The 2025 NFL free agency period delivered massive surprises, record-breaking contracts, and bold roster reshuffles. From Sam Darnold's high-risk gamble in Seattle to the Minnesota Vikings loading up for rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy, teams across the league made power moves to tilt the balance. Every dollar spent, every contract signed, and every trade executed could alter the course of the season. Here is a full breakdown of the most significant acquisitions, team performances, standout signings, and the free agents still waiting for the right fit.
Former Philadelphia Eagles DT Milton Williams inked the biggest free agent deal of 2025: a four-year, $104 million contract with the New England Patriots. This mammoth deal made him the highest-paid free agent this offseason. The Patriots also added Carlton Davis and re-signed Osa Odighizuwa, giving Mike Vrabel’s squad a defensive boost as they reload.
Sam Darnold’s $100.5 million contract with the Seahawks is the second-largest deal for a non-re-signing. Structured like a one-year commitment, it reflects concerns after Darnold faltered late in 2024. Seattle’s major departures include DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and Geno Smith, while new arrivals like Cooper Kupp and DeMarcus Lawrence mark a dramatic identity shift.
The Vikings were relentless. GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah landed OG Will Fries, C Ryan Kelly, DTs Jonathan Allen, and Javon Hargrave, RBs Jordan Mason and Aaron Jones, WR Rondale Moore, and retained CB Byron Murphy and S Harrison Smith. These moves show full commitment to rookie QB J.J. McCarthy, setting the bar for roster building this year.
The Bears earned an A grade for one of the strongest free agency periods. Chicago traded for OL Jonah Jackson and Joe Thuney and signed C Drew Dalman to upgrade an O-line that gave up 68 sacks in 2024. On defense, Dayo Odeyingbo and Grady Jarrett help anchor the front. These offseason acquisitions will have a major impact on team performance, making them key factors to consider when making nfl picks for the upcoming season.
Dallas worked to re-sign Osa Odighizuwa and signed RBs Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders, EDGE Dante Fowler Jr., and CB Kaiir Elam. But the spotlight remains on Micah Parsons, who is still waiting for a contract extension. With DeMarcus Lawrence and Jourdan Lewis gone, Cowboys fans are cautiously optimistic—until Parsons’ deal is finalized.
Several franchises made bold quarterback moves. Justin Fields joined the Jets, Daniel Jones landed with the Colts, Sam Darnold went to Seattle, and Zach Wilson became the Dolphins’ backup. Pittsburgh kept Mason Rudolph but lost Fields, while the Giants passed on splashy QB signings, eyeing Shedeur Sanders in the draft.
Carolina upgraded its defense with S Tre’Von Moehrig, EDGE Patrick Jones II, and DT Bobby Brown III. Denver signed All-Pro S Talanoa Hufanga and LB Dre Greenlaw while retaining DT D.J. Jones. New England added Milton Williams, Harold Landry, and Robert Spillane—though the latter two may have been overpaid.
Protecting the quarterback was a common theme. Green Bay gave OG Aaron Banks a four-year, $77M contract. The Colts lost Ryan Kelly but upgraded the secondary. The Titans added OT Dan Moore Jr. and OG Kevin Zeitler to patch a unit that flopped last year. These investments reflect the league's shifting priorities.
San Francisco had the worst offseason by far, losing WR Deebo Samuel, S Talanoa Hufanga, DT Javon Hargrave, LB Dre Greenlaw, and more. Philadelphia could not match the market value of Milton Williams or Josh Sweat. The Eagles did land Azeez Ojulari and Kenyon Green, but their championship window may be closing.
The Falcons did little with $9.6 million in cap space, watching Drew Dalman and Grady Jarrett Walk. Houston shocked the league by trading LT Laremy Tunsil and losing OG Kenyon Green while signing Cam Robinson and Ed Ingram. Miami’s only splash was QB Zach Wilson as a backup, plus the loss of Jevon Holland to the Giants.
Carolina’s signing of RB Rico Dowdle and Denver’s grab of TE Evan Engram could be massive value additions. The Colts upgraded their secondary with Charvarius Ward and Camryn Bynum flew under the radar. In Buffalo, Josh Palmer could thrive, and Joey Bosa’s change of scenery might reignite his production despite a PED-related suspension for Hoecht and Ogunjobi.
Big names remain unsigned. CBS Sports suggests Stefon Diggs to the Cowboys as a potential fit. Teams still searching for talent at wide receiver, pass rusher, or cornerback could land a significant change. The longer these veterans sit, the more bargaining power front offices gain heading into camp.
The 2025 NFL free agency frenzy reshaped rosters, redefined team priorities, and delivered blockbuster deals across the board. While some teams like the Vikings, Bears, and Patriots crushed it, others like the 49ers, Texans, and Dolphins face significant questions. What is certain is that the players signed—and those still waiting—will shape the storylines this fall.
