Day 3 of NFL free agency didn’t slow down—it delivered chaos, blockbuster contracts, and one of the most controversial trade collapses of the offseason.
From the Maxx Crosby drama to Daniel Jones’ massive payday, the league saw another wave of moves that could reshape the 2026 season.
NFL Free Agency Day 3: Maxx Crosby Drama, Daniel Jones’ $88M Deal and Major Moves Across the League
The third day of the 2026 NFL free agency period continued the frenzy that has defined the offseason so far.
While the first two days featured massive signings and trades, Wednesday still produced major headlines—including the collapse of a blockbuster Maxx Crosby trade, a huge new contract for Daniel Jones, and several important roster moves across the league.
Here are the biggest developments from a busy Day 3.
Maxx Crosby Saga Dominates Headlines
The biggest story entering the day was the stunning collapse of the Baltimore Ravens’ trade for Las Vegas Raiders pass rusher Maxx Crosby.
Baltimore had reportedly agreed to send two first-round picks to the Raiders for the five-time Pro Bowl defensive star.
However, the deal fell apart after medical concerns emerged during Crosby’s physical.
The decision sent shockwaves across the NFL, with many executives and agents reportedly questioning Baltimore’s handling of the situation.
Despite the controversy, the Ravens quickly pivoted to another major move.
Ravens Sign Trey Hendrickson to $112M Deal
Just hours after backing out of the Crosby trade, Baltimore reached a massive agreement with veteran pass rusher Trey Hendrickson.
The former Bengals star signed a four-year contract worth $112 million.
Hendrickson had previously led the NFL in sacks and immediately fills a major need for Baltimore’s pass rush.
The Ravens hope the move will stabilize a defensive front that struggled last season.
Daniel Jones Lands Massive $88 Million Deal
Another major headline came from Indianapolis.
Quarterback Daniel Jones agreed to a two-year contract worth $88 million with the Colts, with incentives pushing the deal close to $100 million.
Jones had been placed on the transition tag, but both sides were motivated to reach a long-term agreement.
Despite injuries late in the 2025 season—including a fractured tibia and a torn Achilles—the Colts clearly believe Jones remains their franchise quarterback.
Indianapolis started 8–2 last season before finishing 8–9 and missing the playoffs.
With Jones locked in alongside running back Jonathan Taylor and wide receiver Alec Pierce, the team hopes to return to contention.
Kyler Murray, Kirk Cousins Released
Two surprising quarterback moves also emerged during Day 3.
Both Kyler Murray and Kirk Cousins were released by their respective teams.
Murray wasted no time exploring his next opportunity.
Reports indicated the former Pro Bowl quarterback had already arrived in Minnesota for a meeting with the Vikings, signaling a potential new chapter in his career.
Cowboys Trade Two Defensive Linemen
Dallas also made headlines by reshaping its defensive line.
The Cowboys traded:
- Osa Odighizuwa to the San Francisco 49ers for a third-round pick
- Solomon Thomas to the Tennessee Titans in a late-round pick swap
The moves suggest Dallas is preparing for additional roster changes in the coming weeks.
More Notable Signings and Deals
Several other teams made key additions throughout the day.
Bradley Chubb signs with the Bills
Buffalo strengthened its pass rush by signing former Dolphins star Bradley Chubb to a three-year, $43.5 million deal.
The contract could reach $52.5 million with incentives.
Packers sign Javon Hargrave
Green Bay added veteran defensive tackle Javon Hargrave on a two-year, $23 million contract after he was released by the Vikings.
Hargrave reunites with defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon, who coached him during his time in Philadelphia.
Bears add offensive line help
Chicago continued rebuilding its offensive line by signing former Cleveland Browns first-round tackle Jedrick Wills to a one-year deal.
Panthers sign John Metchie
The Carolina Panthers added wide receiver John Metchie, reuniting him with former Alabama teammate Bryce Young.
Teams Restructuring Contracts for Cap Space
Several franchises also restructured contracts to create salary cap flexibility.
- Lamar Jackson reworked his deal with the Ravens, freeing nearly $40 million in cap space.
- Josh Allen restructured his contract with the Bills, saving about $12 million.
- Jared Goff restructured his contract with the Lions, creating roughly $42 million in cap room.
These moves could signal more big signings or trades in the coming days.
NFL Considering Thanksgiving Eve Game
In an interesting development, the NFL is reportedly exploring the possibility of scheduling a game on Thanksgiving Eve.
The Wednesday matchup would likely feature two teams coming off a bye week, though the idea may face pushback from players due to the unusual schedule.
Still, the league has increasingly experimented with midweek games in recent seasons.
Free Agency Madness Continues
Even as the pace of signings begins to slow, the 2026 free agency period remains unpredictable.
Between blockbuster deals, surprise releases, and the ongoing Maxx Crosby situation, teams across the league are still scrambling to reshape their rosters.
And if the first three days are any indication, the chaos of NFL free agency is far from over.
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