NFL Team Needs for all 32 teams will be posted on one page this year.
2026 NFL Team Needs: NFC East:
Dallas Cowboys 2026 NFL Team Needs: Dallas’ season was over before it began. Jerry Jones traded his top defensive player, Micah Parsons, worsening a stop unit that couldn’t get off the field in most instances. Dak Prescott had some great games, but it ultimately didn’t matter.
Two Defensive Ends: Parsons was sorely missed. The Cowboys need two new edge rushers to make up for the loss.
Two Cornerbacks: The Cowboys had one of the worst secondaries in the NFL last year. DaRon Bland is the only viable player the team has at the position.
Two Safeties: Two new safeties must be obtained as well. As you can see, the Cowboys need to make wholesale changes in their defensive backfield.
Offensive Tackle: Tyler Guyton has had two seasons to prove himself, but hasn’t done it. He was one of the worst starting left tackles in the NFL last year.
Wide Receiver: George Pickens is an impending free agent, so the Cowboys will need to re-sign or replace such a talented player.
Defensive Tackle: Quinnen Williams was a great addition at the trade deadline, but Dallas needs one more talented interior defensive lineman with Kenny Clark set to decline to age soon.
Running Back: Javonte Williams had a great season for the Cowboys, but his contract is set to expire.
New York Giants 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Giants seem to have their quarterback of the future, so they’ll need to find some good talent around him to take advantage of his rookie contract.
Two Interior Offensive Linemen: New York can’t make the same mistake it made with Daniel Jones. Protecting its next quarterback is essential. A new guard and center are needed.
Wide Receiver: Malik Nabers will be back from injury, but the Giants need another viable threat.
Two Cornerbacks: New York’s top defensive need is at cornerback. Andru Phillips is great in the slot, but two new players are needed on the outside, especially if Cordale Flott leaves via free agency.
Right Tackle: Jermaine Eluemunor played well for the Giants last year, but he’s an impending free agent who must be re-signed.
Defensive Tackle: Dexter Lawrence is a stud, but the Giants don’t have anything else at defensive tackle.
Linebacker: The Giants could use a better linebacker next to Bobby Okereke.
Kicker: New York needs to find a permanent kicker after rotating through them last year.
Philadelphia Eagles 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Eagles weren’t as dominant in 2025 as they were during their Super Bowl season. They still were able to win the division and claim the No. 3 seed, however, so they don’t have too many needs aside from replacing impending free agents.
Cornerback: This is the biggest need on defense. The Eagles have two great cornerbacks in Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean, but a better option is needed across from the former.
Right Tackle: Lane Johnson endured an injury-ravaged season. Johnson is still an excellent player at 36, but the Eagles need to find a viable backup and future replacement.
Center: Cam Jurgens hasn’t been nearly as great as Jason Kelce, so the Eagles should consider an upgrade.
Guard: Landon Dickerson couldn’t stay healthy last year. Philadelphia should consider a better backup or perhaps some competition at the position.
Defensive End: Jaelan Phillips, Azeez Ojulari, and Josh Uche are all set to enter free agency, so replacements will need to be obtained.
Safety: Reed Blankenship is coming off a down year, but is expected to bounce back in 2026. He could be doing so on a different team, however, because he’s an impending free agent.
Linebacker: Nakobe Dean figures to be better in 2026 when he’ll be further removed from injury, but his contract is set to expire. He’ll have to be replaced if he leaves.
Tight End: Dallas Goedert has been a mainstay in Philadelphia’s offense for some time, but he’s about to enter free agency.
Wide Receiver: Philadelphia’s depth behind the top two receivers has been lackluster for some time. Jahan Dotson was acquired to fix this, but he’s been a disappointment.
Punter: Braden Mann will be a free agent in March.
Washington Redskins 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Redskins had Super Bowl aspirations heading into 2025, but they were huge disappointments. Jayden Daniels was constantly injured, while the defense was ranked dead last by the end of the season.
Two Edge Rushers: Dorance Armstrong is a talented pass rusher, but the Redskins don’t have much else on the edge, so they could use an early draft pick to satisfy the position. In fact, they should consider adding two edge players because their pass rush was so weak last year.
Cornerback: Marshon Lattimore will be back from injury in 2026, but the Redskins struggled at the position otherwise.
Safety: The Redskins had one of the weaker safety groups in the NFL last year. The secondary as a whole was an abomination.
Guard: Right guard is the weak spot on the offensive line. Nick Allegretti has been a big disappointment.
Defensive Tackle: DaRon Payne can only do so much, given that there’s barely any talent around him. Major help is needed at defensive tackle.
Linebacker: Bobby Wagner is entering free agency, but he’s an older player who needed to be upgraded anyway.
