Introduction

As the NFL gears up for the transition from mandatory minicamp to training camp, there looms a significant window for teams to engage in contract negotiations with their players. This period is crucial, as it often determines which players might hold out or opt for hold-ins as they seek better financial arrangements. With several key players across the NFL entering the negotiation fray, we take a look at players from each team who merit an extension before the 2026 season ignites.

Buffalo Bills: RG O'Cyrus Torrence

The Bills have their eyes on solidifying the offensive line, and O'Cyrus Torrence is a player who deserves attention. After seeing fellow guard Joe Tippmann's new four-year, $62 million deal with the Jets, Torrence, a stalwart right guard who as yet hasn’t missed a game in three seasons, is one to watch. GM Brandon Beane has indicated that they are considering an extension, and with around $9.7 million in cap space, it could be feasible if the team eschews costly free-agent acquisitions in favor of promoting internal talent.

Miami Dolphins: LB Jordyn Brooks

In the midst of a roster rebuild, retaining standout players like Jordyn Brooks becomes imperative for the Dolphins. Coming off an All-Pro season, Brooks has showcased leadership abilities even amidst contractual uncertainty. As the team looks to fortify its defense, signing Brooks to a new multiyear contract will certainly help cement their defensive backbone and guide a young squad.

New England Patriots: CB Christian Gonzalez

Christian Gonzalez, a first-time Pro Bowler at just 23 years of age, showcased his prowess by allowing only two touchdowns over a 14-game span. His absence from voluntary workouts raised eyebrows, yet his subsequent appearance at minicamp means the Patriots must start earnest talks for a long-term extension to secure their budding star in the secondary.

New York Jets: DT Harrison Phillips

Although older for a defensive tackle at 30 years, Harrison Phillips is a prominent run-stopper who has maintained peak form without missing a game since 2021. While hesitance is warranted regarding extensions for older players—especially defensive tackles—signing Phillips could ensure leadership remains intact in a transitioning locker room.

Baltimore Ravens: QB Lamar Jackson

Lamar Jackson’s unique talents and impressive track record as a two-time MVP make him an obvious candidate for a long-term extension. With talks ongoing, both Jackson and the Ravens seem willing to negotiate a deal that would reflect his immense contribution to the team's success, allowing the franchise to avoid uncertainty at the quarterback position.

Cincinnati Bengals: CB DJ Turner II

Following an impressive season that saw DJ Turner II secure a league-high 18 pass breakups and deliver notable interceptions, the Bengals would be wise to prioritize contract discussions. With numerous new defensive acquisitions, locking him down is essential for maintaining a strong secondary built around homegrown talent.

Cleveland Browns: S Grant Delpit

Not only does Grant Delpit hold his own among Myles Garrett and Denzel Ward, but he also has shown growth in coverage stability and production. Coming off a campaign with career highs in sacks and pressures, the Browns have to address his contract situation before other teams catch on to his potential. Although injury issues have paused discussions, a new deal should solidify his place on the roster.

Pittsburgh Steelers: CB Joey Porter Jr.

Joey Porter Jr. has established himself as one of the most reliable cornerbacks in the league, and with no touchdowns allowed over the past two seasons, his worth has skyrocketed. With one year left on his deal, the Steelers must consider extending him to ensure they keep their elite talent in a premium position.

Houston Texans: QB C.J. Stroud

C.J. Stroud has proven himself as a key element of the Texans’ offense, and the team's commitment to him suggests that a contract extension should be on the horizon. If the Texans plan to keep him long-term, now is the time to formalize that through a fruitful new deal.

Indianapolis Colts: OG Quenton Nelson

The Colts are faced with a pivotal choice between extending guard Quenton Nelson or running back Jonathan Taylor. However, Nelson's Hall of Fame trajectory and consistency make him a prime candidate for a lucrative contract, and the Colts would do well to prioritize him as they look toward the future.

Jacksonville Jaguars: TE Brenton Strange

Brenton Strange has made his presence known as a reliable target in the Jaguars’ offense. With his contract year approaching and the team evaluating their other tight ends, securing Strange now could be advantageous before he emerges as an even stronger asset.

Tennessee Titans: OG Peter Skoronski

Having improved immensely since his rookie season, Peter Skoronski has positioned himself as one of the top guards in the league. With the Titans picking up the fifth-year option, now is the time to initiate discussions around a long-term deal for a key piece of their offensive line.

Denver Broncos: CB Ja'Quan McMillian

Ja'Quan McMillian has solidified his role within the Broncos’ defense, but his current contract does not reflect his value. With impressive statistics to back up his position as a core player, it’s time for the Broncos to negotiate a more suitable agreement.

