive lineman. A look at his snaps played shows most of his usage came last season as a LEO or REO. Inside linebacker (4) Tremaine Edmunds, Micah McFadden, Darius Muasau, Zaire Barnes Sonny Styles, anyone? Cornerback (6) Paulson Adebo, Dru Phillips, Greg Newsome, Deonte Banks, Korie Black, Art GreenOUT: Myles Purchase, Jarrick Bernard-Converse, Rico Payton If the Giants can give Neal another chance, they can also give one to Banks. Besides, he is really good returning kickoffs. Safety (5) Jevon Holland, Tyler Nubin, Jason Pinnock, Ar’Darius Washington, Elijah CampbellOUT: T.J. Moore, Patrick McMorris, Beau Brade, Raheem Layne The Giants are collecting safeties, and that still might not stop them from drafting Caleb Downs. Special teams (3) Punter: Jordan Stout Of course John Harbaugh would give a punter a market-setting contract. Placekicker: Jason Edwards The Giants might end up regretting the decision, but if Edwards proves to be healthy I think he wins the job from Ben Sauls. Long-snapper: TBD Casey Kreiter moving on to the Arizona Cardinals in free agency was a complication the Giants did not need. The fact that nobody ever noticed Kreiter meant he did his job well. See More: New York Giants roster
NY Giants 2026 NFL Draft scouting report: T.J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson
The New York Giants are one of the very few teams that could realistically say that they have enough pass rushers. However, it’s also possible that an edge defender like Clemson’s T.J. Parker could become a tremendous value on the second day of the draft. Parker came into the 2025 season as the top edge defender in the class on many boards. He was coming off of a breakout sophomore campaign that saw him rack up a phenomenal 11.0 sacks, 19.5 tackles for a loss, and 6 forced fumbles. It was widely expected that he — and a number of other Clemson prospects — would take another step and dominate in 2025. That didn’t happen, with Clemson as a whole suffering a broadly embarrassing season. While Parker has done a good job of repairing his draft stock at the Senior Bowl and NFL Scouting Combine, he isn’t considered a potential Top 10 player anymore. But could that make him an irresistible value if he falls out of the first round altogether? Prospect: T.J. Parker (3)Games Watched: vs. Georgia Tech (2025), vs. SMU (2025), vs. South Carolina (2025)Red Flags: Knee surgery (2023 offseason) Measurables Strengths Best traits Play strength Competitive toughness Pass rush Run defense T.J. Parker is a good-sized, powerful, athletic, and competitive edge defender. Parker has a versatile frame at 6-foot 3 ⅝ inches, 263 pounds, and 33 ⅛ inch arms, which he combines with solid athletic traits for an edge defender. It’s a blend that allows him to rush off the edge from a two-point stance in 3-4 or hybrid looks or play with his hand in the dirt as a 4-3 defensive end. Parker’s dense frame is powerful enough that he’s also able to rush from the interior to create athletic mismatches on obvious passing downs. He typically keys the snap well and has a good first step, usually allowing him to be one of the first players moving at the snap. He does a good job of firing off the ball with good initial leverage and features heavy, active hands in his rushes. Parker makes sure to attack blockers’ chest plates, seeking inside leverage and the opportunity to walk them back into the backfield. Parker clearly understands who he is as an athlete and has built his game around playing with leverage, power, and toughness. He bases his pass rush arsenal on a good bull rush, relying on his burst and hands to rock blockers back before disengaging and penetrating into the backfield. Parker is fast enough that blockers can’t disregard the potential of a pure speed rush, particularly from wide alignments, and he’s also adept at using his hands to combat cut blocks. Finally, Parker offers excellent effort throughout his game. He’s quick to disengage in pursuit and is willing to pursue ball carriers across the field. Likewise, he’s willing to fight through multiple blocks or take on multiple blockers to get to the quarterback. Build Your Winning Bracket! SB Nation’s