The 2025 NFL free agency period officially opened on March 12, 2025, and while the initial frenzy has subsided, a host of noteworthy players are still available on the market. This offseason has witnessed significant trades and roster changes, impacting both teams and fans alike, leaving many wondering where these prospective free agents will ultimately land.
Starting with the quarterbacks, Aaron Rodgers continues to dominate headlines. The 41-year-old veteran was released by the New York Jets following a tumultuous last season where he threw 28 touchdown passes against 11 interceptions. In 17 games, he completed 63% of his passes for nearly 3,900 yards, leading the Jets to a disappointing 5-12 season. There are now strong indications that he could sign with either the Pittsburgh Steelers or the New York Giants. Reports suggest that "Rodgers only has a few legitimate options left...The two teams that should make the biggest push for his services are the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants."
Just behind Rodgers in the list of free agent quarterbacks is Russell Wilson. The 36-year-old signal caller completed 63.7% of his passes last season while throwing for 2,482 yards and 16 touchdowns. Despite showing flashes of his previous brilliance, Wilson's performance suggests he may be slipping. With teams actively pursuing Rodgers, Wilson might end up being the consolation prize for whichever franchise fails to secure the four-time NFL MVP. As some analysts pointed out, "Wilson might end up being the consolation prize for the team that doesn’t land Rodgers..."
Another prominent name making waves is J.K. Dobbins from the Los Angeles Chargers. After coming off a torn Achilles injury, Dobbins demonstrated his explosive running ability last season and emerged as the best free agent running back still looking for a new team. Analysts noted, "Dobbins is easily the best free agent running back left." His best potential landing spots appear to be teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he could replace Najee Harris, or perhaps the Cleveland Browns.
Meanwhile, teams are also keeping an eye on wide receivers such as Stefon Diggs and Amari Cooper, both of whom have had difficulty staying healthy recently. Diggs, a standout receiver, was limited in 2024 due to an ACL injury but managed to record 496 yards and three touchdowns in just eight games. Turning 31, Diggs is drawing interest because of his past performance, raising questions about his recovery. As one commentator pointed out, "Diggs is entering his age-31 season, is coming off an ACL tear and comes with some off-field baggage."
Similarly, Amari Cooper found himself battling injuries last season, catching 44 passes for 547 yards amidst a season split between the Buffalo Bills and the Cleveland Browns. The five-time Pro Bowler is set to turn 31 in June, and while his best seasons may be behind him, he still shows signs of being able to contribute effectively in the right system. His future remains uncertain, but opportunities could arise in New England and Tennessee as teams look to bolster their receiving corps.
As the free agency progresses, players like Keenan Allen, who caught 70 passes in 2024, are sought for their experienced play. Allen, who is about to turn 33, has been highlighted as a receiver who still has plenty to offer: "Allen might be 32, but he still appears to have some gas left in the tank."
The free agent market also includes players like Tyron Smith and Von Miller, two aging veterans who still possess the physical attributes to contribute to teams seeking depth in their positions. Smith, the former Cowboys lineman now signed to the Jets, aims to make a comeback after appearing in just 10 games due to injuries last season, while Miller, once a premier pass rusher, hopes to reassert his status after a less impactful season in Buffalo.
With the 2025 NFL Draft on the horizon, the urgency around these free agents amplifies. The decisions made in the next few weeks will not only affect their careers but could also recalibrate team strategies across the league. As the chips fall into place, fans continue to speculate which players will don their team’s logo in the fall—and what that could mean for the overarching NFL landscape.
In summary, as NFL franchises continue reshuffling their rosters, eyes are trained on these high-profile free agents. Their next moves hold the potential to reshape offensive and defensive strategies that could define seasons to come.