2025 NFL Free Agency: Notable Cuts and Early Signings

The annual NFL free agency frenzy is upon us, a period of intense activity where all 32 teams engage in a high-stakes roster reshuffling. While much attention is paid to the players being signed, a significant aspect often overlooked is the release of players. This year, the 2025 free agency period has seen a flurry of notable cuts, with teams making calculated decisions to shed veteran contracts and adjust to evolving team strategies. These releases, often driven by salary cap considerations or a perceived decline in performance, create opportunities for other teams to acquire experienced players at potentially discounted rates. This article delves into some of the most significant cuts of the 2025 free agency period and highlights the initial moves some of these players have made.

Quarterback Carousel: Rodgers and Minshew Find New Paths

One of the biggest headlines of this offseason was the release of veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers by the New York Jets. After a disappointing 2024 season where the team stumbled to a 5-12 record despite Rodgers’ respectable stats (63% completion rate, 3,897 yards, 28 touchdowns, 11 interceptions), the Jets decided to move on. The team informed Rodgers in mid-February, and officially released him on March 12 with a post-June 1 designation, a strategic move to spread out the dead-cap hit over two seasons. The four-time NFL MVP, who turned 41 in December, now becomes a fascinating storyline as several teams, including the Giants, Steelers, and Vikings, are rumored to be potential landing spots.

Meanwhile, Gardner Minshew, after spending the last two seasons with the Raiders and Colts, also found himself on the open market. Las Vegas opted to usher in the Geno Smith era, leaving Minshew searching for a new team. Despite a solid performance in 2024 (66.3% completion rate, 2,013 yards, 9 touchdowns), his 2-7 record as a starter and career-high 10 interceptions likely contributed to the Raiders’ decision. However, Minshew’s experience and ability to start games make him an attractive option for quarterback-needy teams seeking a reliable backup.

Receiver Room Shakeups: Kupp, Lockett, and Adams Find New Homes

The wide receiver landscape has experienced significant upheaval this offseason. Cooper Kupp, a former Super Bowl MVP and NFL Offensive Player of the Year, was released by the Los Angeles Rams after they were unable to find a trade partner. Kupp has struggled with injuries since his stellar 2021 season, playing only 33 regular-season games since then. In 2024, he recorded 67 catches for 710 yards and six touchdowns in 12 games, serving as a secondary option to breakout star Puka Nacua.

Adding to the receiver shuffle, the Seattle Seahawks parted ways with veteran Tyler Lockett after a decade with the team. Lockett’s production dipped in 2024, with just 49 catches for 600 yards and two touchdowns, his lowest totals since 2017. Although a consistent performer and a former All-Pro as a return specialist, the Seahawks opted for a fresh start.

The Jets, in addition to Rodgers, also released Corey Davis, who was burdened with a substantial $38.3 million cap hit. Davis wasted no time finding a new home, signing with the Rams to fill the void left by Kupp. The three-time All-Pro had a productive 2024 season, recording 85 catches for 1,063 yards and eight touchdowns across 14 games with the Jets and Raiders.

Defensive Departures: Bosa, Miller, Slay, Mosley, Williams, and Allen Find New Teams

The defensive side of the ball has also seen numerous significant cuts. The Los Angeles Chargers released Joey Bosa, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. Bosa accumulated 72 sacks in 107 games for the Chargers, including five in 14 games last season. He quickly found a new home, inking a one-year deal worth up to $12 million with the Buffalo Bills to replace Von Miller.

Speaking of Miller, the Bills themselves released the veteran pass rusher after three seasons. While he managed six sacks in 13 games last season, his playing time decreased significantly. At nearly 36 years old, Miller may still find a role as a rotational pass rusher for a contender.

The Philadelphia Eagles, fresh off their Super Bowl 59 victory, experienced a defensive exodus. Veteran cornerback Darius Slay was among those released, despite a solid 2024 season with 49 tackles and 13 pass defenses. The Eagles opted to move forward with their younger cornerbacks, Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. Slay landed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he will pair with Joey Porter Jr.

Another Jet, linebacker C.J. Mosley, was also released. Mosley, a team captain and productive tackler, missed most of 2024 due to a neck injury. At 32 years old, the five-time Pro Bowler is looking for a new opportunity.

Marcus Williams, a safety who signed a lucrative deal with the Ravens in 2022, was also cut. After struggling with injuries and inconsistent play, the Ravens decided to move on. Williams, still relatively young at 29, has the potential to regain his ball-hawking form.

Chase Allen, a defensive lineman, was released. Despite battling back from an injury to play in the playoffs, Allen did not last long on the free-agent market. The 30-year-old signed a three-year deal with the Minnesota Vikings worth up to $60 million.

Offensive Line Changes: Andrews Farewell

David Andrews, a long-time center for the New England Patriots, was released after suffering a shoulder injury that limited him to just four games last season. The 32-year-old, who signed with the Patriots as an undrafted free agent in 2015 and won two Super Bowls, is contemplating retirement. The Patriots plan to honor him with a retirement ceremony if he chooses to hang up his cleats.

Running Back Adjustments: Edwards and Juszczyk’s Futures

Gus Edwards, a physical running back with the Chargers in 2024, was released after a season where he averaged a career-low 3.6 yards per carry. The Chargers’ acquisition of Najee Harris likely made Edwards expendable. As he approaches 30, Edwards’ future in the league remains uncertain.

Kyle Juszczyk, the veteran fullback for the 49ers, is also on the older side, nearing 34. However, he remains one of the best fullbacks in the league, earning nine consecutive Pro Bowl selections and an All-Pro nod in 2023. His contributions as a receiver and runner make him a valuable asset, and he should continue to draw interest.

Early Signings Indicate Trends

Several players have already found new teams, providing insight into team needs and market values. Bosa’s quick signing with the Bills highlights the demand for veteran pass rushers. Slay’s move to the Steelers underscores the importance of experienced cornerbacks. Allen’s significant deal with the Vikings reveals the value placed on interior defensive linemen. This initial wave of signings sets the stage for the remaining free agents to find their place and contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL.