Patriots Update Quarterback Depth Chart for 2026 The New England Patriots are set to replace their current backup quarterback, Joshua Dobbs, with Tommy DeVito as the new second-stringer behind Drake Maye. According to NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport, the team plans to release Dobbs, a move that would save the Patriots approximately $3.7 million in salary and create only $1.05 million in dead cap obligations. Dobbs, who spent the 2025 season as Maye’s backup, saw limited playing time, appearing in just four games. His most significant action came in Week 7 against the Tennessee Titans, where he entered the game briefly after Maye was pulled for a concussion evaluation. Dobbs completed a single pass attempt, converting a third down to DeMario Douglas, before Maye returned to finish the drive, which ended with a Rhamondre Stevenson touchdown. The Patriots’ decision to part ways with Dobbs appears to be a strategic move to prioritize DeVito, a 2025 third-stringer they re-signed to a two-year deal. DeVito, who has eight NFL starts and backup experience, will now serve as Maye’s primary backup. The team has already engaged in trade discussions involving Dobbs, though the release seems likely to finalize after the free agency period. DeVito’s contract includes up to $2.3 million in salary and bonuses for 2026, with $2 million guaranteed. With Dobbs’ departure, the Patriots will need to identify a new third-string quarterback to handle practice drills and serve as an emergency backup. The team may target a veteran willing to take on a limited role, as the current roster lacks depth at the position. DeVito, though 27 years old, has only two seasons of NFL game experience, making him a relative newcomer.#ian_rapoport #new_england_patriots #drake_maye #tommy_devito #joshua_dobbs
NFL news roundup: Patriots release backup QB Josh Dobbs after no trade materializes The New England Patriots announced on March 23, 2026, that they had released quarterback Josh Dobbs following failed efforts to secure a trade. Dobbs, 31, had served as the team’s backup during the 2025 season, making four appearances and completing seven of 10 passes for 65 yards. The decision to cut Dobbs came after the Patriots could not find a team willing to match his contract terms, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport. Dobbs’ release marks the end of his tenure with the Patriots, where he joined the team in 2023. With the departure of Dobbs, the Patriots have shifted their quarterback depth, with Tommy DeVito now set to serve as the backup to first-year starter Drake Maye in 2026. The move reflects the team’s focus on streamlining its roster ahead of the 2026 season. The Patriots also made several other signings and transactions in the offseason. Offensive lineman James Hudson signed a one-year deal with the team, while defensive tackle Sam Roberts joined on a one-year contract. Additionally, the team announced the signing of tight end Stone Smartt and the departure of running back Travis Homer, who joined the Pittsburgh Steelers. Other notable moves included the re-signing of tight end Travis Kelce to a three-year, $54.735 million deal with the Kansas City Chiefs, which includes potential incentives pushing the total value to $57.735 million. Kelce’s 2026 salary is expected to be $12 million, with an additional $3 million in incentives. The Patriots’ roster adjustments highlight ongoing efforts to balance depth and salary cap flexibility.#ian_rapoport #new_england_patriots #drake_maye #tommy_devito #josh_dobbs
Denver Broncos Sign Safety/Special Teams Star Tycen Anderson The Denver Broncos have signed safety and special teams standout Tycen Anderson, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. The move, initially reported prematurely last night, has now been confirmed as the Broncos and Anderson have reached an agreement. Anderson, a former Cincinnati Bengals special teams ace, will bolster the Broncos’ depth at safety while enhancing their special teams unit. The Broncos lost safety P.J. Locke to the Dallas Cowboys in free agency, creating a need for additional depth in their safety room. Anderson, who was a key contributor for the Bengals on special teams, will compete with All-Pro special teamer Devon Key and JL Skinner for the third safety role on defense. His versatility and experience make him a valuable addition to the team’s secondary. Anderson, a fifth-round pick by the Bengals in the 2022 NFL Draft, quickly became a cornerstone of their special teams unit. Standing 6 feet 2 inches and weighing 203 pounds, he ran a 4.36-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine. Over his four seasons with the Bengals, he appeared in 41 games, primarily on special teams, and recorded 42 tackles. His role as a special teams ace was critical to the Bengals’ success, and his ability to contribute on both sides of the ball made him a key asset. NFL.com’s draft analyst, Lance Zierlein, highlighted Anderson’s potential as a backup down safety. He noted Anderson’s determination as a run supporter and his ability to fit into a backup role with upside. At Toledo, Anderson was a three-year starter who played as a big nickel and box add-on. His size, length, and speed stood out on tape, and he demonstrated solid run-stopping ability near the line of scrimmage.#ian_rapoport #denver_broncos #cincinnati_bengals #tycen_anderson #devon_key
