The primary week of NFL free company noticed all 32 groups make strikes in hopes of bolstering — or sustaining — their rosters.
Quarterback motion occurred leaguewide, with Justin Fields, Geno Smith and Sam Darnold discovering new properties. Different groups pushed to retain their gamers, with the Baltimore Ravens bringing again Ronnie Stanley and the Cincinnati Bengals agreeing to offers with each Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.
Quarterback-needy groups — such because the Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings — stay in holding patterns as Aaron Rodgers mulls his future.
Our NFL Nation writers reviewed the strikes and broke down all 32 groups: Which groups reached their targets, which suffered the largest losses and what’s left to deal with?
Soar to a staff:
ARI | ATL | BAL | BUF | CAR | CHI | CIN
CLE | DAL | DEN | DET | GB | HOU | IND
JAX | KC | LAC | LAR | LV | MIA | MIN
NE | NO | NYG | NYJ | PHI | PIT | SF
SEA | TB | TEN | WSH
AFC EAST
Largest additions: Joey Bosa (DE), Joshua Palmer (WR)
Largest losses: Von Miller (DE), Mack Hollins (WR)
Did the Payments hit their free company targets? Largely, sure. The Payments addressed each place that stood out and added expertise. There’s nonetheless work to be carried out, particularly with two defensive linemen dealing with six-game suspensions, however the Payments prolonged a lot of their very own and improved the roster.
One factor we heard: QB Josh Allen: “Attempting to proceed to get higher and discover a strategy to deliver a Lombardi Trophy to Western New York. And that is why [GM Brandon] Beane’s … doing what he is doing within the free company interval proper now, the blokes that he is introduced in, guys that he thinks may also help push us over that hump.”
Largest remaining roster query: Outdoors nook. The Payments introduced again Dane Jackson, however final 12 months’s starter, Rasul Douglas, stays a free agent and Kaiir Elam was traded to the Cowboys. It is a important place to observe for the Payments within the draft and free agent market. — Alaina Getzenberg
Largest additions: Zach Wilson (QB), James Daniels (OG), Ifeatu Melifonwu (S)
Largest losses: Jevon Holland (S), Raheem Mostert (RB), Braxton Berrios (WR)
Did the Dolphins hit their free company targets? Miami wasn’t seeking to make a giant splash in free company; GM Chris Grier needed to put money into the offensive line and add depth within the secondary. Search for the Dolphins to complete filling out their roster within the draft.
One factor we heard: Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel has lengthy been enamored with Wilson’s arm expertise. Whereas Wilson wasn’t introduced in to compete for a beginning job, Miami hopes the previous No. 2 general decide can proceed to develop with a change of surroundings and massive improve by way of the expertise round him.
Largest remaining roster query: The Dolphins should not have a notable beginning cornerback reverse Jalen Ramsey. They signed Artie Burns to a one-year deal, however ideally, the staff provides both a veteran starter or extremely drafted rookie to imagine the function — or each. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Largest additions: Milton Williams (DT), Carlton Davis III (CB), Harold Landry III (LB)
Largest losses: Jacoby Brissett (QB), Jonathan Jones (CB/S), Deatrich Sensible Jr. (DE)
Did the Patriots hit their free company targets? No — however in equity to the Patriots, they’d an extended record of targets to hit. They have been ready to spend massive for left sort out Ronnie Stanley (Ravens) and receiver Chris Godwin (Buccaneers), however each elected to stick with their groups.
One factor we heard: In overhauling the protection, one Patriots coach relayed that he does not assume the unit is much off from the place it must be. The protection is adopting extra of an attacking method, and Williams, the big-money free agent signing from the Eagles, is the centerpiece of that method.
Largest remaining roster query: Left sort out and receiver. It was arduous to choose only one. The Patriots are preaching persistence, however the choices left in free company aren’t plentiful (LT Cam Robinson, WR Keenan Allen et al), so they could must get artistic, which might imply making an attempt to entice a staff to make a commerce. — Mike Reiss
Largest additions: Justin Fields (QB), Brandon Stephens (CB), Andre Cisco (S).
Largest losses: Aaron Rodgers (QB), Davante Adams (WR), D.J. Reed (CB).
Did the Jets hit their free company targets? If the purpose was to interchange older, high-end expertise with youthful depth gamers, the Jets succeeded. Aside from Stephens (reported $23 million assured), each addition is mainly on a one-year trial. They addressed the No. 1 precedence — a alternative for Rodgers. Fields in all probability is not the long-term reply, however they wanted a viable different to Tyrod Taylor, 35.
One factor we heard: The addition of Fields ($30 million assured) will not preclude the Jets from drafting a quarterback. If they’ve a powerful conviction, they will not hesitate to drag the set off at any level within the draft. There’s plenty of Jets buzz surrounding Ole Miss QB Jaxson Dart.
