Sports
Offseason guide for eliminated NFL teams: Key free agents, draft outlook, priorities and predictions
The 2026 NFL offseason has begun for the 20 teams. How can each improve over the next seven months to have better results next season? What big decisions are on deck for each front office? We have next steps for all 20 franchises.
To start, our NFL Nation reporters picked out two key offseason priorities for the teams they cover and weighed in on the most interesting coaching situations that bear watching. National reporters Jeremy Fowler and Dan Graziano laid out early rumblings on one looming free agent decision for each franchise, and draft analysts Matt Miller and Jordan Reid called out one thing to know about each team’s 2026 draft outlook. And finally, NFL analysts Aaron Schatz and Ben Solak made a big offseason prediction for every eliminated team.
It’s all here as we get ready for the offseason. ESPN’s Football Power Index (FPI) and projected salary cap space (via Roster Management System) are as of Jan. 4. We’ll add more teams as they’re eliminated during the postseason.
Jump to a team:
ARI | ATL | BAL | CAR | CIN
CLE | DAL | DET | GB | IND | KC | LV
MIA | MIN | NO | NYG
NYJ | TB | TEN | WSH
Eliminated playoff teams
2025 record: 9-7-1
Final FPI ranking: No. 5
Estimated 2026 cap space: minus-$37 million
2026 first-round draft pick: None (traded to DAL)
What is their top offseason priority? Revamping the cornerback position. General manager Brian Gutekunst has generally been good at adding talent through free agency, but cornerback Nate Hobbs did not work out this past season. Keisean Nixon has been serviceable but might not be a CB1, while Carrington Valentine was too inconsistent in 2025. Without a first-round pick, the Packers might have to try free agency again at this position.
What is one secondary priority to watch? Developing Matthew Golden. The Packers finally spent a first-round pick on a receiver, yet they didn’t get him the ball enough. Quarterback Jordan Love even admitted this late in the season. Golden has rare speed and ability, and the Packers need to find a way to use that to their advantage.
Latest on the head coach situation: Both Gutekunst and coach Matt LaFleur are entering the final year of their contracts. New team president Ed Policy, who took over for Mark Murphy in July, said last summer that he does not want lame-duck leaders. That means he either needs to sign them to extensions, move on from one or part ways with both. — Rob Demovsky
Latest on whether they will re-sign wide receiver Romeo Doubs: The Packers discussed him in trade talks with other teams last offseason and have yet to extend him. They’ve used extremely high draft picks on receivers in recent years, including Golden. Doubs has been a reliable target for Jordan Love, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see him elsewhere in 2026. — Fowler
Early draft outlook: With a huge hole at cornerback, the Packers could serve to find a high-end starter on Day 2. Chris Johnson (San Diego State) and Davison Igbinosun (Ohio State) are ideal fits in defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley’s scheme given their strength in man coverage. — Miller
Big prediction for the offseason: The Packers will reinvent their offensive line. Both left tackle Rasheed Walker (free agent) and center Elgton Jenkins (one year remaining) will be replaced by younger options with lower-priced contracts in Jordan Morgan, Sean Rhyan and Anthony Belton. Green Bay won’t be big spenders with its coaching staff potentially in flux if the team has a disappointing 2026 season. — Solak
2025 record: 8-9
Final FPI ranking: No. 25
Estimated 2026 cap space: $25.5 million
2026 first-round draft pick: No. 19
What is their top offseason priority? Beef up the pass rush. After tying for 29th in total sacks in 2024, Carolina improved only to 28th this season (30, tied with the Ravens and Cardinals). Getting to the quarterback is a major key to coordinator Ejiro Evero’s 3-4 scheme, so the team needs to add more talent on the edge.
What is one secondary priority to watch? Deciding if quarterback Bryce Young fits into the team’s long-term plans. The former No. 1 overall pick will be heading into his fourth season, but he’s still showing signs of inconsistency as a passer. Young ranked 22nd in QBR (47.7) and completion percentage (63.6%, tied with the Ravens’ Lamar Jackson). — David Newton
Latest on whether they will re-sign center Cade Mays: Mays is one of the top centers to hit free agency, turns 27 in April and has flexibility to play guard. The Panthers have interest in retaining core players. A re-sign wouldn’t shock if both sides can find a sweet spot. — Fowler
Early draft outlook: Building better protection around Young next season is still a vital need for Carolina, especially on the interior. Penn State guard Olaivavega Ioane is the top prospect on the inside. He has the power at 330 pounds to move piles in the run game, while also showing the agility to be an ideal blocker for a mobile quarterback. — Miller
Big prediction for the offseason: The Panthers will pay big money to Trey Hendrickson. The Panthers ranked 24th in pass rush win rate this season, and while they took two edge rushers high in the 2025 draft (Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen), they could use a steady veteran to lead the attack. — Schatz
Non-playoff teams
2025 record: 3-14
Final FPI ranking: No. 26
Estimated 2026 cap space: $14.5 million
2026 first-round draft pick: No. 3
What is their top offseason priority? Decide what they’re going to do with quarterback Kyler Murray. Is it time to part ways, or will the Cardinals try to run it back for another season? The former is more than likely, but that leads to another question: Do the Cardinals just cut him or can they trade him to get at least some compensation?
What is one secondary priority to watch? Figure out why there were so many injuries this season. Coach Jonathan Gannon has said more than once that his offseason evaluation will include a deeper dive into how Arizona handles health and wellness. Injuries decimated the Cardinals’ roster on both sides of the ball, preventing them from putting a suitable enough roster on the field this season.
Latest on the head coach situation: The Cardinals fired third-year head coach Jonathan Gannon, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter, on the Monday after their worst regular season of the modern era. General manager Monti Ossenfort will spearhead the search for a new head coach. — Josh Weinfuss
Latest on whether they will re-sign safety Jalen Thompson: Safety always comes down to how the team values the position. Thompson, if healthy, is likely to be one of the more sought-after free agents at the position, which is why most of the people I talk to about this situation seem to think he gets more from another team. — Graziano
Early draft outlook: The Cardinals need a lot of help, so they can afford to take a “best player available” approach in the first round. If Murray ends up elsewhere by April, quarterback could be an area that’s addressed, but offensive line is a glaring weakness on the roster. Arizona took 53 sacks entering Week 17, sixth most in the NFL. Miami’s Francis Mauigoa and Utah’s Spencer Fano are polished blockers who could become immediate starters at right tackle. — Reid
Big prediction for the offseason: The Cardinals will keep Murray. Everyone expects a trade, but his level of play and his contract aren’t so bad that the Cardinals need to deal him right away. If they don’t find a solid offer for Murray, keeping him for one more year is very defensible. — Solak
2025 record: 8-9
Final FPI ranking: No. 24
Estimated 2026 cap space: minus-$12.7 million
2026 first-round draft pick: None (traded to LAR)
What is their top offseason priority? Decide who stays and who goes. Owner Arthur Blank has several decisions to make with the coaching staff and front office. General manager Terry Fontenot has not produced a winning season in five years with the team, while the Falcons regressed in Year 2 under coach Raheem Morris.
What is one secondary priority to watch? Figuring out who will play quarterback in Week 1. Michael Penix Jr. tore his ACL in November and will be out at least nine months, which could push up on training camp. The Falcons are committed to Penix, but they could try to bring in someone if he isn’t ready and Kirk Cousins isn’t a viable option.
Latest on the head coach situation: The Falcons fired coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot after two straight disappointing seasons. Their exits came hours after Atlanta wrapped up an 8-9 season with a 19-17 win over the Saints. — Marc Raimondi
Latest on whether they will re-sign tight end Kyle Pitts Sr.: He came on strong at the end of his fourth season with the team, finishing with 928 receiving yards. But with top wide receiver Drake London extension-eligible, I don’t see the Falcons handing out top tight end money to a player who hasn’t been consistently healthy or consistently great since after his rookie season. — Graziano
Early draft outlook: Even though the Falcons don’t have a first-round pick, there are still plenty of options to address their need at cornerback. Julian Neal (Arkansas) and Davison Igbinosun (Ohio State) are a couple of Day 2 names who could play opposite A.J. Terrell Jr. — Reid
Big prediction for the offseason: The Falcons will keep Cousins in 2026. Sure, this is finally the year in which it’s easier to get out of his contract. But the offense has worked better with Cousins than Penix, and Cousins looks far healthier another year removed from the Achilles injury. — Solak
2025 record: 8-9
Final FPI ranking: No. 6
Estimated 2026 cap space: $8.4 million
2026 first-round draft pick: No. 14
What is their top offseason priority? Reduce quarterback Lamar Jackson‘s salary cap number. The Ravens will be extremely limited with what they can do in free agency if they don’t lower Jackson’s cap figure, which jumps to $74.5 million in 2026 (roughly 25% of Baltimore’s cap). The team likely needs to sign him to a new contract, and the last contract talks with Jackson were challenging because he doesn’t have an agent and represents himself.