Eagles sign former Jets TE Stone Smartt to a 1-year deal The Philadelphia Eagles have agreed to a one-year contract with former New York Jets tight end Stone Smartt, according to NFL reporter Ian Rapoport. The move adds depth to the team’s offensive options, leveraging Smartt’s versatility as a former college quarterback who has transitioned to the tight end position. Smartt, 27, will join a roster that already features established tight ends Dallas Goedert and Grant Calcaterra, both of whom have returned from injury or hiatus. In his most recent stint with the Jets during the 2025 season, Smartt played primarily on special teams and contributed minimally on offense. Over 15 games, he caught seven of nine targets for 52 yards, with at least one target in only three of those appearances. His role was limited due to the presence of more experienced tight ends like Mason Taylor, who was the primary target in the Jets’ passing game. Smartt’s NFL career has been marked by limited production. Over three seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers, he recorded just one touchdown catch in 53 regular-season games. He joined the Chargers as an undrafted free agent in 2022 after playing college football as a quarterback for Old Dominion. By his final season at the collegiate level, he had shifted to wide receiver before transitioning to tight end in the NFL. Standing at 6-foot-4 and 226 pounds, Smartt is more of a pass-catcher than a run-blocker, which aligns with the Eagles’ need for a versatile tight end who can contribute in multiple facets of the offense. His signing suggests the team is looking to bolster its options in a position group that has seen significant turnover in recent years.#philadelphia_eagles #ian_rapoport #dallas_goedert #new_york_jets #stone_smartt
Eagles' Stone Smartt: Headed to Philadelphia Stone Smartt is set to join the Philadelphia Eagles on a one-year contract, according to a report by NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. The move marks a new chapter for the tight end, who previously spent the initial three seasons of his NFL career with the San Diego Chargers. After a brief stint with the New York Jets in 2025, where he appeared in 15 games, Smartt recorded seven receptions for 52 yards on nine targets. Now, the 6-foot-4, 226-pound player will add depth to the Eagles' receiving corps. The team's tight end group is currently led by Dallas Goedert, with Grant Calcaterra and Johnny Mundt positioned behind him in the hierarchy. This signing is expected to enhance the team's flexibility in the red zone and provide additional options for quarterback Jalen Hurts in the 2025 season. Smartt's experience and physical attributes are seen as valuable assets as the Eagles aim to strengthen their offensive capabilities. The deal underscores the team's focus on bolstering their receiving options while maintaining a balanced approach to roster management.#philadelphia_eagles #ian_rapoport #dallas_goedert #jalen_hurts #stone_smartt
Eagles agree to one-year deal with TE Stone Smartt Philadelphia has reached a one-year agreement with tight end Stone Smartt, according to NFL Media's Ian Rapoport. The 27-year-old player last competed in the AFC East before joining the Eagles. Smartt spent the 2025 season with the New York Jets, appearing in 15 games including one start. His role was primarily on special teams, and he recorded seven receptions for 52 yards during the season. The tight end, a former college quarterback, began his professional career with the Los Angeles Chargers after going undrafted in 2022. Over his first three seasons with the team, he played in 53 games. In those contests, Smartt accumulated 38 receptions for 432 yards and scored one touchdown.#ian_rapoport #philadelphia #nfl_media #new_york_jets #stone_smartt
Buffalo Bills Sign Former Miami Dolphins Pass Rusher Bradley Chubb to Three-Year, $43.5 Million Contract The Buffalo Bills have signed two-time Pro Bowler Bradley Chubb to a three-year, $43.5 million deal, according to reports from NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport, Mike Garafolo, and Tom Pelissero. The contract includes $29 million in guaranteed money and could total up to $52.5 million if incentives are met. Chubb, a 29-year-old edge rusher, becomes the latest addition to the Bills’ defensive front after being released by the Miami Dolphins as part of their salary cap restructuring efforts. Chubb’s departure from Miami was confirmed in mid-February, with the Dolphins officially releasing him on Wednesday. The move allowed him to explore free agency before his post-June 1 designation became official. Chubb quickly found a new opportunity, signing with the Bills less than an hour into the new league year. The decision marks a significant shift for the former first-round pick, who spent four seasons with the Dolphins after missing the 2024 season due to an ACL injury. During his time with Miami, Chubb recorded 8.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and 47 tackles in 17 games in 2025, his final season with the team. Over three seasons with the Dolphins, he totaled 22 sacks, 133 tackles, nine forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries in 41 games. However, his tenure was marked by instability, as the Dolphins’ defense was coached by three different coordinators over the past four campaigns. The Bills’ decision to sign Chubb mirrors a similar move made by general manager Brandon Beane in 2025, when he signed Joey Bosa to a one-year, $12.6 million deal.#buffalo_bills #ian_rapoport #mike_garafolo #miami_dolphins #bradley_chubb
