Top 5 NFL Teams Excelling in Free Agency Upgrades

Emerson Raymont

Published: April 9, 2026 10:24 AM ET

The NFL offseason is abuzz with excitement as teams finalize their strategies in preparation for the upcoming draft. Free agency not only impacts teams’ immediate performance but also shapes their future trajectories. Several NFL teams have made significant improvements, particularly in their rosters through shrewd acquisitions. Below are the top five NFL teams excelling in free agency upgrades, showcasing their strategic maneuvers to bolster their chances for the next season.

Top 5 NFL Teams Excelling in Free Agency Upgrades

1. Las Vegas Raiders

The Raiders have made noteworthy signings that are expected to elevate their competitiveness. With a revamped offensive coaching staff, including Klint Kubiak and Andrew Janocko, the team aims for a coherent strategy. Key acquisitions like center Tyler Linderbaum are anticipated to enhance the offensive line significantly.

Projected win total: 5.5
Pythagorean win-loss projection last season: 3.4 wins

These changes, along with solid defensive additions, could help the Raiders stay competitive within their division.

2. San Francisco 49ers

The 49ers made a pivotal move by signing veteran wide receiver Mike Evans. This acquisition aims to alleviate pressure on running back Christian McCaffrey, who faced heavy defensive schemes last season. Additionally, the team bolstered its defensive line with Osa Odighizuwa, who is renowned for his ability to generate pressures.

Odighizuwa ranks in the top 10 for both pass-rush and run-stop win rates among defensive tackles.

3. Denver Broncos

The Broncos focused on enhancing their offensive capabilities, eager to overcome last season’s struggles. Signing playmaker Jaylen Waddle could revolutionize their attack. His speed and skill are expected to open up the field for quarterback Bo Nix, helping the team achieve a higher explosive-play rate.

Denver’s explosive-play rate last season: 5.3%

4. Los Angeles Rams

With defensive coordinator Chris Shula at the helm, the Rams made substantial upgrades, particularly in their secondary. The addition of cornerbacks Jaylen Watson and Trent McDuffie is a strategic move to solidify their defense against elite passing offenses. The Rams now possess a versatile secondary capable of adapting to various offensive schemes.

The Rams finished as a top-10 run defense last season.

5. Houston Texans

The Texans focused on rebuilding their offensive line, signing players like Braden Smith and Wyatt Teller. Their acquisitions come as part of an overhaul aimed at improving last season’s dismal offensive performance. Houston’s proactive moves, which also included signing running back David Montgomery, highlight their strategy to foster competitiveness without extensive financial expenditure.

Last season, the Texans ranked 30th in pass-block win rate.
They were last in run-block win rate.

These five teams have demonstrated a commitment to improvement through strategic acquisitions and a keen understanding of their needs. As the offseason progresses, these upgrades will impact their performance in the approaching season.