NFL free agency: DJ Moore trade headlines early moves as window opens
The 2026 NFL free agency period is set to officially open on Wednesday following a flurry of significant trades, including DJ Moore’s move to the Buffalo Bills.
Major roster changes are already underway across the league as teams prepare for the legal tampering window to begin on Monday.
While the official signing period does not commence until 16:00 ET on 11 March, franchises have wasted little time in reshaping their squads following Super Bowl LX.
Several high-profile names remain on the market, with Malik Willis, Tyler Linderbaum, and Mike Evans attracting interest.
Miami Dolphins linebacker Jaelan Phillips is also expected to be a key figure in negotiations as teams look to bolster their defensive units.
Trades shake up the landscape
The pre-agency trade market has been unusually active, with the Chicago Bears sending star receiver DJ Moore to Buffalo.
In another significant defensive move, the Kansas City Chiefs have traded cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams.
The running back market has also seen movement, with the Detroit Lions dealing David Montgomery to the Houston Texans.
Bills target defensive reinforcements
Having secured Moore to strengthen their receiving corps, Buffalo’s focus has shifted towards their defensive front.
The franchise is reportedly prioritizing pass rushers and outside linebackers to aid a revamped defensive scheme under coordinator Jim Leonhard.
Joey Bosa and A.J. Epenesa have been identified as potential targets to address this deficiency.
However, the Bills are likely to part ways with defensive tackle DaQuan Jones.
The 34-year-old veteran has struggled with injuries and previously hinted on social media that his time in New York was coming to an end.
BBC Sport understands the team will look for depth signings on team-friendly contracts rather than further blockbuster acquisitions.
Dolphins face quarterback dilemma
The Miami Dolphins are approaching a critical juncture regarding their quarterback situation.
General manager Jon-Eric Sullivan has remained noncommittal regarding the future of former franchise starter Tua Tagovailoa.
With Quinn Ewers now on the roster, the AFC East team could look to trade or release Tagovailoa this offseason.
Former number two pick Zach Wilson is also expected to depart after falling down the pecking order behind Ewers.
Beyond the quarterback room, Miami have identified the edge rusher position as a primary area of concern.
Coach Jeff Hafley has admitted the squad is light in that department, with Chop Robinson currently the only player possessing notable NFL experience.
With five draft picks in the first three rounds, the Dolphins are widely expected to address this need early in the selection process.