Wide Receiver: The Redskins traded for Deebo Samuel last offseason, and while he played well at times, he wasn’t the difference-maker Washington thought it was getting. Samuel is now set to enter free agency.
Running Back: Jacory Croskey-Merritt was a fun story for a while, but Daniels needs a serious backfield complement to take some of the pressure off of him.
Tight End: Zach Ertz suffered a terrible injury and is set to be a free agent anyway.
Backup Quarterback: Daniels is currently the only quarterback under contract heading into 2026.
Punter: Tress Way is heading into free agency.
2026 NFL Team Needs: AFC East:
Buffalo Bills 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Bills looked like the best team in the NFL at times this past season. However, they still have some obvious flaws, including their poor run defense and the lack of a No. 1 wide receiver. Addressing these needs would certainly put Buffalo over the top.
Wide Receiver: The Bills have needed a No. 1 receiver for Josh Allen since losing Stefon Diggs. Amari Cooper and Keon Coleman have both failed in that role.
Defensive Tackle: Buffalo had one of the worst run defenses in the NFL last year. That could change if the team finds a big presence in the interior of the defensive line.
Two Guards: Buffalo has one weakness on the offensive line. That would be at right guard, where O’Cyrus Torrence is stationed. However, David Edwards is an impending free agent, so two new guards might be needed.
Center: Connor McGovern is another talented blocker who will need to be re-signed or replaced.
Two Linebackers: Matt Milano and Shaq Thompson have expiring contracts as well. Milano usually plays on a Pro Bowl level, but he was awful last year.
Cornerback: The Bills could stand to find some help across from Christian Benford. Tre’Davious White gave Buffalo some solid snaps there in 2025, but he can’t be relied upon to play that way again.
Safety: Taylor Rapp was awful next to Cole Bishop last season until he got hurt. Jordan Poyer took over, but he doesn’t have much time remaining in the NFL.
Defensive End: Joey Bosa and A.J. Epenesa are set to enter free agency, so one of them will need to be retained.
Fullback: Reggie Gilliam is a great blocking fullback, but he’ll be a free agent in March.
Backup Quarterback: Allen will be the only quarterback under contract come March.
Kicker: Matt Prater did a solid job for the Bills last year, but his contract is about to expire.
Punter: Mitch Wishnowsky is also entering free agency.
Miami Dolphins 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Dolphins looked like the worst team in the NFL at times in 2025. There are holes all over the roster, particularly at quarterback. The oft-concussed Tua Tagovailoa was benched twice, so Miami’s needs begin at the most prominent position in football despite a recent first-round pick used at the position.
Quarterback: Tagovailoa can’t be counted on to remain healthy. He also can’t be counted on to play well or give coherent press conferences. His brain must be scrambled too much to play quarterback anymore. The first thing the Dolphins need to do is find a franchise signal-caller.
Two Guards: The Dolphins had some of the worst guard play in the NFL last year. Two upgrades are needed.
Two Edge Rushers: The Dolphins had one of the worst pass rushes in the NFL last year, and that was even when Jaelan Phillips was on the team. Two new edge players are desperately needed.
Three Cornerbacks: Cornerback was a huge problem last year outside of Rasul Douglas. Now, Douglas is entering free agency, as is Kader Kohou, who was out all of 2025. If both leave, Miami will need three new cornerbacks.
Right Tackle: Another position on the offensive line that must be upgraded. Austin Jackson is not cutting it.
Defensive End: Zach Seiler is a stud. Kenneth Grant has some promise. The Dolphins need a third defensive lineman to go with those two.
Safety: A new safety to play alongside Minkah Fitzpatrick should be obtained.
Kicker: Riley Patterson missed only two field goals last year, but his contract is set to expire.
Punter: Jake Bailey is also an impending free agent.
New England Patriots 2026 NFL Team Needs: Coaching can make all the difference sometimes. That was the case for the Patriots in 2025, as Mike Vrabel was able to take New England to an entirely new level. The Patriots finished with the second-best record in the NFL, as Drake Maye performed like an MVP candidate. Center: Garrett Bradbury is one of the weaker starting centers in the NFL. The Patriots could take Drake Maye’s play to the next level by giving him a rock-solid center.
Wide Receiver: Stefon Diggs was a pleasant surprise last year, considering that he was coming off a torn ACL. However, he’s entering his mid 30s, so the Patriots need to find a No. 1 receiver for the long haul.
Edge Rusher: The Patriots were ranked in the middle of the pack as far as quarterback pressures were concerned. They need a dynamic edge threat so they can continue to improve their defense.
Nose Tackle: Khyiris Tonga is an impending free agent, but the Patriots needed to get better at nose tackle anyway.
Safety: Jaylinn Hawkins has been a journeyman, but he had a great year in New England. He’s now set to hit free agency.
Linebacker: Jack Gibbens is another impending free agent who must be re-signed or replaced.