Largest remaining roster query: They nonetheless have holes at WR, TE, RT, DT and S. Free company helped the depth; now first-year GM Darren Mougey wants a house run draft. He might use the No. 7 general decide on any of those positions, besides security. One other purpose is to signal WR Garrett Wilson and CB Sauce Gardner to extensions. — Wealthy Cimini
AFC NORTH
Largest additions: Ronnie Stanley (OT), DeAndre Hopkins (WR) and Cooper Rush (QB)
Largest losses: Patrick Mekari (OL), Brandon Stephens (CB) and Malik Harrison (LB)
Did the Ravens hit their free company targets? Not but. The Ravens achieved their greatest purpose once they re-signed Stanley, the most effective obtainable left sort out in free company. Baltimore additionally bolstered its supporting forged for Lamar Jackson by including Hopkins as a No. 3 broad receiver. However the Ravens haven’t addressed their holes on protection: cornerback, inside linebacker, security and edge rusher.
One factor we heard: “We have damaged so many information the final nevertheless a few years. I do not assume we actually care about it, to be sincere. The one factor we actually care about is profitable a Tremendous Bowl. All that different stuff for positive is good and all … However yeah, positively unfinished enterprise,” Stanley stated.
Largest remaining roster query: Cornerback. Baltimore does not have any confirmed depth past Marlon Humphrey and Nate Wiggins. The one different corners on the roster are Jalyn Armour-Davis and T.J. Tampa, who’ve mixed for 190 profession defensive saps. The Ravens can signal a not-so-expensive take care of a veteran like Tre’Davious White. It additionally wouldn’t be shocking if Baltimore used a Day 2 decide on a cornerback. — Jamison Hensley
Marquee additions: B.J. Hill (DT), T.J. Slaton (DT), Mike Gesicki (TE)
Marquee subtractions: Alex Cappa (OG), Sheldon Rankins (DT), Sam Hubbard (DT)
Hit free company targets? Type of. Cincinnati locked up the massive gamers, WRs Chase and Higgins, who have been at all times going to be the foremost expenditures. The Bengals nonetheless want so as to add at the least yet another potential beginning guard possibility and could be clever so as to add at the least yet another edge rusher to supply depth on both sides of the ball.
One factor we heard: Mike Gesicki famous the “Joe Burrow tax” which suggests he took much less cash to stick with Burrow. We’ll see if that utilized to Higgins as effectively on his four-year deal value $115 million. If these numbers maintain, Higgins will rank seventh in common annual wage amongst broad receivers, based on present knowledge from OverTheCap.
Largest remaining roster gap: Offensive guard, defensive finish and linebacker are positions of want. Even when the Bengals deliver again DE Trey Hendrickson, who can also be searching for a long-term deal, there might be some starter spots that have to be addressed forward of coaching camp. — Ben Child
Largest additions: Kenny Pickett (QB), Cornelius Lucas (OT), Joe Tryon-Shoyinka (OLB)
Largest losses: Dalvin Tomlinson (DT), Juan Thornhill (S), James Hudson III (OT)
Did the Browns hit their free company targets? The Browns are on a mission to remake their quarterback room however have solely traded for Pickett, as lots of the prime free agent choices have signed. Barring them discovering widespread floor with Russell Wilson, who visited, Cleveland can be left so as to add one other lower-tier possibility.
One factor we heard: One month after requesting a commerce, Myles Garrett is realigned with the Browns and signed an extension. Cleveland was quiet within the first wave of free company, however Garrett was seemingly reassured the staff could be proactive in addressing the offense. It is value monitoring as free company continues.
Largest remaining roster query: All eyes stay on the quarterback state of affairs, particularly with the Falcons electing to not launch Kirk Cousins, who would have been an economical slot in Cleveland. Wilson’s state of affairs is value watching after his go to, however it’s notable that neither aspect felt any urgency to strike a deal. — Daniel Oyefusi
Largest additions: Darius Slay Jr. (CB), Mason Rudolph (QB), DK Metcalf (WR) (by way of commerce)
Largest losses: Justin Fields (QB), Najee Harris (RB), James Daniels (G)
Did the Steelers hit their free company targets? Till the Steelers have a bona fide QB1 on the roster, it is arduous to say the staff hit its free company targets. Rudolph is an effective begin, however the Steelers want to usher in competitors for the job past Skylar Thompson. Past quarterback, the Steelers made headway in shoring up the secondary and making the splash Metcalf commerce, however there’s nonetheless work to do within the trenches.
One factor we heard: Whereas some acquisitions are attempting to recruit Aaron Rodgers to Pittsburgh, new Steelers WR Metcalf expressed confidence within the Steelers’ QB plans: “They made me really feel like they’d the fitting choice with who was going to be throwing me the soccer … so I am simply going to attempt to do the most effective of my skills to assist whoever they’ve on the market.”
