2026 NFL free agency primer: Projected free agents, top needs, cap space for all 32 teams this offseason
CBS Sports
by
Garrett Podell
March 3, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The 2026 NFL free agency period is set to kick off with a flurry of activity, beginning at 4 p.m. ET on March 11. Prior to that, teams must decide whether to use the franchise or transition tag by March 7. The legal tampering window opens on March 9, allowing pending free agents to negotiate with other teams starting noon ET until 3:59:59 p.m. ET on March 11, before contracts can be finalized.
With just over $20 million in projected cap space, the Arizona Cardinals enter the offseason prioritizing a new franchise quarterback after their divorce from Kyler Murray seems imminent. The Cardinals also face significant needs along the offensive line and defensive front, with both Kelvin Beachum and Jonah Williams departing as unrestricted free agents. Meanwhile, the Atlanta Falcons are grappling with quarterback uncertainty following injuries to Michael Penix Jr. and potential cuts of Kirk Cousins, leaving them in need of a long-term solution at the position.
The Baltimore Ravens, with just over $7 million in cap space, must address key positions like safety and cornerback while retaining DeAndre Hopkins, who is drawing strong interest from other teams. These team-specific challenges highlight the competitive nature of free agency as organizations jockey for top talent to fill critical roster gaps.
The 2026 NFL free agency period will be
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 3/3/2026