CBB expert Mike Rutherford and resident bracketologist Chris Dobbertean will answer all your questions this week and help guide you to bracket glory! Drop in SB Nation’s March Madness Feed all week long and we’ll have both on hand! (All times ET) Sun 7-10pm: Chris Dobbertean Mon-Wed 10am-1pm: Mike Rutherford Mon-Wed 5-8pm: Chris Dobbertean Thursday 9am-12pm: Chris Dobbertean and Mike Rutherford Join SB Nation’s March Madness Feed! Weaknesses Worst traits Bend Consistency Versatility Parker is, overall, a well-rounded edge defender whose profile is more constrained by limitations than true weaknesses. He has good, but not great, athleticism and lacks the truly elite traits that typify highly drafted pass rushers, or those who excel at the NFL level. Likewise, while he understands that he is a power rusher, some slight stiffness and a reliance on his power limits his ability to mix counter moves. He doesn’t quite have enough bend to get low and carry speed around the edge with great leverage without losing his footing. That can make his rushes somewhat predictable for good opposing tackles. And while Parker has enough athleticism and mobility to drop into coverage on occasion to disguise blitzes, he doesn’t have the traits to routinely play coverage or be relied upon to hold up if pressure doesn’t get home. There are some instances where he can lose track of the ball in the backfield. Skilled ball handlers can bait him to track the wrong player, pulling him out of position and creating opportunities for chunk plays. Finally, Parker will need to answer questions as to why his production regressed so severely in 2025. He was one of several Clemson players to fall off this past year, and teams may be worried his 2024 production was an outlier. Game Tape (Parker is the Clemson edge defender wearing number 3, with white wrist bands.) Projection Clemson edge defender T.J. Parker projects as a high-volume rotational EDGE at the NFL level with both schematic versatility as well as starting upside in the right situation. Parker might not offer the truly elite athletic traits to be a dominant pass rusher, but he has solid athleticism, great play strength, and competitive toughness. He’s the type of player that teams can feel comfortable with being on the field in almost any situation, and creative defenses can use in a variety of ways. His blend of traits should make him popular among coaches, and reassuring for executives. He’s the type of player who emerges as a consistent defender that teams look for ways to keep around and on the field. If Parker doesn’t hear his name called by the end of the first round, he won’t have to wait long on the second day of the draft. Does he fit the Giants? Yes, at least schematically Final Word: A late first or early second round value See More: New York Giants Draft
The best moves of 2026 NFL free agency
From aggressive roster upgrades to savvy value signings, these moves from the 2026 NFL free-agency period stand out as the ones most likely to shape the upcoming season. QB Tua Tagovailoa signs with the Atlanta Falcons: Tagovailoa was not good in 2025, but the cost is important in this deal. Due to the nature of his release from the Miami Dolphins, the Falcons don’t have to spend big here, and the potential upside is huge. Tagovailoa earned PFF overall grades of 81.9 and 86.9 in 2022 and 2023, respectively. If he can return to that level, then this is an absolute steal for Atlanta. Miami Dolphins trade S Minkah Fitzpatrick to the New York Jets: Fitzpatrick is coming off the second-highest-graded season of his career, so for the Jets to acquire him for just a seventh-round draft pick is a good deal. As part of the move, they are signing him to a three-year, $40 million contract, which is also reasonable for a safety of his caliber. 