Largest remaining roster query: Quarterback. Everyone seems to be on Rodgers’ time because the four-time MVP weighs his choices. If Rodgers opts to go elsewhere — both the Vikings or Giants or maybe to retirement — the Steelers’ choices to land a quarterback with beginning expertise are extraordinarily restricted. Apart from Rodgers, 5 quarterbacks who performed at the least 25% of their staff’s offensive snaps in 2024 are free brokers: Russell Wilson, Joe Flacco, Jameis Winston, Drew Lock and Tyler Huntley. — Brooke Pryor
AFC SOUTH
Largest additions: Laken Tomlinson (G), C.J. Gardner-Johnson (S), Christian Kirk (WR)
Largest losses: Laremy Tunsil (LT) Stefon Diggs (WR)
Did the Texans hit their free company targets? The Texans needed to revamp the offensive line after quarterback C.J. Stroud was sacked 52 occasions. The Texans moved off three starters whereas signing and buying and selling for gamers to interchange a few of them. Anticipate them to additionally use the draft to repair the unit.
One factor we heard: A staff supply stated the Texans traded Tunsil for contract causes. The Texans did not wish to pay him top-of-the-market cash in 2026 after giving Derek Stingley Jr. a deal to be the highest-paid cornerback within the NFL ($30 million per 12 months) and with defensive finish Will Anderson Jr. and Stroud eligible for extensions subsequent offseason.
Largest remaining roster query: Offensive line as a result of the unit has just one starter (sort out Tytus Howard) who has proved he can present stable play. — DJ Bien-Aime
Largest additions: Charvarius Ward (CB), Camryn Bynum (S), Daniel Jones (QB)
Largest losses: Dayo Odeyingbo (DE), Will Fries (G), Ryan Kelly (C)
Did the Colts hit their free company targets? The Colts made key additions to the secondary, which was a place of nice concern popping out of final season. Ward and Bynum will doubtless have instant affect. The gamers the Colts misplaced have been clearly standouts. However these losses got here at positions the place they’d at the least some depth and have viable replacements. The web consequence, on paper, is an upgraded roster for 2025.
One factor we heard: The Colts have been among the many groups that checked in on the provision of Bengals defensive finish Trey Hendrickson, who’s searching for to be traded and desires a brand new contract. However Indianapolis finally determined it was not prepared to fulfill the Bengals’ preliminary compensation request of a first-round decide and decided that granting Hendrickson a brand new deal would require shedding some wage.
Largest remaining roster query: Tight finish was one of many Colts’ weakest positions however has not but been addressed. They’re prone to look to the draft to make their greatest splash right here, with standouts Tyler Warren and Colston Loveland in play for the staff’s first-round decide. However that does not preclude the Colts from additionally making an acquisition in free company. — Stephen Holder
Largest additions: Jourdan Lewis (CB), Patrick Mekari (RG)
Largest losses: Christian Kirk (WR), Evan Engram (TE)
Did the Jaguars hit their free company targets? For essentially the most half. They signed a proper guard, which was a should because the staff was shifting on from Brandon Scherff. Middle additionally turned a necessity after the retirement of Mitch Morse — and the Jaguars stuffed that gap with Robert Hainsey. On protection, the Jaguars had the worst move protection within the NFL in 2024, and bringing in Lewis to be the slot nook upgrades the secondary.
One factor we heard: GM James Gladstone basically stated the Jaguars doubtless aren’t going to signal extra gamers to be key items as a result of they are going to be leaning closely on their rookie class (10 whole picks). “If you happen to add a veteran at this level [they] might be simply standing in the best way,” Gladstone stated. “We’ll permit these rookies to get an opportunity to get out on the sphere and assist us this coming fall.”
Largest remaining roster query: Cornerback and security are wants, however the Jaguars have to search out a further move rusher to assist Josh Hines-Allen and Travon Walker. The 2 mixed for 18.5 sacks in 2024 however received little assist: Arik Armstead was the one different move rusher to report a sack, and he had two. — Mike DiRocco
Largest additions: Dan Moore Jr. (OT), Kevin Zeitler (G)
Largest losses: Harold Landry III (LB), Nick Westbrook-Ikhine (WR)
Did the Titans hit their free company targets? When Titans normal supervisor Mike Borganzi took the job in January, he had a mission to construct within the trenches. That is exactly what he did — particularly with the offensive line by signing Moore to play left sort out and flipping JC Latham to the fitting aspect. Whoever takes over at quarterback ought to have significantly better safety this season.
One factor we heard: The Titans took the “availability is the most effective potential” method to free company. Sturdiness is a standard theme for many of their free agent additions. Security Xavier Woods, Zeitler and Moore all performed at the least 96% of their staff’s snaps in 2024. Linebacker Cody Barton got here in at 91% of the defensive snaps final 12 months in Denver.
