Kenneth Walker III and Mike Evans lead early NFL free-agent rankings

A ranking of NFL free-agent signings through the first five weeks of the 2026 season names Kenneth Walker III and Mike Evans as the leading additions.

Walker joined the Kansas City Chiefs, while Evans joined the San Francisco 49ers.

Both teams are undefeated, and the article says Walker’s rushing has been historic while Evans is helping quarterback Brock Purdy make an early-season MVP case.

Their impact stands out because football players do not always fit easily into new teams’ systems, which differ in schemes, playbooks and play-calling.

The ranking also highlights Carolina Panthers linebacker Devin Lloyd, whose two interceptions, pick-six and sack came in one game, and Las Vegas Raiders linebacker Nakobe Dean, who leads the NFL with three forced fumbles.

These signings are helping teams make plays early in the season, though the article notes that the Raiders have also allowed their points and yardage totals to rise in each of their first five games.

The ranking assesses the players’ effects on their new teams through Week 5.