What is one secondary priority to watch? Add an impact edge rusher. This is the first season since 1996 that the Ravens didn’t have at least one edge rusher with six or more sacks. Plus, Baltimore’s two most experienced pass rushers — Dre’Mont Jones and Kyle Van Noy — are unrestricted free agents.
Latest on the head coach situation: The Ravens fired John Harbaugh, ending the run of the most successful coach in franchise history. His exit came two days after the Ravens lost to the Pittsburgh 26-24 after missing a last-second field goal attempt, which eliminated them from the playoffs for the first time since 2021. — Jamison Hensley
Latest on whether they will re-sign center Tyler Linderbaum: Tricky one. The Ravens declined Linderbaum’s fifth-year option for the same reason the franchise tag likely isn’t a possibility — because all offensive linemen are the same in the eyes of the fifth-year option and the franchise tag, and applying either would make Linderbaum the highest-paid center by $4 to $5 million per year. They want to have Linderbaum back, but he has the leverage. — Graziano
Early draft outlook: The Ravens defense has taken a massive step back this season, which has primarily been because they can’t generate any pressure. Zion Young (Missouri) and Derrick Moore (Michigan) are two edge rushers who fit the profile of players that Baltimore has gravitated toward in prior drafts. — Reid
Big prediction for the offseason: The Ravens will part ways with cornerback Marlon Humphrey, whether via trade or just as an outright cut. Humphrey has been one of the most targeted — and least successful — cornerbacks deep downfield this season. He would hit the Ravens’ cap for nearly $20 million in 2026, the final year of his current deal. — Solak
2025 record: 6-11
Final FPI ranking: No. 14
Estimated 2026 cap space: $60.8 million
2026 first-round draft pick: No. 10
What is their top offseason priority? Add juice to the pass rush. Cincinnati’s young pass rushers showed promise at the end of the season, but they were 30th in pass rush win rate and 26th in team sacks through Week 17. Recreating the magic of 2021, when Cincinnati added Larry Ogunjobi as an interior pass rusher, could be critical to improving the defense.
What is one secondary priority to watch? Solidify the secondary. While safety Geno Stone deserves due credit for helping fix the defense at the end of the season, he will be a free agent next season. Finding someone to pair with Jordan Battle, as well as landing a starting slot cornerback, will be critical.
Latest on the head coach situation: The Bengals are bringing back coach Zac Taylor and director of player personnel Duke Tobin, owner Mike Brown announced the day after Cincinnati’s season-ending loss. In seven seasons, Taylor has had two playoff appearances (2021, 2022) and is the only coach in franchise history to make multiple appearances in the conference championship game. — Ben Baby
Latest on whether they will re-sign edge rusher Trey Hendrickson: This relationship has run its course. The Bengals have the option to franchise-tag Hendrickson, but after a year of contentious contract negotiations, the edge rusher appears poised to land elsewhere and capitalize on a booming positional market. — Fowler
Early draft outlook: The likely loss of Hendrickson, coupled with the lack of impact so far from first-round picks Shemar Stewart and Myles Murphy, should point the Bengals toward edge rushers in Round 1. That matches the strength of this class, where David Bailey (Texas Tech) and Keldric Faulk (Auburn) could be realistic options. If Stewart and Murphy are seen as capable of replacing Hendrickson, a space-eating defensive tackle like Caleb Banks (Florida) would improve the line in a hurry. — Miller
Big prediction for the offseason: The Bengals will sign more than one veteran edge rusher, such as Joey Bosa, Yetur Gross-Matos, D.J. Wonnum or Charles Omenihu. As mentioned above, the Bengals will have to attack the edge rusher free agent class with volume. — Schatz
1:31
Philip Rivers opens up about call he received to come back to Colts
Colts quarterback Philip Rivers joins “The Rich Eisen Show” to discuss coming out of retirement to play for Indianapolis.
2025 record: 5-12
Final FPI ranking: No. 32
Estimated 2026 cap space: minus-$65 million
2026 first-round draft pick: No. 6 and TBD (acquired from JAX)
What is their top offseason priority? Gaining clarity under center. Cleveland needs to figure out its quarterback situation after neither Dillon Gabriel nor Shedeur Sanders established themselves as long-term options. The Browns might have played themselves out of position for a top quarterback in the 2026 draft after beating the Steelers in Week 17. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported in December that the Browns are planning to keep Deshaun Watson on their 2026 roster.
What is one secondary priority to watch? Rebuild the rest of the offense. The Browns need to get younger and more athletic along the offensive line, where only one Week 1 starter is under contract for 2026. They could use more dynamic players at skill positions, too.
Latest on the head coach situation: The Browns fired Kevin Stefanski after six seasons, the team announced Monday. This season marked their fourth losing season under Stefanski and their second straight last-place finish in the AFC North. — Daniel Oyefusi
Latest on whether they will re-sign tight end David Njoku: The emergence of rookie tight end Harold Fannin Jr. has affected Njoku’s playing time, and it could affect his future with the team. He likes it in Cleveland, and the Browns like him, so it’s possible — even likely — they find common ground on a reasonable deal. The decision could also be affected by potential changes to the Browns’ coaching staff. — Graziano
Early draft outlook: Cleveland is not in contention to draft one of the top two passers after falling out of the top two picks, but it could use its two first-round picks to trade up and take a QB. If the Browns elect to go elsewhere, offensive tackle and wide receiver are clear needs on the roster. Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa would bring immediate stability at guard or tackle. Carnell Tate (Ohio State) and Jordyn Tyson (Arizona State) could be instant impact starters at receiver. — Reid
Big prediction for the offseason: The Browns will bring in 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, as they continue their tradition of signing receivers on low-cost contracts in the hopes of hitting it big. Aiyuk’s days in San Francisco are likely over; the Browns can offer him more money and opportunity compared to any other team in the NFL. — Solak
2025 record: 7-9-1
Final FPI ranking: No. 18
Estimated 2026 cap space: minus-$79.4 million
2026 first-round draft pick: No. 12 and No. 20 (acquired from GB)
What is their top offseason priority? Rebuild the defense. Owner Jerry Jones said in Week 16 that he believes the “bones” of a good defense are in place. That can be debated because the Cowboys allowed close to 30 points per game in 2025. Their strength is at defensive tackle with Quinnen Williams, Kenny Clark and Osa Odighizuwa, but they have questions at every other position group.
What is one secondary priority to watch? Spend in free agency. The Cowboys will never be big spenders in free agency, but they have to do more than just nibble around the edges, especially defensively. Finding a high-end pass rusher and cornerback is difficult in free agency, but they can do more at linebacker and safety. There have been more questions than answers in recent drafts, so they need a more proactive approach to free agency. — Todd Archer
Latest on whether they will re-sign wide receiver George Pickens: This may grab as many headlines as any free agent situation in the league, mainly because it’s the Cowboys. Pickens has been spectacular for Dallas since the team acquired him in a trade with Pittsburgh, catching 93 balls for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns. He comes with concerns due to some of the effort and concentration issues he had with the Steelers, even though those haven’t shown up in Dallas. Based on everything I’ve heard, the franchise tag is the likely option here. — Graziano
Early draft outlook: One of the worst defenses in the league, the Cowboys are in dire need of new players at every position. Texas Tech’s David Bailey is arguably the best pass rusher in this class, logging 14.5 sacks this season, tied for the most in the FBS. If they opt to add to the secondary in Round 1, Brandon Cisse (South Carolina) would make a lot of sense, as his skill set matches previous Cowboys defensive backs. –– Reid
Big prediction for the offseason: The Cowboys — after a classic prolonged and public negotiation — will make Pickens the fourth-highest-paid receiver in the NFL, just under teammate CeeDee Lamb ($34 million per year) but ahead of Pittsburgh’s DK Metcalf ($33 million). And with Pickens back, quarterback Dak Prescott goes on to win MVP in 2026. — Solak
2025 record: 9-8
Final FPI ranking: No. 4
Estimated 2026 cap space: minus-$23.1 million
2026 first-round draft pick: No. 17
What is their top offseason priority? Improve the offensive line. Detroit ranked 20th in run block win rate (70.7%) and 30th in pass block win rate (55.2%). The unit struggled to adapt with the offseason departures of four-time Pro Bowl center Frank Ragnow, who abruptly retired in June, and veteran guard Kevin Zeitler, who signed with the Titans.
