Le Jackpot pour Trent McDuffie (Rams)! NFL News Roundup – Monday, March 9, 2026

Los Angeles Rams cornerback Trent McDuffie is now the highest-paid player at his position in NFL history. Just days after being acquired in a trade from the Kansas City Chiefs, McDuffie and the Rams reached an agreement on a four-year, $124 million contract extension, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The deal includes $100 million guaranteed.

The move solidifies McDuffie’s future with the Rams through the 2029 season, barring any unforeseen circumstances. The Rams clearly prioritized addressing the cornerback position this offseason, especially after four pending free agents at the position and the recent retirement of Darious Williams. McDuffie, a two-time All-Pro selection – including a First-Team nod in 2023 – has quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier cover corners in his 56 career games.

Bills Trade Taron Johnson to the Raiders

Cornerback Taron Johnson, who was anticipating potentially being released by the Buffalo Bills, has instead been traded to the Las Vegas Raiders. The Bills and Raiders agreed to a deal involving Johnson and a sixth or seventh-round draft pick, as reported by Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.

This trade allows Buffalo to avoid losing Johnson without receiving any compensation in return. For the Raiders, the acquisition brings an experienced cornerback to a secondary in need of reinforcement. While Johnson has battled injuries over the past two seasons, appearing in only 25 games, his veteran presence could prove valuable.

Eagles Optimistic About Retaining Jaelan Phillips

The Philadelphia Eagles are reportedly making a strong push to re-sign edge rusher Jaelan Phillips, who arrived mid-season in a trade with the Miami Dolphins for a third-round draft pick. NFL Media reports growing optimism in Philadelphia regarding a potential agreement with Phillips, who will be a free agent shortly.

Phillips recorded 28 tackles and 2 sacks in 8 games with the Eagles this season. Defensive Coordinator Vic Fangio and his staff believe they can unlock even more potential from the pass rusher.

Bengals Considering Joe Flacco for Backup Role

The Cincinnati Bengals are reportedly interested in retaining veteran quarterback Joe Flacco as a backup for the 2026 season, according to NFL Network. Flacco is said to be strongly considering the option, though his priority remains finding a team where he can compete for a starting role.

Should a starting opportunity not materialize, the Bengals are reportedly Flacco’s top choice for a backup position.

Packers Secure Sean Rhyan with Lucrative Extension, Potential Receiver Moves?

The Green Bay Packers have signed offensive lineman Sean Rhyan to a three-year, $33 million contract, with the potential to reach $39 million based on performance incentives. Rhyan, who played 17 games for the Packers in 2025, transitioned from right guard to starting center during the season.

This deal places Rhyan among the top-ten highest-paid centers in the league, a figure some consider surprising given his performance to date. The move could also signal the potential release of veteran center/guard Elgton Jenkins. ESPN reports that the Packers are open to trade offers for wide receivers Dontayvion Wicks and Jayden Reed, with Wicks being the more likely of the two to be moved.

Vikings Extend Eric Wilson’s Stay

Linebacker Eric Wilson will remain with the Minnesota Vikings for the next three seasons after agreeing to a $22.5 million contract with $12.5 million guaranteed, as reported by NFL Network.

Wilson’s second stint with the Vikings has been far more successful than his first (2017-2020). He started all 16 games last season, recording 115 tackles, 6.5 sacks, and 4 forced fumbles, establishing himself as a key contributor to the defense.

Broncos Lock Up Strnad and Trautman

The Denver Broncos have extended the contracts of linebacker Justin Strnad and tight end Adam Trautman. Strnad signed a three-year, $18 million deal with $10 million guaranteed. Drafted in the fifth round in 2020, Strnad has steadily become a key player, even filling in for starters Alex Singleton and Dre Greenlaw. He recorded 58 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and 1 interception in 16 games last season, starting 8.

Denver also re-signed tight end Adam Trautman to a three-year, $17 million contract, along with tight end Nate Adkins (1 year) and quarterback Sam Ehlinger (1 year, $2 million). Trautman is a key blocking tight end for Sean Payton’s offense, having caught 20 passes for 195 yards last season.

Cardinals Make Moves to Secure Specialists and Restructure Contracts

The Arizona Cardinals have extended the contracts of punter Blake Gillikin (one year, $2.65 million) and kicker Chad Ryland (one year, contract amount undisclosed). NFL Network also reports that running back James Connor and cornerback Sean Murphy-Burting have agreed to restructure their contracts, reducing their salary cap impact for 2026.

Colts to Maintain Blake Grupe

Kicker Blake Grupe, who joined the Indianapolis Colts mid-season, is expected to remain with the team in 2026. He has signed a new one-year contract, according to his agent. Grupe finished the season with a perfect 11-for-11 on field goals and 10-for-10 on extra points, and will compete with Spencer Shrader in training camp for the starting role.

The NFL offseason is rapidly unfolding, with teams making significant moves to shape their rosters for the upcoming season. The Rams’ aggressive pursuit and successful signing of Trent McDuffie signals their intent to contend in the NFC West.

Next Up: The NFL Draft is scheduled to begin on April 29, 2026, in Detroit, Michigan. Teams will look to add young talent to fill remaining roster needs.

What do you suppose of these moves? Let us know in the comments below!