2026 NFL Draft season is here: Try the best-in-class PFF Mock Draft Simulator and learn about 2026’s top prospects while trading and drafting for your favorite NFL team. Every offseason produces its share of splashy signings, but only a handful truly move the needle. While some teams spend heavily in hopes of closing the gap on contenders, the most impactful moves often come from franchises that identify the right fit — whether that’s a star acquisition, a strategic trade or a low-risk signing with high upside. The 2026 NFL free-agency period was no different. Several teams wasted little time reshaping their rosters, adding proven talent and addressing critical weaknesses in ways that could have major ramifications for the 2026 season and beyond. QB Tua Tagovailoa signs with the Atlanta Falcons 2025 PFF Grade: 62.12025 PFF WAR: 0.99Contract: 1 year, $1.3 millionPFF Deal Grade: Very Good Tagovailoa was not good in 2025, but the cost is important in this deal. Due to the nature of his release from the Miami Dolphins, the Falcons don’t have to spend big here, and the potential upside is huge. Tagovailoa earned PFF overall grades of 81.9 and 86.9 in 2022 and 2023, respectively. If he can return to that level, then this is an absolute steal for Atlanta. If he can’t, then it’s a low-cost move that doesn’t prevent the Falcons from seeing what Michael Penix Jr. looks like again in 2026. S Jaylinn Hawkins signs with the Baltimore Ravens 2025 PFF Grade: 74.92025 PFF WAR: 0.09Contract: 2 years, $10 millionPFF Projected Contract: 3 years, $33 millionPFF Deal Grade: Very Good Hawkins broke out during the Patriots’ run to the Super Bowl, posting a career-high 74.9 PFF overall grade while earning a 74.7-plus PFF grade in both coverage and run defense. With his contract coming in way below projected value, he forms arguably the league’s best safety room with Kyle Hamilton and Malaki Starks. LB Devin Bush signs with the Chicago Bears 2025 PFF Grade: 87.62025 PFF WAR: 0.26Contract: 3 years, $30 millionPFF Projected Contract: 3 years, $36 millionPFF Deal Grade: Very Good The Bears immediately replace Tremaine Edmunds, whom they recently released, with Bush, who revived his career in Cleveland to the tune of back-to-back 79.0-plus PFF overall grades. Bush, PFF’s ninth-ranked free agent, surrendered just a 69.3 passer rating in coverage this past season, the second-best mark among linebackers. He keeps the Bears’ defense in great shape at a reasonable price point. S Bryan Cook signs with the Cincinnati Bengals 2025 PFF Grade: 83.52025 PFF WAR: 0.11Contract: 3 years, $40.25 millionPFF Projected Contract: 3 years, $36 millionPFF Deal Grade: Very Good Cook’s 83.5 PFF overall grade in 2025 ranked fourth among all safeties. Meanwhile, the Bengals‘ starting safeties ranked tied for 57th and 72nd. This moves the needle for Cincinnati‘s defense, giving it a sure tackler who notched PFF grades above 80.0 both against the run and in coverage last season. EDGE Boye Mafe signs with the Cincinnati Bengals 2025 PFF Grade: 70.32025 PFF WAR: 0.09Contract: 3 years, $60 millionPFF Projected Contract: 3 years, $49 millionPFF Deal Grade: Very Good The Bengals make their second addition of the tampering period’s first day, and it’s another strong move to boost their defense. Mafe has earned a PFF overall grade above 70.0 and produced 40 or more pressures in each of the past three seasons. Given that Trey Hendrickson is unlikely to return to Cincinnati, this was a shrewd move at a reasonable price, all things considered. 2025 PFF Grade: 70.42025 PFF WAR: 0.32Steelers Deal Grade: Very GoodColts Deal Grade: Average The Colts needed to make this move after signing Alec Pierce to such a hefty deal, and it profiles as a big upgrade for the Steelers‘ offense. Pittman has a safe pair of hands, dropping just 5.0% of the catchable targets he has seen throughout his NFL career, and is another big target for whoever the Steelers’ quarterback is in 2026. Miami Dolphins trade S Minkah Fitzpatrick to the New York Jets 2025 PFF Grade: 81.82025 PFF WAR: 0.10Jets PFF Deal Grade: Very GoodDolphins PFF Deal Grade: Average Fitzpatrick is coming off the second-highest-graded season of his career, so for the Jets to acquire him for just a seventh-round draft pick is a good deal. As part of the move, they are signing him to a three-year, $40 million contract, which is also reasonable for a safety of his caliber. For the Dolphins, they clear his salary from the books and at least get something in return as their rebuild continues.
