Free Agency Market Overview
The free agency market is beginning to settle down. Although numerous top-200 free agents remain unsigned, teams are now focusing on internal restructures despite having almost a billion dollars in salary cap space according to Over The Cap. Recently, restructures are increasing while new signings have slowed considerably.
Phases of Free Agency
This stage represents the third wave in the free agency process. The initial wave included a two-day legal tampering phase when top free agents were secured. The second wave began on the first day of the new league year, with teams needing to ensure cap compliance for 2026, leading to the release of cap casualties who could then sign elsewhere.
Current Focus: Internal Restructuring
The current emphasis revolves around teams negotiating with their own players. Clubs are anticipating additional expenses, needing approximately $7 million for the season to accommodate a full roster and other costs. At this moment, teams are trying to keep players from hitting the market while managing their salaries, giving teams leverage to propose salary reductions.
Cap Casualties Tracker
For updates on potential cap casualties, we offer a tracker that monitors players who have seen action in 2025 and may become available. We will also highlight players that could potentially shift in the future depending on team changes.
Top Players to Watch
In January, Over The Cap identified their top 100 potential cap casualties. As of now, nearly half of these players have experienced changes in status due to trades, releases, restructures, or retirements. While not all these players will become available this offseason, they are certainly worth monitoring.
Position Analysis
Examining the top 100 list, we can identify several positions with notable names who may become available. Example quarterbacks include Andy Dalton and Jacoby Brissett, with teams like the Cardinals potentially considering a trade depending on their draft strategy.
Potential Impact Players
Among the running backs, Alvin Kamara could be on the move given the Saints’ recent contractual decisions. Meanwhile, wide receiver Davante Adams looks unlikely to be released, despite other teams’ interest in reshaping their rosters through available players.