New York Jets 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Jets somehow didn’t intercept a single pass last season, and yet their offense was ranked worse (30th) than the defense (29th). There’s a lot of work to be done this offseason.
Quarterback: The Aaron Rodgers gambit failed miserably. Bringing in Justin Fields didn’t work. The Jets now have the No. 2 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to obtain a franchise quarterback.
Wide Receiver: Garrett Wilson is a stud, but the Jets have nothing else at the position. New York’s quarterback won’t have anyone to throw to if Wilson gets hurt again, and that can’t happen.
Two Cornerbacks: All of the picks the Jets acquired for Sauce Gardner could be anything. They could even be Sauce Gardner. The Jets would love that because they have a big need for two new cornerbacks to join Brandon Stephens at the position.
Defensive Tackle: The Jets now have a huge void at defensive tackle in the wake of the Quinnen Williams trade.
Center: Josh Myers was the weak link of the offensive line last week. It would be ideal if they found a new partner at center for the new quarterback.
Linebacker: Quincy Williams is one of the most significant free agents the Jets have, so he’ll need to be re-signed or replaced.
Safety: Andre Cisco and Tony Adams are set to hit the market, so a new safety will be needed next to Malachi Moore.
Running Back: The Jets staff likes Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis. Will they go with that duo if Breece Hall leaves via free agency?
Guard: John Simpson is an impending free agent, so the Jets will need a new guard if he departs.
Edge Rusher Depth: With Josh Allen and Drake Maye on the schedule twice per year, the Jets should find as much pass-rushing depth as possible.
2026 NFL Team Needs: NFC North:
Chicago Bears 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Bears began the season 0-2, but showed great improvement in Ben Johnson’s first year. Their offense was terrific at times, though their defense was a complete sieve on occasion.
Three Defensive Tackles: The weakest area of Chicago’s roster last year was the interior of the defensive line. The Bears were devoid of talent there, so they need a complete overhaul at the position.
Two Defensive Ends: The Bears had the fewest quarterback pressures in the NFL last year. They need multiple new edge players to join Montez Sweat.
Two Safeties: Kevin Byard is an impending free agent, but he’s an older player anyway. A new safety is needed next to Jaquan Brisker, assuming Brisker is re-signed.
Cornerback: A better pass rush will help Chicago’s secondary, but an upgrade at cornerback is needed.
Running Back: D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai posted great stats because they had elite blocking ahead of them. Ben Johnson’s Chicago offense could go to the next level if he found a better running back.
Wide Receiver Depth: D.J. Moore could be on the way out, so the Bears will need another wideout for depth.
Detroit Lions 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Lions went from owning the No. 1 seed in the conference to missing the playoffs. Losing both coordinators, seeing some offensive linemen depart, and suffering tons of injuries to the defense set back the Lions throughout the year.
Three Cornerbacks: The Lions haven’t been able to cover any wide receivers. Their secondary has been pathetic, and their cornerback unit is in need of a major overhaul.
Center: Frank Ragnow was sorely missed in the wake of his retirement. The Lions desperately need a new center.
Defensive End: Detroit’s pass rush diminished when Aidan Hutchinson was lost for the year in 2024. The team needs a new edge rusher, especially with Al-Quadin Muhammad entering free agency.
Defensive Tackle: D.J. Reader is an impending free agent. He’s also 32. The Lions need to bolster the interior of their defensive front.
Linebacker: Alex Anzalone has been an excellent linebacker for the Lions, but he’s a 31-year-old set to enter free agency.
Guard: Kevin Zeitler was a key free agent last year. Christian Mahogany was the replacement, but he’s just a sixth-round talent.
Offensive Tackle: There’s some chatter that Taylor Decker may retire. If so, a replacement will obviously have to be acquired.
Green Bay Packers 2026 NFL Team Needs: Expectations were sky high for the Packers once they traded for Micah Parsons in August. It looked like they’d have a great chance to make a Super Bowl run, but Parsons and other players suffered injuries late in the year.
Two Defensive Tackles: The Packers have one of the weakest defensive interiors in the NFL. Two new defensive tackles are needed.
Two Cornerbacks: The Packers had weak play at cornerback outside of Keisean Nixon. They’ll need two new cornerbacks.
Two Guards: Green Bay’s guard play was poor last year. Perhaps Jordan Morgan will get another chance because he’s a former first-round pick, but at least one guard should be acquired.
Left Tackle: Rasheed Walker is a former seventh-round rookie who emerged as a great pass-blocking left tackle. He’s an impending free agent who must be re-signed.
Center: The Packers have had issues at center for a while, and that persisted last year.
Linebacker: Quay Walker is an impending free agent who needs to be re-signed or replaced.
