As NFL training camps commence and the preseason kicks off with the Hall of Fame Game, time is running out for players seeking contract extensions before the regular season begins. New York Jets running back Breece Hall has expressed skepticism regarding the possibility of securing an extension this offseason, a sentiment not shared by teammates Garrett Wilson and Sauce Gardner, who have recently signed new deals. Hall remarked to reporters, 'I'm not really expecting it before the season. We got a new head coach, new GM. Obviously, I wasn't drafted by them; I'm not their guy.' Meanwhile, Wilson and Gardner, although also not drafted by the current Jets regime, have proven their value as significant contributors at more demanding positions.

In assessing Hall's potential for a lucrative second contract, it appears he may have to wait until the 2026 free agency period, significantly relying on his performance this season. Hall, who registered over 1,300 scrimmage yards in each of his past two seasons, acknowledges the pressure to elevate his game. 'I've got a chip on my shoulder,' he stated, highlighting the urgency he feels as he vies to be recognized as a top-tier running back. Historically, the position he plays has not garnered the same level of financial reward in free agency. His performance this season will be critical; while he averaged 5.8 yards per carry as a rookie, his figures dropped to 4.5 and 4.2 in the subsequent seasons. Establishing consistency and explosiveness in his game could align him with lucrative contract offers similar to Josh Jacobs' four-year, $48 million deal signed last offseason. Conversely, a less-than-stellar season might limit Hall to a short-term 'prove-it' contract like those signed by Najee Harris and Javonte Williams, valued at $5.3 million and $3 million, respectively.

The upcoming free agency period is also anticipated to feature an impressive roster of talented wide receivers, including notable players such as Mike Evans, Courtland Sutton, Jauan Jennings, and Jakobi Meyers. This crowded market may pose challenges for Houston Texans receiver Christian Kirk, who enjoyed a lucrative four-year, $72 million deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars back in 2022. He had a remarkable season that year, achieving over 1,100 receiving yards. However, injuries in the past two seasons have been detrimental to his value, limiting him to just eight games in the previous year due to a broken collarbone and five games in 2023 because of a core muscle issue. Following a trade to the Texans, Kirk has a prime opportunity to reclaim his status as a leading slot receiver, although he faces competition from a reorganized offensive line and a talented group of young teammates. Should Kirk prove successful in securing a prominent role with quarterback C.J. Stroud, he could re-enter free agency as a top receiving prospect at 29 years old. In contrast, an unsuccessful season may leave him facing a one-year deal valued between $1.5 million and $2 million, typical for secondary receivers in the current market.

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Daniel Jones is another player with substantial stakes in the upcoming season as he looks to revitalize his career. The 2019 first-round pick experienced a solitary strong season with the New York Giants, which culminated in a four-year, $160 million extension. However, he was released less than two years later. After a brief period with the Minnesota Vikings, Jones joined the Colts this season with an opportunity to compete for the starting position. Should he secure the role and perform effectively, he may aim for a significant payday approaching $40 million annually by next offseason. Achieving this objective hinges on defeating 2023 first-round pick Anthony Richardson for the starting spot or stepping in early enough to demonstrate his starting capabilities. Despite Richardson facing a shoulder injury during the offseason, the Colts may lean toward the younger prospect if competition is tight. Jones' comeback story mirrors that of other quarterbacks like Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold, which could lead to a rewarding financial outcome. Conversely, a subpar season would likely limit him to a backup role with a modest contract comparable to Jameis Winston's two-year, $8 million deal signed earlier this year.

In the left tackle market, the upcoming 2026 free agency presents potential shifts, particularly concerning Los Angeles Chargers player Rashawn Slater. The two-time Pro Bowler is likely to secure an extension soon, which would leave Kolton Miller of the Las Vegas Raiders as a primary target for teams seeking an elite left tackle. While he may not be a household name outside Las Vegas, Miller has proven to be a reliable starter, earning a 14th overall ranking among offensive tackles from Pro Football Focus in the 2024 season. Given the escalating costs associated with offensive linemen, Miller could command a significant salary exceeding his current $18 million per year deal should he maintain his high performance. The Raiders' new coaching framework and quarterback dynamics could elevate Miller's visibility and market appeal. However, a decline in team performance or his play could lead to diminished earnings in the market.

Another player facing a critical season is 29-year-old Cam Robinson, who has 101 career starts and secured a one-year, $12 million contract this offseason. Pittsburgh Steelers receiver George Pickens is also under scrutiny as he transitions into a new environment with the Dallas Cowboys. Pickens is recognized for his potential as an elite NFL pass-catcher, having surpassed 1,100 yards and led the league with an 18.1 yards-per-catch average in 2023. However, issues surrounding his consistency and maturity have led to his trade this offseason. The Cowboys present an opportunity for Pickens to address those challenges, particularly as he becomes the second option behind CeeDee Lamb. Early signs indicate blossoming chemistry with quarterback Dak Prescott, which could be pivotal. To enhance his market value next offseason, Pickens must establish himself not only statistically but also as a reliable teammate. A successful season could command contracts akin to Tee Higgins' $28.8 million-per-year deal, while underperformance may lead to a low-level 'prove-it' contract similar to Diontae Johnson's recent deal.

Finally, the free-agent outlook for pass-rusher Haason Reddick is clouded after his performance last season was constrained by a holdout and limited participation. Traded from the Philadelphia Eagles to the Jets without a new contract, Reddick managed just one sack over ten games. Although he secured a one-year, $14 million contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, this is less than the substantial multi-year deals anticipated following stronger seasons. Reddick aims to revitalize his reputation after what he described as a disappointing year. At 31 years old, he still has potential to command a significant long-term contract if he can return to his form as a premier pass-rusher. Competing against younger talents like T.J. Watt, who signed a three-year, $123 million deal, Reddick must demonstrate his ability to produce consistently while maintaining health. Should he fail to deliver a strong performance, he may find himself negotiating one-year deals valued between $5 million and $6 million, similar to contracts signed by players such as Calais Campbell and Von Miller recently.