What is one secondary priority to watch? Add another edge rusher. Defensive end Aidan Hutchinson earned Pro Bowl honors for the second time after a career-best 14.5 sacks. However, Detroit needs another reliable option opposite of Hutchinson — a player who can bring depth and better consistency. — Eric Woodyard
Latest on whether they will re-sign linebacker Alex Anzalone: Anzalone has been a fixture for the Lions in the Dan Campbell era, and his game is more respected in league circles than in fan or media circles. The early feedback: Anzalone’s return is a 50/50 proposition. Detroit wants him back, but he’ll have interest from other teams. — Fowler
Early draft outlook: The Lions’ first-round pick should be used on defense, where the team has needs at edge rusher, cornerback and linebacker. They could take the first cornerback off the board with Jermod McCoy (Tennessee) or Mansoor Delane (LSU). They could also consider linebackers Sonny Styles (Ohio State) and CJ Allen (Georgia). — Miller
Big prediction for the offseason: The Lions will cut left tackle Taylor Decker if he does not retire. He will be 33 years old next season and has had issues with shoulder injuries. Through Week 17 in 2025, he fell to 43rd out of 70 ranked tackles in pass block win rate, and he ranks 61st in run block win rate. — Schatz
2025 record: 8-9
Final FPI ranking: No. 21
Estimated 2026 cap space: $36.3 million
2026 first-round draft pick: None (traded to NYJ)
What is their top offseason priority? Resolve their quarterback situation. Daniel Jones lit it up in his first season with Indy, but he’ll be a free agent in March, when he’ll still be recovering from a torn right Achilles. The Colts seem inclined to run it back with Jones, but they’ve got to reach a deal and confirm his injury progress.
What is one secondary priority to watch? Re-tool the defensive line. The Colts have stuck with this group for years, but the results have been too intermittent to assume this group returns en masse. This will be tricky with no first-round pick, but the Colts need more juice on the edge.
Latest on the head coach situation: The Colts lost their final seven games to complete a historic collapse after an 8-2 start. But the team’s ownership has decided not to make significant changes, with the Colts announcing less than three hours after a season-ending loss to the Texans that general manager Chris Ballard and coach Shane Steichen will return for the 2026 season. — Stephen Holder
Latest on whether they will re-sign Jones: He has proved to be the Colts’ steadiest quarterback option since Andrew Luck. The Colts will monitor his Achilles tear recovery before free agency, and assuming all goes well, Indy should attempt to keep Jones, via a franchise tag or new deal. — Fowler
Early draft outlook: With no first-round pick, the Colts won’t be on the clock until Friday night. When that happens, finding impact players on the defensive front seven is crucial. Linebacker has been a weak point for the defense, and this draft is loaded with talented prospects with second-round grades. Anthony Hill Jr. (Texas) has the range and versatility to be a good fit. — Miller
Big prediction for the offseason: The Colts will give a big extension to 25-year-old safety Nick Cross. He did well in my coverage DVOA metric and was involved in 14.0% of Colts defensive plays, seventh among safeties through Week 17. His average run tackle came after a gain of just 4.4 yards (ranked sixth among safeties through Week 17). — Schatz
1:20
Schefter: Brian Flores will have coaching options
Adam Schefter joins “The Pat McAfee Show” to discuss where Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores might end up next season.
2025 record: 6-11
Final FPI ranking: No. 20
Estimated 2026 cap space: minus-$58.4 million
2026 first-round draft pick: No. 9
What is their top offseason priority? Improve the pass rush. The Chiefs must find an above-average pass rusher to put alongside Chris Jones and George Karlaftis. In past years, they have prioritized improving the offensive line. This year, that focus should shift to Steve Spagnuolo’s unit either through free agency or with their first-round pick.
What is one secondary priority to watch? Convince tight end Travis Kelce to return. The odds might not be in the Chiefs’ favor, but he is still productive and someone Patrick Mahomes trusts over any other pass catcher. A reasonable one-year contract could lead to Kelce returning to the roster for Mahomes’ return following his recovery from a left knee injury. — Nate Taylor
Latest on whether they will re-sign cornerback Jaylen Watson: The Chiefs drafted four defensive backs in 2022. Three of them (Watson, cornerback Joshua Williams and safety Bryan Cook) are free agents, while cornerback Trent McDuffie is extension-eligible ahead of his fifth-year option season. I put Watson here as an example, because the Chiefs — who have a history of letting cornerbacks leave in free agency and replacing them with draft picks — need to decide who stays in their secondary. They could prioritize the McDuffie extension and just use a ton of picks on DBs again. — Graziano
Early draft outlook: The Chiefs are in a rebuild mode thanks to bloated contracts and aging veterans. Quarterback and left tackle are the only positions truly off the table in Round 1. With a rare top-10 pick, the Chiefs could replace right tackle Jawaan Taylor with a prospect like Francis Mauigoa (Miami). In Round 2, they could address Kelce’s uncertain future by drafting a tight end like Eli Stowers (Vanderbilt). — Reid
Big prediction for the offseason: The Chiefs will cut Taylor, which would save them $20 million on the cap even if Taylor is cut before the June 1 mark. He was in the top 10 of pass block win rate for tackles through Week 17 this season, but the Chiefs can’t live with his expensive contract or his predilection for earning penalties. — Schatz
2025 record: 3-14
Final FPI ranking: No. 28
Estimated 2026 cap space: $84.1 million
2026 first-round draft pick: No. 1
What is their top offseason priority? Figuring out a plan at quarterback. Geno Smith is still under contract, with a dead cap hit of $18.5 million in 2026 if the team decides to move on from him. Whether or not Smith remains in Las Vegas, the Raiders will examine the future of the quarterback position, especially since they will have the No. 1 pick.
What is one secondary priority to watch? Revamp the offensive line. A key part of the Raiders’ inability to run or pass the ball was the lack of support from the offensive line. Las Vegas elected to run it back with last year’s group, only for the unit to take a major step back with a pass block win rate and run block win rate that ranked among the bottom half of the league through Week 17.
Latest on the head coach situation: The Pete Carroll era with the Raiders is over after just one year. The team fired the 74-year-old coach after it went 3-14 this season, which ended with a 14-12 win over the Chiefs. — Ryan McFadden
Latest on whether they will re-sign guard Dylan Parham: Young, reliable offensive guards are valuable, and Parham has 63 starts over four seasons for the team that drafted him. He thrived in 2024 as a right guard, which could be his long-term home, though the Raiders played him at left guard this season. The Raiders likely will entertain retaining Parham, but a looming coaching search could affect that process. — Fowler
Early draft outlook: The last time the Raiders drafted a QB in Round 1 was 2007, when the team selected JaMarcus Russell. It’s time for the organization to find its franchise QB with no young option at the position. The Raiders could have a decision to make between Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza and Oregon’s Dante Moore. — Reid
Big prediction for the offseason: If Carroll goes one-and-done, Brady will call an old New England friend to be head coach: current Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores. He’ll get a well-deserved second crack at a head coaching gig after getting fired by the Dolphins in 2022. — Solak
2025 record: 9-8
Final FPI ranking: No. 27
Estimated 2026 cap space: minus-$58.1 million
2026 first-round draft pick: No. 18
What is their top offseason priority? Figure out the J.J. McCarthy conundrum. He had a mostly brutal first season as the Vikings’ starter and the team must decide whether to give him another season, acquire a replacement or pair him with a veteran backup who could take over if he fails to make progress.