Backup Quarterback: Malik Willis is as good as gone, so the Packers will need a new backup quarterback.
Kicker: Brandon McManus was a disaster in the playoff loss to the Bears.
Minnesota Vikings 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Vikings weren’t nearly as good as they were in their 2024 season in which they went 14-3. Part of the problem was diminished quarterback play, as J.J. McCarthy was far worse than Sam Darnold.
Two Safeties: Outside of quarterback – if McCarthy doesn’t improve – this is Minnesota’s weakest position. Harrison Smith is likely retiring, creating a massive void.
Two Cornerbacks: Brian Flores’ defense would be dominant with two cornerback upgrades.
Quarterback: It’s unclear if McCarthy is the answer. The Vikings need veteran competition in case McCarthy struggles again.
Linebacker: Blake Cashman is great, but the Vikings could stand to improve upon Eric Wilson, who is entering free agency anyway.
Wide Receiver Depth: The Vikings won’t have much behind Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison if Jalen Nailor departs via free agency.
Punter: Ryan Wright did a great job punting last year, but he’s an impending free agent.
2026 NFL Team Needs: AFC North:
Baltimore Ravens 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Ravens struggled early in the year with countless injuries, but were one of the hottest teams in the NFL in the middle of the season. They had a chance to reach the playoffs with a win over the Steelers, but a missed field goal ended their season.
Two Edge Rushers: The Ravens ranked 20th in quarterback pressures last year. Two new edge rushers are needed.
Two Guards: The Ravens are strong at tackle and center, but they had weak guards last year. Daniel Faalele, the better of the two guards, is entering free agency.
Wide Receiver: Will the Ravens finally obtain a viable receiver outside of Zay Flowers? DeAndre Hopkins did not count.
Running Back: Baltimore felt as though it couldn’t use Derrick Henry late in games. Henry was still effective, but just turned 32. A running back of the future will be needed at some point.
Cornerback: The Ravens could lose Chidobe Awuzie, so he’ll need to be re-signed or replaced.
Tight End: Mark Andrews is getting up there in age, while Isaiah Likely and Charlie Kolar are both heading into free agency.
Punter: Jordan Stout was the league’s best punter last year, but he’s an impending free agent.
Cincinnati Bengals 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Bengals entered the season with a dreadful defense, but the injury to Joe Burrow had the greatest impact. The Bengals will have to hope for better luck in 2026, though their biggest need entering this offseason will continue to be an owner who isn’t incredibly cheap.
Two Linebackers: Cincinnati had some of the worst linebacker play in the NFL last year, especially after Logan Wilson was traded.
Defensive Tackle: The Bengals used two second-day picks on defensive tackles a couple of years ago, but neither has played well. Cincinnati needs help next to B.J. Hill in the defensive interior.
Defensive End: The Bengals may lose Trey Hendrickson and Joseph Ossai this offseason. If they depart, another pass rusher must be acquired to pair with some of the young edge players Cincinnati has on the roster.
Safety: Jessie Bates has sorely been missed. The Bengals need a better safety to play next to Jordan Battle.
Cornerback: D.J. Turner is an emerging star, while Dax Hill performed well last year. However, the Bengals need one more cornerback to pair with them.
Guard: Dalton Risner and Lucas Patrick are both set to hit free agency, so one of them will need to be retained.
Center: Ted Karras is another impending free agent from Cincinnat’s offensive line.
Backup Quarterback: If Joe Flacco isn’t retained, the Bengals will need to find a backup behind Joe Burrow.
Cleveland Browns 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Browns just experienced another season of disappointment. Their defense was excellent, and even featured the league’s new single-season sack record holder, but the offense continued to be dreadful.
Quarterback: The Browns have needed a franchise quarterback for a very long time. However, given the draft positioning, the Browns may have to decide between Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders in training camp.
Two Offensive Tackles: Jedrick Wills was a huge disappointment and was promptly released. Jack Conklin can’t stay healthy. Two tackles are needed for Cleveland’s next quarterback.
Wide Receiver: Jerry Jeudy has been a disappointment for most of his career. The Browns need a new No. 1 receiver.
Two Guards: Joel Bitonio, Wyatt Teller, and Teven Jenkins are all impending free agents. Two will need to be re-signed, or replacements will need to be found.
Center: Ethan Pocic suffered a torn Achilles tendon. He’s also set to hit free agency, so even if he re-signs, he’s no lock to play in the first two months of the 2026 season.
Defensive End: Despite Myles Garrett’s record-setting season, the Browns weren’t even in the top 15 of quarterback pressures. Cleveland needs a better bookend for Garrett.
Punter: Cleveland had one of the league’s worst punters last year.
Pittsburgh Steelers 2026 NFL Team Needs: Things looked grim for the Steelers early in the season when there were calls for Mike Tomlin to be fired. However, the team regrouped and had some impressive games down the stretch to make the playoffs.