Finding the Rams an edge in Round 3
With two starters returning, along with the top backup, the Los Angeles Rams edge position doesn’t appear to be a glaring need. Jared Verse and Byron Young are expected to take around 75% of snaps, while Josiah Stewart saw 374 last year and should be in line for an increase. That leaves roughly 200 snaps […] With two starters returning, along with the top backup, the Los Angeles Rams edge position doesn’t appear to be a glaring need. Jared Verse and Byron Young are expected to take around 75% of snaps, while Josiah Stewart saw 374 last year and should be in line for an increase. That leaves roughly 200 snaps for the rest of the unit. The E#4 role is a good place for a high upside rookie to gain some on-the-job-training, while learning the pro game and getting play strength in order. Late round prospects would be similar to what the Rams already have, Desjuan Johnson and Keir Thomas, players that have been in the organization and haven’t been able to break through. The Rams roster is good enough overall that they could use a Round 3 pick on a traits-based candidate with a high upside and not be pressured into putting him on the field right away. Building for the future. Here’s a closer look at five edge prospects with Round 3 grades. Derrick Moore – Michigan 6’ 4” 255 lb. 33 3/8” arms 9 1/8” hands Four-star recruit, will turn 24 in December. Moore was initially set to play at Oklahoma, but when the coach left, he switched his allegiance to the Wolverines. Appeared in every game over four seasons. Of those 53 games, he started 24, booking 95 tackles, 24.5 for loss, 21 sacks, and eight passes defended. Moore has always been a good pass rusher and his 2025 film shows that he’s made steady improvement defending the run. His pass rush game would have to be designated as power-based, while his get-off is just good, he gets behind low pads and drives with long arms extended. His strikes and un-hinging hips are well-timed, creating the explosive force to drive blockers back into the pocket. He goes outside and around the corner less often. He’s not a twitchy outside edge, but keeps low leverage and his hands active with swipes/chops. He uses good head/shoulder feints and jab steps. Against the run, Morris doesn’t play with quite the same aggressiveness, but he is disciplined when protecting his gap. It doesn’t appear to be a serious flaw, he is willing to mix it up, although at times he was rotated out in running situations. On film, he shows good pursuit laterally and from the backside, but is not particularly aggressive shooting gaps A good form tackler that made a lot splash stops behind the line of scrimmage. His stack/shed moves need work as well as setting a hard edge with a clean outside shoulder. Sneaky good player that seems a bit under the radar. Can a Round 3 prospect be considered a sleeper? Moore shows that he the traits to play in the NFL with a little play strength and polish. Didn’t workout at the Combine due to a hamstring tweak, but looks to have the requisite athleticism on film. Had a strong showing in Senior Bowl workouts consistently over-powering opponents. Malachi Lawrence – Central Florida 6’ 4” 253 lb. 33 5/8” arms 9 1/4” hands Lawrence played tight end and linebacker in high school, the three-star recruit also competed in track, earning a shot put medal at the state meet. Didn’t play much at all in his first two seasons (one redshirt), but broke through in 2023. Even though he wasn’t a starter, he contributed in every game. He became a full-time starter in his final two years and over 39 games with 22 starts, finished with 72 tackles, 28 for loss, 20 sacks, and 10 passes broken up/defended. Outstanding package of athleticism, size, and length. For a small-school prospect, Lawrence has substantial tool box of pass rush moves. Lined up both standing and with a hand on the ground. Shows good closing speed, whether outside around the corner or inside on stunts/loops. Shows good handwork, especially chops/swipes. Above average bend and body lean getting around tackles and explodes flat towards the quarterback off chops/swipes. Has the length to get hands on, even if being ridden. Lawrence defends the run like a linebacker. He’s not a strong stack/shed guy, but does pursue relentlessly. Has the stop/start ability to react and the lateral agility to quickly change path’s and close. He does this both navigating through traffic and out in space. Very good at hustling through open gaps behind plays and has the burst to get there. He appears to take good angles and is a strong wrap-up tackler. Lawrence was already a draft darling and he really solidified it with a strong performance at the NFL Combine. Round 3 might be too late because of it. Even with the prolific testing, It doesn’t change my grade, because I think he will be limited to a pass rush specialist early on as a pro. He’s willing to be physical, but as of now, appears to lack the power and stack/shed ability to consistently set a hard edge and be a run-stopper. Romello Height – Texas Tech 6’ 3” 239 lb. 32 1/4” arms 9 1/2” hands College vagabond with four different stops. Height was originally set to play for Miami, but flipped his commitment to Auburn for two years, then on to USC for another pair, in 2024 he transferred to Georgia Tech, and finally closed out at Texas Tech. Overall, he started 28 of 50 games, 26 of those starts, as well as most of his stats, came in his final two seasons He logged 105 tackles, 25.5 for loss, 15.5 sacks and forced four fumbles. Turns 25 in April. Uber-explosive edge prospect with a lean frame. In the early going as a pro, Height
Eagles News: A.J. Brown’s situation remains fluid