What is one secondary priority to watch? Settle the Brian Flores situation. He has been one of the NFL’s best defensive coordinators during his three seasons in Minnesota, but his contract is expiring and he’ll have the opportunity to consider options elsewhere even if he doesn’t get a head coaching job. It’ll be a challenge to replace him with an equal performer. — Kevin Seifert
Latest on whether they will re-sign safety Harrison Smith: Smith got the last-game treatment in Week 18, subbing out in the final minutes for a home-crowd ovation and hugs from teammates. That signals a looming retirement. But if he plays a 15th season, the chances of a return to Minnesota would be high. He produced at age 36 with 54 tackles, two interceptions, 10 pass deflections and one sack. — Fowler
Early draft outlook: If Flores isn’t hired away as a head coach, he’ll want to bolster the secondary. Ohio State’s Caleb Downs is unlikely to last until the late teens, but he would be an ideal pick in a Minkah Fitzpatrick-type role. Either Brandon Cisse (South Carolina) or Colton Hood (Tennessee) might be more likely options to fill a need at cornerback. — Miller
Big prediction for the offseason: With little cap space, the Vikings will say goodbye to tight end T.J. Hockenson, who has had injury issues and is coming off two straight years with fewer than 500 receiving yards. He was tied for 33rd among tight ends in ESPN’s receiver scores through Week 17. Cutting Hockenson would save the Vikings nearly $9 million in cap space before June 1 and $16 million if designated after June 1. — Schatz
2025 record: 7-10 What is their top offseason priority? Figure out the quarterback situation. Tua Tagovailoa was benched once playoffs were out of the picture, and cutting him this offseason would be expensive. But considering his play in 2025, Miami can’t go into next season with him as the clear-cut starter. Even if Tagovailoa remains on the roster, expect the team to bring in real competition at the position. What is one secondary priority to watch? From one expensive player to another, the Dolphins will have to make a decision on wide receiver Tyreek Hill‘s contract. He missed most of this season with a dislocated knee, and there’s no certainty he returns to his trademark level of play. Considering he represents a nearly $30 million cap hit in 2026, there’s no way Hill returns on his current deal — if at all. Latest on the head coach situation: The Dolphins have fired coach Mike McDaniel, the team announced on Jan. 8. The move comes after McDaniel had met with reporters Monday and said he would be part of the team’s interviews to hire a new general manager. — Marcel Louis-Jacques Latest on whether they will re-sign cornerback Rasul Douglas: The Dolphins got a steal when they signed Douglas at roster cutdowns for $1.57 million. He greatly outplayed that contract with 62 tackles, two interceptions and 11 pass deflections. Chances of re-signing the 31-year old appear strong, though Miami could go younger in spots of the defensive backfield and will have a new general manager soon. — Fowler Early draft outlook: Quarterback will be the focus of the offseason, but it’s unlikely Miami drafts one in Round 1. Cornerback is next on the list, with the Dolphins collecting just nine interceptions this season and having no clear-cut CB1 on the roster. Tennessee’s Jermod McCoy could give them speed and ball skills. — Miller Big prediction for the offseason: The Dolphins will cut Hill. He had already declined last season and will be 32 in 2026. Cutting Hill with a post-June 1 designation would save the Dolphins $36 million on the cap and is a much easier decision than figuring out what to do with Tagovailoa’s huge contract. Cutting the quarterback would actually cost the Dolphins cap space. — Schatz 2025 record: 6-11 What is their top offseason priority? Make decisions about veterans. Linebacker Demario Davis will be 37 in January, and defensive end Cameron Jordan will turn 37 next summer. Both have voiding contracts this year, but they have continued to play at a high level despite their age. The Saints will need to decide whether to bring them back, as well as 35-year-old Taysom Hill. If not, they could get younger at those positions. What is one secondary priority to watch? Surround rookie quarterback Tyler Shough with a better offense. He was playing with a cast of backups by the end of the season due to injuries, but even a healthy Saints offense needs a refresh. The Saints need to get Shough some pass catchers and build around him in free agency or the draft. — Katherine Terrell Latest on whether they will re-sign Jordan: He could very well decide to retire. If he doesn’t, will he fit into the Saints’ 2026 cap picture? That picture is cloudy as always, but it’s impossible to imagine Jordan in a different uniform — and I think he feels the same way. Either he retires or they find a way to bring him back. — Graziano Early draft outlook: Shough has quickly changed the course of the rebuild, as he looks to be the franchise quarterback. This has positioned the Saints to take a true “best player available” approach in the first round. With a top-15 pick, they could add another wide receiver. Carnell Tate (Ohio State) or Jordyn Tyson (Arizona State) would provide the team with a true go-to target alongside Chris Olave. — Reid Big prediction for the offseason: The Saints will sign ex-Bills guard David Edwards to a big deal, as he’s the lone exciting player who could be available in the guard market. The offensive line is a sneakily solid group when center Erik McCoy is healthy, but it needs better guard play. — Solak 2025 record: 4-13 What is their top offseason priority? Re-signing at least two of their three biggest free agents. Right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor, wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson and cornerback Cor’Dale Flott are all valuable and coming off the best seasons of their careers. This team can’t afford to let any more good players walk. What is one secondary priority to watch? The Giants need to add run-stuffing defensive linemen to the mix in the worst of ways. There is a reason they allowed a league-worst 5.35 yards per carry entering Week 18. Rookie Darius Alexander isn’t the answer. He’s more of a 3-technique pass rusher and Dexter Lawrence II can’t do it all by himself. The run defense has been a problem for three consecutive seasons. Latest on the head coach situation: General manager Joe Schoen was spared, and the attention is on finding the right guy to replace Brian Daboll. The Giants need a candidate who exudes leadership and can develop a sustainable culture. It’s a tough job. Previous head coaching experience and a track record of success probably wouldn’t hurt. — Jordan Raanan Latest on whether they will re-sign Robinson: He joins Malik Nabers as the Giants’ only 1,000-yard receivers since 2019. Paying Eluemunor is also an option, but Robinson could become Schoen’s first draft pick extended. — Fowler Early draft outlook: The Giants have a strong young nucleus in Nabers, Jaxson Dart, Cam Skattebo and Abdul Carter. If Robinson leaves, drafting his replacement could be vital at the top of the first round if a receiver like Carnell Tate (Ohio State) emerges as a top-five prospect. Drafting a right tackle that high isn’t done often, but the Giants could replace Eluemunor with Caleb Lomu (Utah) or Francis Mauigoa (Miami). — Miller Big prediction for the offseason: The Giants will trade down in the first round of the draft. They’re already set at quarterback and edge rusher, where many mock drafts have Arvell Reese and Rueben Bain Jr. as the first non-quarterbacks off the board. They need more talent at other positions, which they could address further down. — Schatz 2025 record: 3-14 What is their top offseason priority? Find a quarterback. Justin Fields likely will be released and Tyrod Taylor is a free agent, so the Jets could be starting over. The process will be two-tiered: Acquire a veteran (or two) and draft one. There’s no surefire answer, though Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza or Oregon’s Dante Moore are in reach. General manager Darren Mougey will have to be creative to solve a problem that has vexed the franchise for decades. What is one secondary priority to watch? Hire a defensive coordinator who meshes with coach Aaron Glenn. It didn’t work with Steve Wilks, who was fired after 14 games. First, the defensive-minded Glenn must determine his involvement. Will he take over and call plays? If not, he must find an innovative coach who can galvanize a unit that needs an overhaul. Latest on the head coach situation: A disappointing season, lowlighted by a historically bad December, has raised questions among fans and media about Glenn’s job security. From all indications, he’s not going anywhere. Glenn said he still has the support of owner Woody Johnson. — Rich Cimini Latest on whether they will re-sign running back Breece Hall: He is poised for top-10 running back money after posting his first 1,000-yard season. While the Jets could work to extend his contract, his market will be strong and too many teams need an impact back. He would be the best running back in free agency if he’s available. — Fowler Early draft outlook: If the Jets don’t sign or trade for an established starter, a first-round pick has to be used on a passer. Mendoza and Moore will be in consideration among the top-five picks, and taking either of them would represent a clear rebuild around a rookie quarterback. With the Colts’ first-round pick, the Jets should also look at a cornerback or safety after an NFL-record zero interceptions this entire season. It’s unlikely Ohio State’s Caleb Downs will be available, but cornerback Mansoor Delane (LSU) could match the need and range of the pick. — Miller Big prediction for the offseason: The Jets will trade for Kyler Murray and give him his second chance in the NFL. Murray is a bad fit for teams that want to run a lot of under-center offense, but the Jets ran the eighth-most shotgun or pistol sets through Week 17 in 2025. A trade for Murray’s big contract would likely cost very little in draft capital. — Schatz 2025 record: 8-9 What is their top offseason priority? Re-sign wide receiver Mike Evans. The franchise’s all-time leading scorer’s contract expires at the end of 2025 and he’s undecided about playing next year. He did say after coming back from his broken collarbone injury, “I missed the game more than I thought I would. I come back and I still have love for the game. Who knows what it will do for me in the future?” What is one secondary priority to watch? Go back to the drawing board at edge rusher. Haason Reddick didn’t have the rebound year he was hoping for with 2.5 sacks in 13 games. Yaya Diaby took some steps forward with 7.0 sacks in 17 games, and they will get David Walker back from a torn ACL next season. But they need way more impact up front. Latest on the head coach situation: Todd Bowles led the Bucs to three straight division titles as a head coach before falling just short this season and signed a three-year extension last offseason. But their defensive struggles in the