Quarterback: Aaron Rodgers was solid at times, but he’s 42 and obviously needs to be replaced this or next offseason.
Two Cornerbacks: The Steelers had major problems at cornerback last year. Their secondary must be addressed.
Wide Receiver: DK Metcalf was the only dynamic receiver Pittsburgh had on its roster last year. That obviously must change.
Safety: DeShon Elliott will return from injury, but the Steelers will still need another safety to further help their problematic secondary.
Left Tackle: Pittsburgh should consider bringing in some competition for Broderick Jones, who’s been underwhelming thus far.
Defensive Line Depth: Cameron Heyward won’t be around much longer, given that he turns 37 this offseason. Some depth is needed on the defensive line.
Guard: Isaac Seumalo has been a great blocker since joining the Steelers, but he has an expiring contract.
Linebacker: Patrick Queen has struggled in two seasons with Pittsburgh. Some competition will be needed, especially if Cole Holcomb leaves via free agency.
Punter: Corliss Waitman is an impending free agent.
2026 NFL Team Needs: NFC South:
Atlanta Falcons 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Falcons had the best roster in the NFC South, but they failed to win the division because of coaching incompetence. A new coaching staff might be able to get this team over the hump.
Wide Receiver: Drake London is a great receiver, but he’s all the Falcons have at the position. There’s also Darnell Mooney, but he’s just a tertiary option at best.
Cornerback: The Falcons have a great front seven, but they need help in the secondary, specifically across from A.J. Terrell.
Defensive Tackle: David Onyemata just had a great season, but his contract will be expiring in March, so he’ll need to be re-signed or replaced.
Linebacker: Kaden Elliss is another important front-seven player the Falcons may lose in free agency.
Tight End: Kyle Pitts never lived up to his No. 4 overall potential, but he was still very productive at times. He’s now due to enter free agency.
Backup Running Back: Tyler Allgeier has been a great complement to Bijan Robinson, but he’s set to enter free agency.
Punter: Bradley Pinion is an impending free agent as well.
Carolina Panthers 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Panthers somehow won the division in 2025. They had a negative point differential of 69, yet they came out of the NFC South as the champions. With the Falcons and Saints set to improve next year, Carolina will need to bolster its roster.
Two Defensive Linemen: It all starts up front, which is where the Panthers need to get stronger in order to improve their defense. Derrick Brown is a beast, but Carolina needs two other defensive linemen to join him.
Two Linebackers: The Panthers had some dreadful play over the middle of the field last year, which was nothing new. A brand-new group of linebackers should be acquired.
Edge Rusher: Carolina had the fifth-fewest quarterback pressures in the NFL last year. They need to a top-tier pass rusher to go along with Nic Scourton.
Nickel Cornerback: Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson played great last year, but the Panthers need someone better to play in the slot.
Center: The two players who were at center last year are about to hit free agency, but the Panthers could stand to find an upgrade anyway.
Tight End: The Panthers drafted Tetairoa McMillan in the first round last year, but they could now be looking for an intermediate threat to further improve Bryce Young’s play.
Punter: Sam Martin is set to hit free agency.
New Orleans Saints 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Saints looked like the worst team in the NFL to start the 2025 season, but things changed when Tyler Shough took over for Spencer Rattler. Shough improved each week and turned the Saints’ offense into a viable scoring unit, while the defense ended up ranked seventh.
Two Wide Receivers: Rashid Shaheed is gone, so the Saints need to find a new wide receiver. Chris Olave is a concussion or two away from having his career derailed, so that must be a worry as well.
Defensive Tackle: The Saints ranked seventh in the NFL in defensive EPA, but they still had a big void at defensive tackle. Getting a big upgrade would really take New Orleans’ defense to the next level.
Two Guards: New Orleans had great play at tackle and center last season, but the performances by the guards were very underwhelming.
Running Back: Alvin Kamara is getting up there in age, so the Saints will need to find a new running back soon.
Defensive End: Cameron Jordan doesn’t have much time remaining in the NFL, so the Saints need to find another edge rusher to bookend Chase Young.
Linebacker: Demario Davis is an impending free agent, so the Saints will have to re-sign or replace him. If he’s re-signed, a future replacement is needed because he’s 37.
Punter: Kai Kroeger had one of the worst net-punting averages in the NFL last year.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Buccaneers began the season 6-2, but had a major collapse down the stretch. Health issues were the primary cause of that, but the Buccaneers also have some holes on their roster that they’ll need to address.
Two Linebackers: Linebacker was a huge issue for the Buccaneers last year, thanks to Lavonte David finally regressing. Two new players are needed at the position.
Edge Rusher: Yaya Diaby has emerged as a dangerous edge rusher, but Tampa Bay’s other young edge rushers have disappointed. The Buccaneers need some better pass rushers so they don’t have to blitz as often.