The Feed post of the day Each day, we highlight a BGN community post here in this space. Head over to The Feed to submit your entry and have a chance to be featured in The Linc! I don’t think the Eagles will be looking to sign Darius Slay after adding Riq Woolen and Jonathan […] The Feed post of the day Each day, we highlight a BGN community post here in this space. Head over to The Feed to submit your entry and have a chance to be featured in The Linc! Maestro0073h Bleeding Green Nation Big Play Slay only wants to come back for the EAGLES 🦅! LikeRec 4CommentsThin Stroke Comment Icon BubbleReply 9 I don’t think the Eagles will be looking to sign Darius Slay after adding Riq Woolen and Jonathan Jones to the cornerback room. Maybe he’s an option if they get really hammered by injuries. Slay didn’t seem to play well last year with a 108.0 passer rating allowed before getting cut by the Steelers. Let’s get to the Philadelphia Eagles news and links … Eagles, TE Dallas Goedert agree to terms on one-year deal – NFL.com Some of the complication in working out a resolution with Goedert stemmed from Philadelphia’s need to also simultaneously juggle the future of wide receiver A.J. Brown, whose name has been bandied about in trade rumors and carries a cap hit of $23.4 million into 2026. Brown’s situation remains fluid in the wake of Goedert re-signing, per Rapoport and Garafolo. Dallas Goedert, Eagles agree to new 1-year contract – BGN The Eagles have nearly lost starting tight end Dallas Goedert to free agency more than once, but in 2026 he’ll return to Philadelphia on another one-year deal — this one worth $7 million, including $4.25 million signing bonus, according to ESPN. After pushing his contract void date twice, the two sides finally came to an agreement just before the Eagles were set to take a $20 million dead cap hit. As Rams considered trading for A.J. Brown, they explored trading Davante Adams- PFT Per a league source, the Rams — while talking about a possible trade for Brown — were pursuing the possibility of trading Adams. The Rams presumably were hoping to get a deal done by today, when a fully-guaranteed $6 million roster bonus came due. And the payment of the bonus likely means they’ll keep Adams and his $18 million base salary. Regardless, a week with a handful of interesting developments could have had two more: A.J. Brown traded to the Rams, and Davante Adams (the league leader in receiving touchdowns in 2025) traded to what would have been his fifth NFL team. Eagles-only 2026 mock draft, version 3.0 – PhillyVoice Round 1: Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia (6’7, 315). TRADE: Eagles send pick No. 23 in 2026, as well as third- and fourth-round picks in 2027 to the Jets for pick No. 16. Freeling was a popular projection to the Eagles at pick 23, but there’s little chance he’ll make it that far after crushing the Combine. In pass pro, Freeling has excellent feet, and can easily mirror/match opposing pass rushers. In the run game, he can execute difficult reach blocks, he’s effective on combo blocks, and he has the athleticism to track down linebackers and defensive backs in space down the field. He also has some nastiness to his game, and experience playing LT and RT. I hadn’t watched Freeling until his explosive Combine performance, but he is really good and the Eagles are certain to have interest. 11 still-available free agents who could interest Eagles – NBCSP S Marcus Epps: The Eagles brought Epps back to the practice squad at the beginning of last season and he eventually landed on the 53-man roster and eventually needed to play. Epps played in 12 games with 4 starts for the Eagles last season and could be a low-cost replacement for Reed Blankenship, who left in free agency. Epps is 30 now but has played in 94 career games with 49 starts. Top Cowboys needs that remain to fix what went wrong last season – Blogging The Boys The trade for Rashan Gary gave the Cowboys a starter opposite Donovan Ezeiruaku and signing both Sam Williams and Tyrus Wheat provide much-needed depth. While those are all solid moves, none of them really provide much juice as pass rushers. There’s been rumors about trading for Jonathan Greenard, but so far there’s been little to no movement suggesting Dallas is interested. That pretty much leaves the draft, which fortunately has some solid options who could provide that juice if they draft one relatively early. Washington Commanders Free Agency: A welcome return for another Commanders offensive lineman – Hogs Haven The question mark has been at left guard, where last year’s presumed starter, Brandon Coleman, was beaten out by 4th year guard, Chris Paul, who reached the end of his rookie contract at the end of the ‘25 season. Chris Paul is back! NY Giants 4-round mock draft: Addressing the trenches in a different draft – Big Blue View Round 1 (No. 5) — TRADE!! Giants get: Picks 9 and 40 (Value: 536 points, per the Rich Hill trade chart). Kansas City Chiefs get: Pick 5 (Value: 468 points). Full disclosure: Linebacker Sonny Styles, running back, Julian Love, and safety Caleb Downs were all on the board here. In the real world, there is almost no chance I am not picking Styles here. I’d be happy with Downs, too, if Styles was off the board. We are proposing scenarios here, though. The draft is still six weeks away, and we are looking at ways it “could” turn out rather than trying to peg exactly how it “will” turn out. So, I am leaving the Big 3 on the board here to explore another path and see how it turns out. Bracketology 2026: FINAL – Blogging The Bracket In the auto bid section of the field, Penn won an OT thriller
NFL free agency: Are the 2026 NY Giants more talented than the 2025 Giants?
