Grading NFL Teams’ Free Agency Approaches for 2025
The NFL’s 2025 league year is officially underway, and with it, the flurry of free agency signings and trades has reshaped team rosters across the league. One week into this new era, it’s a fitting time to assess how each team has navigated the free agency landscape, acknowledging that the draft still looms large in completing the roster-building puzzle. Here’s a look at 30 of the 32 teams, graded on their approach to free agency thus far:
Arizona Cardinals: B+
The Cardinals have focused on bolstering a defense that ranked near the bottom of the league last year. The acquisition of edge rusher Josh Sweat for a significant contract signals their commitment to improving the pass rush. Interior defensive lineman Dalvin Tomlinson provides much-needed stability in the trenches, while retaining linebacker Baron Browning adds continuity. Offensively, the addition of veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett offers a reliable backup option behind Kyler Murray. With ample cap space remaining, General Manager Monti Ossenfort has the flexibility to reward key players like tight end Trey McBride with contract extensions. Overall, the Cardinals have made smart, targeted moves to address weaknesses.
Atlanta Falcons: D
The Falcons’ free agency approach is marred by the questionable decision to double down on the quarterback position, signing Kirk Cousins and drafting Michael Penix Jr. in the first round. Cousins’ contract severely limits their financial flexibility, hindering their ability to make significant improvements elsewhere. While extending offensive tackle Jake Matthews provided some relief, the additions of linebacker Leonard Floyd and Divine Deablo are underwhelming. The departures of Grady Jarrett and Drew Dalman to Chicago further weaken the team. With Cousins locked in and a massive dead cap hit looming if they move on, the Falcons are stuck in a difficult situation.
Baltimore Ravens: A
General Manager Eric DeCosta efficiently addressed the Ravens’ priorities despite limited cap space. Re-signing Pro Bowl offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley was crucial for protecting Lamar Jackson. Keeping fullback Patrick Ricard ensures the team’s rushing attack remains potent. Adding wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins provides a valuable target for Jackson, while veteran quarterback Cooper Rush offers a capable backup. The Ravens retained key players and made strategic additions without significant losses, positioning themselves for another Super Bowl run. The team is also positioned to begin long term extensions with cornerstone players.
Buffalo Bills: A-
The Bills secured their future by signing quarterback Josh Allen to a massive contract extension, a move that also provided the team with immediate cap relief. Defensive end Greg Rousseau’s extension solidifies their defensive line, while rewarding receiver Khalil Shakir acknowledges his growing importance in the offense. While linebacker Terrel Bernard’s contract may be a slight overpay, the Bills addressed their need for pass rush depth by adding Joey Bosa and Michael Hoecht. Josh Palmer brings a much needed field stretcher to the offense. With most of their key players locked up, the Bills are poised to contend for the AFC East title for years to come.
Carolina Panthers: C+
The Panthers invested heavily in their secondary, rewarding cornerback Jaycee Horn with a lucrative extension and signing safety Tre’von Moehrig. They addressed their defensive line by adding Tershawn Wharton and Bobby Brown, while also acquiring linebacker Patrick Jones. While Bryce Young may have to wait for more offensive help in the draft, Rico Dowdle provides a new dimension to their running game. The Panthers have focused on improving their defense, but questions remain about their offensive firepower.
Chicago Bears: A
The Bears are focused on surrounding quarterback Caleb Williams with a strong supporting cast. Hiring rookie head coach Ben Johnson was a significant step, followed by fortifying the offensive line with the acquisitions of Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson. The addition of Grady Jarrett and Dayo Odeyingbo to the defensive line further strengthens the team. With a bolstered offensive line and improved defense, Williams has no excuses for not succeeding in his rookie season. The Bears have made significant strides in their rebuild.
Cincinnati Bengals: C
The Bengals have committed a large portion of their cap space to Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins, making them one of the highest-paid trios in the league. However, this has limited their ability to address other needs, particularly on defense. Allowing Trey Hendrickson to seek a trade highlights their financial constraints. While keeping B.J. Hill and T.J. Slaton provides some stability on the defensive line, the Bengals have largely chosen to run it back with the same core, hoping for better results.
Cleveland Browns: D+
The Browns’ biggest move was extending Myles Garrett, which was a necessary step to keep their defense elite. However, their quarterback situation remains a major concern, with Kenny Pickett currently the nominal starter. With limited other moves of note, the Browns’ hopes for 2025 hinge on addressing their quarterback issue.
Dallas Cowboys: F
The Cowboys had a disastrous free agency period. After extending Osa Odighizuwa, they made a series of questionable decisions, including letting DeMarcus Lawrence and Jourdan Lewis leave, downgrading at defensive end, and opting for a questionable running back tandem of Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders. Trades for Kenneth Murray and Kaiir Elam were head-scratching, while their backup quarterback situation is now dire. The Cowboys appear to be taking a step back in 2025.
Denver Broncos: B
The Broncos prioritized retaining their own players, extending Evan Engram, Dre Greenlaw, and Talanoa Hufanga. Keeping D.J. Jones on the defensive line further solidifies their defense. If these players can stay healthy, the Broncos could be a formidable team, particularly on defense.
Detroit Lions: B+
The Lions focused on re-signing their own players, including Derrick Barnes, Levi Onwuzurike, and Tim Patrick. They also added cornerback D.J. Reed, an upgrade over Carlton Davis III. By prioritizing continuity and adding a key piece in the secondary, the Lions are well-positioned to make another run at the Super Bowl.