Defensive End: Logan Hall was taken atop the second round in 2022, but he hasn’t lived up to his draft status. An upgrade could be obtained on the defensive line.
Cornerback: Jamel Dean is an impending free agent, so he’ll need to be re-signed or replaced, especially after last year’s great season.
Tight End: Cade Otton has been productive at times, but he’s set to enter free agency.
Guard: Ben Bredeson was a liability on Tampa Bay’s offensive front, although he’d make for a good, versatile backup.
Punter: Riley Dixon ranked in the bottom 10 of net punting last year.
2026 NFL Team Needs: AFC South:
Houston Texans 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Texans seemed as if they were in for a long season when they began 0-3. However, they went on a long winning streak to close out the season, becoming the No. 5 seed in the process.
Two Guards: The alternative is a guard and a right tackle, which would move Tytus Howard inside. The Texans will need two non-left tackle, non-center upgrades on the offensive line to give C.J. Stroud a chance against teams with strong pass rushes. Ed Ingram being re-signed would take care of one of these needs.
Running Back: Woody Marks was better than Nick Chubb, but he doesn’t profile as an every-down back who can carry the full workload.
Center: Jake Andrews didn’t play well overall last year as Houston’s starting center, though it should be noted that he improved down the stretch.
Linebacker: If there’s a weakness to Houston’s defense, it’s the linebackers’ ability to cover the middle of the field. The Texans could use a better starter next to Azeez Al-Shaair.
Punter: Tommy Townsend is coming off a solid year, but he’s set to enter free agency.
Indianapolis Colts 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Colts were considered one of the best teams in the NFL in the first couple of months of 2025. They began 7-1, but barely won any games down the stretch because Daniel Jones and some key defenders suffered injuries. Perhaps they’ll have better injury luck in 2026.
Linebacker: Indianapolis had major issues covering the middle of the field last season, so the linebackers will need of an injection of talent.
Safety: The Colts can continue to help themselves cover the middle of the field by finding an upgrade at safety.
Defensive End: Laiatu Latu was great last year, but he’ll have his work cut out for him in 2026 because all of the other edge rushers are heading into free agency.
Right Tackle: Indianapolis had a stellar offensive line last year, but right tackle Braden Smith is set to hit free agency.
Wide Receiver: The Colts have a bunch of solid receivers, but none of them profile as a No. 1 target. Alec Pierce came closest last year, but he’s an impending free agent.
Defensive Tackle Depth: There are some expiring contracts at this position, so the Colts will need new interior defensive line players behind the starters.
Jacksonville Jaguars 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Jaguars were one of the best teams in the NFL during the second half of the season. Trevor Lawrence improved by leaps and bounds, while the defense was ranked in the top 10.
Cornerback: The secondary is the weak point of Jacksonville’s offense. Greg Newsome was acquired, but didn’t live up to the hype.
Safety: Safety is also a weak point on this roster. Andrew Wingard is an impending free agent, but he needed to be upgraded anyway.
Running Back: Travis Etienne is coming off a great year, but he’s an impending free agent who will need to be re-signed or replaced.
Defensive Tackle: This has been a problematic position for the Jaguars ever since Calais Campbell departed. A new starter is needed next to Arik Armstead.
Guard: Patrick Mekari was the weak link on the offensive line last year, so the Jaguars may want to look into an upgrade.
Linebacker: Devin Lloyd was one of the best linebackers in the NFL last year, but he’ll be a free agent come March, so he’ll need to be re-signed or replaced.
Defensive End Depth: The Jaguars could use some better edge-rushing depth behind their two talented starters.
Tennessee Titans 2026 NFL Team Needs: Cam Ward had a rough start to his rookie year, but he improved as the season progressed. He’ll begin his second season with a new head coach and perhaps better talent around him.
Three Cornerbacks: The Titans had the worst group of cornerbacks in the NFL. They need an entirely new group of players at the position.
Two Edge Rushers: Tennessee sorely missed Harold Landry last year. The team couldn’t generate any pressure on the quarterback, and it’ll only get worse if Arden Key leaves via free agency.
Wide Receiver: Calvin Ridley continues to disappoint. Chimere Dike showed some promise, but he doesn’t profile as a No. 1 receiver, which is what Ward desperately needs.
Center: Center was the weakest link on Tennessee’s offensive line last year, which is saying a lot. Lloyd Cushenberry was one of the worst starting centers in the NFL in 2025.
Offensive Tackle: Dan Moore was a pedestrian left tackle last year. Given how long Ward holds the ball, the Titans will need a better blind-side protector.
Linebacker: The Titans found a star at linebacker in Cedric Gray, but they don’t really have anything else at the position.