Denver Broncos Release Linebacker Dre Greenlaw The Denver Broncos have officially released linebacker Dre Greenlaw, according to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport. The decision comes after the team signed Alex Singleton and Justin Strnad to new contracts, effectively moving on from Greenlaw. The move was part of a strategic adjustment to manage the team’s salary cap and improve depth at the linebacker position. Greenlaw was a significant free agent acquisition for the Broncos last offseason, generating excitement among fans. However, his tenure with the team was marred by injury concerns. His contract included terms that allowed the Broncos to terminate it without significant financial penalty, which they exercised after just one season. The decision to release him was driven by his limited playing time, as he was sidelined for much of the 2025 season due to recurring injuries. The Broncos’ release of Greenlaw saves approximately $6 million in salary cap space, providing flexibility as they navigate the 2026 offseason. Singleton, who returns as a team leader and “green dot” player, remains a key figure in the linebacker corps. Strnad, who stepped in for Greenlaw, performed well during his absence and has since solidified his role as a starting linebacker. With Singleton and Strnad entrenched, the Broncos now aim to bolster their linebacker depth by targeting talent in the early rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft. The team’s approach reflects a balance between retaining proven performers and investing in future potential. While Greenlaw’s departure was disappointing, it underscores the risks associated with high-profile free agent signings. His injury history and limited production made the decision a calculated move for the Broncos.#ian_rapoport #denver_broncos #dre_greenlaw #alex_singleton #justin_strnad
Broncos to Release Dre Greenlaw The Denver Broncos are set to cut ties with linebacker Dre Greenlaw, ending his tenure with the team after a brief stint. The decision comes as the team moves to reshape its linebacker corps, with Greenlaw becoming the most notable departure from the unit. According to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport, the Broncos will release Greenlaw before the March 5 deadline, which allows the team to avoid guaranteeing the remaining portion of his contract. Greenlaw was signed to a three-year deal in March 2023, but the Broncos will not carry him into the second year of the agreement. The release will clear more than $6 million in salary cap space, though the team will also face over $4.3 million in dead money, which represents unpaid compensation from the contract. The move is part of the Broncos’ efforts to manage financial obligations while restructuring their defense. Greenlaw’s time with the Broncos was marked by limited playing time and injury challenges. He suffered a quad injury early in the 2025 season, which sidelined him for several games. Additionally, he missed another contest due to a suspension. Despite these setbacks, Greenlaw contributed in his appearances, recording 43 tackles, a sack, an interception, and a forced fumble across eight regular-season games. The Broncos have opted to re-sign other linebackers, including Justin Strnad and Alex Singleton, which underscores the team’s focus on retaining depth at the position. Greenlaw’s release signals a shift in strategy, as the Broncos look to prioritize players who can contribute more consistently to their defensive scheme. The move also highlights the financial considerations teams face when managing contracts and cap space in the NFL.#ian_rapoport #denver_broncos #nfl_media #dre_greenlaw #march_5_deadline
Detroit Lions Add Veteran Larry Borom to Strengthen Offensive Line The Detroit Lions are expanding their offensive line on the first day of free agency by signing veteran left tackle Larry Borom, according to reports from NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero. This follows the team’s earlier move to bring in Cade Mays from the Panthers to serve as their starting center. Rapoport highlighted that offensive line support was a key priority for the Lions, emphasizing the need for depth and versatility as the team undergoes a significant overhaul of its front line. Borom, a former fifth-round draft pick by the Bears in 2021, spent last season with the Dolphins, where he primarily played as a tackle. His ability to adapt to both guard and tackle positions makes him a valuable addition for the Lions, who are looking to address gaps on their offensive line. While Borom is likely to serve as a swing tackle for Detroit, his experience could also position him as a potential replacement for Taylor Decker at left tackle, should the need arise. The Lions’ offensive line has already undergone substantial changes compared to last season. Decker, who was a key player at left tackle, is no longer with the team, as is former starting guard/center Graham Glasgow. Mays’ arrival as the new center marks a shift in the team’s approach, while young guards Tate Ratledge and Christian Mahogany are expected to take on more prominent roles unless Borom displaces one of them. Reports suggest the Lions may also consider moving All-Pro right tackle Penei Sewell to left tackle, further indicating the team’s willingness to make adjustments. However, the need for a reliable left tackle remains, and Borom’s signing provides immediate depth in that area.#ian_rapoport #tom_pelissero #detroit_lions #cade_mays #larry_borom