Kansas City Chiefs: S Chamarri Conner

Although there are more pressing concerns for the Chiefs, Chamarri Conner’s solid performance last season makes him a candidate for a contract extension. If Conner continues to contribute at a high level, extending his contract could provide the stability that a reshuffled secondary needs.

Las Vegas Raiders: CB Taron Johnson

Since joining the Raiders from Buffalo, Taron Johnson has been vocal about his desire for a new contract. With two years left on his non-guaranteed deal, addressing Johnson’s future may prevent off-field distractions as the team enters training camp.

Los Angeles Chargers: EDGE Tuli Tuipulotu

Tuli Tuipulotu has rapidly become a vital asset in the Chargers’ pass rush. With significant career highs under his belt, the Chargers should swiftly work towards extending him to avoid a scenario where he becomes overly valuable on the open market.

Dallas Cowboys: LB DeMarvion Overshown

Overshown’s potential as a full-time starter could lead him to take a monumental leap in performance this season. Before that happens and his asking price rises sharply, the Cowboys might want to lock him in on an extension.

New York Giants: EDGE Brian Burns

After a standout 16.5-sack season, Brian Burns is due for a significant deal. The Giants should move quickly to negotiate an extension that better reflects his impact on the defense.

Philadelphia Eagles: DT Jalen Carter

As a two-time Pro Bowler, Jalen Carter’s contract will depend heavily on his performance relative to a new deal for teammate Jordan Davis. To keep their defensive front competitive, addressing Carter’s contract sooner rather than later is wise.

Washington Commanders: DT Daron Payne

Daron Payne is in a precarious situation; he has yet to replicate the success of his Pro Bowl year. The Commanders must determine whether to extend him, trade him, or cut him—each option carries different implications for the team’s future cap space.

Chicago Bears: DT Gervon Dexter Sr.

With emerging skills in pass rushing, Gervon Dexter Sr. has caught the eye of the Bears' front office. To get ahead of the curve on potential free agency demands, securing an extension now may prove beneficial.

Detroit Lions: RB Jahmyr Gibbs

As a three-time Pro Bowl running back and a touchdown leader last season, Jahmyr Gibbs should be considered for an extension akin to his recent accomplishments. With the Lions already extending other players, Gibbs should be next on their agenda.

Green Bay Packers: TE Tucker Kraft

Even after an ACL injury, Tucker Kraft demonstrated significant promise in his early games. The Packers are expected to sign him to an extension to ensure he continues to contribute as a vital target.

Minnesota Vikings: RT Brian O'Neill

Brian O'Neill's consistency and skill level make him a prime candidate for an extension as the Vikings look to solidify their offensive line. After performing admirably in high-pressure situations, he deserves a new deal.

Atlanta Falcons: RB Bijan Robinson

Bijan Robinson’s emergence as a top-tier running back in just three seasons warrants a serious extension discussion. Following his All-Pro season, the Falcons should be proactive in securing his future on the team.

Carolina Panthers: CB Mike Jackson

Having outplayed his previous deal, Mike Jackson is a name to watch as the Panthers consider further negotiations. With impressive stats last season, ensuring he remains comfortable with his contract will keep him focused on performance.

New Orleans Saints: WR Chris Olave

With talks for a contract extension already underway, the Saints are eager to lock down Chris Olave. Given his stellar performance, a deal worth $30 million per year seems within reach, ensuring the Saints can maintain their offensive prowess.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: QB Baker Mayfield

Though Baker Mayfield has expressed that negotiations aren’t where he’d like them to be, the Bucs and their coach want him long-term. The two sides are likely to reach a middle ground ahead of training camp.

Arizona Cardinals: QB Jacoby Brissett

After attending minicamp, Jacoby Brissett is in a slightly precarious situation as negotiations continue. The Cardinals must prioritize his contract talks to prevent alternatives from stepping too far into the limelight.

Los Angeles Rams: WR Puka Nacua

Puka Nacua’s rise from a fifth-round pick to one of the most productive receivers last season puts him in line for a major payday. While the Rams might hesitate due to recent cap implications, his value warrants immediate discussions on an extension.

San Francisco 49ers: CB Deommodore Lenoir

Deommodore Lenoir's solid performance earns him a potential extension, especially after the 49ers locked in Trent Williams. If the organization can make room for Lenoir, it would be a wise investment in their defense's future.

Seattle Seahawks: CB Devon Witherspoon

Devon Witherspoon has continued to prove his worth in the Seahawks’ defense. Despite fluctuating performances, his bounce-back season makes a case for securing him with an extension, especially with the team having the cap space to make it happen this summer.