It’s been an interesting first week of free agency for the New York Giants under their new head coach John Harbaugh. The Giants have made quite a few additions while losing quite a few players as well. The number depends on how you treat different free agents. To be sure, re-signing right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor, linebacker Micah McFadden, and several others, and at a reasonable average annual value, is a win. That hasn’t made the team better, though, it’s just avoided making it worse than it was in 2025 by running it back from last season. For this post I want to address a different question – how good are the 2026 Giants, at the moment, compared to the 2025 Giants? The answer to that also depends on how you’re thinking about it. Most people feel that John Harbaugh will be a big upgrade over Brian Daboll as a head coach (although it remains to be seen whether Matt Nagy is an upgrade over the Daboll/Mike Kafka offensive coordinator tandem). Everyone believes that Dennard Wilson will be a big improvement over Shane Bowen as defensive coordinator. Let’s instead just focus on the players and ask the question in the title of this post. It’s of course premature to definitively answer it with more of free agency to come plus the NFL Draft next month. This post simply asks whether free agency and the draft can indeed address the remaining roster holes and give the Giants a better roster than they had in 2025. It’s convenient after the first week of free agency to just punt and say, oh we can fix what’s left to do in the draft. This year, though, the Giants only have two Day 1 and Day 2 picks, and you don’t want to depend on Day 3 draftees becoming impact players at the NFL level. So, barring Ty Simpson having an Anthony Richardson-like ascension into the Top 10 and Joe Schoen being able to exploit that with a trade-down that nets a second or third round 2026 pick, they will only have two chances in this draft to address remaining immediate needs. The problem with that of course is that drafting for need alone is poor strategy. One note: The Giants do indeed seem to have upgraded on special teams with punter Jordan Stout, and with either late-2025 incumbent Ben Sauls or newly acquired Jason Sanders. I doubt the Giants will use a draft pick on either position. Thus, the best time to address remaining needs, at least at the “remedial” level of plugging holes with capable starters, is now. That allows you to swing for the BPA (best player available) fences in the draft. What are those needs at the moment? I’d say interior defensive and offensive line, cornerback, and wide receiver, plus linebacker. Let’s look at each, with my assessment of whether a given position has improved, stayed the same, or gotten worse relative to 2025. Interior defensive line 2026 vs. 2025: No change The Giants have done nothing here in free agency to date, despite the IDL being one of main culprits in their run defense being among the league’s worst. D.J. Reader, most recently a Detroit Lion, would provide the run-stuffing that the Giants desperately need inside. He doesn’t give you much in the pass rush, but that’s not what the Giants need. Alternatively, the Giants might be a great fit for the NFL’s Dorian Gray, the ageless Calais Campbell. It’s not known whether Campbell is going to play another year, and he’s not the elite defender he once was, but he is still above average and gives you something in the pass rush as well as run defense. Campbell only made $6M last season. He played for Harbaugh from 2020-2022. How about a reunion for a year? Longer term, No. 5 seems to be too rich for this year’s IDL crop, but someone like Caleb Banks might be in play if he lasts until Round 2. Interior offensive line 2026 vs. 2025: Worse There is considerable buzz about the Giants using the No. 5 pick on running back Jeremiyah Love. In my opinion that would be a mistake for reasons that have nothing to do with Love, who looks like the best running back prospect to enter the league since…Saquon Barkley. You remember Barkley – great running back who’d break long runs and make highlight reel jukes that embarrassed defenders, but who also was often indecisive and unproductive at the line of scrimmage, because of an offensive line that couldn’t open holes for him. Barkley’s 2024 renaissance as an Eagle had everything to do with the gigantic holes the Eagles’ offensive line created that let him get to the second level untouched, where he could perform his magic. When the Eagles’ line declined last season, so did Barkley’s