Largest remaining roster query: Quarterback. Brandon Allen is the veteran addition. However a quarterback room that options Allen and final 12 months’s starter Will Levis leaves room for enchancment. That is the place having the No. 1 decide comes into play. If the Titans stick and decide, Cam Ward figures to be the choice. Ward’s electrical taking part in type might reenergize the fan base. — Turron Davenport
AFC WEST
Largest additions: Evan Engram (TE), Talanoa Hufanga (S), Dre Greenlaw (LB)
Largest losses: Cody Barton (LB), Javonte Williams (RB), Zach Wilson (QB)
Did the Broncos hit their free company targets? With $32 million in useless cash remaining from Russell Wilson’s launch, the Broncos took a measured method to free company. Engram is an instantaneous match and provides the Broncos the affect tight finish they’ve lacked for years. And Hufanga and Greenlaw are upgrades at security and linebacker to an already-strong protection … if they will keep on the sphere. Hufanga has missed 17 video games the previous two seasons as a result of numerous accidents, whereas Greenlaw performed two video games in 2024 after tearing his Achilles in Tremendous Bowl LVIII.
One factor we heard: The Broncos are giving loads of consideration to operating backs as they proceed their pre-draft work. They met with a number of backs on the mix and can have a number of backs included within the 30 visits to their facility within the weeks earlier than the draft. With the appreciable depth of the operating again class within the draft, the Broncos can have loads of choices to improve.
Largest remaining roster query: Working again. Whereas broad receiver and cornerback have been thought of, the Broncos have plenty of snaps, carries and receptions up for grabs after Javonte Williams’ departure to the Dallas Cowboys in free company. Williams performed 539 snaps final season and was the Broncos’ main rusher (513 yards) and No. 2 on the staff in receptions (52). With the roles of the returning backs — Jaleel McLaughlin, Audric Estime, Tyler Badie and Blake Watson — in query, search for the Broncos so as to add at the least one operating again within the draft and finish of free company, if no more. — Jeff Legwold
Largest additions: Jaylon Moore (OT), Kristian Fulton (CB)
Largest losses: Joe Thuney (G), Tershawn Wharton (DT), Justin Reid (S)
Did the Chiefs hit their free company targets? The Chiefs can go into the draft considering extra about good gamers and fewer about positions after signing Moore and Fulton. They nonetheless want depth in spots, significantly alongside the defensive position and at broad receiver and operating again. They will discover that within the draft or with free brokers on lower-priced contracts.
One factor we heard: The Chiefs for months had been planning on a wage cap of about $270 million. That it landed round $279 million modified their plans, significantly with respect to their potential to position the franchise tag on guard Trey Smith. They abruptly determined to tag Smith after which traded Thuney to the Bears.
Largest remaining roster query: Will the offensive line strikes work? For now, at the least, the largely unproven Moore is their beginning left sort out. In addition they have a gap at left guard after buying and selling Thuney. They’ve some candidates to fill the spot in Kingsley Suamataia, Hunter Nourzad and Mike Caliendo, however they’re likewise unproven. — Adam Teicher
Largest additions: Geno Smith (QB), Raheem Mostert (RB), Jeremy Chinn (S)
Largest losses: Tre’von Moehrig (S), Robert Spillane (ILB), Nate Hobbs (CB)
Did the Raiders hit their free company targets? Sure and no. The Raiders secured their beginning quarterback by buying and selling for Smith. Nonetheless, their protection took a step again in dropping starters like Moehrig and Spillane.
One factor we heard: The Raiders signing Maxx Crosby to an extension and buying and selling for Smith have been vital steps the group took to indicate it is making an attempt to vary its tradition and be aggressive instantly. “Our expectation is we wish folks to wish to be right here. We wish folks, as soon as they get right here, to wish to keep right here,” normal supervisor John Spytek stated after Crosby signed his deal.
Largest remaining roster query: Will the Raiders draft a quarterback? Regardless that Smith offers the Raiders an opportunity to win video games instantly, Las Vegas might take a quarterback in some unspecified time in the future within the draft to safe its future on the place. — Ryan McFadden
0:43
Fowler: Geno Smith needed to go to a staff that will pay him long-term
Jeremy Fowler explains why the Raiders traded for Geno Smith and why a long-term deal is on the horizon.
Largest additions: Mekhi Becton (OG), Najee Harris (RB), Mike Williams (WR)
Largest losses: Poona Ford (DT), CB Kristian Fulton (CB)
Did the Chargers hit their free company targets? The Chargers’ most important wants going into free company have been broad receiver and inside offensive line. The Chargers have improved in these areas with Williams and Becton, maybe as a lot as they’d deliberate forward of subsequent month’s draft.
One factor we heard: Below normal supervisor Joe Hortiz, the Chargers will doubtless by no means be massive spenders in free company. Regardless of having upward of $90 million in house, the Chargers have agreed to principally cheap one-year offers. This regime believes in constructing primarily by way of the draft and including depth in free company, one thing Hortiz realized from 26 years in Baltimore.
