The Market's Leftovers: Who's Still Worth a Big Bite?
It’s late April, the draft dust is settling, and most of the big money has been spent. Teams have plugged their glaring holes, or at least they think they have. But for a few marquee names, the phone hasn't rung with the right offer. We’re talking about players who, for various reasons, are still sitting on the sidelines, waiting for their next NFL home. And some of these guys could absolutely change a franchise.
Real talk: the idea of Aaron Rodgers hitting free agency in 2026 is pure fantasy. He's got a $35 million guaranteed salary for 2024 and another $35 million for 2025 with the Jets. Even if he wanted out, the contract makes a trade or retirement far more likely than outright release. But for the sake of argument, if the Jets somehow moved on, he’d still be a top-tier quarterback, even at 42 years old. He threw for 26 touchdowns against 12 interceptions in his last full season with Green Bay in 2022, reminding everyone he still has it. Any team with a contending window and a shaky QB situation, like say, the Las Vegas Raiders or maybe even the Denver Broncos, would at least pick up the phone. But again, this is a pipe dream.
Deebo's Dilemma and Other Offensive Weapons
Deebo Samuel, on the other hand, is a much more realistic trade candidate, and by extension, a potential 2026 free agent if a deal isn't struck before then. He's signed through 2025, with a base salary of $20.9 million this year and $24.2 million next year. The 49ers have invested heavily in other pass-catchers like Brandon Aiyuk and George Kittle, and Christian McCaffrey handles a huge chunk of the offensive load. Samuel's unique "wide back" role is electric – he had 1,117 scrimmage yards and 12 total touchdowns in his All-Pro 2021 season. But injuries have been a concern, missing 10 games over the last three seasons. If he hits the open market in 2026, he'd be 30, and teams would have to weigh his explosive playmaking against the mileage. The Baltimore Ravens, perpetually looking for receiving help, would be an interesting fit for his run-after-catch ability.
Beyond Samuel, the 2026 class could feature some intriguing names. Imagine a scenario where a team like the Dallas Cowboys decides not to extend CeeDee Lamb before his current deal expires. Lamb exploded for 1,749 receiving yards in 2023, proving he's an elite No. 1. If he somehow becomes available, every team with cap space would line up. Another name to watch is Saquon Barkley, who signed a three-year, $37.75 million deal with the Eagles this offseason. If he performs well and stays healthy, he could command another big deal at 29 years old. Running backs have a short shelf life, but Barkley's receiving skills make him more versatile.
Defensive Anchors Still Seeking Deals
On defense, the big fish are fewer, but no less impactful. Justin Madubuike, after a monster 2023 season with 13 sacks for the Ravens, just inked a four-year, $98 million deal. This shows what an elite interior pass rusher can command. If a player like Quinnen Williams, currently with the Jets, were to hit the market in 2026, he’d be a game-wrecker. He had 12 sacks in 2022 and consistently demands double teams. The problem for teams is that defensive tackle money is skyrocketing.
Here's my hot take: the biggest steal left *right now* for 2026 free agency, if he doesn't get extended, is Patrick Surtain II. Cornerbacks of his caliber, who shut down an entire side of the field, rarely become available. He’s got two Pro Bowls and an All-Pro nod in his first three seasons. The Broncos will almost certainly pay him, but if they don't, some team is getting a generational talent.
Ultimately, the best players rarely make it to free agency. Teams lock them up. But sometimes, contracts expire, new regimes take over, or cap space dictates tough choices. My bold prediction: By 2026, we’ll see at least one disgruntled star wide receiver, currently considered untouchable, force his way to a new team via trade, setting up a blockbuster free agency bid the following year.