second half of the season were jarring to watch. Offensively, they took several steps backward with Josh Grizzard as coordinator. And on special teams, their coverage units struggled so much that they resorted to touchbacks on kickoffs. How much will the Glazer family factor in the team’s past success and injuries when making a decision? — Jenna Laine Latest on whether they will re-sign Evans: A dominant force in Tampa Bay for over a decade, Evans turns 33 in August and must decide whether to retire or continue playing. It’s hard to imagine him in any other team’s uniform. Cornerback Jamel Dean is another key free agent, as he’s at the end of a four-year deal. — Fowler Early draft outlook: This draft should give Tampa Bay plenty of opportunities to add defensive talent. In Round 1, a pass rusher such as Texas Tech’s David Bailey would give the Bucs much-needed help off the edge. If he’s off the board already, cornerback is a second need that should be addressed in the first three rounds. — Miller Big prediction for the offseason: With help required at inside linebacker, the Bucs will steal Kaden Elliss from the rival Falcons in free agency. He would be perfect in those Bowles blitz packages after 3.5 sacks in 2025. — Schatz 2025 record: 3-14 What is their top offseason priority? Add a playmaking wide receiver. Rookies Elic Ayomanor and Chimere Dike are the top returning receivers for quarterback Cam Ward. Calvin Ridley will likely be a cap casualty. Ward needs a go-to guy who can beat one-on-one coverage in the clutch. What is one secondary priority to watch? Boost the pass rush. Defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons reestablished himself as a dominant presence. But Simmons needs an impactful running mate who can come off the edge. The Titans tried addressing the position with 2025 second-round pick Oluwafemi Oladejo. But they need more talent outside of Oladejo and third-year linebacker Jaylen Harrell. Latest on the head coach situation: Interim coach Mike McCoy is unlikely to return after taking over for Brian Callahan in October. Chiefs offensive coordinator Matt Nagy figures to be a candidate given general manager Mike Borgonzi’s history with that team. President of football operations Chad Brinker’s extensive time with the Packers could also make former Green Bay and Dallas coach Mike McCarthy a candidate. — Turron Davenport Latest on whether they will re-sign wide receiver tight end Chig Okonkwo: He drew interest at the trade deadline as a field-stretching tight end, and he has produced 56 catches for 560 yards this season — noble numbers in a bad offense. He has the combination of athletic traits and youth (26) that could make him a desirable option in free agency. — Fowler Early draft outlook: Building an infrastructure around Ward is incredibly important, but there isn’t a prospect that matches the needs of the team at the top of the draft. That could mean the Titans trade back with a QB-needy team, or they could look to select a top-tier pass rusher. Taking Miami edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. in Round 1 and Alabama wide receiver Germie Bernard in Round 2 could give Tennessee two impactful rookies. — Miller Big prediction for the offseason: The Titans will make a huge splash by signing George Pickens in free agency. Tennessee’s biggest need is talented and experienced wide receivers for Ward, and the Titans have a ton of cap space. Pickens ranked fifth in the ESPN’s receiver scores this season and third in my DYAR values among wide receivers through Week 17. — Schatz 2025 record: 5-12 What is their top offseason priority? Hire a defensive coordinator. Coach Dan Quinn took over playcalling duties from Joe Whitt Jr. for the final seven games, but his preference in the past has been to have someone else run the defense. Whitt, hired in 2024, did not have prior playcalling experience, so it’s possible Washington will want someone who has done so in the past. What is one secondary priority to watch? Add impact players on defense. Washington desperately needs them, otherwise simply changing coordinators won’t have a strong enough yield. The Commanders need more speed and youth in their front seven, as well as a starting corner and safety. — John Keim Latest on whether they will re-sign wide receiver Deebo Samuel: The Commanders have been pleased with Samuel’s acquisition, as it has led to a team-high 72 catches for 727 yards this season. But he turns 30 in January and could be costly to retain. Left guard Chris Paul is also an option for Washington to re-sign. — Fowler Early draft outlook: As mentioned above, improving the defensive front seven will be a core need for Washington, especially with linebacker Bobby Wagner set to hit free agency at 36. Ohio State’s Arvell Reese would solve a lot of problems in the middle of the defense, but some scouts think he can be an edge rusher in the NFL. That’s another priority for Quinn’s unit. — Miller Big prediction for the offseason: The Commanders will make a big splash by signing running back Breece Hall, a talented rusher and receiver who will be just 25 years old next season. Rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt didn’t end up taking the league by storm, and Chris Rodriguez Jr. wasn’t spectacular either. Washington finished 21st in run offense DVOA through Week 17 this season. — Schatz
Final FPI ranking: No. 31
Estimated 2026 cap space: minus-$27.5 million
2026 first-round draft pick: No. 11
Final FPI ranking: No. 23
Estimated 2026 cap space: minus-$26.5 million
2026 first-round draft pick: No. 8
Final FPI ranking: No. 16
Estimated 2026 cap space: $21.2 million
2026 first-round draft pick: No. 5
Final FPI ranking: No. 30
Estimated 2026 cap space: $58.6 million
2026 first-round draft picks: No. 2, No. 16 (acquired from IND)
Final FPI ranking: No. 19
Estimated 2026 cap space: $26.4 million
2026 first-round draft pick: No. 15
Final FPI ranking: No. 29
Estimated 2026 cap space: $77.1 million
2026 first-round draft pick: No. 4
Final FPI ranking: No. 22
Estimated 2026 cap space: $51.2 million
2026 first-round draft pick: No. 7
“Is this going to be a busy cycle?”
It’s the question most asked of industry insiders around this time every year, as athletic directors, coaches, search firms and agents gear up for the college basketball coaching carousel. Normally, it’s easy to tell which direction the cycle is heading. Last year, there were five high-major programs already open when this story appeared, and 15 power-conference jobs changed hands when the carousel finally stopped spinning.
Could we match that number this season? Kansas State is the only high-major job open as things stand, with Jerome Tang’s ousting failing to jump-start an early string of firings thus far.
There are more than a dozen high-major jobs on the hot seat, but administrations are facing a similar quandary to last season: give their embattled head coach more money to build a roster or pay out the rest of that coach’s contract and start anew? Several of the coaches mentioned below have a substantial amount of money remaining on their deals, and schools will be hesitant to pay those buyouts. Word is already starting to trickle out from some schools that are instead opting to raise their men’s basketball NIL budget and giving their coach one more season to turn things around. But some schools are also hoping to raise their NIL budget — to give to a new coach.
There’s also the question of what type of hiring cycle this will be. Last year, the power-conference carousel featured a mix of lateral moves, mid-major names taking a jump, NBA assistants dropping into college and the occasional high-major assistant getting an opportunity. If more than 10 power-conference programs open up again, it will be interesting to see which bucket is the most prevalent.
To prepare you for the next two months of coaching machinations and the accompanying rumors — of which there will be many — let’s take a look at the biggest jobs and names to watch on the 2026 men’s college basketball carousel.
Jump to a section:
Jobs already open | Jobs that could open | Least a year away
Potential retirements | High-profile candidates | Who’s ready to jump up?
Jobs already open
Jerome Tang was let go earlier this month after less than four seasons in Manhattan and less than three seasons removed from an Elite Eight run. But the Wildcats were 1-11 in Big 12 play and hadn’t returned to the NCAA tournament since 2023. Whether Kansas State had enough to fire him for cause will be figured out in the future.
Meanwhile, athletic director Gene Taylor will look for Tang’s replacement. It’s still early in the search, but names such as Utah State‘s Jerrod Calhoun, Belmont‘s Casey Alexander, Northern Iowa‘s Ben Jacobson and Creighton associate head coach — and Bluejays coach-in-waiting — Alan Huss are already sprouting up. Could Taylor also look to get a sitting high-major head coach, someone like Mississippi State‘s Chris Jans?
Other jobs currently open or with an interim head coach: Air Force, Cal State Bakersfield, North Florida, San Diego, Tarleton State
Jobs that could open
Bobby Hurley’s contract is up after this season and all signs point to the Sun Devils moving on from him. They’ve been playing better basketball of late, but they’re headed for their third straight season without an NCAA tournament appearance. Overall, in Hurley’s 11 seasons at the helm, Arizona State has gone to only three NCAA tournaments (it would have been a fourth had the tournament been held in 2020) and has yet to win a game. But when the dust settles on this cycle, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Hurley land on his feet closer to the Northeast.
The optimism that followed a 20-win 2023-24 season seems a long time ago. BC finished next-to-last in the ACC in 2024-25, and is trending toward a similar ending this season. In fact, coach Earl Grant has yet to lead the Eagles to a .500 finish in conference play, and they entered the week just 6-28 in ACC games over the past two seasons. He’s under contract through the 2028-29 season, and it’s one of the worst Power 4 jobs in the country, but an opening appears likely.
Thad Matta is in the fourth year of his second stint at Butler, but he has yet to lead the Bulldogs to an NCAA tournament appearance since returning. In fact, the program hasn’t gone dancing since 2018 (although it would’ve gone in 2020). There is speculation Matta, 58, could step down, and Atlanta Hawks assistant Ronald Nored, who played at Butler under Brad Stevens, has long been linked as a potential candidate.
Wes Miller might be coaching himself off of the hot seat with the Bearcats’ recent play. They entered the week on a four-game winning streak, including Saturday’s 16-point win over Kansas at Allen Fieldhouse. Another couple of wins, and Cincinnati could even find itself in the midst of the bubble conversation. The Bearcats haven’t gone to the NCAA tournament since Miller was hired in 2021, and they’ve spent real money on talented rosters the past few seasons. The former UNC Greensboro coach is owed nearly $10 million if he’s fired before April 1, but that guarantee drops to less than $5 million on April 1.