Largest remaining roster query: Broad receiver/tight finish. Most of the league’s greatest groups have at the least two move catchers who could make defenses fear. Proper now, the Chargers seem to solely have one in Ladd McConkey. At his greatest, Williams might grow to be that second possibility, however counting on a renaissance after the worst season of his profession is a threat. — Kris Rhim
NFC EAST
Largest additions: Solomon Thomas (DL), Kenneth Murray Jr. (LB) (by way of commerce)
Largest losses: DeMarcus Lawrence (DE), Jourdan Lewis (CB), Chauncey Golston (DL)
Did the Cowboys hit their free company targets? Properly, they’ve carried out greater than they did a 12 months in the past, though they did not fork over plenty of assured cash to the free brokers they signed. They picked up a beginning linebacker (Murray) and stuffed a cornerback want (Kaiir Elam) by way of commerce. Free company is not over, so the Cowboys can nonetheless fill holes.
One factor we heard: Their seek for Dak Prescott’s backup may lead them again to Trey Lance with Cooper Rush gone, however in addition they have Will Grier on the roster. They hope so as to add a quarterback within the draft, too.
Largest remaining roster query: The place will they discover a receiver? The Cowboys weren’t a giant participant for Cooper Kupp, per sources, regardless of his ties to new receivers coach Junior Adams. They appeared on the veterans obtainable, however harm and value dimmed their pursuit. A commerce for one stays attainable, as does drafting one, maybe even within the first spherical. — Todd Archer
Largest additions: Paulson Adebo (CB), Jevon Holland (S), Darius Slayton (WR)
Largest losses: Azeez Ojulari (OLB), Jason Pinnock (S)
Did the Giants hit their free company targets? There’s extra work to be carried out. The Giants do not have a veteran quarterback to begin this season and did not add any starters to their Thirty first-ranked offense. The protection obtained upgrades and depth was added to the offensive line. So, among the prime targets have been hit.
One factor we heard: Adebo on now being thought of a No. 1 cornerback: “I embrace it. That is why they introduced me in right here.”
Largest remaining roster query: Quarterback — by a large, broad, broad margin. The one quarterback presently below contract is Tommy DeVito. The Giants are intent on including a veteran who can begin this season. They’re ready on Aaron Rodgers whereas rigorously surveying the rest of the sphere and doing their due diligence on Russell Wilson, Joe Flacco and Jameis Winston. — Jordan Raanan
Largest additions: None.
Largest losses: Darius Slay Jr. (CB), Josh Sweat (DE), Milton Williams (DT)
Did the Eagles hit their free company targets? The Eagles are centered on retaining their core collectively. They re-signed LB Zack Baun to a three-year, $51 million contract and introduced in a number of gamers on one-year offers, together with OLBs Joshua Uche and Azeez Ojulari, CB Adoree’ Jackson and RB AJ Dillon, to enhance the variety of star-level gamers already on the roster. It has been extra of a upkeep offseason thus far, with the purpose of guaranteeing they’ve sufficient money obtainable to maintain the nucleus intact for the foreseeable future.
One factor we heard: It is arduous to disregard all of the commerce buzz surrounding veteran tight finish Dallas Goedert. He’s within the final 12 months of his deal and carries a cap hit of round $12 million. Maybe a staff with playoff aspirations and cap room will strike a deal for the 30-year-old playmaker this offseason.
Largest remaining roster query: Security. The choice to commerce C.J. Gardner-Johnson to the Texans places the place within the highlight. Former third-round choice Sydney Brown ought to get an opportunity to vie for the beginning gig alongside Reed Blankenship, but it surely’s a very good wager normal supervisor Howie Roseman provides competitors earlier than the beginning of the season to have his bases lined. Defensive sort out and linebacker might use some additions as effectively. — Tim McManus
1:06
Riddick praises Commanders offseason: ‘This offense is rolling’
Louis Riddick and Dan Orlovsky break down how Laremy Tunsil’s transfer to the Commanders positively impacts Jayden Daniels.
Largest additions: Deebo Samuel (WR), Laremy Tunsil (LT), Javon Kinlaw (DL)
Largest losses: Dante Fowler Jr. (DE), Dyami Brown (WR), Jeremy Chinn (S)
Did the Commanders hit their free company targets? Shut. The Commanders needed to discover a left sort out and did so by buying and selling for Tunsil, permitting them to maneuver Brandon Coleman to maybe proper sort out. They needed extra explosiveness on offense and traded for Samuel. They’ve elevated their defensive position depth. However they have not discovered an edge rusher.
One factor we heard: Washington’s vastly improved tradition was a important subject. QB Marcus Mariota, who re-signed, known as it “the most effective setting I’ve ever been part of.” Security Will Harris stated after taking part in the Commanders in New Orleans final season: “It was tangible. You would inform they liked taking part in for one another.”
