NFL Offseason: Biggest Questions – Rodgers, Mahomes, Draft & Rule Changes 2026

Super Bowl LX concluded with the Seattle Seahawks overcoming the New England Patriots 29‑13, a victory that came despite a modest 1.1 % win probability projected by ESPN Analytics. With a champion crowned, the league now turns its focus to the 2026 offseason, a period defined by a pronounced quarterback shortage and a series of strategic decisions that will shape the next Super Bowl contender.

Retirement questions

Age alone places veteran Aaron Rodgers (42) and tight‑end Travis Kelce (36) squarely in Hall‑of‑Fame conversation, while quarterback Matthew Stafford (38) has signaled his intent to play in 2026. Rodgers has not confirmed his future after the Steelers’ playoff loss, and the Steelers have recently rehired former Packers coach Mike McCarthy. Kelce has indicated he will spend time with family before deciding whether to return to the Kansas City Chiefs.

Quarterback market

Roughly one‑third of NFL teams could be seeking a new starter this offseason, yet the 2026 draft offers few quarterback prospects. Six to ten franchises, from the Las Vegas Raiders—who hold the first overall pick—to the Minnesota Vikings, which desire competition for J.J. McCarthy, will explore free‑agency and trade options. The Raiders are expected to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza at #1, while other free agents include Daniel Jones, Malik Willis, Gardner Minshew and Jimmy Garoppolo. If Rodgers returns to play, the Steelers are the most likely destination. The Indianapolis Colts have expressed strong interest in re‑acquiring Jones, who suffered a right‑Achilles tear in Week 14. Veteran quarterbacks Geno Smith (Raiders) and Kirk Cousins (Falcons) could be released.

Draft outlook

The quarterback class centers on Fernando Mendoza, with Ty Simpson of Alabama projected as a mid‑second‑round pick for the New York Jets. Mel Kiper Jr.’s top‑five list features two blockers (Arvell Reese, David Bailey), a running back (Jeremiyah Love) and a receiver (Carnell Tate).

Veteran trade candidates

Beyond quarterbacks, several seasoned players may be on the move. Maxx Crosby (Raiders) ended his season early with a meniscus injury and could seek a new team, while A.J. Brown (Eagles), Tyreek Hill (Dolphins) and Keon Coleman (Bills) are also potential trade assets.

Free‑agent landscape

Potential free agents include defensive ends Trey Hendrickson (Bengals) and Odafe Oweh (Chargers); offensive tackles Rasheed Walker (Packers) and Braden Smith (Colts); cornerback Alontae Taylor (Saints); wide receiver George Pickens (Cowboys); running backs Breece Hall (Jets) and Travis Etienne Jr. (Jaguars).

Contract extensions

Players from the 2023 draft already eligible for extensions feature a wide array of talent: quarterbacks C.J. Stroud (Texans) and Bryce Young (Panthers); running backs Bijan Robinson (Falcons), Jahmyr Gibbs (Lions), De’Von Achane (Dolphins) and Chase Brown (Bengals); receivers Jaxon Smith‑Njigba (Seahawks), Zay Flowers (Ravens), Jordan Addison (Vikings) and Puka Nacua (Rams); tight ends Sam LaPorta (Lions), Tucker Kraft (Packers) and Dalton Kincaid (Bills); linemen Darnell Wright (Bears), Anton Harrison (Jaguars), O’Cyrus Torrence (Bills), Kobie Turner (Rams); edge rushers Byron Young (Rams) and Will Anderson Jr. (Texans); linebackers Jack Campbell (Lions); defensive backs Devon Witherspoon (Seahawks), Christian Gonzalez (Patriots), Brian Branch (Lions) and Joey Porter Jr. (Steelers).

Coaching turnover

Ten head coaches were replaced this cycle, while 21 teams will install new offensive coordinators and 13 new defensive coordinators. In total, 16 franchises will have a fresh offensive play‑caller, suggesting a league‑wide shift in offensive philosophy.

Inclusivity and leadership

Only one minority head coach—Robert Saleh (Titans)—was hired during this period, leaving three minority head coaches overall: Todd Bowles (Buccaneers), DeMeco Ryans (Texans) and Aaron Glenn (Jets). The NFL’s Accelerator programme, paused in 2025, is slated to resume, aiming to connect minority candidates with team owners.

League governance

The NFL Players Association continues its search for a permanent executive director after Lloyd Howell’s resignation; David White serves as interim, with President Jalen Reeves‑Maybin noting the union’s operational stability. Commissioner Roger Goodell emphasized the need for further steps to address current challenges.

Rule changes under review

Dynamic kickoff rules have boosted return rates to 74.5 % but also raised concussion incidence from 0.87 % (2024) to 1.69 % (2025). The league is soliciting special‑teams coaches’ feedback on tackling techniques that may affect these rates. Officials could be empowered to throw flags for clear violations during replay reviews, a move championed by Goodell to leverage technology for on‑field accuracy. Hip‑drop tackle penalties remain low, with only two calls in 2025, prompting calls for stricter enforcement.

Strategic debates

The “Tush Push” continues to feature, with 112 attempts recorded in 2025, though its conversion rate dipped to 76.8 % from earlier seasons. Teams such as the Steelers and Seahawks are experimenting with closed‑wing formations. Owners are also discussing an 18‑game regular season tied to an expanded international schedule; Patriots owner Bob Kraft voiced strong support, while the NFLPA remains hesitant.

Key dates for the offseason

The franchise tag becomes available on February 17, followed by the NFL Combine in Indianapolis from February 23 to March 2. Teams must finalize franchise‑tag decisions by March 3 (4 p.m. ET). Negotiations for unrestricted free agents run March 9‑11, with official agreements allowed after March 11 (4 p.m. ET). The league’s annual meetings occur March 29‑April 2 in Phoenix, and the 2026 draft is set for April 23‑25 in Pittsburgh. Additional milestones include the April 17 deadline for restricted‑free‑agent qualified offers and the April 22 deadline to match those offers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will Aaron Rodgers retire after the 2025 season?

Rodgers, now 42, has not confirmed his plans following the Steelers’ playoff loss, leaving his retirement status uncertain.

When can teams start using the franchise tag?

Teams may begin designating franchise tags on February 17.

Is the NFL moving toward an 18‑game regular season?

Patriots owner Bob Kraft has expressed strong support for an 18‑game schedule and an expanded international calendar, while NFLPA interim executive director David White indicated that players are not eager for an additional game.

Which offseason development do you think will have the biggest impact on the 2026 NFL landscape?