The biggest NFL names still on the market… and the teams quietly waiting to strike.
Free agency may feel like it’s slowing down—but the next wave of impact moves could change everything.
NFL Free Agency Isn’t Over: Several Big Names Still Waiting for the Right Team
The first wave of NFL free agency always feels like chaos.
Players sign massive deals within hours, teams scramble to fill roster holes, and fans obsessively track every rumor and transaction. But once the initial frenzy fades, the market shifts dramatically.
By the time the league reaches the third or fourth day of free agency, the bidding wars are mostly over. Teams become patient. Players who expected huge offers suddenly find themselves waiting for the right opportunity.
Yet history shows that some of the most impactful moves happen later in the offseason.
Just look at past seasons. The Eagles didn’t sign offensive lineman Mekhi Becton until late April, yet he became a key piece in their Super Bowl run. The Seahawks waited several days before signing Cooper Kupp, who later helped power their championship offense.
Now in 2026, several well-known players remain available—and their next destination could reshape the upcoming season.
Here are some of the most intriguing names still on the market.
Kirk Cousins Could Still Help a Contender
Veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins remains unsigned, largely because of timing.
The Atlanta Falcons could not officially release him until the new league year began, meaning the quarterback market had already begun settling by the time Cousins became available.
At 37 years old, Cousins likely won’t land another guaranteed starting job. However, his experience and efficiency still make him an attractive option as a high-end backup.
Despite recovering from an Achilles injury in 2023, Cousins played solid football in 2025 when called upon, posting a 47.6 Total QBR across 269 pass attempts.
One logical landing spot could be the Green Bay Packers, who recently lost backup quarterback Malik Willis in free agency. With Jordan Love missing games in each of the last two seasons, Green Bay may want a veteran insurance policy.
Brian Robinson Jr. Could Fill Seattle’s Running Back Crisis
Former Washington and San Francisco running back Brian Robinson Jr. remains available due to his limited skill set.
Robinson isn’t known for receiving or pass protection, two traits modern offenses value heavily. But what he does well is run between the tackles.
Over the past three seasons, Robinson has quietly become a reliable power runner, improving his efficiency every year.
That makes him a natural fit for a team like the Seattle Seahawks, who recently lost star running back Kenneth Walker III in free agency.
With Zach Charbonnet recovering from a torn ACL, Seattle may need someone capable of handling a significant workload early in the season.
Veteran Receivers Are Waiting for the Market to Shift
Wide receiver is another position where several well-known veterans remain unsigned.
One of the most intriguing names is Jauan Jennings, the physical former 49ers receiver known for making tough catches on third downs and in the red zone.
Jennings’ toughness is legendary—he once played through five broken ribs and multiple ankle injuries—but teams appear hesitant because of his age and injury history.
A potential landing spot could be the Las Vegas Raiders, who are expected to draft quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick. Jennings could provide the rookie with a reliable possession receiver.
Another intriguing name still on the board is Deebo Samuel.
Samuel remains one of the most dangerous yards-after-catch weapons in football, capable of contributing as both a receiver and runner. However, injuries and declining production have made teams cautious.
The Denver Broncos could be an interesting fit, especially in an offense that emphasizes quick passes and play-action.
Tight End David Njoku Still Has Upside
Former Cleveland Browns tight end David Njoku also remains available.
Njoku has battled injuries in recent seasons, missing 11 games across the last two years, but his athletic ability still makes him one of the more dangerous receiving tight ends when healthy.
One team that could benefit from his skill set is the Baltimore Ravens.
After losing several tight ends in free agency, Baltimore may need a player capable of stepping into a significant role alongside Mark Andrews.
Offensive Line Veterans Still Searching for Deals
Several offensive linemen with starting experience are also waiting for contracts.
Jawaan Taylor, a strong pass blocker, remains available largely because of his penalty issues. Since entering the league in 2019, he has committed 92 penalties, the most of any player in that span.
The Indianapolis Colts could be a potential landing spot as they search for protection for quarterback Daniel Jones.
Meanwhile, veteran guard Wyatt Teller—a former Pro Bowler—may be entering the stage of his career where he signs short-term deals with playoff contenders.
The New York Giants could be a logical destination as they look to strengthen their offensive line.
Joey Bosa Could Be the Most Fascinating Name Left
Perhaps the biggest remaining defensive name is Joey Bosa.
The former Chargers star has struggled to stay healthy, missing 23 games over the past three seasons, but when healthy he still flashes elite pass-rushing ability.
One intriguing possibility would be a move to the San Francisco 49ers, where Bosa could reunite with his brother Nick Bosa and play a situational role in a rotating defensive front.
If the 49ers take that gamble, they could suddenly field one of the most dangerous pass-rushing units in football.
The Second Wave of Free Agency Is Just Beginning
While the early free agency headlines often dominate the news cycle, the second wave of signings can be just as important.
Players who are still available may not command massive contracts, but many of them can still contribute in meaningful roles.
For teams willing to wait patiently, this stage of the offseason often produces some of the smartest roster upgrades.
And with several big names still searching for their next team, the next surprise signing could arrive at any moment.
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