Industry sources are beginning to believe Tech is trending toward opening. The athletic director who hired Stoudamire is no longer at the school, the Yellow Jackets are currently in last place in the ACC — despite having a roster with a respectable level of talent — and Damon Stoudamire is just 42-52 in three seasons. He would reportedly be owed less than $3 million if the program moved on at the end of the season.
Athletic director Verge Ausberry raised the temperature on Matt McMahon last month, telling the Baton Rouge Advocate he’d made it clear to McMahon that the Tigers needed to make the NCAA tournament, or he would be forced to “reevaluate.” After a 12-1 start to the season, the Tigers are just 2-12 in SEC play, struggling mightily with star point guard Dedan Thomas Jr. sitting out most of conference play because of a foot injury. McMahon hasn’t been to the NCAA tournament in four years since arriving at LSU, and he’s just 16-52 in the SEC during that time. He would be owed about $8 million if fired — which, along with the injury issues, could ultimately play a role in McMahon trending toward returning for another season.
Penny Hardaway appeared to have Memphis on the right track after last season’s 29-win season and 5-seed in the NCAA tournament — the Tigers’ third tourney trip in four years. But things have fallen apart this season. Hardaway had won at least 20 games in each of his previous seven seasons in charge, but the Tigers dropped to 12-15 overall after their third straight double-digit loss Sunday. He was very emotional in his postgame news conference after an earlier loss, at times fighting back tears. Whether athletic director Ed Scott wants to fire a program legend 12 months after earning a 5-seed remains to be seen — as does whether Hardaway wants to step away on his own. He signed a six-year contract extension in 2022 that runs through the 2027-28 season.
It’s only two years into Jake Diebler’s tenure in Columbus, but the Buckeyes are squarely on the cutline for the NCAA tournament. If they don’t hear their name on Selection Sunday, that will be two years without a tournament appearance for Diebler, four years for the program as a whole. The latest word out of Columbus is that he’s probably safe for another season, but that could depend on what happens over the next three weeks. The school would be on the hook for just over $3 million.
Porter Moser led the Sooners on a late-season surge last season that staved off hot seat pressure, but the program entered this week with losses in 11 of its past 13 games. A roster built via the transfer portal last offseason hasn’t clicked, and OU is now going to miss the NCAA tournament for a fourth time in five seasons. New athletic director Roger Denny, who was hired in late January, will face a critical decision within weeks of his arrival. Moser has more than $5 million left on his deal.
It has been an inconsistent eight seasons in Pittsburgh for Jeff Capel. The Panthers struggled in his first four seasons, then turned things around with 46 wins and one NCAA tournament appearance over the next two (2022-23 and 2023-24). But they took a step back last season, and are now hovering near last place in the ACC, sitting at 10-17 overall and 3-11 in league play. In 2024, Capel signed a contract extension through the 2029-30 season, and would be owed eight figures if fired.
Kim English showed considerable promise in Year 1 (2023-24), leading the Friars to 21 wins and within reach of the NCAA tournament. But he has failed to build off that first year, entering this week with a 24-35 (11-25 Big East) record over the past two seasons despite spending substantial money to build those rosters. Providence gave English a contract extension after that first season, signing him through 2029-30. He would be owed a significant amount of money if fired.
It simply hasn’t quite clicked for Red Autry since he took over for Hall of Famer Jim Boeheim in 2023. He won 20 games in Year 1, then struggled last season. After compiling an impressive on-paper roster with enough talent to compete in the ACC, Syracuse is now just 6-9 in conference play. The Orange made an attempt at bubble consideration after beating Cal and SMU earlier this month, but a pair of blowout losses to Duke and North Carolina probably ended those hopes. One variable to consider: athletic director John Wildhack recently announced he would be retiring this summer.
Probably at least a year away
In reality, Ed Cooley is arguably the safest name on this list. He’s only three years into a long-term contract that reportedly pays him nearly $6 million a season, and the Hoyas have poured plenty of resources into helping him be the coach to return them to their glory days. It hasn’t gone well thus far, with Cooley entering the week with a 15-41 record in Big East play since taking over in the District. But he’ll get at least another season to turn it around.
Hubert Davis entered the season on one of the hotter seats in college basketball, but the Tar Heels are now ranked in the top 20 and are a second-weekend threat with Caleb Wilson expected to return from a hand injury. Barring a catastrophic finish to the season, Davis isn’t at risk of losing his job. He signed a contract extension in December 2024 that keeps him in Chapel Hill through the 2029-30 season, and he would be owed around $5 million if Carolina moved on. A couple of NCAA tournament wins might also ease some of the perceived pressure from the fan base, though this season’s performance, combined with a top-10 recruiting class coming in next season, cools off his seat moving forward.
Three seasons into his tenure in South Bend, Micah Shrewsberry has yet to finish above .500 overall, or in the ACC. The 2025-26 season has been his worst showing, with the Fighting Irish entering the week just 3-11 in conference play. There’s no appetite to make an immediate move, sources told ESPN, though, and Shrewsberry is still signed through the 2029-30 season.
Mike Rhoades arrived in State College in 2023 with three NCAA tournament trips in his previous five seasons at VCU. Unfortunately, the Nittany Lions haven’t come close to the tournament during his three seasons in the Big Ten. They’re last in the conference this season, with a 2-15 record. When Rhoades was hired, he signed a seven-year contract with nearly $26 million guaranteed. There’s still $15.4 million remaining on it.
Since going to back-to-back NCAA tournaments in 2021 and 2022, it has been a steady downhill turn for Steve Pikiell and the Scarlet Knights. Despite having two top-five NBA draft picks last season, Rutgers finished 15-17 overall. It entered this week 11-16 overall and 4-12 in the Big Ten. Pikiell is owed an enormous amount of money, though, with a fully guaranteed deal through the 2030-31 season and more than $20 million left on his contract.
After struggling in Year 1 in Columbia, Lamont Paris guided the Gamecocks to a 26-win season in 2023-24, earning a 6-seed in the NCAA tournament and winning SEC Coach of the Year. But the Gamecocks haven’t come close to sustaining that momentum, entering the week with a 24-35 (5-27 SEC) record over the past two seasons. But it sounds as if the school plans to increase Paris’ NIL budget, in the hope that he will turn things around next season. Paris signed a six-year, $26 million extension through 2029-30, and there’s just over $12 million remaining.
The Hokies entered the week with bubble hopes still alive, sitting at 18-10 overall (7-8 ACC) with games at North Carolina and Virginia remaining that could boost their tournament résumé. Regardless of those results, it appears Mike Young is safe for another season — after which his last contract extension ends. Tech has missed the past three NCAA tournaments after making back-to-back appearances in 2021 and 2022.
The latest intel out of Winston-Salem points to Steve Forbes returning to the Demon Deacons. Wake Forest is poised to miss the NCAA tournament for a sixth straight season, entering the week with a 14-13 overall record (5-9 ACC) — despite the fact that Forbes has won at least 19 games in four of his six seasons. Forbes, who signed a long-term extension in 2022 on a contract that had already run through 2026, also has a strong relationship with athletic director John Currie.
It’s only Year 2 for Danny Sprinkle with the Huskies, but things are already starting to heat up in Seattle. The program has spent significant money on Sprinkle’s rosters, but is just 26-32 overall in those two seasons, including 9-27 in Big Ten play. When Sprinkle was hired in March 2024, he’d signed a six-year, $22.1 million contract.
Others to watch: UAlbany, Ball State, The Citadel, East Carolina, Eastern Michigan, Florida International, Florida Gulf Coast, Cal State Fullerton, Gardner-Webb, Georgia State, Holy Cross, Little Rock, Niagara, Northern Illinois, Rider, Sacred Heart, Southern Indiana, Tennessee Tech, UNC Greensboro, UTEP, Weber State, Western Michigan
Potential retirements to monitor
The obvious place to start is Creighton’s Greg McDermott, who hired Alan Huss last season from High Point to be his associate head coach and coach-in-waiting. There has been no definitive timeline given by McDermott, although the change could happen as soon as after this season.
While speculation has surrounded Colorado’s Tad Boyle and Oregon’s Dana Altman seemingly every season, both are likely to be back in their positions for the 2026-27 campaign, sources told ESPN. The Buffaloes have struggled since moving to the Big 12, sitting at 29-33 (8-26 Big 12) in two seasons, but there have been no significant retirement discussions at Colorado, as the conversations have been focused on retaining the Buffaloes’ young core for next season. Altman is in the midst of his worst season since going 7-19 at Creighton in 1994-95, with the Ducks currently 10-17 (3-13 Big Ten). Before this season, he had won at least 20 games in 15 straight seasons and went to the past two NCAA tournaments. But after a season beset by injuries, there’s no expectation for any change or a retirement. Oregon also remains fully committed to the longtime head coach.