Largest remaining roster query: Edge rusher. Washington has pursued a number of — or would have, had they been obtainable (Khalil Mack). However the Commanders are lucky that it is a deep draft with edge rushers so, at 29, they might get a man they like and who may also help them as a rookie. — John Keim
NFC NORTH
Largest additions: Drew Dalman (C), Grady Jarrett (DT), Dayo Odeyingbo (DE)
Largest losses: Keenan Allen (WR), Teven Jenkins (LG), DeMarcus Walker (DE)
Did the Bears hit their free company targets? Basic supervisor Ryan Poles’ philosophy totally free company was easy: “The clearer the imaginative and prescient, the extra aggressive you will be.” The Bears want higher play from their offensive line, in order that they flipped the whole inside starting with trades for left guard Joe Thuney and proper guard Jonah Jackson. Poles stated he needed so as to add extra expertise to assist DE Montez Sweat (5.5 sacks in 2024), so Chicago went after a younger, efficient move rusher with a excessive ceiling in Odeyingbo and added Jarrett to assist generate extra push from the inside.
One factor we heard: The Bears’ free company method “opens the entire board” to Chicago within the draft, based on Poles. At No. 10, Chicago might tackle its future at left sort out, draft the highest operating again in Ashton Jeanty or take one other defensive lineman. Poles stated the Bears are proud of the move rush because it stands however are at all times trying so as to add extra. “All of us watched the Tremendous Bowl, proper?” Poles stated. “You wish to have waves of move rushers.”
Largest remaining roster query: There’s plenty of buzz about when the Bears may add a operating again. They want a complementary again to pair with D’Andre Swift if Chicago needs the flexibility within the run sport that coach Ben Johnson had in Detroit. With a deep class of operating backs and 4 picks inside the highest 72, together with two within the second spherical, the Bears might add one other rusher. — Courtney Cronin
Largest additions: D.J. Reed (CB)
Largest losses: Carlton Davis III (CB), Za’Darius Smith (DE), Kevin Zeitler (OL)
Did the Lions hit their free company targets? After profitable 15 video games for the primary time in franchise historical past, the Lions could haven’t hit on any splash free agent strikes, however they did discover their alternative after dropping Davis to New England with former Jet D.J. Reed, who needed to “play with canine” and compete for a Tremendous Bowl.
One factor we heard: Reed on how his play type matches Detroit: “It matches very effectively. The reason is is I am a scrappy man myself. I’ve grit. I am a tenacious participant. I wish to dominate and win each rep. I am a prepared tackler as effectively at nook, which most corners do not wish to sort out. Most corners wish to cowl. I prefer to throw myself on the market when I’ve to, and I additionally wish to cowl as effectively, so I feel I match effectively.”
Largest remaining roster query: DE. After releasing veteran Smith, the Lions can use assistance on the defensive position to pair with star edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson, who can be coming back from a fractured tibia and fibula. This can doubtless occur in the course of the draft, the place the Lions maintain the twenty eighth decide within the first spherical. — Eric Woodyard
Largest additions: Nate Hobbs (CB), Aaron Banks (OL)
Largest losses: T.J. Slaton (DT), Josh Myers (C), AJ Dillon (RB)
Did the Packers hit their free company targets? They re-signed their solely must-keep free agent in kicker Brandon McManus, and the addition of Hobbs addressed considered one of their prime wants, cornerback. They needed to improve their offensive line and paid premium guard cash so as to add Banks. He’ll slide in at left guard, which means Elgton Jenkins will transfer to middle. Nonetheless, two of their different greatest wants — receiver and move rusher — went unaddressed.
One factor we heard: The Packers have been by no means in play for receiver DK Metcalf. GM Brian Gutekunst might need been prepared to pay prime greenback however was by no means going to surrender a excessive draft decide to get him by way of commerce.
Largest remaining roster query: Might this be the 12 months the Packers draft a receiver within the first spherical? Whereas Gutekunst stated lately it is not an organizational philosophy to keep away from receivers in Spherical 1, they are going on 23 years with out doing so. Nonetheless, with Christian Watson (ACL) prone to miss the primary half of the season, and no clear-cut, go-to WR1 rising, it behooves the Packers to make a major addition to the group. — Rob Demovsky
Largest additions: Jonathan Allen (DT), Ryan Kelly (C), Will Fries (G)
Largest losses: Sam Darnold (QB), Cam Bynum (S), Nick Mullens (QB)
Did the Vikings hit their free company targets? Completely. Their prime priorities have been to fortify the inside of each traces, they usually did that by signing 4 doubtless starters. Allen and fellow defensive sort out Javon Hargrave will elevate inside disruption, whereas middle Ryan Kelly and proper guard Will Fries add two greater our bodies to the offensive line.
One factor we heard: The Vikings did not demand physicals from any of the gamers with whom they agreed to phrases. They did, nevertheless, ship every of them on intensive visits with specialists across the Twin Cities earlier than the contracts have been executed. That was particularly essential for Allen, Hargrave, Kelly and Fries, every of whom suffered a major harm in 2024.
