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NFL News

Combined summaries and individual breaking-news reports, all in one recency-first feed.

Wednesday, March 4

Alec Pierce Set for Free Agency After Career-Best 2025 Season

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Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce is set to test the open market as an unrestricted free agent after failing to reach a long-term deal with Indianapolis. Coming off a career-best 2025 season with 47 receptions, 1,003 yards, and six touchdowns, Pierce expressed a desire for quarterback stability and a winning culture. While the Colts prioritized a franchise tag for Daniel Jones, reports indicate ongoing discussions between the team and Pierce's representatives regarding his future.

Myles Garrett Cited for Ninth Speeding Violation Since 2017

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Browns star Myles Garrett was cited for driving 94 mph in a 70 mph zone on February 21, marking his ninth speeding ticket since entering the NFL. The 2025 Defensive Player of the Year is scheduled for arraignment on March 10 and was fined $157.50. This incident follows a history of speeding issues for the pass-rusher, who remains the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history.

Packers Eye Linebacker Replacements as Quay Walker Likely Departs

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The Packers are exploring the free agent linebacker market, signaling that Quay Walker is likely to leave. Walker, who strongly suggested negotiations had stalled, is expected to seek a deal in the $11 million-plus range. Green Bay is looking for competition at the position as they transition to a 3-4 defense, with former Packers coach Anthony Campanile and the Jaguars emerging as a potential landing spot for Walker.

Patriots Release WR Stefon Diggs, Saving $16.8M in Cap Space

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The Patriots are releasing Stefon Diggs after one season, saving $16.8 million. Diggs led the team with 85 receptions for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns in 2025 but faced off-field legal issues, including felony strangulation charges. Despite his production and leadership, the team opted to move on. Diggs, 32, is now a free agent and is expected to draw interest from teams like the Broncos, Commanders, and Titans.

Steelers Releasing Tight End Jonnu Smith to Save $7 Million in Cap Space

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The Pittsburgh Steelers are releasing 30-year-old tight end Jonnu Smith, a move that clears $7 million in cap space and brings the team's total cap room to approximately $50 million. Acquired via trade from Miami last June, Smith played all 17 games in 2025, recording 38 catches for 222 yards, two receiving touchdowns, and one rushing score. Smith now becomes an unrestricted free agent. His departure is expected to lead to an expanded role for tight end Pat Freiermuth.

Commanders Sign Defensive Linemen Deatrich Wise and Shy Tuttle

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The Washington Commanders have reached one-year agreements with defensive linemen Deatrich Wise and Shy Tuttle. Wise, 31, previously played for the Patriots and Commanders, while Tuttle joins after a stint with the Commanders late last season. Both players were scheduled for free agency and will provide depth to Washington's defensive front.

Commanders Sign Defensive Linemen Deatrich Wise and Shy Tuttle

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The Washington Commanders have reached one-year agreements with defensive linemen Deatrich Wise and Shy Tuttle. Wise, 31, previously played for the Patriots and Commanders, while Tuttle joins after a stint with the Commanders late last season. Both players were scheduled for free agency and will provide depth to Washington's defensive front.

Cowboys Finalize Three-Year, $24M Deal with Javonte Williams

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The Dallas Cowboys have finalized a three-year, $24 million contract with running back Javonte Williams. The deal includes a $6 million signing bonus and significant per-game active roster bonuses. The contract also features de-escalators tied to offseason workout participation, a common term in Cowboys agreements. Williams remains a key part of the team's backfield strategy moving forward.

Dak Prescott Restructures Contract to Clear $31M in Cap Space

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Dak Prescott restructured his contract to clear $31 million in cap space, helping the Cowboys get under the $301.2 million salary cap. His 2026 base salary dropped to $1.8 million, though future cap hits will inflate. Prescott remains under contract through 2028 and has expressed excitement about the team's potential to add veteran talent, specifically targeting defensive upgrades as the team transitions to a 3-4 scheme.

Rams Acquire All-Pro CB Trent McDuffie from Chiefs for Draft Picks

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The Rams traded for All-Pro cornerback Trent McDuffie, sending a package of picks including the 29th overall selection to Kansas City. McDuffie, 25, is expected to sign a market-topping extension exceeding $30.1 million annually. The move reunites him with college coach Jimmy Lake and bolsters the Rams' secondary as they push for a Super Bowl. McDuffie recorded 13 pass breakups in 2024 and is viewed as a foundational piece for the Rams' defense.

