As the NFL free agency period concludes, all 32 teams have turned their attention fully to preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft, scheduled for April 23-25 in Pittsburgh. This three-day event, broadcast across ESPN, ABC, and the ESPN App, will see teams attempt to address remaining roster gaps over seven rounds. With free agency behind them, franchises are now focused on building their draft boards and targeting players who can fill their most pressing positional needs.
To gain insight into where each team stands entering the draft, NFL Nation reporters identified the top three positional needs of every franchise, ranked from largest to smallest. Complementing this, draft analysts Matt Miller and Jordan Reid highlighted prospects projected to be selected after the first round who could potentially fill those needs. Below is a detailed overview of each team's key areas for improvement and the prospects who might help address those needs.
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**AFC EAST**
*Buffalo Bills* Under new head coach Joe Brady, the Bills have significant holes to fill, particularly at edge rusher, linebacker, and wide receiver. While they signed veteran Bradley Chubb to bolster the edge group alongside Greg Rousseau and Michael Hoecht, the team still seeks younger talent to develop. The wide receiver corps, despite acquiring DJ Moore via trade, needs additional depth. Inside linebacker remains unaddressed, and general manager Brandon Beane has expressed optimism about the draft class's strength at that position. A prospect to watch is Jaishawn Barham, an edge rusher from Michigan who is transitioning from linebacker and could provide the burst the Bills have lacked. Barham is projected as a third-round pick but could rise depending on draft dynamics.
*Miami Dolphins* Following the trade of Jaylen Waddle, wide receiver ranks as Miami's top draft priority due to the absence of a clear No. 1 option. The pass rush has improved with signings like Joshua Uche and David Ojabo, though the Dolphins are expected to use at least a first-round pick on edge rushers. Cornerback is also a concern given the position's relative inexperience despite recent free agent additions. Devin Moore, a 6-foot-3 cornerback from Florida with the size to excel in press-man coverage, is viewed as a potential third-round pick who could immediately strengthen Miami's secondary.
*New England Patriots* The Patriots are optimistic about their starting offensive line but need depth, especially behind backup center/guard Ben Brown. Right tackle Morgan Moses, at 35 years old and entering his 13th season, may see a reduced workload. They also seek more depth at edge rusher, an area where the 2026 draft class offers abundant talent. Gabe Jacas from Illinois, a 6-foot-4, 260-pound edge rusher with first-step quickness, stands out as a possible fit and could be selected outside the first round.
*New York Jets* The Jets prioritized defense during free agency but need offensive playmakers, especially at wide receiver beyond Garrett Wilson. Their other receivers have minimal career touchdowns, highlighting the need for more talent. At quarterback, they acquired Geno Smith as a stopgap but aim to draft a young arm, possibly on Day 3, to develop for the future. Edge rusher Joseph Ossai was signed to replace Jermaine Johnson, but the Jets still lack a premier speed rusher opposite Will McDonald IV. Drew Allar, a quarterback from Penn State with a strong arm and mobility but coming off an ankle injury, could be a developmental target beyond the first round.
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**AFC NORTH**
*Baltimore Ravens* Baltimore's primary concern is reinforcing the interior offensive line, particularly replacing center Tyler Linderbaum. They have signed veteran Danny Pinter as a backup but may draft a center early. Defensive tackle depth is another focus, with optimism about Nnamdi Madubuike's return from a neck injury. Wide receiver production beyond Zay Flowers, who had a breakout season, remains limited. Keylan Rutledge, a rugged interior lineman from Georgia Tech, could be a valuable mid-round addition capable of playing center or guard.
*Cincinnati Bengals* The Bengals aim to address defensive tackle, offensive tackle, and slot wide receiver. A strong interior defensive lineman who can rush the passer is a priority, alongside a versatile offensive tackle to provide depth. If available, an elite slot cornerback or edge rusher at pick No. 10 would be a no-brainer. Christen Miller, a disruptive 3-technique defensive tackle from Georgia, might be a fit as a third-round pick.
*Cleveland Browns* Despite upgrading their offensive line in free agency, the Browns still need a long-term solution at left tackle due to Dawand Jones's injury history and position comfort. Wide receiver is another clear need, as the team's receiving corps ranked among the league's least productive. Although the Browns missed out on quarterback prospect Fernando Mendoza, their new coaching staff may still consider drafting a QB. Ted Hurst, a wide receiver from Georgia State known for his downfield ability, could help revitalize the passing game.
*Pittsburgh Steelers* While the Steelers are evaluating quarterback prospects, their immediate focus lies in enhancing wide receiver depth after trading for Michael Pittman Jr. and losing Calvin Austin III. The offensive line also requires reinforcement following the departure of guard Isaac Seumalo. Safety depth remains a concern despite adding Jaquan Brisker. Germie Bernard, a tough and versatile receiver from Alabama who excels at blocking and multiple alignments, might be an ideal fit and a potential third-round selection.
