Top 6 Worst NFL Free Agent Deals of 2026
The 2026 NFL free agent market has opened, and with it came several eye-popping contracts. While players celebrate their new deals, some franchises should be regretting their decisions. Below are the top six worst NFL free agent deals of 2026 based on performance and market value.
Top 6 Worst NFL Free Agent Deals of 2026
1. Alec Pierce – Indianapolis Colts
The Colts have made headlines with their significant investment in wide receiver Alec Pierce. He received a four-year contract worth $114 million, making it the largest deal for a free agent wide receiver in NFL history. This totals an average of $29 million annually.
Despite this impressive figure, Pierce’s performance does not justify the salary. He currently earns more than notable receivers such as Jaylen Waddle and DeVonta Smith, yet he has not consistently performed at their level.
2. Jaelan Phillips – Carolina Panthers
Jaelan Phillips signed a staggering contract totaling $120 million, making him the highest-paid free agent of the year. With a mere five sacks in the 2025 season, this amounts to $6 million per sack. Additionally, Phillips has never achieved double-digit sacks in a season, raising questions about the value of this contract.
3. Tyler Linderbaum – Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders handed center Tyler Linderbaum a massive three-year deal worth $81 million. This $27 million per year payout sets a new record for center contracts. However, it surpasses the salary of Creed Humphrey by $9 million, despite Humphrey’s superior performance. This investment seems both excessive and risky for the franchise.
4. Odafe Oweh – Washington Commanders
Oweh recently inked a four-year, $100 million deal with the Commanders, placing him as the 11th-highest paid edge rusher. Although he recorded 7.5 sacks last season, his previous inconsistency raises doubts about whether he can maintain or improve on his performance. The substantial investment might be premature given his recent history.
5. Isaiah Likely – New York Giants
The Giants are banking heavily on tight end Isaiah Likely with a deal that averages over $13 million per season. However, Likely’s production has been lackluster, with a maximum of 42 receptions and 500 yards in any given season. The expectation seems high considering his unproven abilities, making this a risky signing.
6. Charlie Kolar – Los Angeles Chargers
Finally, the Chargers have committed $8.1 million to tight end Charlie Kolar, whose strength appears to be in blocking rather than receiving. This move raises eyebrows, especially given the team’s ongoing struggles to enhance their receiving corps. The reliance on a tight end who contributes little to the passing game is a concerning strategy for the Chargers.
In summary, the NFL’s 2026 free agency has seen teams make questionable commitments. These deals may hinder franchise growth and productivity in the years to come. As teams evaluate their investments, it remains to be seen how these players will perform under the weight of their newfound contracts.
