The NFL's 2025 free agency period is in full swing, officially kicking off at 4 p.m. ET on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. Teams across the league have wasted no time making moves, leading to major changes, particularly among quarterbacks and high-profile players seeking new homes. A buzzing atmosphere surrounds the offseason as talent-rich free agents seek contracts, with analysts ranking the top unsigned players based on factors like age, positional value, expected future production, and versatility.
Opening with significant player movement, the Tennessee Titans released cornerback Chidobe Awuzie on Saturday, March 15, just days after the official start of free agency. Awuzie's removal from the roster made headlines as he was part of the big spending from last spring, signing to a three-year contract with $23 million guaranteed. His exit avoids the $3.98 million guaranteed on the fifth day of the new league year.
Awuzie's performance during his time with Tennessee was lackluster; he started only seven games last season, contributing with one interception and 26 tackles before succumbing to injuries. He was put on injured reserve for nine games during the 2024 season, raising questions about his effectiveness. New general manager Mike Borgonzi also released veteran linebacker Harold Landry III not long before Awuzie, a move primarily driven by salary cap ramifications.
The quarterback carousel has been particularly active as of March 14, 2025, with 16 free agent quarterbacks already securing new contracts. Notable names such as Russell Wilson and Aaron Rodgers are still on the market, with all eyes on which teams they might join. Having reportedly met with teams like the Browns and Giants, the future for Wilson looks uncertain, especially as he had disappointing seasons recently with the Steelers.
Meanwhile, Aaron Rodgers, whose performance has dwindled as he approaches retirement age, has been released by the Jets following their decision to sign Justin Fields, who previously served as Wilson's backup. Fields inked a two-year, $40 million deal worth $30 million guaranteed, reflecting the Jets' commitment to rejuvenate their quarterback position.
Further positioning themselves for the future, the Indianapolis Colts signed Daniel Jones to compete with promising young player Anthony Richardson for the starting job. At the same time, the Las Vegas Raiders surprised many by trading for Geno Smith, sending out a 2025 third-round pick during this offseason.
Across the league, franchise strategies have shifted as team owners and managers work diligently to plug gaps. This was evident when the Seattle Seahawks swiftly signed Sam Darnold to take over the leading quarterback role after trading away Smith. Darnold enjoyed his best season yet last year, remarkably throwing for over 4,300 yards and leading his team with impressive touchdown numbers.
Meanwhile, the market remains open for some prized free agents. High-profile players like Stefon Diggs and Amari Cooper are on analysts' radar, with predictions for their landing spots prominently featured. Diggs, previously with the Texans, is forecasted to head to the Dallas Cowboys, where he would add another dynamic target for quarterback Dak Prescott. The Seahawks, undergoing significant roster changes, may take interest in Cooper, who brings substantial experience and skill modulation to the table.
Additional to this, other intriguing player predictions include potential signings for notable names like Cam Robinson, J.K. Dobbins, and Justin Simmons. Dobbins, currently linked with the Denver Broncos for their running back needs, finds himself amid discussions following the departure of Javonte Williams to the Dallas Cowboys. Simmons has emerged as a prime target for the Philadelphia Eagles, who seek to reinforce their defense.
It is pivotal to recognize the strategic nuance some teams are deploying, allowing for roster adaptations through player trades or contract transitions. For example, the Washington Commanders have shown interest in Julian Blackmon as they look to solidify their secondary, and the New England Patriots are speculated to reinforce their offensive lineup, eyeing both Teven Jenkins and Cooper Kupp.
Players examined throughout this new league year highlight the urgency of preparation for the upcoming NFL Draft, where teams reinforce not just through free agency but through young talent acquisition. The 2025 season's early days of transactions show just how competitive and integral this period is for franchise identities.
Clearly, as the dust settles on what feels like merely the first wave of free agency activity, NFL teams are trying to maximize their offseason maneuvers. With the legal tampering period commencing prior to the opening of free agency, many high-profile transactions have set the tone for the upcoming year; all eyes remain firmly on how the remaining players will influence their new homes and the game going forward.