In the elite coaches tier, there’s annual speculation about Tennessee’s Rick Barnes, Gonzaga‘s Mark Few, Houston’s Kelvin Sampson, Kansas’ Bill Self and Michigan State‘s Tom Izzo — but all five programs are ranked in the top 20 and none of the coaches seem overly eager to step away. It wouldn’t be a shock if one of them did, but it’s impossible to predict at this point.
Dayton’s Anthony Grant is also rumored to be mulling a potential retirement. The Flyers entered the week tied for third in the Atlantic 10, but they have gone to only one NCAA tournament since he took over in 2017. It should be noted that the Flyers were tracking for a 1-seed in 2020 before the NCAA tournament was canceled. Grant was also recently named the head coach of the USA Basketball men’s U18 national team for this summer; does that make him more likely to stay?
High-profile candidates to keep an eye on
T.J. Otzelberger, Iowa State
Otzelberger has established himself as one of the elite coaches in college basketball, and he signed a new contract in December 2024 with a restructured buyout that makes him potentially attainable. If Ohio State were to open, there’s reason to believe the Buckeyes would look to gauge Otzelberger’s interest. That said, he’s happy in Ames, with no signs of him itching to leave, and he has a great relationship with Cyclones athletic director Jamie Pollard.
Chris Jans, Mississippi State
After going to the NCAA tournament in each of his first three seasons in Starkville, Jans and the Bulldogs are limping toward a sub-.500 finish this season. Mississippi State is considered one of the worst jobs in the SEC, so it’s conceivable he could look to jump to another high-major program with the right fit.
Will Wade, NC State
Wade has quickly turned around NC State in Year 1, as promised, with the Wolfpack trending toward wearing home jerseys in the first round of the NCAA tournament. But there is growing speculation that LSU would be potentially interested in a reunion, should the Tigers move on from Matt McMahon. Whether Wade would leave NC State after one season is a different story. He previously led LSU to three NCAA tournaments and an SEC title before being fired in 2022 following an NCAA investigation.
Porter Moser, Oklahoma
It’s true, we had Moser on the hot seat earlier, but he also has a big enough name and résumé to land on his feet at a reasonably strong job — whether it’s by leaving on his own or being let go. He has a Final Four and Sweet 16 on his ledger from his time at Loyola Chicago.
Chris Beard, Ole Miss
Beard is in the same category as Jans: a coach who could look to bounce to a job with a bigger budget if something becomes available. The Rebels are struggling mightily this season, sitting only one game out of last place in the SEC at 3-11 (11-16 overall). But Beard did lead Ole Miss to the Sweet 16 last season.
Randy Bennett, Saint Mary’s
Bennett has never shown interest in leaving Saint Mary’s, despite taking the Gaels to 11 NCAA tournament appearances since arriving in Moraga in 2001. But with Arizona State potentially opening, could Bennett — an Arizona native — find that it’s time to make the jump, especially with Gonzaga leaving the WCC?
Shaheen Holloway, Seton Hall
Holloway has guided the Pirates to one of the biggest single-season improvements in the country in 2025-26, going from 7-25 last season to 19-9 entering the week. They’re still trending toward missing the NCAA tournament, but they were picked last in the Big East and their NIL pales in comparison to that of the rest of the conference. Seton Hall hasn’t been to the NCAA tournament under Holloway but did win the NIT in 2024.
Mark Byington, Vanderbilt
There’s no sign Byington has interest in leaving Vanderbilt, but of the coaches at the top 20 schools, he is one of the few who could still potentially make a jump up. He has done one of the best jobs in the country this season, guiding the Commodores to a 16-0 start and a second straight NCAA tournament appearance. But Vanderbilt also checks a lot of boxes for Byington, and there doesn’t appear to be anything in line to open that would be a clear step up. There’s also a sizable buyout to get him out of Nashville.
Richard Pitino, Xavier
Rumors connecting Pitino to Providence have been circulating for several weeks, although it’s difficult to see the partnership coming to fruition. His buyout at Xavier is well into eight figures, and Providence would already have to pay close to $10 million to fire Kim English. With a much lower buyout figure? Perhaps it’s possible. But paying the largest buyout on record to lure a coach in the same league — who entered the week with the same 5-11 Big East record as the potential outgoing coach — doesn’t seem viable.
Kevin Keatts
Keatts was fired by NC State last season, just one year after leading the Wolfpack to the Final Four. He could get back into the sport after only one season out, as his résumé is better than those of other potential candidates this cycle. In addition to the Final Four, Keatts has made five NCAA tournament appearances and won two CAA titles at UNC Wilmington.
Who’s ready to make the jump?
Josh Schertz, Saint Louis
After being one of the hottest names on the coaching carousel only two years ago at Indiana State, Schertz is again the crown jewel of the coaching cycle. He has Saint Louis at 25-2 entering the week, ranked inside the top 25 nationally and on track for a single-digit seed on Selection Sunday. The only thing missing from his résumé is an NCAA tournament appearance — something that will change this season. It’s worth noting Schertz isn’t eager to jump at just any high-major job; he can afford to be selective, or even wait until next year.
Jerrod Calhoun, Utah State
The latest to come off the Utah State high-major coach assembly line, Calhoun has the Aggies atop the Mountain West one year after leading them to the NCAA tournament in his first season in Logan. He’s likely to be high on the list of candidates for any Midwest job, given his Ohio roots. He also has high-major experience from his time as an assistant coach at West Virginia. Calhoun’s new contract, which he signed last March, does include a buyout of more than $3 million.
Casey Alexander, Belmont
Alexander has done a tremendous job this season, taking a Belmont team picked fifth in the Missouri Valley to an outright regular-season title. The Bruins have yet to go to an NCAA tournament since hiring Alexander from Lipscomb in 2019 (though they did win the Ohio Valley tournament in 2020), but will be the favorites to cut down the nets at Arch Madness this season. Alexander has won at least 20 games in each of his past 10 seasons as head coach.
Travis Steele, Miami (Ohio)
Steele is at the helm of the last unbeaten team in men’s college basketball. The topic of a new contract has also already been publicly discussed, with Steele acknowledging over the weekend that the school has offered him a contract extension — and that he has yet to sign it. He has the RedHawks on track for the NCAA tournament for the first time since 2007, and also won 25 games last season. He failed to make the NCAA tournament during his four seasons at Xavier in 2019-22 but could soon get a second chance at the high-major level.
Eric Olen, New Mexico
Olen is in his first season at New Mexico, with the Lobos right on the cutline for the NCAA tournament despite being picked fifth in the preseason Mountain West poll. Last season, he led UC San Diego to 30 wins and an NCAA tournament appearance, and was a consistent winner with the Toreros when they were still in Division II.
Bryan Hodgson, South Florida
Hodgson, a former Alabama assistant coach under Nate Oats, has now shown the ability to quickly turn around programs at two different schools. He won 45 games in two seasons at Arkansas State, including a share of the Sun Belt regular-season title last year, and now has South Florida atop the American in Year 1.
Takayo Siddle, UNC Wilmington
Since a 7-10 record in Wilmington during the COVID-19 2020-21 campaign, Siddle has become one of the most consistently successful mid-major coaches in the country. He has won at least 21 games in each of the past five seasons, leading the Seahawks to the 2022 CAA regular-season title and a 2025 NCAA tournament appearance. This season, UNCW sits in first place in the CAA, and it could be the right time for Siddle to make a jump.
Joe Gallo, Merrimack
Gallo and the Warriors won the outright MAAC regular-season championship, with room to spare, this season, holding a four-game lead with two games to go. It’s Gallo’s fourth regular-season title in seven years at the Division I level, and he has done it in two different conferences. Over the past four seasons — two in the NEC and two in the MAAC — Gallo is 55-15 in conference play. Merrimack also won the NEC tournament in 2023, but was then ineligible for the NCAA tournament. Expect Gallo to be involved in the conversation for bigger jobs in the Northeast.
Tony Skinn, George Mason
A couple of weeks ago, Skinn might have been higher up on this list, alongside Schertz and Calhoun. But the Patriots have fallen apart down the stretch and currently sit third in the Atlantic 10. He did lead Mason to a share of the conference regular-season title last season and has won 68 games in three seasons as a head coach, but he has yet to get to the NCAA tournament. He also has high-major experience from his time as an assistant at Maryland, Ohio State and Seton Hall.
John Groce, Akron
Groce has been one of the most consistent mid-major coaches in the country over the last handful of years, going to three NCAA tournaments in four years and winning the MAC regular-season title last year. The Zips are currently 13-1 in league play, their lone loss coming by three points at unbeaten Miami (Ohio). Groce spent five seasons as Illinois’ head coach from 2012 to 2017, winning 20 games three times but taking the Illini to only one NCAA tournament. With the Midwest seeming like the epicenter of this year’s carousel, he could find himself in the mix for a spot.
