ESPN analysts map potential destinations for 14 NFL free agents
A recent editorial assessment from ESPN identifies ideal landing spots for unsigned players, including Deebo Samuel, Joey Bosa, and Stefon Diggs, as the league navigates the post-draft offseason.
ESPN has published an analysis identifying potential landing spots for 14 unsigned free agents in the 2026 NFL offseason, including Deebo Samuel, Joey Bosa, and Stefon Diggs. The evaluation considers scheme compatibility, immediate impact, and team salary cap space, suggesting players may serve as rotational contributors or competition for starting roles. Proposed matches include Stefon Diggs joining the Los Angeles Rams, Joey Bosa returning to the San Francisco 49ers alongside his brother Nick, and Deebo Samuel signing with the Indianapolis Colts.
The assessment outlines specific strategic alignments for several high-profile names. Stefon Diggs is suggested for the Los Angeles Rams, where he would pair with Puka Nacua and Davante Adams. The analysis notes that the Rams attempted 430 passes from 11 personnel last season, a figure that ranked ninth in the league, and argues that Diggs’ ability to line up inside or outside fits coach Sean McVay’s offensive structure.
Joey Bosa is proposed as a fit for the San Francisco 49ers, a move that would see him reunited with his brother, Nick Bosa. ESPN analysts highlight Bosa’s pass-rushing capabilities within coordinator Raheem Morris’ defence, noting his five sacks and 42 pressures in Buffalo last season. The report suggests Bosa would provide quality depth for a 49ers’ pass rush that ranked last in pressure rate and total sacks in 2025.
Deebo Samuel is linked to the Indianapolis Colts, where he would complement Alec Pierce and Josh Downs in coach Shane Steichen’s offence. The evaluation points to Samuel’s 72 receptions in Washington last season and his ability to serve as a catch-and-run target for quarterback Daniel Jones. The analysis suggests Steichen could utilise Samuel in crossers, screens, and fly sweeps to create schematic advantages.
Other proposed fits include Epenesa to the Green Bay Packers, Decker to the Miami Dolphins, and Smith to the Carolina Panthers. The report also suggests Jordan returning to the New Orleans Saints, Wagner joining the Jacksonville Jaguars, and Becton returning to the Philadelphia Eagles. Additional suggestions place Clowney with the Dallas Cowboys, Miller with the Chicago Bears, Chubb with the Dallas Cowboys, and another Diggs, a defensive back, with the Washington Commanders.
The analysis emphasises that these players are likely to be used as rotational guys or to provide competition for starting roles during training camps. ESPN notes that while the main wave of free agency wrapped up in March and teams addressed most needs through the 2026 draft, there remain plenty of unsigned free agents searching for new teams this summer.
