Trade Winds Blowing: How Offseason Moves Reshape NFL Team Predictions

The NFL offseason is a whirlwind of activity, a period where teams strategically maneuver to bolster their rosters and address glaring weaknesses. From blockbuster trades to shrewd free-agent signings and impactful draft selections, the landscape of the league undergoes a dramatic transformation. As the dust settles, it’s time to analyze the most significant moves and assess how they’ve reshaped team predictions for the upcoming 2025 season.

Quarterback Carousel: New Faces Under Center

The quarterback position is the most crucial in football, and several teams made significant changes under center this offseason.

Las Vegas Raiders: The Raiders, under the guidance of new head coach Pete Carroll, made a splash by trading for veteran quarterback Geno Smith from the Seattle Seahawks. Smith, who reunites with Carroll after their successful stint together in Seattle, brings stability and a high floor to the Raiders’ offense. Analyst Mike Florio lauded the move, stating, “I think hiring Pete Carroll is a masterful stroke, and it’s also a little middle finger to Belichick because he’s even older than Bill…You get Geno Smith for a third-round pick? And that’s exactly what, as we heard the things that were said between Geno and Carroll and how constantly they were in contact last year when Carroll was connected to no one, this was like a no-brainer.”
Seattle Seahawks: In a corresponding move, the Seahawks parted ways with Smith and acquired Sam Darnold, a former top draft pick looking to revitalize his career. While Darnold is less established than Smith, he is seven years younger and coming off a better season. The Seahawks also added Cooper Kupp in free agency. NFL analyst are mixed with Seattle’s moves.
Tennessee Titans: The Titans, after years of searching for a franchise quarterback, may have finally found their guy in Cam Ward, who they landed in the 2025 NFL Draft. While it remains to be seen how quickly Ward can adapt to the NFL, his potential is undeniable, and the Titans have invested heavily in surrounding him with talent.
New England Patriots: The Patriots are betting on Drake Maye as their future franchise quarterback. They also picked up Stefon Diggs this offseason.

Impactful Trades: Reshaping Rosters

Trades are a common occurrence in the NFL offseason, and several deals this year have the potential to significantly impact team performance.

Washington Commanders: The Commanders made a bold move to acquire Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil from the Houston Texans. Tunsil, a five-time Pro Bowler, instantly upgrades the Commanders’ offensive line and provides much-needed protection for their quarterback.
Chicago Bears: The Bears, determined to revamp their offensive line, traded for All-Pro guard Joe Thuney from the Kansas City Chiefs. Thuney, a four-time All-Pro, brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the Bears’ offensive line.
Los Angeles Rams: The Rams made a blockbuster trade to acquire star wide receiver Davante Adams. Adams should form a lethal duo with Puka Nacua.

Free Agency Frenzy: Filling Needs and Adding Depth

Free agency is another crucial avenue for teams to improve their rosters, and several signings this offseason stand out.

Buffalo Bills: The Bills bolstered their pass rush by signing veteran edge rusher Joey Bosa. Bosa, a former Defensive Player of the Year, adds another dimension to the Bills’ defense and provides a valuable complement to their existing pass rushers.
Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles, coming off a Super Bowl championship, re-signed key players like Zack Baun and extended Saquon Barkley, solidifying their roster and maintaining their status as a top contender.
Arizona Cardinals: The Cardinals made several key additions in free agency, including edge rusher Josh Sweat and defensive lineman Dalvin Tomlinson. These signings address critical needs on the Cardinals’ defense and should help them improve their overall performance.

Draft Day Decisions: Building for the Future

The NFL Draft is an opportunity for teams to inject young talent into their rosters and build for the future.

Jacksonville Jaguars: The Jaguars made a bold move to trade up and select receiver/cornerback Travis Hunter with the No. 2 overall pick. Hunter, a dynamic playmaker with exceptional athleticism, has the potential to be a star on both sides of the ball.
Seattle Seahawks: The Seahawks addressed their offensive line woes by drafting guard Grey Zabel in the first round. Zabel is expected to start at left guard and should immediately improve the Seahawks’ offensive line.
Chicago Bears: The Bears continued to bolster their offense by selecting tight end Colston Loveland in the 2025 NFL Draft. Loveland, a versatile playmaker with exceptional receiving skills, gives Caleb Williams another weapon in the passing game.

Team-by-Team Analysis: Projecting the 2025 Season

With the major offseason moves complete, let’s take a look at how some of the key teams in the league are shaping up for the 2025 season:

Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles remain a Super Bowl contender after re-signing key players and adding talent through free agency and the draft.
Buffalo Bills: The Bills bolstered their defense and added offensive firepower, positioning themselves as a top contender in the AFC.
Kansas City Chiefs: The Chiefs addressed their offensive line concerns and added depth at key positions, maintaining their status as a Super Bowl contender.
Las Vegas Raiders: The Raiders, under the leadership of Pete Carroll and with the addition of Geno Smith, are looking to compete for the AFC West title.
Chicago Bears: The Bears made significant improvements to their offensive line and added weapons for Caleb Williams, positioning themselves for a potential playoff run.
Washington Commanders: The Commanders upgraded their offensive line and added defensive talent, setting the stage for a potential turnaround in 2025.

The NFL offseason is a time of great change and excitement, and the moves made this year have undoubtedly reshaped the landscape of the league. As teams prepare for the 2025 season, it’s clear that the trade winds have blown, leaving a trail of new faces, reshaped rosters, and altered expectations. Only time will tell which teams have made the right moves and which will fall short of their goals.