Others to watch: Dustin Kerns, App State; Chris Mack, Charleston; Matt Langel, Colgate; Brooks Savage, East Tennessee State; Bob Richey, Furman; Bryce Drew, Grand Canyon; Rob Senderoff, Kent State; Ritchie McKay, Liberty; Rod Strickland, Long Island University; Robert Jones, Norfolk State; Bob Richman, North Dakota State; Ben Jacobson, Northern Iowa; Andy Toole, Robert Morris; Bashir Mason, Saint Peter’s; Chris Mudge, Sam Houston; Herb Sendek, Santa Clara; Richie Riley, South Alabama; Brad Korn, Southeast Missouri State; Matt Braeuer, Stephen F. Austin; Scott Cross, Troy; Eric Konkol, Tulsa; Andy Kennedy, UAB; Russell Turner, UC Irvine; James Jones, Yale
ESPN’s Pete Thamel contributed to this report.
For the third consecutive year, the Miami Dolphins ranked first in the NFL Players Association annual report cards, according to survey results obtained by ESPN. The Minnesota Vikings finished second, followed by the Washington Commanders in third.
“Players consistently describe the organization as ‘the best in the NFL,'” the NFLPA survey wrote about the Dolphins.
The Pittsburgh Steelers finished last for the first time in the four-year history of the union’s survey. Last year, the Steelers ranked 28th. The Arizona Cardinals finished 31st in the 2026 survey, after a last-place finish in 2025, and the Cleveland Browns finished in 30th, the same as in 2025.
The NFLPA is not making the report cards public this year after a grievance filed by the NFL, which said the survey violated the collective bargaining agreement. Earlier this month, an arbitrator agreed with the league, saying the report cards violated the CBA by “disparaging NFL clubs and individuals.” The NFLPA said it would continue to collect responses for report cards even if it can’t publish them.
A spokesperson for the NFLPA declined to comment.
An NFL spokesperson also declined to comment, saying that, as in previous years, the league had no knowledge of the survey. The league sent a memo to all teams later Thursday, saying that, as the arbitration hearing showed, the survey results are “neither reliable nor scientifically valid.”
“… We continue to recommend that clubs prioritize feedback and information provided directly by their own players rather than relying on the NFLPA’s agenda-driven exercise,” the league said in the memo, a copy of which was obtained by ESPN. “We further recommend that Clubs refrain from commenting or engaging publicly on the alleged survey and Report Card results.”
The report cards grade franchises from A-plus to F-minus on everything from ownership to treatment of families. Per the survey results obtained by ESPN, this year’s report cards are based on responses from 1,759 players. All players who were on a 2025 roster at the time of the survey were eligible to participate, and it was conducted from Nov. 2 to Dec. 11.
The Steelers received low grades in several categories, according to the results obtained by ESPN.
“[Steelers owner] Art Rooney ranks last in the league for willingness to invest in facilities, a trend reflected in the Steelers’ poor facility ratings across the board,” according to the survey.
In a new category added this year, the Steelers had the lowest-rated home field in the league “by a wide margin.”
“Players cite inadequate maintenance and excessive wear from hosting local college and high school games,” according to the survey. “Players across the league note the poor condition of the field and emphasize the need for investment to bring it up to standard.”
The Steelers’ locker room was graded an F. Players reported that it “has only five bathroom stalls for the entire team.”
Per the survey, players report that the Steelers’ training room lacks updated recovery technology and “modalities.” Pittsburgh’s strength coaches ranked last in the NFL, though the training staff ranked first.
“We are not going to comment on a report that we have not seen in its entirety,” Steelers senior director of communications Burt Lauten told ESPN.
A spokesperson for the Cardinals declined to comment.
Miami ranked fourth in home field because of the natural grass at Hard Rock Stadium, “with players highlighting their preference for quality grass fields like this one,” the survey said.
Former Miami coach Mike McDaniel’s grade dropped from an A-plus to a B. “Players identify scheduling, communication, and leadership as key areas for head coaching improvement, presenting an opportunity for [new head coach Jeff] Hafley next season,” the survey said.
Last year, 1,695 players leaguewide responded to the survey. The Vikings and Dolphins earned the highest marks for workplace environment, with owners Zygi Wilf of the Vikings, Stephen Ross of the Dolphins and Arthur Blank of the Atlanta Falcons receiving A-plus grades.
Before filing its grievance in November, the NFL had twice asked the union to suspend the survey, once in 2024 and a second time in June of this year — and the NFLPA declined.
At the NFL league meeting in March 2025, New York Jets chairman Woody Johnson — who along with Art Rooney of the Steelers, Robert Kraft of the New England Patriots, Michael Bidwill of the Cardinals and David Tepper of the Carolina Panthers received ownership grades of D or worse in 2025 — called the survey “totally bogus” and hinted that it violated the CBA.
Johnson said he took issue with “how they collected the information [and] who they collected it from. [It] was supposed to be, according to the agreement we have with the league. It’s supposed to be a process [where] we have representatives, and they have representatives, so we know that it’s an honest survey.
“And that was violated, in my opinion. I’m going to leave it at that, but I think there are a lot of owners that looked at that survey and said this is not fair, it’s not balanced, it’s not every player, it’s not even representative of the players.”
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Brady Tkachuk is back with his Ottawa Senators, and he stood his ground when faced with a question about the viral moment when Team USA laughed at a joke by President Donald Trump about the women’s ice hockey team during a phone call after both teams won gold medals in Milan.
As players like Boston Bruins goalie Jeremy Swayman admitted, players “should have reacted differently.”
Tkachuk responded to a reporter’s question about the moment Trump said he would “have” to invite the women’s team, which also defeated Canada in the Olympics, to Tuesday’s State of the Union or else he “probably would be impeached.”
“Yeah, I get it,” Tkachuk said when a reporter asked if he understood that the women’s team felt displeased with the men’s team’s reaction. “I have no other comments other than for the things we can control. We supported them. They supported us. Can’t control what other people say.”
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Brady Tkachuk (7) and Matthew Tkachuk (19) of the United States celebrate after their game against Team Canada during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena Feb. 22, 2026. (Geoff Burke/Imagn Images)
Tkachuk added it was “fun” being around the women’s team while in Milan.
“It was fun seeing them play, fun to see the excellence they brought every single game and how they’re, by far, the best team in that tournament,” he said. “It was just fun seeing them after picking their brains. They were picking our brains, and it was just fun being around them.”
Tkachuk was asked a follow-up question about why he would laugh at Trump’s joke. Again, he stood his ground.
“It was a whirlwind of a moment. You can’t really control what somebody says, and I guess it caught [us] off guard a little bit,” he said. “I mean, when you’re talking to the president 10 minutes after you just achieved your dream, it’s just the fact that you’re talking to him,
“You can’t really believe where your life is at where you’re talking to the president of the United States after you just won a gold medal.”
Tkachuk was with his U.S. teammates at Trump’s State of the Union address Tuesday night, and the chamber gave the team a standing ovation as players showcased their Olympic gold medals
The women’s team declined an invitation to Washington, D.C., citing “previously scheduled academic and professional commitments.” Trump said at the State of the Union address that the women’s team will visit the White House “soon.”
Brady Tkachuk of the United States celebrates after winning the gold medal during the men’s gold medal match against Canada at Milano Santagiulia Ice Hockey Arena during the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games Feb. 22, 2026, in Milan, Italy. (Catherine Steenkeste/Getty Images)
USA Hockey responded to Trump’s suggestion that the team would be going to the White House.
“Players are back competing with their professional and collegiate teams and are in the midst of their season,” a USA Hockey spokesperson told Front Office Sports. “They’re honored and grateful to be invited, and any opportunity to visit the White House as a team will be based on their schedules once their seasons conclude.”
While there’s been a divide on social media about the moment, Ellen Hughes, the mother of Jack and Quinn Hughes, who played a role in Team USA’s fate in Milan as a player development staff member with the women’s team, did not seem bothered by Trump’s comments.
“These players, both the men and women, can bring so much unity to a group and to a country,” she told “Today.” “People that cheered on that don’t watch hockey, people that have politics on one side or on the other side, and that’s all both the men’s team and the women’s team care about.
Brady Tkachuk of the Ottawa Senators during warmups before a game against the Nashville Predators Oct. 13, 2025, at Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. (André Ringuette/NHLI)
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“If you could see what we see from the inside, and the men and women sharing, you know, dorm rooms and halls and flex floors and the camaraderie and the synergy and the way the women cheered on the men and the way the men cheered on the women — that’s what it’s all about,” she added.
“And the other things they cannot control. They care about humanity. They care about unity, and they care about the country.”
Fox News’ Ryan Morik contributed to this report.
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