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Predicting the first three 2026 NFL Free Agency signings

The NFL’s unofficial free agency window opens Monday with “legal tampering” set to begin at 12PM. Players whose deals expire will be free to sign where the offers present themselves.

The first few free agency signings usually come in relatively quickly. Agents have an idea of who is interested in their client’s talents and have likely discussed scenarios with them.

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Here is a prediction of the first three agreements to come on Monday afternoon.

Green Bay Packers quarterback Malik Willis (2) against the Seattle Seahawks on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis. The Packers defeated the Seahawks 20-7. Wm. Glasheen USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin

Malik Willis heads to Arizona

Willis worked closely with Matt LaFleur in Green Bay. From there, Willis became the hottest name in the 2026 NFL Free Agency.

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He played four games for the Packers in 2024 and 2025. He was Jordan Love’s primary backup and played exceptionally when called upon.

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Willis has been linked to the Miami Dolphins due to the Packers’ defensive coordinator, Jeff Hafley, getting hired there for his first NFL head coaching gig. The other LaFleur brother might create even more comfort for Willis–who is also an offensive mind from the Shanahan tree.

Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson (91) celebrates a sack in the fourth quarter of the NFL Week 1 game between the Cleveland Browns and the Cincinnati Bengals at Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland on Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025. The Bengals begin the season with a 17-16 win over the Browns.

Trey Hendrickson joins America’s Team

If there’s one area the Dallas Cowboys need to improve in, it’s on defense. After trading away Micah Parsons last year, the pass rush has missed his presence.

The good news is that there are good options on the NFL free agency market. One of those is former Cincinnati Bengals’ EDGE rusher, Trey Hendrickson.

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Hendrickson reportedly has the interest of Jerry Jones and company. Hendrickson is still a high-producing pass-rusher and can help revive the Cowboys’ defense.

Jan 4, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Alec Pierce (14) catches a touchdown pass against the Houston Texans during the first half at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Shea-Imagn Images

Alec Pierce joins the AFC champions

The Indianapolis Colts were left to choose between Daniel Jones and Alec Pierce at the NFL franchise tag deadline. They ultimately decided on Jones with hopes of working out a deal with Pierce.

Pierce wants to test the free agent market to see what his value is. Reports have previously indicated the New England Patriots are interested in his services.

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After reportedly being denied in an A.J. Brown trade offer, the Patriots should lock in the NFL’s hottest free-agent wide receiver. Pierce’s big-play ability makes him one of this year’s most coveted NFL free agents.

Feb 4, 2026; San Francisco, CA, USA; The NFL shield logo at the Super Bowl LX Experience at the Moscone Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

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