The NFL offseason is already exploding with drama — and free agency hasn’t even officially started yet.
From blockbuster trades to shocking player cuts, teams across the league are scrambling to reshape their rosters before the market opens.

NFL Offseason Chaos: Crosby Trade, DJ Moore Deal, and Major Roster Shakeups

With the NFL’s legal tampering window opening Monday, the league is already experiencing a wave of major roster moves and stunning decisions.

Several blockbuster trades and unexpected player releases have set the stage for what could become one of the most unpredictable free-agency periods in years.

Maxx Crosby Trade Sends Shockwaves Through NFL

One of the biggest moves of the offseason came when the Las Vegas Raiders traded star defensive end Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens.

Baltimore reportedly sent two first-round picks (2026 and 2027) to land the 28-year-old pass rusher, instantly strengthening one of the league’s most dangerous defenses.

The move represents a major shift for the Raiders, who appear fully committed to rebuilding after a disappointing stretch of seasons.

Raiders Continue Major Roster Changes

Las Vegas may not be finished making drastic moves.

Reports indicate the team plans to release quarterback Geno Smith, which would free up about $8 million in salary-cap space but leave the organization with $18.5 million in dead money.

The Raiders have also begun reshaping their defense by acquiring cornerback Taron Johnson from the Buffalo Bills, giving the team a veteran presence as they rebuild their roster.

DJ Moore Headed to Buffalo

Another headline-grabbing trade saw the Chicago Bears send wide receiver DJ Moore to the Buffalo Bills.

Buffalo reportedly gave up a 2026 second-round pick while also receiving a 2026 fifth-round pick along with Moore.

Despite posting the lowest receiving totals of his career last season, Moore still brings speed and big-play potential that could help elevate Josh Allen’s offense.

Chiefs Make a Splash Trade

The Kansas City Chiefs also made a huge move by trading All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Los Angeles Rams.

The Rams later signed McDuffie to a four-year, $124 million extension, making him the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history at $31 million per season.

The Chiefs received multiple draft assets in return, including the 29th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Veteran Players Being Released

Several well-known players have also been released ahead of free agency, including:

Stefon Diggs (Patriots)
Kyler Murray (Cardinals)
Aaron Jones (Vikings)
Javon Hargrave (Vikings)
Marshon Lattimore (Commanders)

Meanwhile, the Houston Texans released running back Joe Mixon at his request after he missed the entire 2025 season due to a foot injury.

Texans and Browns Make Trades

The Texans also pulled off a notable deal earlier in the week, acquiring David Montgomery from the Detroit Lions.

In return, Detroit received offensive lineman Juice Scruggs along with fourth- and sixth-round picks.

Houston also traded right tackle Tytus Howard to the Cleveland Browns, who immediately signed him to a three-year, $63 million contract extension.

Free Agency Set to Ignite

All of these moves come just days before the start of the NFL’s legal tampering period, when teams can begin negotiating with free agents.

Although official signings cannot occur until the new league year begins Wednesday, many deals will likely be agreed upon during the tampering window.

With star players changing teams, major trades unfolding, and several franchises clearly entering rebuilding mode, the coming days could reshape the balance of power across the league.

And if the early offseason activity is any indication, the biggest surprises may still be ahead.