Green Bay Packers: B
The Packers made targeted free agency signings, adding Aaron Banks and Nate Hobbs to address key needs. Retaining Brandon McManus and adding Mecole Hardman further strengthens the team. The Packers continue to make smart, under-the-radar moves that contribute to their success.
Houston Texans: C
The Texans made some puzzling moves, trading Laremy Tunsil despite C.J. Stroud being sacked frequently. They did acquire Christian Kirk and C.J. Gardner-Johnson while extending Derek Stingley. However, it seems that the Texans have shifted their focus to fleshing out the depth chart and hoping for help in the draft.
Indianapolis Colts: C+
The Colts made big gains in the secondary by adding Charvarius Ward and Cam Bynum. However, they lost key players on the offensive line and at defensive end. The arrival of Daniel Jones raises questions about the quarterback position and Anthony Richardson’s future.
Jacksonville Jaguars: B
The Jaguars made shrewd moves, upgrading their secondary with Jourdan Lewis and Eric Murray. They also gave Trevor Lawrence another deep threat in Dyami Brown and improved his protection by adding Patrick Mekari and Robert Hainsey. The Jaguars appear to be making smart, if not flashy, moves to improve their team.
Kansas City Chiefs: C-
Despite Patrick Mahomes’ restructured contract providing cap relief, the Chiefs’ offensive line remains a major concern. The loss of Joe Thuney and a gamble on Jaylon Moore at left tackle are worrisome. While they retained key players, the Chiefs need to address their offensive line to protect Mahomes.
Las Vegas Raiders: D
The Raiders extended Maxx Crosby, a necessary move to keep their franchise player. However, the trade for Geno Smith and other moves were underwhelming. The Raiders are unlikely to make significant progress in the AFC West.
Los Angeles Chargers: D-
The Chargers made puzzling moves, bringing back Khalil Mack but letting Joey Bosa go. They also lost quality players like Fulton and Palmer while spending on Mekhi Becton and Donte Jackson. The Chargers still lack a true No. 1 wide receiver and have concerns at cornerback.
Los Angeles Rams: B+
The Rams upgraded at wide receiver by adding Davante Adams after parting ways with Cooper Kupp. They also retained key players like Tutu Atwell and Alaric Jackson. The Rams continue to make smart moves to compete in the NFC West.
Miami Dolphins: D
The Dolphins continue to let young stars leave, while hoping that Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips return to form. Adding James Daniels provides some help on the offensive line, but relying on Zach Wilson as a backup quarterback is a risky proposition.
Minnesota Vikings: B
The Vikings moved on from Sam Darnold to turn the team over to J.J. McCarthy, using the money saved to improve the roster around him. They added interior beef on offense and bolstered their defense with Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave. The Vikings are making a clear effort to build around McCarthy.
New England Patriots: C-
The Patriots entered free agency with a ton of cap space, but struggled to attract top-tier talent. They did add Milton Williams and other defensive players, but their offense still lacks weapons for Drake Maye. The Patriots must now rely on the draft to address their offensive needs.
New Orleans Saints: B
The Saints once again managed to kick their bills into the future, allowing them to add Justin Reid and keep Chase Young and Juwan Johnson. Given their cap constraints, the Saints had a decent free agency period.
New York Giants: C-
The Giants heavily reinvested in their pass defense, securing Golston, Holland, and Adebo. However, their quarterback situation remains a mystery, with Tommy DeVito the only quarterback on the roster. The Giants need to address their quarterback position to have any chance of success.
New York Jets: D
The Jets are resetting their culture under rookie head coach Aaron Glenn. They acquired Justin Fields, a boom-or-bust signing who could expedite their rebuild. However, they may have overspent on Brandon Stephens and Andre Cisco.
Philadelphia Eagles: B+
The Eagles sweetened Saquon Barkley’s and Lane Johnson’s contracts before breaking the bank for Zack Baun. They added players with proven NFL track records at minimal cost and swung a nice trade for Dorian Thompson-Robinson. Howie Roseman always has something up his sleeve.
Pittsburgh Steelers: F
The Steelers’ free agency approach is nonsensical. After acquiring Fields, they gave up a second-rounder and a massive contract for DK Metcalf while paying 34-year-old Slay $10 million for a season of service. The Steelers’ plan is unclear and does not project as a team capable of any more than a nine- or 10-win season with nary a playoff victory.
San Francisco 49ers: C
The 49ers experienced a significant exodus of talent and experience. They did sign Mac Jones as a backup quarterback, but will be heavily relying on their youngsters and cheaper depth.
Seattle Seahawks: D
The Seahawks swapped in Sam Darnold for Geno Smith, traded away Metcalf, and made other significant changes. GM John Schneider’s wheeling and dealing has netted extra draft picks, but this team will be largely unrecognizable from last season.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: B+
The Buccaneers built a culture where players consistently re-sign, with Chris Godwin the latest to do so. They also retained Lavonte David and Ben Bredeson while adding Haason Reddick. The Buccaneers continue to be a team that is always in the mix.
Tennessee Titans: C
The Titans addressed their needs creatively, trading for Tunsil and Samuel. They brought back key players and locker room leaders. It will be interesting to see if these moves will be enough to get over the Super Bowl hump.