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**AFC SOUTH**
*Houston Texans* Houston looks to add young talent at interior offensive line and defensive tackle. Their guard tandem is stable, but the left side needs a long-term fix. Defensive tackle rotation has been unstable, with the team seeking a long-term partner for edge rushers Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson Jr. Cornerback depth is also important as injury insurance. Chris Johnson, a 6-foot cornerback from San Diego State with good speed and length, could address secondary depth in the mid-rounds.
*Indianapolis Colts* The Colts are focused on rejuvenating their front seven with faster, younger players. Losses at linebacker and edge rusher have yet to be adequately replaced. Drafting an edge rusher is challenging due to a lack of a first-round pick, but linebacker remains a more promising area given past success. Receiver depth has been weakened by the trade of Michael Pittman Jr. Josiah Trotter, a hard-hitting linebacker from Missouri with closing speed, has risen on draft boards and could fit well in the Colts' defensive scheme.
*Jacksonville Jaguars* The Jaguars excelled at run defense but struggled to generate pass rush, ranking 27th with only 32 sacks. They need to improve pressure from the interior defensive line, where Arik Armstead is aging and expensive. Adding a running back to complement Chris Rodriguez Jr. and Bhayshul Tuten is also a priority after Travis Etienne Jr. departed. Chris McClellan, a quick and strong defensive tackle from Missouri, offers potential to improve the interior line and could be selected in the third round.
*Tennessee Titans* Tennessee seeks an impactful edge rusher despite acquiring Jermaine Johnson. The wide receiver group includes young players like Elic Ayomanor and Chimere Dike, veteran Calvin Ridley, and free agent Wan'Dale Robinson, but adding another playmaker is desirable. Center is also a question mark, with Austin Schlottmann expected to start despite limited experience. Germie Bernard, a productive receiver from Alabama, could be a valuable mid-round addition if not addressed earlier.
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**AFC WEST**
*Denver Broncos* Denver's free agency prioritized re-signing existing players, leaving key needs at tight end and linebacker unaddressed. Their tight ends scored only three touchdowns combined last season, and linebacker Dre Greenlaw was released. Eli Stowers, a big receiver tight end from Vanderbilt with mismatch potential, fits the profile for Denver's offense and could be targeted beyond the first round.
*Kansas City Chiefs* Kansas City lacks a quality pass rusher opposite George Karlaftis and needs more receiver talent alongside Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy. Defensive tackle depth is also a concern after injuries and roster moves. Derrick Moore, a powerful and physical edge rusher from Michigan, could be a fit for the Chiefs' preference for dense, strong defenders.
*Las Vegas Raiders* The Raiders have only one quarterback on the roster, Aidan O'Connell, and are expected to select Fernando Mendoza first overall. Beyond that, adding a wide receiver or defensive tackle on Day 2 seems logical to support Mendoza. Domonique Orange from Iowa State, an effective interior run defender known as "Big Citrus," could be an impactful defensive tackle pick in later rounds.
*Los Angeles Chargers* The Chargers' interior offensive line has been a weakness, with recent retirements and releases leaving questions at guard and center. They also seek improved pass rushing from the defensive tackle position. Jalen Farmer, a powerful guard from Kentucky, may be an underrated mid-round candidate to bolster the offensive line.
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**NFC EAST**
*Dallas Cowboys* Dallas still has defensive uncertainties, especially at linebacker and edge rusher, despite adding Rashan Gary. Depth at cornerback is also a concern due to injuries. Anthony Hill Jr., a speedy and versatile linebacker from Texas who could develop as a pass rusher, is a promising prospect for the Cowboys in later rounds.
*New York Giants* The Giants struggle in the trenches, giving up the most rushing yards per carry in the league last season. They have yet to solidify their interior defensive line and lack a clear right guard. Their cornerback group lacks a true No. 1, relying on Paulson Adebo and Greg Newsome II. Keylan Rutledge, a tough interior lineman from Georgia Tech, fits their need for strong run blocking and could help at guard.
*Philadelphia Eagles* The Eagles lost Jaelan Phillips to the Panthers and need more work at edge rusher despite adding Arnold Ebiketie. The offensive line requires bolstering, especially with veteran linemen considering retirement. Tight end depth is also a concern beyond Dallas Goedert. Eli Stowers, with exceptional combine athleticism and receiving skills, could open up the offense as a versatile tight end.
*Washington Commanders* Washington needs a strong No. 2 receiver opposite Terry McLaurin and depth at cornerback, with only a few roster locks at the position. The team released center Tyler Biadasz and missed out on Tyler Linderbaum. Connor Lew, a center from Auburn recovering from an ACL tear, could be a steal in the third round and a developmental option to protect quarterback Jayden Daniels.
