NFL free agency always brings surprises, but 2026 felt even more unpredictable. Big-name players switched teams. Some accepted smaller deals to rebuild their careers, while others signed contracts that left fans confused.

Quarterbacks were the main story. Kyler Murray and Daniel Jones show how quickly things can change. Murray once looked like a franchise star in Arizona. Now, he’s on a cheap deal, trying to prove himself again. Jones signed a big extension with the Giants earlier, but injuries and poor form have put him in a tough spot.

Teams also changed how they spent money. Instead of chasing expensive stars, many focused on value. They looked for players who can help right away without hurting their salary cap. That approach led to some smart signings.

Here are the best value deals from 2026 NFL free agency from Sports Illustrated:

MORE: 2026 NFL salary cap space rankings by team

5. Chargers: Tyler Biadasz (3 years, $30 million)

The Los Angeles Chargers made a practical choice by signing Tyler Biadasz.

They missed out on Tyler Linderbaum, who got a huge deal from the Raiders. Instead, they picked a cheaper but reliable option.

Biadasz played well last season and can stabilize the middle of the line. This helps quarterback Justin Herbert. With strong tackles like Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater, the Chargers’ offensive line could become a strength.

4. Panthers: Rasheed Walker (1 year, $4 million)

The Carolina Panthers made a quiet but smart move by signing Rasheed Walker. He didn’t get full trust in Green Bay, but he showed he can step in and perform.

A good left tackle is hard to find, and Carolina got one at a low price. This move is even more important because Ikem Ekwonu is dealing with a knee issue. Walker gives them solid depth and starting backup if needed.

Compared to similar deals, this is a bargain. Last year, Cam Robinson earned $12 million for one season.

3. Falcons: Tua Tagovailoa (1 year, $1.3 million)

The Atlanta Falcons took a low-risk chance on Tua Tagovailoa.

At first, it looked strange because they already have Michael Penix Jr., who also has injury concerns. But the low price makes this deal interesting.

Tagovailoa led the league with 4,624 passing yards in 2023. If he stays healthy, he could perform well. He also has great weapons like Drake London, Kyle Pitts, and Bijan Robinson.

The risk is low, but the upside is high.

MORE: Top 10 highest graded quarterbacks from the 2025 season

2. Buccaneers: Cade Otton (3 years, $30 million)

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers paid for consistency. Otton may not have huge stats, but he is very reliable. He averages around 500 receiving yards per season.

His real strength is his all-around game. He blocks well and helps both the run and passing attack. Tampa Bay pays him $10 million per year, which is fair for what he offers.

Compare that to Isaiah Likely, who got $40 million over three years. Otton provides similar value at a lower cost.

1. Vikings: Kyler Murray (1 year, $1.3 million)

The Minnesota Vikings landed the best value deal by signing Kyler Murray.

He joined on a very cheap one-year deal because the Arizona Cardinals are still paying most of his salary.

Murray has struggled with injuries and inconsistency, but his talent is still clear. He now joins a good system under Kevin O’Connell and gets to play with star receiver Justin Jefferson.

This gives him a chance to rebuild his career while rookie J.J. McCarthy develops. It’s a win for both sides.

MORE: Top 10 most surprising league MVP in NFL

Conclusion

This year showed that smart spending matters more than big spending. Teams that focused on value made better moves.

Players like Cade Otton and Kyler Murray could easily outperform their deals. Others like Walker and Biadasz fill key roles without huge costs.

If these signings work out, they could have a big impact on the 2026 NFL season.

The Atlanta Falcons’ star-laden roster underwhelmed in 2025. Quarterback Michael Penix’s first year as a starter led to another 8-9 season and extended their playoff drought another year. In a very winnable NFC South, this is not how Falcons fans expected their season to go. 

Owner Arthur Blank shared the fans’ sentiment. His decision to move on from Head Coach Raheem Morris and General Manager Terry Fontenot made that very clear. 

Blank rebuilt the Falcon’s leadership entirely by bringing in Ian Cunningham as General Manager, Kevin Stefanski as Head Coach, and franchise legend Matt Ryan as President of Football Operations. The trio will have scarce opportunities in the 2026 Draft, as they currently own just five draft picks. 

Falcons Draft Picks:

• Round 2: Pick 48
• Round 3: Pick 79
• Round 4: Pick 122
• Round 6: Pick 215
• Round 7: Pick 231

Atlanta has premier talent at several position groups on their roster. Unfortunately, the “dirty birds” lack significant depth. A common theme for the Falcons is having a star player, such as Drake London or AJ Terrell, at a position, followed by a steep drop-off in ability compared to their counterparts. 

Falcons Positions of Need:

The Falcons will aim to shrink that talent gap by targeting the following positions in this year’s draft: 

• WR
• LB 
• CB
• OL 

Key Draft Targets for Falcons:

Jacob Rodriguez – LB – Texas Tech  

Rodriguez was one of the most notable names in college football last season. The Falcons lost Kaden Elliss, who led the team in tackles the last three seasons, to free agency. Atlanta could fill a big hole with a big name. 

Cunningham may need to get creative to land the Texas Tech standout. Rodriguez is currently ranked as the 42nd overall prospect by NFL Mock Draft Database, while the Falcons’ first pick sits at No. 48. 

View this post on Instagram

Malik Muhammad – CB – Texas 

Muhammad may not offer the same name recognition as Falcons cornerback AJ Terrell’s little brother, Avieon, but he is a much more achievable target. The Texas corner has experienced the best competition available by competing in the SEC. 

He should be on the board through the end of Day 2. A readymade pro, Atlanta can draft Muhammad and implant him into the starting defense as a running mate for Terrell immediately. 

Brenen Thompson – WR – Mississippi State

Drake London is one of the most imposing receivers in football. Atlanta needs to build depth behind him. They may be able to do so while also diversifying their offense by adding Brenen Thompson. 

Thompson’s small build and elite quickness would introduce a whole new element to the Falcons’ offense. Thompson is expected to be a fourth-round pick. The Falcons would love to weaponize his speed on the turf of Mercedes-Benz Stadium. 

The post Atlanta Falcons 2026 NFL Draft Preview appeared first on The Lead.