Largest remaining roster query: Cornerback. The Vikings entered free company with their prime 4 cornerbacks on expiring contracts and have re-signed considered one of them. Byron Murphy Jr. obtained a three-year, $66 million deal. The Vikings additionally signed Isaiah Rodgers to a two-year, $15 million contract, prone to function a No. 3 cornerback. — Kevin Seifert
NFC SOUTH
Largest additions: Leonard Floyd (EDGE)
Largest losses: Grady Jarrett (DT), Drew Dalman (C)
Did the Falcons hit their free company targets? Revamping the move rush was the precedence, and the Falcons signed Floyd, who has at the least 8.5 sacks in every of the previous 5 seasons, and defensive sort out Morgan Fox. Given Atlanta’s tough wage cap state of affairs, the staff was by no means in place to make any earth-shattering signings.
One factor we heard: The probably situation at this second is quarterback Kirk Cousins and his $27.5 million cap quantity returning to the Falcons as Michael Penix Jr.’s backup in 2025, per a league supply. It is arduous to rule out a commerce over the following few months with a quarterback-needy staff, although.
Largest remaining roster query: Nonetheless an edge rusher. Floyd is at his greatest as a part of an ensemble, and except Arnold Ebiketie breaks out, the Falcons do not have their long-sought-after game-wrecker there. Anticipate an edge rusher or a defensive sort out to be the Falcons’ decide at No. 15, except a blue-chip cornerback drops to them. — Marc Raimondi
Largest additions: Bobby Brown III (DT), Tre’von Moehrig (S), Tershawn Wharton (DE)
Largest losses: Johnny Hekker (P), Lonnie Johnson (S), Xavier Woods (S)
Did the Panthers hit their free company targets? The league’s worst protection is in higher form with Brown and Moehrig, significantly in opposition to the run. However dropping Eagles defensive lineman Milton Williams to the Patriots was expensive. Changing him with Wharton might need been considerably of a dear overreaction, however the general purpose to improve the protection was met.
One factor we heard: Cornerback Michael Jackson (re-signed to a two-year, $14.5 million deal) on all of the additions to the league’s worst protection in 2024: “Simply being sincere, we gained solely 5 video games final 12 months. We would have liked extra, and we received that.”
Largest remaining roster query: Jadeveon Clowney is 32 and had 5.5 sacks in 2024. D.J. Wonnum and newly signed Pat Jones II stay initiatives with potential. Discovering a long-term resolution with a younger, dynamic edge rusher is essential to the success of Carolina’s 3-4 scheme. — David Newton
Largest additions: Justin Reid (S)
Largest losses: Paulson Adebo (CB), Marquez Valdes-Scantling (WR), Will Harris (S)
Did the Saints hit their free company targets? The Saints did not add plenty of items however signed S Reid and traded for DT Davon Godchaux to bolster new defensive coordinator Brandon Staley’s unit. They centered on re-signing their very own free brokers as effectively, retaining TE Juwan Johnson and Chase Younger and bringing again Tyrann Mathieu and Cameron Jordan on lowered offers.
One factor we heard: Coach Kellen Moore has already had an affect on the signing of at the least one free agent. Johnson stated he was deciding between groups and known as Moore at 11 p.m. one night to debate why the Saints needed him again. Johnson stated that dialog satisfied him New Orleans was the place he nonetheless wanted to be.
Largest remaining roster query: Left guard. The Saints didn’t re-sign Lucas Patrick, who began the season at left guard, or Landon Younger, who stuffed in after the place went by way of a number of harm points. They introduced utility OL Will Clapp again, and he might play left guard, however this may doubtless be an open competitors at camp between Clapp and Nick Saldiveri if the Saints don’t signal one other veteran. — Katherine Terrell
Largest additions: Haason Reddick (OLB), Kindle Vildor (CB), Charlie Heck (OT)
Largest losses: Robert Hainsey (C), Justin Skule (OT), Tavierre Thomas (DB)
Did the Buccaneers hit their free company targets? The Bucs hit their massive targets by re-signing Chris Godwin and Lavonte David and addressing move rusher assist with the addition of Reddick. They addressed cornerback depth in signing Kindle Vildor after Bryce Corridor’s harm final 12 months and Tyrek Funderburk and Josh Hayes’ struggles. However they want a starting-caliber nook as an insurance coverage coverage for Jamel Dean, who has struggled to remain wholesome.
One factor we heard: Basic supervisor Jason Licht stated to Godwin in his free agent signing information convention: “I do know you left what some would say [is] generational cash, and other people at all times give us kudos for betting on Chris throughout his accidents, however he and [his wife] Mariah — they wager on us, and we will do the whole lot that we will to make it best for you and chase one other ring.”
