NFL Offseason Heats Up with Trades, Draft, and QB Moves

From blockbuster trades to a star-studded draft, the league is about to see major shakeups

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:52am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented football players, balls, and field elements in a dynamic, overlapping composition using bold colors like navy, green, and orange.The upcoming NFL offseason promises a flurry of activity, from blockbuster trades to a star-studded draft class.Today in Pittsburgh

The upcoming NFL offseason is shaping up to be an explosive one, with a flurry of activity expected around trades, the draft, and quarterback moves. Key storylines include the intrigue around the second overall pick, the highly sought-after free agent Malik Willis, and the potential for a quarterback carousel with players like Kirk Cousins, Kyler Murray, and Daniel Jones on the move. The trade market is also expected to be red-hot, with stars like Maxx Crosby, AJ Brown, and DJ Moore potentially on the move.

Why it matters

The NFL offseason is a critical time for teams to retool their rosters and position themselves for success in the upcoming season. These storylines will have major implications for how the league landscape shapes up, with teams making bold moves to acquire top talent and find their franchise quarterback. Fans are eagerly anticipating the drama and excitement that is sure to unfold.

The details

The Raiders have the first overall pick and are expected to select quarterback Fernando Mendoza, but the real intrigue begins with the second pick held by the Jets. They must decide whether to go with a dynamic defensive player like Arvell Reese or Caleb Downs, or take a chance on traditional edge rushers Rueben Bain Jr. or David Bailey. Meanwhile, free agent Malik Willis is expected to command a $30 million-per-year contract, with the Cardinals, Dolphins, and Steelers leading the race for his services. Other quarterbacks on the move include Kirk Cousins, Kyler Murray, and Daniel Jones, while the Vikings could be a perfect fit for Anthony Richardson. On the trade front, the Raiders' Maxx Crosby is a hot commodity, with the Buccaneers, Patriots, 49ers, and Bears all interested, though the asking price is high.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 25-27.
  • Free agency is set to open on March 15, 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL season will kick off in September.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

The expected first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, Mendoza is a quarterback who the Raiders hope can be their long-term solution at the position.

Arvell Reese

A hybrid linebacker considered a blue-chip prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft, Reese's versatility could make him an intriguing option for the Jets with the second overall pick.

Caleb Downs

A talented safety prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft, Downs is one of the players the Jets are considering with the second overall pick, though safeties have been undervalued in recent drafts.

Rueben Bain Jr.

A traditional edge rusher in the 2026 NFL Draft, Bain is one of the players the Jets are evaluating with the second overall pick, with his pass-rushing ability a key factor.

David Bailey

Another traditional edge rusher in the 2026 NFL Draft, Bailey is also in the mix for the Jets' second overall pick, with his arm length and pass-rushing ability being closely scrutinized.

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What’s next

The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 25-27, where teams will look to address their needs and acquire top talent. Free agency will open on March 15, 2026, setting the stage for a flurry of quarterback moves and other high-profile signings. The 2026 NFL season will kick off in September, with fans eagerly anticipating the impact of these offseason storylines.

The takeaway

The upcoming NFL offseason promises to be a thrilling one, with teams making bold moves to reshape their rosters and find their franchise quarterback. From the intrigue surrounding the second overall pick in the draft to the high-stakes free agent and trade markets, the league is set to see major shakeups that will have a lasting impact on the competitive landscape.