The 2025 NFL free agency period could be exceptionally active, with increased player spending driven by a significant salary cap boost.
The salary cap rose to $279.2 million, largely attributed to enhanced media rights agreements. This has already resulted in notable transactions, including:
- The Washington Commanders trading for wide receiver Deebo Samuel.
- The Las Vegas Raiders making edge rusher Maxx Crosby the highest-paid non-quarterback.
- The Chicago Bears trading for All-Pro offensive lineman Joe Thuney.
- The Philadelphia Eagles extending running back Saquon Barkley.
- The Dallas Cowboys re-signing defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa.
With 12 teams holding over $45 million in effective cap space, a busy free agency is on the horizon. High-profile players requesting trades, such as DK Metcalf of the Seattle Seahawks and Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns, hint at what’s to come.
QB Sam Darnold Returns to the Jets
What could lead Darnold back to a team where he once struggled? Changes in leadership include head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey, alongside a bolstered roster with talents like Garrett Wilson and a solid run game featuring Breece Hall and Braelon Allen. Seeing the opportunity with new offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand—an architect behind one of the NFL’s top offenses—could entice Darnold to return and heal past wounds.
Packers Trade for DK Metcalf
Two-time Pro Bowl receiver DK Metcalf has asked for a trade from the Seattle Seahawks. With a year left on his contract, he seeks to land on a competitive team, making the Green Bay Packers a strong candidate given their recent postseason appearances and emerging roster. General manager Brian Gutekunst has the cap space and assets to facilitate a trade and an extension for Metcalf.
Cowboys Reinvest and Appropriations
The Dallas Cowboys have taken strides this offseason, actively re-signing key players and preparing for free agency with effective cap restructuring. They’re expected to re-sign All-Pro Micah Parsons before pursuing external free agents like former Seattle player Tyler Lockett and Kansas City’s Nick Bolton.
Browns’ Stance on Myles Garrett
Amid trade requests from Myles Garrett, the Cleveland Browns appear poised to keep him, especially with their advantageous draft position. By investing in a new quarterback, the hope is to renew Garrett’s enthusiasm for staying with the team—a challenge given the potential financial implications of a trade.
In conclusion, the upcoming free agency is set to bring transformative changes across the NFL as teams look to capitalize on their financial flexibility and strategic potential.
