Finding the Diamonds in the Rough: Bargain Free Agent Signings That Could Define the 2025 NFL Season
NFL free agency is often characterized by splashy signings and exorbitant contracts. Fans and analysts alike fixate on which teams are acquiring the biggest names, the players expected to immediately transform struggling franchises into contenders. However, the true art of free agency lies not just in securing marquee talent, but in identifying undervalued players who can significantly impact their new teams at a fraction of the cost.
Last offseason, the Philadelphia Eagles demonstrated this perfectly. While the acquisition of superstar running back Saquon Barkley understandably dominated headlines, their shrewd signing of linebacker Zack Baun on a modest one-year, $1.6 million deal proved to be a masterstroke. Baun shattered expectations, delivering an All-Pro caliber season with 151 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and five forced fumbles. His contributions were pivotal in the Eagles’ Super Bowl 59 triumph over the Kansas City Chiefs, a resounding 40-22 victory that underscored the importance of hidden gems.
Unearthing another player like Baun won’t be easy. These types of deals are rare and can be a shot in the dark. However, several under-the-radar signings from this year’s free agency period possess the potential to yield far greater returns than their contracts suggest. Let’s delve into six such moves that could prove to be considerable upgrades for their respective teams.
1. Poona Ford to the Los Angeles Rams:
The Rams faced a significant challenge in replacing the irreplaceable Aaron Donald following his retirement. While they displayed admirable resilience during the 2024 season, their run defense remained a glaring weakness. They ranked a middling 20th in EPA (Expected Points Added) against the run and were repeatedly gashed by opposing running backs, most notably allowing Saquon Barkley to eclipse 200 rushing yards twice.
Enter Poona Ford, the former Los Angeles Charger defensive tackle. Despite his relatively diminutive stature (5-11, 315 pounds), Ford graded as Pro Football Focus’ third-best run defender in 2024. His stoutness and ability to disrupt opposing offensive lines are precisely what the Rams need to bolster their run-stopping capabilities. Furthermore, Ford isn’t just a run-stuffing specialist. He also offers a decent pass-rushing presence, having recorded 23 pressures and three sacks last season. Landing a player of Ford’s caliber for under $10 million in average annual value (AAV) represents exceptional value for the Rams.
2. Sean Murphy-Bunting to the Kansas City Chiefs:
The Chiefs, despite their dynastic run to three consecutive Super Bowl appearances, had a defense that was vulnerable to the pass, ranking 20th in EPA against the pass in the 2024 season. Sean Murphy-Bunting, formerly of the Chargers, adds vital depth and competition to their cornerback room. He will likely compete with Jaylen Watson for the No. 2 cornerback spot, providing a much-needed upgrade in talent. Furthermore, his presence offers the Chiefs crucial insurance, as Watson is set to become a free agent following the 2025 season.
Murphy-Bunting enjoyed a resurgent season with the Chargers in 2024, amassing 51 tackles, one interception, and seven pass deflections. The Chiefs shrewdly poached him from a division rival on a contract that is a steal for his skillset and experience.
3. Kevin Zeitler to the Tennessee Titans:
The Titans prioritized fortifying their offensive line this offseason, securing deals with left tackle Dan Moore Jr. and veteran guard Kevin Zeitler. While both additions address a pressing need, the Zeitler signing stands out as the better bargain. Despite turning 35, Zeitler continues to perform at an elite level. He finished the 2024 season as Pro Football Focus’ third-ranked guard, demonstrating remarkable consistency and durability. He committed a mere two penalties and allowed only five sacks all season.
Zeitler brings an impressive 197 career starts at right guard to Tennessee. This experience and proven track record makes him a substantial upgrade over Dillon Radunz, the Titans’ previous starter who struggled mightily, surrendering six sacks and committing five penalties in 2024. Zeitler’s presence will undoubtedly improve the Titans’ offensive line and provide stability for their quarterback.
4. Dre Greenlaw to the Denver Broncos:
Linebacker Dre Greenlaw’s 2024 season was unfortunately cut short after he suffered a torn Achilles in Super Bowl 58. This injury allowed the Denver Broncos to acquire him at a bargain price, as Zack Baun ($17 million AAV) and Jamien Sherwood ($15 million AAV) are slated to earn more.
When healthy, Greenlaw is an elite run-stopping linebacker. During the 2022 and 2023 seasons, he averaged 140 tackles, five tackles for loss, one sack, and one interception per 17 games played. He was an integral part of the San Francisco 49ers’ deep playoff runs.
Injuries have been a recurring concern throughout Greenlaw’s career. Still, he is entering his age-28 season and joins a Broncos defense that ranked No. 1 overall in defensive EPA last season. His addition provides another high-end player to an already potent unit. If Greenlaw can stay healthy, this signing could be one of the biggest steals of free agency.
5. Morgan Moses to the New England Patriots:
The Patriots’ right tackle position was a significant weakness last season. Demontrey Jacobs, the primary starter, struggled immensely, allowing nine sacks, committing 11 penalties, and earning a dead-last ranking among Pro Football Focus’ 81 qualified tackles.
Morgan Moses, a seasoned veteran with 158 career starts, almost exclusively at right tackle, is poised to rectify that situation. While he may be entering the twilight of his career at age 34, Moses still offers a substantial upgrade over Jacobs, particularly if he can maintain his health. He battled a nagging MCL injury last season, but if he can stay on the field, Moses should provide much-needed stability and competence to the Patriots’ offensive line.
6. Kamren Curl to the Los Angeles Rams:
Kamren Curl performed admirably in his first season with the Washington Commanders. He tied a career-high with 117 tackles and added two sacks, one interception, and five pass defenses to his ledger in Dan Quinn’s defense. Despite his success, Curl received a deal worth a very team friendly $8.13 million in AAV. That ranked seventh among free-agent safeties in the early stages of the 2025 offseason. Furthermore, Curl’s contract was worth less than half of what former Raiders safety Trevon Moehrig got on the open market from the Carolina Panthers ($17 million AAV).
This represents a phenomenal value for the Rams, who are looking to bolster their secondary. Curl is a versatile safety with the ability to play both in the box and in coverage. His addition should provide an immediate upgrade to the Rams’ defense and help them compete in the NFC West.
These six signings exemplify the importance of looking beyond the headlines and identifying players who can provide significant value at a reasonable cost. While the splashy acquisitions often garner the most attention, it is these savvy, under-the-radar moves that can ultimately determine a team’s success in the NFL. Only time will tell if these players can replicate the impact of Zack Baun, but their potential to exceed expectations makes them worthy of close observation throughout the 2025 season.
