Which NFL Free Agents Will the 32 NFL Teams Target Next? Offseason Strategies for 2025

NFL Free Agency: Predictions and Trends for the 2025 Offseason

The Never-Ending NFL Offseason

The NFL offseason is a whirlwind of activity, and this year is no different. The Super Bowl concluded on Feb. 9, and just two weeks later, the NFL world gathered in Indianapolis for the annual scouting combine. Free agency is set to kick off next week, marking another crucial phase in the NFL calendar. For general managers, multitasking is essential. By the end of the week, front offices across the league will have finalized their game plans for free agency. The legal tampering period begins Monday at noon ET, and the new league year starts Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET.

The Salary Cap and Team Strategies

The NFL salary cap for the 2025 season is set at $279.2 million, a significant jump of approximately $24 million from the previous year. This increase means every team will have some money to spend, though the amount varies from team to team. Some teams will rely heavily on the draft to fill holes, while others will go on spending sprees in free agency. Regardless, needs will be met, and teams will be strategizing to fill their roster gaps.

Team-by-Team Free-Agent Target Predictions

Arizona Cardinals: Edge Haason Reddick

Haason Reddick, a 2017 Cardinals first-round pick, is a free agent after a frustrating 2024 season. He was traded from the Eagles to the Jets, who declined to grant his wishes for a long-term contract extension. Reddick could be a valuable addition to the Cardinals, who need pass-rushing help after no player managed more than five sacks in 2024. Despite a lengthy holdout and limited playing time with the Jets, Reddick’s double-digit sack seasons in the past make him a strong candidate.

Atlanta Falcons: Edge Khalil Mack

The Falcons ranked 31st in the league in sacks last season, with just 31. They desperately need pass-rushing help and would be wise to find it in both free agency and the draft. Khalil Mack, named to the Pro Bowl the last three seasons with the Chargers, would fit well with the Falcons, despite their limited spending money.

Baltimore Ravens: FS Tre’von Moehrig

The Ravens need help in their secondary, where a lack of speed and impact plays hampered their efforts. Tre’von Moehrig, who racked up 104 tackles, 10 pass breakups, and two interceptions for the Raiders last season, would fill a big need at free safety.

Buffalo Bills: WR Hollywood Brown

The Bills need a field-stretching wideout to ease pressure on Josh Allen and provide a greater home-run threat. Hollywood Brown, who missed most of the 2024 season with injury, could provide a nice spark if healthy.

Carolina Panthers: DT D.J. Jones

The Panthers are a ways off from contention, but upgrading their defense is a high priority. D.J. Jones is among the most disruptive interior defensive linemen on the market and has ties to Panthers defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero from their time together in Denver.

Chicago Bears: C Drew Dalman

The Bears are focused on positioning Caleb Williams for success. Solidifying the offensive line is crucial, and Drew Dalman would be a reliable center to help Williams find comfort in the pocket.

Cincinnati Bengals: G Brandon Scherff

The Bengals need to further fortify their offensive line, especially after the cost-cutting release of guard Alex Cappa. Brandon Scherff, a five-time Pro Bowl selection, would be a force in the trenches and make life easier for Joe Burrow.

Cleveland Browns: QB Kirk Cousins

If the Falcons cut Kirk Cousins, he could be a perfect fit for the Browns, who are unlikely to have Deshaun Watson for some time. Cousins played under Browns coach Kevin Stefanski in Minnesota and could make a seamless transition.

Dallas Cowboys: RB Najee Harris

Jerry Jones neglected to address the running back position last offseason, but he might correct this mistake by devoting resources to it now. Najee Harris, who played in every game over the past four seasons for the Steelers, could be a valuable addition.

The Impact of Free Agency on Team Strategies

Free agency is a critical period for NFL teams to address their needs and improve their rosters. Teams will be strategizing to fill their gaps through both free agency and the draft. The salary cap increase provides teams with more flexibility, but the approach will vary from team to team. Some will focus on high-profile free agents, while others will prioritize the draft.

Pro Tips for NFL Fans

• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on the legal tampering period and the new league year to see how teams are positioning themselves.
• Follow the Money: The salary cap increase means teams have more money to spend, but how they allocate it will be crucial.
• Draft vs. Free Agency: Some teams will rely more on the draft, while others will go all-in on free agency. Pay attention to how your favorite team balances the two.

FAQ Section

Q: When does the legal tampering period begin?
A: The legal tampering period begins on Monday at noon ET.

Q: What is the NFL salary cap for the 2025 season?
A: The NFL salary cap for the 2025 season is $279.2 million.

Q: Which teams are likely to go on spending sprees in free agency?
A: Teams with significant needs and available cap space, such as the Falcons and the Cardinals, might go on spending sprees.

Did You Know?

The NFL scouting combine is a crucial event where teams evaluate potential draft picks, but it’s also a time for general managers to strategize for free agency. The combine provides valuable insights into the talent pool and helps teams make informed decisions during the offseason.

Reader Question

Which team do you think will make the most impactful free-agent signing this offseason? Let us know in the comments below!

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