32 NFL Players Who Need a Fresh Start: Offseason Moves to Watch

The NFL Offseason: A Time for Change

The NFL offseason is always rife with potential. As teams reassess their rosters and strategize for the upcoming season, certain players begin to emerge as likely candidates for trades, cuts, or fresh starts. With significant changes on the horizon, we dive into the names to watch across the league as the 2026 season approaches.

Why Some Players Need a Fresh Start

In the often brutal world of professional football, change is sometimes required for a player's revival. Whether it's a lack of development, a need for a more suited coaching style, or simply a desire to join a contender, here are key reasons why players might be better off in new surroundings:

• Development Stagnation: Some players may not reach their peak performance due to poor coaching or a misaligned system.
• Burnt Bridges: A player's tenure may end badly, leading teams to seek a clean break.
• Desire for Success: As competitors, players often yearn to be part of a winning program, and sometimes that means moving elsewhere.

Key Players to Watch in 2026

Let's look at one player from each NFL team who could significantly benefit from a change of scenery:

AFC East

Buffalo Bills: Keon Coleman (WR)

Coleman's development has stagnated amid criticism from management. With questions over his future in Buffalo, a new team might be the best setting for him.

Miami Dolphins: Tua Tagovailoa (QB)

A poor performance last season and significant benching may force Miami to reconsider Tagovailoa's position. His past potential suggests he could still thrive with the right team.

New England Patriots: Christian Barmore (DT)

Barmore's recent legal issues could make it favorable for the Patriots to part ways, despite his impactful skills.

New York Jets: Breece Hall (RB)

With aspirations for a successful career, Hall's desire to leave for a more stable organization might prompt a move.

AFC North

Baltimore Ravens: Rashod Bateman (WR)

After a disheartening season, Bateman needs to redefine himself in a new environment, where he can play a different role.

Cincinnati Bengals: Trey Hendrickson (Edge)

Despite a tumultuous time in Cincinnati, Hendrickson's trade request reflects his need for change.

Cleveland Browns: Joel Bitonio (G)

Bitonio deserves to play for a playoff contender before the end of his career. A fresh start could help reinvigorate his potential.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Nick Herbig (Edge)

Herbig's potential isn't fully realized behind star players. A starting role somewhere else could unlock his skills.

AFC South

Houston Texans: Juice Scruggs (C/G)

Scruggs has faced injuries and inconsistent play. Another team may better utilize his capabilities if he can stay healthy.

Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Richardson (QB)

Struggles during his rookie season may mean Richardson benefits from changing teams and coaching styles.

Jacksonville Jaguars: Brian Thomas Jr. (WR)

Thomas's reduced output last season poses questions about his fit in Jacksonville, making a trade possible.

Tennessee Titans: L'Jarius Sneed (CB)

After injury issues with the Titans, a different environment could help reinstate Sneed as one of the league's finest cornerbacks.

AFC West

Denver Broncos: Jonah Elliss (Edge)

Ellis's talent is clear, but lack of opportunity limits his growth. A fresh start could lead to greater success for the young rusher.

Kansas City Chiefs: Felix Anudike-Uzomah (Edge)

As a former first-round pick, Anudike-Uzomah hasn't met expectations. A new team could be a chance at a restart.

Las Vegas Raiders: Zamir White (RB)

White has struggled to make an impact with the Raiders, but a new setting might provide the change he needs to shine.

Los Angeles Chargers: Zion Johnson (G)

Johnson hasn't performed to expectations and may benefit from a change of scenery to reach his full potential.

NFC East

Dallas Cowboys: Sam Williams (Edge)

After injury sidelined his season, Williams may need a change to reclaim the promise he showed early in his career.

New York Giants: Evan Neal (G)

Neal's struggles with positioning might lead him to find a new team more suited to his skills.

Philadelphia Eagles: Michael Carter II (CB)

Carter was a standout on his former team but struggled after his trade. A new opportunity could be what he needs.

Washington Commanders: Marshon Lattimore (CB)

A challenging season in Washington might lead to Lattimore seeking fresh scenery to revitalize his career.

NFC North

Chicago Bears: Kiran Amegadjie (OL)

Amegadjie's early struggles may lead him in search of a new team where he can find better opportunities.

Detroit Lions: David Montgomery (RB)

As the backfield dynamics shift, Montgomery's future with the Lions appears uncertain.

Green Bay Packers: Quay Walker (LB)

Walker's struggles in coverage might lead to new opportunities where his strengths can shine.

Minnesota Vikings: J.J. McCarthy (QB)

McCarthy's lackluster performances might prompt a necessary change for a young QB aiming to rediscover his form.

NFC South

Atlanta Falcons: Clark Phillips III (CB)

After his injury, Phillips could benefit from a restart with a team willing to utilize his skills effectively.

Carolina Panthers: Jonathon Brooks (RB)

After multiple injuries, Brooks may be looking for a chance to prove himself on a new team.

New Orleans Saints: Spencer Rattler (QB)

With starting roles circulating, Rattler might be an under-the-radar candidate for teams needing a new quarterback.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Chris Braswell (Edge)

Barring an opportunity to start in Tampa, Braswell may look elsewhere to demonstrate his potential.

NFC West

Arizona Cardinals: Kyler Murray (QB)

Once a star, Murray's future in Arizona is in jeopardy. A trade may serve both sides well.

Los Angeles Rams: Darious Williams (CB)

As the Rams contemplate moving on from veterans, Williams might find himself searching for a new opportunity.

Conclusion: Keeping an Eye on the Offseason

The NFL offseason invites endless possibilities and startling transformations. As we anticipate which players will find their new homes, we remain vigilant and excited about the high-stakes decisions that lay ahead.