7. Chiefs sign Kenneth Walker III

The running back committee didn’t work and neither did the Chiefs’ roster in 2025. Signing the Super Bowl 60 MVP goes a long way in fixing that, giving the Chiefs another option on offense that could potentially open up the passing attack once again.

6. Bengals trade for Dexter Lawrence

Cincinnati’s defense allowed the second-most yards per game in the league last season (380.9) and it is desperate to avoid a repeat. Trading for Lawrence is the headliner of the Bengals’ offseason transformation, which prioritized defense in free agency and the draft. Lawrence is the type of player you can build a defense around and he fits the team’s timeline to win now.

The New York Giants sent defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence to the Cincinnati Bengals.

Vincent Carchietta, Imagn Images

5. Patriots trade for A.J. Brown

If “see ball, get ball” were a transaction. The Patriots needed a WR1 for Drake Maye to take New England’s offense to the next level and acted on instinct to make it happen. Brown was available, and the Patriots were essentially the only team in the running. That’s all there is to it. Acquiring star talent doesn’t always have to be difficult.

4. Chargers hire Mike McDaniel

The Chargers’ decision to hire McDaniel as offensive coordinator changed the team’s outlook more than any single free agent signing or draft pick could this offseason. Known for his creativity, McDaniel will utilize endless motion, speed and more to build an offense that is quarterbacked by one of the league’s best in Justin Herbert. Expect the new OC to design a more lethal rushing attack and significantly raise the Chargers’ ceiling in 2026.

The Los Angeles Chargers hire Mike McDaniel to become their next offensive coordinator.

Kirby Lee, Imagn Images

3. Broncos trade for Jaylen Waddle

Sean Payton’s offense was missing something. Between the running back committee and a lack of proven receivers behind Courtland Sutton, Denver needed to change that this offseason. Waddle fits that mold perfectly, giving Bo Nix an option that makes a living in the middle of the field. Given Waddle’s explosiveness and ability to make plays after the catch, he is the kind of receiver that the Broncos needed to open up the offense.