NFL Offseason Signings: Can Geno Smith Find Redemption in New York?

The NFL Offseason is Heating Up

The fantasy football offseason is ablaze as NFL free agency takes center stage. Every year, this period teems with significant player movements, trades, and restructurings that shape not only team rosters but also the very fabric of our fantasy leagues. For many fantasy managers, it's not just about who's going where, but the underlying implications of these transactions. This guide aims to be your strategic playbook for navigating this dynamic landscape.

ESPN Fantasy writers Matt Bowen, Tristan H. Cockcroft, Eric Karabell, Liz Loza, and Eric Moody join forces to dissect how each major move affects a player's fantasy value in 2026. Moreover, Mike Clay provides comprehensive projections for each athlete.

Jump to: Quarterback | Running Back | Wide Receiver | Tight End

Quarterback

March 10: Geno Smith Returns to New York

Fantasy impact: Positive

Cockcroft: After a turbulent stint with the Las Vegas Raiders, where Geno Smith grappled with the league's lead in interceptions, he is set for a second chance with the Jets, the team that drafted him in 2013. A return to New York propels Smith into a more favorable environment—with an offensive line poised to provide better protection and a robust supporting cast featuring both Breece Hall and Garrett Wilson. If Smith can rekindle the form that saw him flourish in Seattle, he presents a viable option, particularly for those navigating superflex or 2QB formats.

Clay's projection: 363-for-537 passing, 3,755 yards, 18 TD, 14 INT

March 16: Jets Acquire Justin Fields

Fantasy impact: Negative

Cockcroft: On the flip side, the Jets trade for Justin Fields adds a level of uncertainty. Fields, despite his mobility and playmaking capabilities, posted the worst sack rate (10.5%) among QBs in 2025. His arrival could subsequently hinder the fantasy potential of key receiving targets like Rashee Rice and Travis Kelce.

Clay's projection: 13-for-21 passing, 140 yards, 1 TD; 3 carries, 15 yards, 0 TD rushing

Running Back

March 12: Kenneth Walker III Joins the Chiefs

Fantasy impact: Positive

Karabell: The Chiefs, fresh off a rough season, have signed Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III. With his history of excellence in Seattle paired with the Chiefs' desperate need for running back reinforcement, Walker has an appealing path ahead. Expect a potential workload boost that could redefine his fantasy value, assuming he can stay healthy through the season.

Clay's projection: 264 carries, 1,180 yards, 9 TD rushing; 48 receptions, 367 yards, 2 TD receiving

March 2: David Montgomery Moves to Houston

Fantasy impact: Positive

Karabell: A pivotal trade happened when David Montgomery was shipped to the Texans. Montgomery's transition opens up substantial opportunities for him, as he looks to re-establish himself as a workhorse in Houston. Although he may not reach the output he once had with the Lions, he could become an important piece for fantasy managers looking for RB2 depth.

Clay's projection: 199 carries, 863 yards, 6 TD rushing; 31 receptions, 241 yards and 1 TD receiving

Wide Receiver

March 17: Broncos Add Jaylen Waddle

Fantasy impact: Positive

Moody: The Denver Broncos struck a crucial deal, acquiring Jaylen Waddle from the Miami Dolphins. Waddle, who averaged an impressive 13.5 yards per reception in his career, now slots into a high-octane passing attack. This change could elevate his fantasy ceiling significantly—especially paired with Courtland Sutton.

Clay's projection: 79 receptions, 980 yards, 6 TD

Tight End

March 11: Isaiah Likely Signs with the Giants

Fantasy impact: Positive

Karabell: After being overshadowed by Mark Andrews in Baltimore, Isaiah Likely is getting a fresh start with the Giants. This transition could see him emerge as a quality target in New York, with opportunities to post career-highs in receptions and yards. As new connections bloom, he could be a sleeper worth considering in 2026 drafts.

Clay's projection: 62 receptions, 647 yards, 4 TD

Final Thoughts

As we look ahead into the NFL season, understanding these moves and their implications is critical for any fantasy football aficionado. Whether you're drafting a new team or considering trades, having a firm grasp on how player movements will affect stock can prove invaluable. Let's keep our eyes peeled for further signing updates as the offseason progresses!