production. The Giants’ 2025 offensive line, while much improved over previous years in pass protection, was still at best mediocre at run-blocking other than Andrew Thomas. The Giants have done nothing yet in free agency, and miracle worker Carmen Bricillo and valuable backup center Austin Schlottman are now Tennessee Giants, er, Titans. Greg Van Roten, their best IOL in 2025, remains unsigned. Perhaps Harbaugh is simply counting on newly-signed fullback Patrick Ricard to solve the problem, but you wouldn’t want to assume that is enough. Barring an Easter-like resurrection of Evan Neal under new offensive line coach Mike Bloomgren, the Giants need to do something about the IOL. Van Roten should be brought back, but as depth rather than as a starter. The free agent pool by now is getting thin; former Brown Wyatt Teller is probably the best they can hope to do in free agency, but he’s declined in recent years due to injuries. This may be a problem they just have to solve in the draft, but unless they do it by Day 2, don’t expect any draftee to just step in and start. It follows then that if
NY Giants news, 3/16: Cam Skattebo injury update — ‘A little over a jog’
Good morning, New York Giants fans! From Big Blue View “I can get away from like a baby hippo, maybe,” Skattebo said this week of his recovery on The Rich Eisen Show. “That’s about it. But, yeah, a little bit over a jog. Just kind of striding out, not exploding yet and getting into that part of the game, but the jog and the striding.” Seven overlooked free-agent signings that could pay serious dividends in 2026 NFL season | NFL.com John Harbaugh might have tipped his hand on his offensive approach with the signing of the six-time Pro Bowl fullback. Over nine seasons, the knockdown specialist known as “Pancake Pat” has served as the lead blocker for the Ravens’ dominant ground game. He’ll now join his former head coach in New York, where the Giants appear to be transitioning into a power running attack with Cam Skattebo positioned as the featured back. Ricard, a defensive former defensive tackle-turned-fullback, could further elevate an offense that was fifth in rushing yards last season, serving as the pivotal piece to the puzzle in 2026 and beyond. Eagles Lose Out as Former Falcons WR Picks Giants | Eagles on SI The Eagles reportedly were in the mix for former Falcons receiver Darnell Mooney, but missed out as the New York Giants were able to get a deal over the finish line. BBV mailbag Have a Giants-related question? E-mail it to [email protected] and it might be featured in our weekly mailbag. BBV on X: Follow @BigBlueView | Ed Valentine: @Valentine_Ed | Threads: @ed.valentine Bluesky: @edvalentine BBV on Facebook: Click here to like the Big Blue View Facebook page BBV on YouTube: Subscribe to the Big Blue View YouTube channel BBV on Instagram: Click here to follow our Instagram page See More: New York Giants News
2026 NFL Draft: 5 most versatile prospects
Daire Carragher details the five most versatile prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft. 2026 NFL Draft: 5 most versatile prospects Versatility defines the 2026 class: Prospects such as Ohio State’s Caleb Downs and Oregon’s Kenyon Sadiq showcase the modern NFL’s demand for players who can fill multiple roles, aligning across the formation or defense without forcing personnel changes. Scheme flexibility raises draft value: Clemson’s Avieon Terrell could provide coordinators with lineup versatility that can create matchup advantages and disguise intentions, making him valuable a chess piece on draft weekend. 2026 NFL Draft season is here: Try the best-in-class PFF Mock Draft Simulator and learn about 2026’s top prospects while trading and drafting for your favorite NFL team. Estimated reading time: 12 minutes Versatility has become one of the most valuable traits in modern NFL roster construction. With offenses constantly shifting personnel groupings and defenses relying more heavily on disguised coverages and sub-packages, players who can comfortably handle multiple roles are increasingly attractive to teams on draft weekend. The 2026 NFL Draft class features several prospects whose value extends beyond a single position or assignment. Whether it’s offensive weapons who can line up all over the formation or defenders capable of filling multiple roles within a scheme, these players offer coordinators the flexibility to adapt without substituting personnel. Here are five of the most versatile prospects in the 2026 class. RB Emmett Johnson, Nebraska PFF Big Board Rank: 131 (RB6) Johnson was much more than just a pure rushing threat during his three years in Nebraska. His upside as a receiving back will appeal to NFL teams seeking greater diversity in their backfield. Johnson led all Power Four draft-eligible running backs in receptions and receiving yards in 2025. He also played the second most snaps in the slot and out wide among this group. Johnson caught five touchdown passes over the past two seasons as Nebraska’s starter. Johnson’s production wasn’t just the result of screen passes and dump-offs; head coach Matt Rhule drew up diverse routes for his starting running back, including some plays where Johnson was the primary read out of the backfield for quarterback Dylan Raiola. Johnson dropped just one of his 36 catchable targets last season, and his elusiveness shone in open space — he led all FBS running backs with 21 missed tackles forced after the catch. Paired with his quick feet, sufficient speed and buckets of competitive toughness, Johnson is one of a handful of day three running back prospects who could easily grow into an every-down starting role at the next level in a similar vein to Aaron Jones or Alvin Kamara. TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon PFF Big Board Rank: 14 (TE1) It won’t come as a surprise to anyone to see Sadiq on a list of versatile prospects. Despite growing into the focal point of Oregon’s receiving game in 2025, Sadiq’s versatility stood out even more in his final season of college football. Make no mistake, Sadiq isn’t just a glorified big-bodied slot receiver carrying the tight end moniker; he’s also an entirely capable in-line tight end in the traditional sense. It might come as a surprise to learn that Sadiq spent over 10% of his overall passing snaps involved in some form of pass protection for his quarterback this past season. He didn’t surrender any pressures in the process. While the brunt of Sadiq’s workload came from the slot, he has more than enough experience in-line (30.5% of his total snaps) and out wide on the perimeter (12.8% of his total snaps). Only recently turned 21 years old, Sadiq is one of the most athletic tight ends we’ve ever seen. No tight end has ever run a faster 40-yard dash at the combine. Meanwhile, only one has ever jumped higher. The speed and explosion packed into his 241-pound frame are truly otherworldly. Sadiq’s former offensive coordinator, Will Stein, used his athletic tight end in a multitude of roles, from stretching the field to running across the formation at the snap and everything in between. While some detractors rightfully question Sadiq’s functional strength against front-seven defenders and lack of dynamic playmaking after the catch, he can be deployed in just about any role an offensive playcaller wishes. OL Trey Zuhn III, Texas A&M PFF Big Board Rank: 136 (OT14) This year is not a banner draft for versatile offensive line prospects. While I’m sure many of the top linemen in the upcoming class would feel confident playing in a variety of positions, the truth is that we haven’t exactly seen any of the top prospects taken out of their home position. Trey Zuhn III is an intriguing Day 2 or 3 prospect who some teams view as an offensive tackle, while others believe his home is at center. The numbers suggest he can do both. Zuhn played 13 games in 2025, playing at left tackle in all of them, but he also took snaps at center for a drive or two in 10 of his 13 games. His pass protection numbers are mouth-watering. Zuhn finished with the highest single-season PFF pass-blocking grade in collegiate history (96.8). He allowed just ten pressures and two sacks on his 435 pass blocking snaps. Various NFL teams have flagged Zuhn’s 32.5-inch arms as a reason why he doesn’t project as an offensive tackle at the next level, but Zuhn’s 3,000-plus reps protecting the Texas A&M quarterbacks’ blind side begs to differ. Zuhn committed just one penalty on 776 snaps last season, highlighting that despite sometimes being outmatched from a reach perspective, he rarely ever panics. Bear in mind that Texas A&M faced an onslaught of high-quality pass-rushers in 2025 from Miami’s Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor to Auburn’s Keldric Faulk and Missouri’s Zion Young. Not to mention facing off against Cashius Howell every day in practice. CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson PFF Big Board Rank: 24 (CB3) The younger brother of Atlanta Falcons cornerback A.J. Terrell, Avieon may be a little smaller, but his play style is strikingly similar. What Avieon lacks