Calvin Austin III Changes Representation Ahead of Free Agency

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Steelers wide receiver Calvin Austin III has hired Rosenhaus Sports as his representation as he prepares to enter free agency for the first time. The move suggests Austin is exploring all options for his future. Austin, a 2022 draft pick, has recorded 1,100 yards and eight touchdowns over three seasons. His status with the Steelers remains fluid as the team looks to address depth in their wide receiver room.

Vikings Expected to Release Defensive Tackle Jonathan Allen

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The Minnesota Vikings are expected to release defensive tackle Jonathan Allen to reduce salary cap commitments. Allen, 31, signed a three-year, $51 million deal last offseason but struggled to maintain high-level production, totaling 3.5 sacks in 2025. The move will save the team $6.45 million against the 2026 cap as part of a broader roster overhaul.

Rashid Shaheed Expected to Test NFL Free Agent Market

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Seahawks WR Rashid Shaheed is expected to test free agency as extension talks remain stalled. Acquired from the Saints, the two-time Pro Bowler served as a key contributor for the Super Bowl champions, recording 15 catches for 188 yards in nine regular-season games. Shaheed made a significant impact on special teams, scoring three return touchdowns, including a kickoff return in the divisional round. He now joins a competitive free-agent receiver market that includes Stefon Diggs.

Jets and Other Teams Exploring Potential Tua Tagovailoa Trade

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The Dolphins are actively shopping quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, though his expensive contract makes a trade difficult. If released, the Jets are among the teams interested in signing him for the veteran minimum. Tagovailoa, who threw for 20 touchdowns and 15 interceptions last season, remains a polarizing figure, with Miami potentially looking to move on as they undergo a roster remodel.

Dolphins Re-Sign Outside Linebacker Cameron Goode

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The Miami Dolphins have re-signed outside linebacker Cameron Goode. The 27-year-old has appeared in 37 games over three seasons, recording 29 tackles and two quarterback hits. As the Dolphins look to rebuild their pass rush, Goode provides depth and special teams value under new head coach Jeff Hafley.

Report: 70-30 Chance Kevin Byard III Returns to Chicago Bears

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Reports indicate a 70-30 probability that safety Kevin Byard III will re-sign with the Chicago Bears. While Byard's market value has increased, the team is working on a fair deal to keep the All-Pro in Chicago. The Bears may look to pair Byard with a rookie safety in 2026, potentially signaling a change in role for Jaquan Brisker.

Cowboys Franchise Tag George Pickens for $27.298M

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The Cowboys placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on wide receiver George Pickens, worth $27.298 million. This move prevents him from hitting unrestricted free agency while the team continues long-term contract negotiations. Dak Prescott has advised Pickens to 'bet on himself' during this process. The outcome remains uncertain, with possibilities ranging from a long-term deal to Pickens playing on the tag or being traded.

Kenneth Walker III Draws Significant Interest as Top Free Agent RB

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Super Bowl LX MVP Kenneth Walker III is a premier free agent running back expected to command $12-16 million annually. The Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs are identified as top landing spots for the dynamic playmaker, who significantly boosted his stock with a dominant postseason performance. While the Seahawks are allowing him to test the market, his ability to force defensive adjustments makes him a high-priority target for teams looking to upgrade their run game.

Maxx Crosby Trade Buzz Intensifies; Raiders Seek High Return

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Trade rumors surrounding Raiders pass rusher Maxx Crosby are intensifying, with Las Vegas reportedly seeking a 'Micah Parsons package' of two first-round picks plus a player. Crosby is reportedly frustrated with the team and may prefer a move to the Patriots, though the Bears are currently considered favorites. Other teams monitoring the situation include the Bills and Cowboys as the Raiders consider a full rebuild.

Mike Evans Explores Free Agency; Giants and Bills Identified as Fits

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Veteran wide receiver Mike Evans is exploring free agency, seeking a contender with a strong quarterback. The Bills and Giants have been identified as potential landing spots for the 33-year-old, who has 13,052 career yards and 108 touchdowns. While Evans is coming off an injury-plagued season, his size and experience make him a high-value target for teams looking to upgrade their receiving corps.