Every NFL Team’s Biggest Free Agency Need: AFC East

There are several routes the Patriots can take in free agency following their Super Bowl loss. They wildly exceeded expectations with Stefon Diggs, Kayshone Boutte, and Demario “Pop” Douglas. With Diggs facing off-field issues, his future is uncertain, and New England needs a true number one for Drake Maye.

The Pats could be losing pass-rusher K’Lavon Chaisson in free agency, and could address that position as well. They have plenty of cap space, so it wouldn’t be surprising to see a few splashes from them.

The biggest name in free agency would be Mike Evans or George Pickens. A more interesting route for the Pats could be to trade with the Philadelphia Eagles and obtain A.J. Brown. They’re drafting 31st in the Draft this year, a pick that might be worth losing for someone like Brown.

New York Jets: Quarterback

The Jets have many, many needs this offseason. Their defense was among the worst in the NFL, failing to log a single interception in 2025. They could be losing running back Breece Hall in free agency, and they traded Sauce Gardner. The good news? They have a boatload of Draft capital.

With Oregon’s QB Dante Moore opting to stay in college for another year, the Jets will need to turn elsewhere, at least for now. It’s highly likely the Indianapolis Colts re-sign Daniel Jones, and Aaron Rodgers would retire before going back to the Jets.

New York only needs a bridge QB ahead of the 2027 Draft. Russell Wilson or Joe Flacco could fill that role easily. They could also trade for Kyler Murray or Geno Smith, if the value is right. 

Miami Dolphins: Tight End

Similar to the Jets, the Dolphins have several needs this offseason. One position that could be an easy fix in free agency is tight end. They traded Jonnu Smith to the Pittsburgh Steelers last year and acquired the formerly retired Darren Waller from the New York Giants.

Waller isn’t a realistic option for 2026. He suffered an injury in the 2025 season and may not return. With names like Dallas Goedert, Kyle Pitts, and Tyler Higbee as potential options, there is one that could be an easier answer.

David Njoku has reportedly informed the Cleveland Browns that he plans on leaving in free agency. The eight-year veteran found himself behind rookie Harold Fannin Jr. last season, but he can still be valuable as a starter. The Dolphins are undergoing a ton of change, and having a good set of hands for an affordable price could pay dividends.

Buffalo Bills: Wide Receiver

The Bills moved on from head coach Sean McDermott following their divisional round playoff loss. It didn’t take long for owner Terry Pegula to point out Keon Coleman’s disappointing tenure. There’s a strong chance the former 2024 Draft pick is traded, and Buffalo still needs a receiver to line up with Khalil Shakir.

One name that can make an immediate impact with Josh Allen is Jauan Jennings. The current San Francisco 49ers receiver is set to hit the market and has loads of potential. He’s played several roles with San Francisco’s system with Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk, and Ricky Pearsall. He’s never had a real chance to be a top target.

Jennings might not seem like a WR1 in today’s NFL, but he could form a great duo with Shakir. Along with tight ends Dawson Knox and Dalton Kincaid, his addition can elevate the entire offense.

End Of My NFL Free Agency Rant

NFL free agency promises to see some big-time moves. The entire league is shaken up every year, and there are real game changers on the market in 2026. The AFC East  has two true playoff contenders, while the Dolphins and Jets are playing catch-up. Check out my NFC East article here!