Multiple NFL Trades Rock Offseason
Lions sent RB David Montgomery + 7th to Texans for C Juice Scruggs + 4th, while Texans flipped OT Tytus Howard to Browns for a 5th. Chiefs cut OT Jawaan Taylor and Bengals re-signed G Dalton Risner to a 1-year deal — free agency chaos in full swing.
The move to release Jawaan Taylor creates $20 million in salary cap space for the Kansas City Chiefs. This was a necessary financial decision, as his cap hit was projected to be over $27 million in 2026, the third-highest on the team. The release will leave behind approximately $7.4 million in dead money. Taylor's tenure with the Chiefs was marred by inconsistency, particularly with penalties. He was one of the most penalized offensive linemen in the league during his time in Kansas City, a factor that likely contributed to his release despite his role in their Super Bowl-winning season. Lingering injuries also played a part, as he finished the 2025 season on injured reserve. For the Cleveland Browns, acquiring Tytus Howard addresses a significant need to rebuild their offensive line. The trade came with a major financial commitment, as the Browns immediately signed Howard to a three-year, $63 million extension. Howard, who has experience at both tackle and guard, provides versatility to a unit that struggled in 2025. Houston's decision to trade Howard was driven by looming salary cap constraints and a desire to get younger on the offensive line. The move provides them with additional draft capital and financial flexibility, with significant contract negotiations for players like pass rusher Will Anderson Jr. on the horizon. In Detroit, the trade sending David Montgomery to Houston signals a shift in their backfield. Montgomery was in the midst of a two-year, $18.25 million extension he signed with the Lions. He had become part of a highly successful running back duo with Jahmyr Gibbs. The Bengals' re-signing of Dalton Risner brings stability to their offensive line, ensuring the starting unit is in place before free agency begins. Risner signed a one-year deal worth up to $3.25 million, with an additional $1.75 million available in incentives. After joining the team late last season due to injuries, he made 11 starts and played what he considered the best football of his career.