Largest remaining roster query: With this 12 months’s record-setting defensive again offers, Dean’s $12.5 million wage and $15.1 million cap hit appear like a cut price, however the Bucs nonetheless want a starting-caliber nook. And whereas they contemplate linebacker SirVocea Dennis a starter, they noticed solely a restricted pattern measurement of his play final season and he is coming off a shoulder harm. Plus, this can be David’s final season, so linebacker stays a place group that Tampa might add to. — Jenna Laine
NFC WEST
Largest additions: Josh Sweat (OLB), Dalvin Tomlinson (DT), Akeem Davis-Gaither (ILB)
Largest losses: Naquan Jones (DL), DL Roy Lopez (DL), Khyiris Tonga (DL)
Did the Cardinals hit their free company targets? For essentially the most half, sure. The Cardinals went into free company wanting to spice up their defensive entrance, at each move rusher and the defensive position. Signing Sweat improves the move rush, and Tomlinson would be the defensive position’s anchor. There are nonetheless holes Arizona must plug — like one other cornerback and one other receiver — however there’s time to get these wants met.
One factor we heard: Sweat, whom Arizona will rely on to take its move rush to the following degree, was reunited with head coach Jonathan Gannon, who was his defensive coordinator in Philadelphia for 2 seasons. Sweat known as it a “no brainer” to get again along with Gannon.
Largest remaining roster query: Broad receiver. The Cardinals want one other receiving choice to spherical out their pass-catching unit. Including a 3rd or fourth possibility would assist open issues for each Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michael Wilson, and provides quarterback Kyler Murray one other different to unfold out the offense. — Josh Weinfuss
Largest additions: Davante Adams (WR), Poona Ford (DT)
Largest losses: Cooper Kupp (WR), Bobby Brown III (DT), Demarcus Robinson (WR)
Did the Rams hit their free company targets? The Rams reworked their broad receivers room by releasing Kupp and signing Adams to a two-year deal. In addition they prioritized discovering assist to cease the run, including Ford, 29, to their younger defensive position.
One factor we heard: Sean McVay is an aggressive recruiter, “however in all the fitting methods,” Adams stated. Three gamers the Rams signed introduced up that it was clear McVay needed them in Los Angeles. For Adams, that included receiving highlights of himself narrated by McVay whereas the receiver was on trip in Japan.
Largest remaining roster query: Are the Rams carried out including on protection by way of free company, or will they watch for the draft? Ford is the one participant the Rams have added to their protection thus far. Cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon, who performed 44.3% of snaps for the Rams final season, is a free agent. The Rams additionally misplaced linebackers Christian Rozeboom (Panthers) and Jake Hummel (Ravens) to free company, whereas Troy Reeder stays unsigned. — Sarah Barshop
Largest additions: Demarcus Robinson (WR), Luke Farrell (TE), Mac Jones (QB)
Largest losses: Deebo Samuel Sr. (WR), Dre Greenlaw (LB), Talanua Hufanga (S)
Did the 49ers hit their free company targets? As unusual as it would sound, sure. The 49ers’ important goal on this cycle was to clear the books of dangerous contracts and start resetting the roster round their remaining core, even when it meant consuming a league-leading $85 million in useless cash. They completed that by letting all of their key free brokers go, buying and selling Samuel, and releasing defensive tackles Javon Hargrave and Maliek Collins and finish Leonard Floyd.
One factor we heard: Not less than a part of the Niners’ roster purge will be attributed to the looming mega-contract extension anticipated for quarterback Brock Purdy. These negotiations are underway, however nothing appears imminent simply but. The beginning of the offseason program in mid-April has at all times been seen by either side as a kind of tender deadline to get Purdy signed and again within the fold. It might go a little bit past that, however that also appears to be the doubtless timeline.
Largest remaining roster query: Defensive position. The wants are plentiful, however that is the one space the 49ers appeared sure to deal with however have not. They subtracted three of their 4 starters and retained defensive sort out Kevin Givens, however they want at the least two extra starting-caliber defensive tackles and a defensive finish. It is protected to count on this would be the prime precedence with their 11 draft picks. — Nick Wagoner
Largest additions: Sam Darnold (QB), Cooper Kupp (WR), DeMarcus Lawrence (DE)
Largest losses: Geno Smith (QB), DK Metcalf (WR), Tyler Lockett (WR)
Did the Seahawks hit their free company targets? The Seahawks’ targets modified fairly a bit proper earlier than free company with the Smith and Metcalf trades, neither of which was a part of their Plan A going into March. They did effectively to safe replacements for each, and to deal with their want on the sting with the Lawrence signing, however work stays on the offensive line.
One factor we heard: Earlier than the Seahawks signed Lawrence to a three-year, $32.5 million deal, they talked to the Raiders a few blockbuster commerce for Maxx Crosby. Lawrence offers them what they have been searching for: a rugged edge defender who can be extra bodily in opposition to the run than the lately launched Dre’Mont Jones.
Largest remaining roster query: Will Fries, who signed with Minnesota, was the one inside offensive lineman the Seahawks have been ready to interrupt the financial institution for. They’re going to add a low-cost veteran to that group, however the difference-maker they want should come from the draft. They nonetheless have faith in Christian Haynes, believing final 12 months’s third-round decide is an effective match for his or her new zone blocking scheme. — Brady Henderson