Guard: Kevin Zeitler was terrific last year, but he’s an impending free agent who will need to be re-signed or replaced.
Defensive Tackle: Jeffery Simmons and T’Vondre Sweat are terrific, but the third defensive lineman, Sebastian Joseph-Day, is entering free agency.
Kicker: Joey Slye is coming off a decent year, but he’s also set to hit free agency.
2026 NFL Team Needs: NFC West:
Arizona Cardinals 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Cardinals began the year with a couple of wins, but they lost many close games after that before becomming one of the worst teams in the NFL by the end of the year. Arizona will need to move forward with a new quarterback and lots of changes on defense.
Quarterback: The Cardinals seem done with Kyler Murray. Jacoby Brissett is a great backup, but that’s all he is. Arizona needs a new quarterback.
Edge Rusher: Josh Sweat was the only Cardinal who was able to produce consistent pressure on the quarterback last year. Another edge rusher must be obtained for Arizona’s awful defense.
Two Defensive Linemen: Make it one if Calais Campbell is re-signed for another year. Nose tackle was a big problem for Arizona’s poor run defense in 2025.
Linebacker: The Cardinals were weak over the middle of the field last year, so they need a better linebacker to play next to Mack Wilson.
Offensive Tackle: Jonah Williams is an impending free agent, but he hasn’t been able to stay healthy anyway, so the Cardinals need a new bookend for Paris Johnson.
Guard: The Cardinals also have a weakness at guard that must be addressed as well so the next quarterback has a chance.
Running Back: Arizona doesn’t have a running game. James Conner is too old, while Trey Benson hasn’t impressed.
Safety: Jalen Thompson’s contract is set to expire, so the Cardinals will need to re-sign him if they want to maintain their high level of safety play.
Kicker: Chad Ryland hit just 76 percent of his kicks in 2025.
Los Angeles Rams 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Rams were seen as the best team in the NFL for most of the second half of the season. They lost some games late however, due to poor special teams play and a declining defense.
Two Cornerbacks: If there’s a weakness to the Rams defense, it’s cornerback. Emmanuel Forbes was playing for the Rams in 2025, which should tell you how dire the situation was.
Wide Receiver: Davante Adams won’t be around for the long haul, so a young receiver should be added to the mix.
Linebacker: The Rams really struggled to cover the middle of the field in 2024. They were better in that regard last year, but still could use some help in this area.
Safety: Kamren Curl is set to hit free agency, so he should be re-signed or replaced.
Tackle Depth: Rob Havenstein is set to hit free agency, but he’s coming off a poor year and probably needed to be replaced anyway.
Punter: Ethan Evans ranked fifth-worst in net punting average last season.
Backup Quarterback: Jimmy Garoppolo will be hitting free agency, so the Rams will need someone else behind Matthew Stafford if Garoppolo leaves. A quarterback of the future should be considered as well.
San Francisco 49ers 2026 NFL Team Needs: The 49ers had one of the most explosive offenses in 2025, but their defense was a disaster. With no pass rush, they weren’t able to generate any sort of pressure. Nick Bosa returning will obviously help, but San Francisco needs more talent on its stop unit.
Two Defensive Tackles: The 49ers need defensive line help more than anything. Interior defensive help must be acquired. Two players are needed at the position.
Defensive End: The 49ers had the fifth-worst pressure rate in the NFL last year. Another defensive end will help fix that.
Two Cornerbacks: San Francisco’s cornerback play has been lackluster. Part of that has to do with the poor pass rush, but the talent isn’t really there at the position.
Two Wide Receivers: Brandon Aiyuk is as good as gone, so the 49ers will need a new No. 1 receiver to go along Ricky Pearsall and Jauan Jennings, if he’s re-signed. If Jennings leaves, a second receiver will be needed.
Safety: This position isn’t a huge need, but an upgrade wouldn’t hurt.
Kicker: Eddy Pineiro is an impending free agent.
Punter: Thomas Morstead had one of the worst net averages in the NFL last year.
Seattle Seahawks 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Seahawks claimed the No. 1 seed in the NFC, thanks to their dominant defense and improved offensive line play.
Two Cornerbacks: Seattle is known for having great cornerback play, but two of its starters, Tariq Woolen and Josh Jobe, are set to hit free agency in March.
Center: The Seahawks had poor play from their centers last year, so they’ll need to find an upgrade for the middle of their offensive line.
Guard: Grey Zabel had a great rookie year, but the Seahawks had a hole at the other guard spot.
Wide Receiver: Jaxon Smith-Njigba is amazing, but the Seahawks have no one else under contract. Rashid Shaheed’s contract is expiring, while Cooper Kupp is in his mid-30s.
Linebacker: The one weakness of Seattle’s defense was its inability to stop tight ends. The Seahawks need a linebacker who is better in coverage.
