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One Move Every NFL Team Should Still Make After the Draft

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Original Story by Sports Illustrated
May 11, 2026
One Move Every NFL Team Should Still Make After the Draft

Context:

As teams finalize rosters for 2026, the piece outlines a remaining, high-impact move for every NFL club—ranging from free-agent signings to strategic trades—designed to push teams toward contention or improve long-term upside. The target moves span positions like edge rusher, center, and receiver, with rationale tied to positional gaps, scheme fit, and the near-term availability of veterans. The overview highlights that some teams face transition-year realities while others aim to pair established playmakers with young cores. The outlook suggests that a single, well-timed acquisition or trade could tilt a franchise toward stronger performance in 2026 or beyond. Momentum varies by team but the guide emphasizes practical, value-driven moves over sweeping overhauls.

Dive Deeper:

  • Arizona Cardinals should add a veteran edge rusher to complement their upgraded offense; the defense struggled to sack the quarterback in 2025, and names like Jadeveon Clowney or Joey Bosa are floated as possible fits to pressure opposing passers.

  • Atlanta Falcons are advised to extend Bijan Robinson and Drake London to solidify the core of a transitioning roster, elevating their long-term alignment by keeping the duo under team control beyond their current contracts.

  • Baltimore Ravens should pursue a center, either by trade or targeted free-agent signing, after lacking a draft or free-agent signing at the position; the context notes limited free-agent options and the importance of stabilizing the interior line for pass protection and run blocking.

  • Buffalo Bills should re-sign linebacker Shaq Thompson to bolster a depth chart that struggled in 2025 under a new 3-4 scheme, leveraging Thompson’s high-level grading to shore up run defense and coverage.

  • Carolina Panthers could target Darren Waller or another veteran tight end to address their void at the position after missing out on the draft’s tight end run, with Waller providing red-zone value and veteran presence.

  • San Francisco 49ers are encouraged to add Joey Bosa to the edge rotation to boost pass rush depth, as no single defender registered more than four sacks last season and the team weighed affordability concerns in previous discussions.

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