The 2025 NFL free agency period is officially open, which means that most of the free agents have already signed. Because of the tampering window, which opened on Monday, a frenzy of deals has unfolded.
Emerging trends are becoming evident.
It’s important to remember that this is just the beginning. Many waves of free agency occur, with some extending into May after the NFL Draft or even July before training camps. However, early patterns are noticeable, making it a perfect time to highlight teams making significant moves.
Let’s explore these developments.
The Eagles disassembled their defense
The Eagles’ general manager, Howie Roseman, is unmatched in his approach. Consider the Saquon Barkley signing and the trades involving Haason Reddick and Bryce Huff. Each decision, whether it made headlines or not, has shaped the team’s trajectory.
Roseman’s innovative strategies keep the Eagles competitive.
This year, however, the focus is on losses rather than gains.
The Eagles have lost several key defensive players, including:
EDGE Josh Sweat
DT Milton Williams
S Chauncey Gardner-Johnson
CB Darius Slay
CB Isaiah Rodgers
CB James Bradberry
LB Oren Burks
While they won’t utilize their draft picks for another 14 months, the Eagles face the challenge of replacing these integral players. Each had a vital role on the defense. The question remains: how will Roseman address this?
With eight picks in the first five rounds of the 2025 draft, Philadelphia has ample opportunity to infuse new talent. Roseman also retained linebacker Zack Baun, who earned a lucrative contract after proving his worth.
The Vikings are using their rookie QB deal to get even better
The Vikings have bid farewell to Sam Darnold.
With J.J. McCarthy stepping into the spotlight, the Vikings are embracing change by acquiring new talent. Opting not to re-sign Darnold has opened financial avenues for other signings. The Vikings prioritized retaining their own talent, starting with cornerback Byron Murphy.
Their free-agent acquisitions include:
DT Jonathan Allen
DT Javon Hargrave
C Ryan Kelly
G Will Fries
CB Isaiah Rodgers
The Vikings are reinforcing their offensive line, addressing the nine sacks Darnold endured during a brief playoff run. They’re also enhancing their defensive front by adding formidable linemen capable of pressuring the quarterback.
The 49ers are taking a new direction, even if we don’t know where they’re headed
The 49ers appear to be following the Eagles’ lead, undergoing a significant overhaul. Unlike the Eagles, who recently celebrated a Super Bowl victory, the 49ers are in a rebuilding phase.
Prior to free agency, San Francisco parted ways with receiver Deebo Samuel, whose performance had diminished. They also released defensive linemen Maliek Collins, Leonard Floyd, and Javon Hargrave. Many top free agents have signed elsewhere, including tackle Moore, guard Aaron Banks, running back Elijah Mitchell, linebacker Dre Greenlaw, safety Talanoa Hufanga, and cornerback Charvarius Ward. The loss of Kyle Juszczyk, a fullback known for his versatility, further complicates their situation.
With Samuel and Juszczyk gone, the team must redefine its offensive identity.
Currently, their roster lacks significant new additions, raising uncertainty about their future direction.
The Chiefs and the Bills are following the same playbook: Use the QB (with restructures and recruiting) to sustain success
The Chiefs and Bills have effectively addressed their needs through strategic moves. Both teams benefited from their quarterbacks restructuring contracts, allowing for greater spending flexibility.
Josh Allen took a generous approach with his new contract, valued at $55 million annually. He left $5 million to $10 million on the table, enabling the Bills to add talent. They signed wide receiver Josh Palmer, a solid fit for their offensive strategy, and defensive end Joey Bosa, a veteran player with a proven track record.
In Kansas City, Patrick Mahomes also restructured his contract to create cap space. This allowed the Chiefs to address their left tackle position, signing Jaylon Moore to a two-year, $30 million deal. Additionally, cornerback Kristian Fulton was added to enhance their secondary.
Patriots are paying to get back into the mix
The New England Patriots made a bold statement by spending approximately $162 million on the first day of the tampering window. This swift action set the stage for a robust free agency class.
Their acquisitions include:
DT Milton Williams
CB Carlton Davis
LB Robert Spillane
LB Harold Landry
RT Morgan Moses
WR Mack Hollins
DT Khyiris Tonga
QB Joshua Dobbs
TE Austin Hooper
Coach Mike Vrabel emphasized a clear vision for this free agency: acquiring tough, reliable players. This strategy is evident in the roster moves.
What’s next for the Patriots? They may pursue tackle Cam Robinson and receiver Cooper Kupp to further enhance their roster.
The Cowboys and Bengals look like they put their phones on “do not disturb”
While some teams have made significant changes, others, like the Cowboys and Bengals, seem to be in a holding pattern.
In Cincinnati, contract disputes involving stars like Ja’Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Trey Hendrickson may be delaying their free agency strategy. So far, they have not made any impactful signings.
Similarly, the Cowboys have retained a couple of solid players, including defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa and receiver Kavontae Turpin. However, their activity has been minimal, with only a few modest signings.
The early days of free agency can be challenging, with teams often overcommitting to free agents who may not be the best fit. While some teams remain cautious, the proactive moves by the Chiefs and Bills raise questions about the Cowboys and Bengals’ lack of urgency.
