Franchise Tag Players

Trey Smith, OG, Kansas City Chiefs

Latest on negotiations: The Chiefs are prioritizing the re-signing of Trey Smith, who is expected to become the highest-paid guard in the league. General Manager Brett Veach emphasized the importance of securing Smith's future with the team.

2026 Free Agents

Kyle Pitts, TE, Atlanta Falcons

Latest on negotiations: Kyle Pitts is entering a pivotal contract year. The Falcons are hopeful that new quarterback Michael Penix Jr. will rejuvenate Pitts' performance.

James Cook, RB, Buffalo Bills

Latest on negotiations: James Cook is seeking an extension, but negotiations with the Bills have stalled. Cook has expressed his desire for a $15 million per year deal.

Trey Hendrickson, DE, Cincinnati Bengals

Latest on negotiations: Hendrickson is pushing for a long-term deal, while the Bengals prefer a short-term contract. Both sides are working to find a middle ground.

Micah Parsons, LB, Dallas Cowboys

Latest on negotiations: Negotiations between Micah Parsons and the Cowboys have slowed. Parsons' next key date is the mandatory minicamp in June.

2027 Free Agents

Drake London, WR, Atlanta Falcons

Latest on negotiations: The Falcons have picked up London's fifth-year option and are committed to keeping him long-term.

Kyle Hamilton, S, Baltimore Ravens

Latest on negotiations: Kyle Hamilton is expected to become the NFL's highest-paid safety. The Ravens are in no rush to finalize his extension.

Aidan Hutchinson, DE, Detroit Lions

Latest on negotiations: The Lions see Hutchinson as a foundational player. He is fully cleared for football activity after a season-ending injury.

Trent McDuffie, CB, Kansas City Chiefs

Latest on negotiations: The Chiefs are considering a significant investment in McDuffie, who is seen as an ideal fit for their defensive system.

Sauce Gardner, CB, New York Jets

Latest on negotiations: Gardner is seeking a lucrative extension, potentially matching Derek Stingley Jr.'s $90 million deal.

Garrett Wilson, WR, New York Jets

Latest on negotiations: The Jets value Wilson as a foundational player. Negotiations are expected to heat up during training camp.

Charles Cross, OT, Seattle Seahawks

Latest on negotiations: The Seahawks have picked up Cross' fifth-year option. A long-term extension is anticipated before the 2026 season.

Conclusion

As the NFL offseason progresses, several stars are poised for significant contract extensions. Teams are balancing financial constraints with the need to retain key players, setting the stage for intense negotiations.