NFL Giants Ink Tight End Isaiah Likely to Three-Year, $40 Million Contract The New York Giants have finalized a significant free agency move by agreeing to terms with tight end Isaiah Likely on a three-year, $40 million contract. The deal, reported by NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero, includes up to $47.5 million in performance incentives, making it one of the most lucrative contracts for a tight end in recent years. Likely, a key target for the Giants in the 2026 offseason, is expected to bolster their offensive options as the team looks to compete in the highly competitive NFC East. The signing marks a major addition to the Giants' roster, which has been actively pursuing upgrades to address weaknesses in their receiving corps. Likely, who previously played for the New England Patriots, brings experience and versatility to the team. His ability to stretch the field and create mismatches against linebackers is expected to provide the Giants with a dynamic target in the passing game. The deal comes amid a flurry of activity in the NFL free agency market, with multiple teams making bold moves to reshape their rosters. The Giants’ decision to lock up Likely reflects their commitment to building a balanced offense capable of challenging for playoff contention. With the 2026 season approaching, the Giants’ front office has prioritized adding proven talent to complement their existing core. Likely’s contract underscores the growing importance of tight ends in the modern NFL, where players like him are often key contributors to high-octane offenses. His signing also highlights the Giants’ willingness to invest in players who can make an immediate impact.#ian_rapoport #tom_pelissero #new_england_patriots #new_york_giants #isaias_likely
San Francisco 49ers and Kicker Eddy Pineiro Agree to Four-Year, $17 Million Contract San Francisco 49ers kicker Eddy Pineiro has reached an agreement with the team on a four-year, $17 million contract that includes $10 million in guaranteed money, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport. The deal marks a reward for Pineiro’s standout 2025 season, during which he solidified his status as one of the league’s top kickers. Pineiro joined the 49ers after the team waived kicker Jake Moody just one game into the 2025 season. Taking over the kicking duties in Week 2, Pineiro quickly became a reliable force for the 49ers, contributing to their success under head coach Kyle Shanahan. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout the season, the team secured another postseason berth, with Pineiro playing a key role in their efforts. In 2025, the 30-year-old kicker converted 28 of 29 field goals, including six of seven from 50 yards or more, while also making 34 of 38 extra points. These performances earned him the league lead in field goal accuracy at 96.6%, a testament to his consistency and skill. Over his career, Pineiro has maintained an impressive 89.7% field goal conversion rate (139 of 155) and a 91.5% extra point accuracy (150 of 164). The 49ers have expressed confidence in Pineiro’s ability to remain their primary kicker for the foreseeable future. His performance in the Bay Area has not only bolstered the team’s special teams unit but also provided stability in a position that is critical to playoff success. Pineiro’s new contract reflects the team’s recognition of his value and the impact he has made during his time with the 49ers. As the 49ers look to build on their 2025 accomplishments, Pineiro’s presence on the field is expected to be a key factor in their continued competitiveness.#ian_rapoport #san_francisco_49ers #nfl_network #eddy_pineiro #kyle_shanahan
Packers Make Sean Rhyan Decision Ahead of NFL Free Agency The Green Bay Packers have finalized a significant move to strengthen their offensive line ahead of the NFL’s free agency period. With the negotiation window set to open on Monday, the team has secured a three-year contract extension for starting center Sean Rhyan, according to reports from NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero. The deal is valued at $33 million, with the potential to reach $39 million in total value, including an $11 million signing bonus. Rhyan’s contract places him among the league’s highest-paid centers despite having started only nine games at the position. The agreement was negotiated by representatives from Equity Sports, including Sam Mirza, Cameron Foster, and Chris Cabott. Rapoport highlighted the deal on social media, noting that Rhyan’s role as a versatile interior lineman has made him a key asset for the Packers. Rhyan, a third-round draft pick in 2022, has evolved into one of Green Bay’s most reliable offensive linemen. The 25-year-old has played every interior position on the line, providing flexibility for the coaching staff during injury challenges. His adaptability has been crucial to the team’s success, as he has filled multiple roles over the past few seasons. Last season, Rhyan took over as the starting center after Elgton Jenkins was sidelined, logging seven games at the position. Prior to that, he had started four games at right guard. In 2024, he started all 17 regular-season games at right guard, marking a significant milestone in his career. His first two seasons were spent learning the system, with limited starts but consistent appearances in 13 games.#green_bay_packers #sean_rhyan #ian_rapoport #tom_pelissero #equity_sports