Running Back: Kenneth Walker and Zach Charbonnet were a great one-two punch last year, but Walker is now an impending free agent.
2026 NFL Team Needs: AFC West:
Denver Broncos 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Broncos scraped by a number of mediocre or worse teams throughout the entirety of the 2025 NFL season. They somehow landed the No. 1 seed in the process, but lost Drew Lock in the initial playoff victory.
Defensive Lineman: John Franklin-Myers is Denver’s top impending free agent. He’ll be missed if he departs.
Inside Linebacker: Two key linebackers – Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad – are set to hit free agency. One will have to be retained. If not, a replacement will be needed next to Dre Greenlaw.
Guard: Ben Powers is the sole weak point on the offensive line, so the Broncos may want to add another guard.
Running Back: R.J. Harvey is an explosive player, but he’s not a very good runner. The Broncos could stand to at least add a complement this offseason.
Fullback: Michael Burton was sorely missed last year after he suffered a hamstring injury.
Kansas City Chiefs 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Chiefs had an extremely disappointing season in which they lost some big games and then saw Patrick Mahomes go down with a torn ACL.
Defensive End: The Chiefs struggled to generate pressure on the quarterback, which is why their defense was so awful. They need a dominant edge rusher to pair with George Karlaftis.
Defensive Tackle: Kansas City also must find an upgrade at defensive tackle. The team has nothing there outside of Chris Jones, who is getting up there in age.
Wide Receiver: Rashee Rice is an excellent slot receiver, but the Chiefs are desperate for talent on the outside.
Running Back: Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt are due to hit free agency, but they needed to be upgraded anyway. The Chiefs had no running game last year.
Two Safeties: Bryan Cook is a terrific safety, but his contract is set to expire. The Chiefs already needed safety help next to Cook, so two safeties will be needed if Cook departs.
Cornerback: Jaylen Watson is coming off a great year, but he’s an impending free agent who will need to be replaced if he departs.
Tight End: Travis Kelce will likely retire from the NFL to enjoy his sham marriage to Taylor Swift for a few years. Even if he remains, he’s been a shell of his former self.
Offensive Tackle Depth: Jawaan Taylor sucks, so the Chiefs need to find better depth behind their top two offensive tackles.
Backup Quarterback: Gardner Minshew’s contract is set to expire, so the Chiefs will need a new backup unless they want to count on Chris Oladokun again.
Las Vegas Raiders 2026 NFL Team Needs: The Raiders need to start over once again, with their plan to pair an old head coach with an old quarterback didn’t pan out. This was predictable, though it surprised at least one ESPN “analyst.” The Raiders need wholesale changes to their offensive line and defense as well.
Quarterback: The Raiders will be drafting Fernando Mendoza, barring a surprising turn of events. Mendoza will give the Raiders a chance of actually having a top-10 quarterback one day.
Two Wide Receivers: Jakobi Meyers is gone. The Raiders already needed a receiver to pair with Meyers, so they now need two players at the position unless Jake Bech or Dont’e Thornton can make a big leap.
Center: Outside of finding a franchise quarterback, the Raiders’ greatest priority is bolstering the offensive line. Center is the biggest position of weakness.
Right Tackle: A better bookend is needed opposite of Kolton Miller.
Guard: Another guard is needed as well, especially if Dylan Parham leaves.
Two Defensive Tackles: Maxx Crosby is incredible, but the Raiders don’t pressure the quarterback much because they have no other talent up front. Defensive tackle is a huge issue.
Two Linebackers: The Raiders had one of the worst group of linebackers in the NFL last year.
Two Cornerbacks: Eric Stokes was surprisingly solid for the Raiders last year, but he’s an impending free agent. Two new cornerbacks are needed if Stokes doesn’t re-sign.
Safety: More secondary help. Another safety should be acquired to pair with Jeremy Chinn.
Kicker: Daniel Carlson is an impending free agent.
San Angeles Chargers 2026 NFL Team Needs: Two Guards: Mekhi Becton was a huge bust last year, while Zion Johnson is an impending free agent. The Chargers may want to bring in two new guards.
Center: The Chargers had issues at tackle last year, but only because of injury. Their problems at center stemmed from a lack of talent.
Two Defensive Tackles: The Chargers need to address the trenches on both sides of the ball. Their defensive line was rather weak last year.
Two Cornerbacks: The Chargers had a high-rated defense, but their cornerbacks were rather underwhelming for the most part.
Offensive Tackle Depth: The Chargers need to make sure they don’t experience another instance of last year’s debacle concerning their tackles.
Two Edge Rushers: Khalil Mack and Odafe Oweh are both impending free agents. The pass rush will be severely diminished if they leave.
Linebacker: Denzel Perryman is another free agent who will need to be re-signed or replaced.