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**NFC NORTH**
*Chicago Bears* Chicago aims to draft an edge rusher due to a lack of first-round selections at the position since 2016. Safety and center are also priorities, with recent departures at safety and a limited contract on center Garrett Bradbury. Dani Dennis-Sutton, a versatile edge rusher from Penn State, fits Chicago's defensive scheme and could be a key addition.
*Detroit Lions* Detroit needs offensive line help after releasing left tackle Taylor Decker and dealing with injuries. Adding an edge rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson and bolstering a cornerback room plagued by injuries are also priorities. Caleb Tiernan, a physical tackle from Northwestern with balanced run and pass blocking skills, is a potential mid-round target.
*Green Bay Packers* Green Bay faces multiple needs at edge rusher, cornerback, and offensive line depth after trading Rashan Gary and losing key defensive backs. They favor drafting versatile, athletic corners with length. Daylen Everette from Georgia offers speed, coverage skills, and spatial awareness suited to their defensive schemes.
*Minnesota Vikings* Minnesota must replace retiring center Ryan Kelly and consider the future at safety as veteran Harrison Smith contemplates retirement. While their top two receivers are strong, depth is lacking after Jalen Nailor's departure. Sam Hecht, a zone-scheme center from Kansas State, ranks as a top prospect who could compete for starting duties.
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**NFC SOUTH**
*Atlanta Falcons* The Falcons aim to improve their run defense and running game under new leadership. Replacing inside linebacker Kaden Elliss and defensive lineman David Onyemata is critical, as both departed in free agency. Atlanta also needs a true No. 2 wide receiver. Zachariah Branch, a speedy slot receiver from Georgia with excellent yards-after-catch ability, is a fitting candidate.
*Carolina Panthers* Carolina needs help at safety despite re-signing Nick Scott, who has coverage issues. They also seek a more dynamic receiver behind first-round pick Tetairoa McMillan and additional pass rushers to complement Jaelen Phillips. A.J. Haulcy, a physical safety from LSU with notable interception numbers, could fill a need if available in the early third round.
*New Orleans Saints* New Orleans lacks a top receiver opposite Chris Olave and did not address that in free agency. Slot cornerback and pass rusher depth are also concerns, with the loss of Alontae Taylor and the uncertain status of Cameron Jordan. Chris Bell, a wide receiver from Louisville and former teammate of quarterback Tyler Shough, offers size and playmaking ability despite recovering from an ACL injury.
*Tampa Bay Buccaneers* Despite signing Al-Quadin Muhammad, Tampa Bay may still draft an edge rusher. They added veteran linebackers Alex Anzalone and Christian Rozeboom after Lavonte David's retirement. With frequent use of two-tight end sets, they also need a tight end who can serve as a big-play threat. Jacob Rodriguez, a former quarterback turned linebacker from Texas Tech with strong coverage and run skills, is a notable prospect.
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**NFC WEST**
*Arizona Cardinals* Arizona's biggest remaining need is right tackle, which they likely will address early in the draft. After releasing Kyler Murray and signing Gardner Minshew, drafting a quarterback seems probable, possibly through a trade. Safety depth is also a concern with key departures and aging players. Jude Bowry, an offensive tackle from Boston College, is a developmental prospect who fits their long-term plans.
*Los Angeles Rams* The Rams need a reliable third receiver to complement their elite top two and could add depth at right tackle. Their cornerback room has some reinforcements but could still use support. De'Zhaun Stribling, a versatile receiver from Ole Miss, is a potential third-round pick who fits coach Sean McVay's offense.
*San Francisco 49ers* San Francisco addressed several needs in free agency but still could use upgrades at safety and edge rusher. Offensive line competition, especially at left guard, remains a focus. Treydan Stukes, a nickel corner/safety from Arizona with range and tackling ability, might transition well to free safety in the NFL and provide defensive depth.
*Seattle Seahawks* Seattle must replace top rushers Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet, the latter likely sidelined for much of 2026. The team values George Holani and Emanuel Wilson but needs explosive playmakers. Youth on the edge and in the secondary is also a priority after departures. Mike Washington Jr., a large running back from Arkansas with a mix of power and explosiveness, is rising in draft evaluations and could help fill the backfield void.
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As teams prepare for the 2026 NFL Draft, addressing these positional needs with the right prospects will be crucial to their success in the coming seasons. For fans and analysts eager to track draft developments, ESPN's new show "NFL Draft Daily" airs weekdays at 3 p.m. ET on ESPN2, ESPN+, Disney+, and Hulu, providing expert insights on top prospects and team strategies.