New Headline: "Jets Show Promise With Revamped Strategy; Five Key Stars Stand Out Under New Coach

The first stage in a long NFL offseason full of roster changes is (mostly) in the books. The first wave of NFL free agency came and went with the first week of the new league year, which officially began on March 11. Teams around the league started making their first touches on March 9, when the NFL's "legal tampering" window allowed pending free agents and their agents to begin the negotiation process with other teams.

After an flurry of early moves, the free agent market has largely slowed down in the days after the new league year. During that first wave of signings, some teams improved more than others. Here are five teams that have done the most in free agency to improve their roster outlook going into the 2026 season: NFL NEWS, TAKES, FANTASY ADVICE: USA TODAY Sports has you covered with our NFL vodcast NFL free agency: Most improved teams New York Jets The Jets ' roster was among those most needing upgrades.

New York's 3-14 record was tied with three other teams' marks for the worst in the NFL last season. As free agency began, Gang Green general manager Darren Mougey worked quickly to reinforce the weakest points of the Jets' roster, particularly on the defensive side. Cornerback Nahshon Wright – who tied for the league lead in interceptions at his position – joined the Jets' secondary after a season in which New York did not record an interception.

Safety Dane Belton was another shrewd signing by Mougey to improve the Jets' secondary and special teams depth. In the front seven, defensive tackle David Onyemata and linebacker Demario Davis reunite with head coach Aaron Glenn after the three shared time on the Saints. Both will improve the Jets' run defense up front, while edge rushers Kingsley Enagbare and Joseph Ossai will add to New York's pass-rush attack.