The NFL news cycle continues ahead of the league’s free agency period. With the legal tampering period set to begin on March 9, teams are making moves in preparation for the new season.
McDuffie Heads to the Rams
The Kansas City Chiefs have reportedly traded All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams. In return, the Chiefs will receive the 29th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, as well as a fifth- and sixth-round pick and a 2027 third-round pick.
Other Potential Player Moves
Several other player moves are anticipated as the start of free agency approaches on March 12. Teams will be releasing veterans to comply with the salary cap, which is officially set at $301.2 million per club.
Among the players reportedly set to be released are Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray, Vikings veterans Aaron Jones and Javon Hargrave, and Commanders cornerback Marshon Lattimore.
Franchise Tag Deadline Looms
Tuesday marks the official franchise tag deadline. So far, three offensive stars have received the tag: Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts and Dallas Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens. The Jets are reportedly planning to place the franchise tag on running back Breece Hall.
- The Seahawks reportedly won’t be tagging Kenneth Walker III.
- The Bengals won’t tag Trey Hendrickson.
- The Indianapolis Colts will place the transition tag on veteran quarterback Daniel Jones.
The transition tag for Jones is worth a fully-guaranteed $37.833 million. It will allow him to negotiate with other NFL teams, with the Colts having the opportunity to match any offer sheet Jones signs.
Teams have until Tuesday, March 3, at 4 p.m. ET to place the franchise tag on pending free agents. This prevents them from entering the open market and guarantees them a fully guaranteed, one-year contract. Teams can negotiate a long-term deal with any tagged player until July 15 at 4 p.m. ET.
The week leading up to free agency promises further developments as teams adjust their rosters and manage their salary caps.