Free Agency Frenzy: Analyzing the Winners and Losers of the 2025 NFL Offseason

The 2025 NFL offseason has been a whirlwind of activity, with teams vying to improve their rosters through free agency, trades, and the draft. As the dust settles, it’s time to dissect the moves and identify the organizations that positioned themselves for success and those that may have missed the mark. With a staggering $321 million spent on departing free agents in the first four days alone, according to CBS Sports Research, the stakes were high, and the competition fierce. Let’s delve into the winners and losers of this year’s free agency frenzy.

The Big Winners

Chicago Bears: The Bears have been the talk of the offseason, and for good reason. General Manager Ryan Poles has been aggressive in addressing the team’s needs, particularly on the offensive line. The additions of two-time first-team All-Pro left guard Joe Thuney (via trade with the Kansas City Chiefs) and right guard Jonah Jackson (via trade with the Los Angeles Rams) provide immediate upgrades in front of quarterback Caleb Williams. Signing former Atlanta Falcons center Drew Dalman to a three-year, $42 million contract further solidifies the interior. According to PFF, Thuney earned an impressive 80.0 grade in 2024, ranking seventh among all guards. These moves demonstrate a clear commitment to protecting their young quarterback and establishing a strong running game. Furthermore, the Bears improved their defensive line by adding Grady Jarrett and Dayo Odeyingbo. Many analysts are touting the Bears as one of the most improved teams heading into the 2025 season, and with good reason.

New England Patriots: The Patriots entered the offseason with a league-high amount of cap space and a clear mandate to improve a roster that finished near the bottom of the league in several key categories. They addressed needs across the board, most notably by signing defensive lineman Milton Williams to a lucrative four-year, $104 million deal. While the price tag may raise eyebrows, the Patriots had money to burn and a desperate need for defensive line talent. They also made a splash by acquiring Stefon Diggs on a three-year, $69 million deal. The Patriots also added cornerback Carlton Davis III. These moves, coupled with a strong draft class, have positioned the Patriots to take a significant step forward in 2025.

Minnesota Vikings: Despite losing quarterback Sam Darnold to free agency, the Vikings had a productive offseason. They bolstered their offensive line by signing Will Fries and Ryan Kelly, providing stability and experience in front of J.J. McCarthy. The Vikings also made significant additions to their defensive line, securing deals with veterans Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave. Retaining Aaron Jones, who rushed for over 1,100 yards in 2024, was another key move. These additions have solidified the Vikings’ roster and positioned them to compete in the NFC North.

Las Vegas Raiders: The Raiders made a bold move by trading for veteran quarterback Geno Smith, reuniting him with head coach Pete Carroll. They also locked up star pass rusher Maxx Crosby for the foreseeable future. The Raiders added solid pieces in safety Jeremy Chinn and guard Alex Cappa while retaining pass rusher Malcolm Koonce. The Raiders also drafted Ashton Jeanty to replace Josh Jacobs. These moves have injected new life into the Raiders’ roster and made them a team to watch in the AFC West.

The Losers

San Francisco 49ers: The 49ers, fresh off a Super Bowl LIX loss, have had a difficult offseason. They lost several key starters to free agency, including Deebo Samuel, Aaron Banks, Talanoa Hufanga, Charvarius Ward, Javon Hargrave, and Dre Greenlaw. While the 49ers have a history of success under general manager John Lynch and coach Kyle Shanahan, it’s hard to ignore the significant talent drain they experienced this offseason. With limited cap space and draft capital, it will be challenging for the 49ers to replace these key contributors and maintain their status as Super Bowl contenders.

Dallas Cowboys: The Cowboys’ offseason has been underwhelming, to say the least. While they re-signed defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa to a lucrative extension, they have been slow to address other pressing needs. The Cowboys have primarily added one-year stopgaps and depth chart fillers instead of impact contributors. The lack of progress on a long-term extension for All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons is also a cause for concern. With the NFC East becoming increasingly competitive, the Cowboys’ conservative approach may leave them behind the pack.

Tennessee Titans: Despite having ample cap space, the Titans have struggled to make significant improvements to their roster. They missed out on several key free agents and were forced to settle for lesser-level targets. While they addressed their offensive line by signing Dan Moore Jr. and Kevin Zeitler, the Titans’ overall offseason has been underwhelming. The Titans also lost Nick Westbrook-Ikhine. The Titans’ inability to capitalize on their cap space has left many questioning their direction heading into 2025.

Detroit Lions: While the Lions had a successful 2024 season, their offseason moves have been questionable. They lost key contributors such as Carlton Davis and Kevin Zeitler. While they added D.J. Reed, some argue that Davis is the better player. Replacing Zeitler with a sixth-round pick from 2024, Christian Mahogany, is a risky proposition. The Lions’ offseason moves have raised concerns about their ability to maintain their momentum from last season.

Other Notable Moves

Arizona Cardinals: The Cardinals made a splash by signing edge rusher Josh Sweat to a four-year, $76.4 million deal. They also added defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson.
Los Angeles Rams: The Rams acquired Davante Adams, adding a star receiver to their offense.
Washington Commanders: The Commanders made aggressive moves to improve their roster, trading for Deebo Samuel and Laremy Tunsil.
Buffalo Bills: The Bills signed edge rusher Joey Bosa to a one-year deal.
Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers traded for DK Metcalf, giving them a dynamic receiving duo alongside George Pickens. They also signed Aaron Rodgers.
Indianapolis Colts: The Colts signed Charvarius Ward and Cam Bynum, bolstering their secondary.

The 2025 NFL free agency period has been a wild ride, with teams making bold moves to improve their rosters. While some teams have clearly emerged as winners, others have left fans scratching their heads. As the offseason progresses and teams prepare for training camp, it will be fascinating to see how these moves translate to on-field success.