NFL free agency: four teams set to spend big this offseason

As neighborhoods exchanged two-dollar bills for Lunar New Year luck, another kind of currency is about to flood a very different market. When the NFL’s new league year opens at 4 p.m. ET Wednesday, teams will race to spend big in free agency, betting that expensive signings can change their fortunes overnight.

Some franchises will chase splashy veterans, others will look to shore up weak spots with smart investments. Below are the clubs most likely to push the payroll, the areas they’ll target and the questions standing between aspiration and action.

Dallas Cowboys: Jerry Jones hints at a bolder free-agent strategy

Cowboys owner and GM Jerry Jones told reporters during a recent on-the-road meeting that he expects to be more aggressive in free agency than in previous offseasons. With a 30-year Super Bowl drought still hanging over the franchise, Jones appears willing to shift course and invest heavily to get back to contention.

Offense remains largely intact, but the defense needs immediate help after allowing the most passing yards in the NFL and ranking 10th in rushing yards allowed last season. Expect Dallas to prioritize additions that can create pressure, tighten coverage and improve tackling in space.

Likely focus areas for Dallas

• Edge rushers and interior defensive linemen to generate consistent pressure
• Young, fast defensive backs who can cover receivers in man and zone
• Veteran depth pieces to stabilize linebacker play and run defense

Las Vegas Raiders: New coach, roster puzzles and where dollars might land

First-year head coach Klint Kubiak inherits a roster with clear flaws but also a few building blocks. The franchise faces a strategic choice around one of its most prominent defenders: do they trade Maxx Crosby or build around him? That decision will shape how heavily they pursue other upgrades.

One glaring need is the interior of the offensive line. If the Raiders want to protect their investment at tackle and open lanes for the run game, short-term contracts for top linemen could be on the table.

Targets that would make a difference in Las Vegas

• Zion Johnson — guard with the Chargers who could anchor the interior
• Tyler Linderbaum — Ravens center whose presence would upgrade communication and run blocking
• Depth signings to support Kolton Miller’s return from injury

Tennessee Titans: Massive cap space, widespread roster holes

After a disappointing three-win season in 2025, the Titans step into free agency with roughly $100 million in available cap space. That financial flexibility gives new GM Mike Borgonzi and first-year coach Robert Saleh plenty of options, but also a challenging task: where to spend for maximum impact.

With 2025’s No. 1 overall pick, quarterback Cam Ward, Tennessee needs help on the perimeter to give him playmaking weapons and better chances to drive the offense downfield. The team also needs reinforcements on the edge, despite producing a respectable 42 sacks last season (tied for 12th in the league).

Priority moves the Titans might pursue

• Sign a proven wide receiver to stretch defenses and create downfield threats
• Add rotational edge rushers to complement the pass rush and shore up depth
• Consider veteran leadership pieces to stabilize young offensive playmakers

One specific name to watch is Colts receiver Alec Pierce, a plausible target if Indianapolis allows him to hit the market — though division rival interest could make that pursuit difficult.

Washington Commanders: Cap room versus mass roster decisions

Washington’s season was derailed by injuries that prevented a repeat run toward the NFC Championship. Now the front office faces a delicate balancing act: the team has approximately $71 million in cap space, but also must decide how to handle about 30 unrestricted free agents.

Key contributors such as running back Austin Ekeler (recovering from a torn Achilles) and tight end Zach Ertz (torn ACL) are among the free agents whose futures are uncertain. Both were reliable when available, but age and medical histories complicate potential re-signings.

Decisions the Commanders will weigh

1. Which veterans to bring back versus which spots to fill externally
2. How much to invest in short-term deals for injured players with a proven track record
3. Where to allocate cap dollars for maximum roster balance — offense, defense or special teams

Washington’s choices this offseason will reveal whether the franchise prioritizes continuity and recovery or pivots toward a fresh, external makeover.

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John Davis

John Davis is a sports journalist focused on the NBA, NFL, and major global championships. With seven years of live coverage, he breaks down performances and key strategies. His expertise gives you a clear view of every game and its impact.