NFL free agency has begun, and we’re keeping track of every major signing, trade and release of the 2026 offseason, with analysis from our NFL Nation reporters and grades from our experts.
The new league year begins Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET, which means free agents can be made official after that. The first round of the 2026 NFL draft begins April 23 on ESPN.
Here’s a breakdown of every 2026 NFL free agent deal by the New York Giants and how each will impact the upcoming season:
Likely joining Giants, Harbaugh on three-year deal.
What it means: The Giants are adding a weapon for young quarterback Jaxson Dart to offset the expected loss of wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson. Likely comes from Baltimore where he played under coach John Harbaugh. It’s a scheme-defining move for the Giants. They are going to be using a lot of 12 personnel with two tight ends now with Likely and Theo Johnson on the roster. The Giants are betting on Likely taking his game to the next level with more opportunities as their “F” or move tight end who will be used all over the field.
Stout and the Giants have agreed to a three-year contract.
What it means: Stout is another player coming from the Baltimore-to-New York pipeline along with Harbaugh. He will reunite with Harbaugh and special teams coach Chris Horton. The addition of Stout is part of the overhaul of the Giants’ specialists. Former punter Jamie Gillan will be cut and long-snapper Casey Kreiter is unlikely to return, sources told ESPN. Kicker Graham Gano also appears likely to be a cap casualty. Stout is an upgrade given he was a first-team All-Pro punter this past season while averaging 50.1 yards per punt.
The Giants and Edmunds agreed to a three-year contract.
What it means: There is a new quarterback of the defense for Big Blue, replacing the recently released Bobby Okereke. Edmunds is a respected veteran who has a track record of success.
The Giants weren’t willing to trade for him, so they waited until he was released and then agreed to a deal after the start of free agency that includes $23.7 million guaranteed at $12 million per season. Edmunds started out last season strong, got banged up and sputtered down the stretch. But multiple sources who watched his tape said they believe he can still play at a high level despite this being his ninth professional season. He’ll also become an instant leader.
The Giants to re-sign Eluemunor for three years.
What it means: The Giants retain their bookend tackles to protect Jaxson Dart, with standout Andrew Thomas on the left side and Eluemunor on the right. Eluemunor, 31, was one of the big free agent wins (2 years for $14 million in 2024) of the Joe Schoen era. The Giants were intent on keeping him. First, though, Eluemunor wanted to test the market, which spoke in New York’s advantage. A three-year deal at $13 million per season is a relative bargain for an above-average tackle. Eluemunor might not be a perfect fit in the team’s new offense, but his pass protection should help keep Dart comfortable in the pocket.
Hodgins to re-sign on a one-year deal.
What it means: Hodgins returns after rejoining the Giants midway through last season. He’s a trustworthy receiver who fits the profile as a physical player who can block on the edges in the offense the Giants plan to run under Harbaugh. It’s a one-year deal that won’t cost the Giants much either while giving them a contingency at the position after losing Robinson to the Titans. Still, don’t be surprised if the Giants still look to add another wide receiver in the second or third wave of free agency.
Washington to sign a one-year deal with the Giants.
What it means: Washington will replace Dane Belton as a versatile defensive back who contributes on special teams. He also has a connection to Harbaugh and Horton from their time together in Baltimore. Washington returned late last year after sitting out most of the season because of an Achilles injury. The hope is that he flourishes more than a year removed from the injury. And he can be used all over the field in different roles in Dennard Wilson’s defense.
