NFL Free Agency 2025: Big Moves Shake Up the League
Free agency is always a busy period in the NFL, and this year was no exception. With two Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks hitting the market, teams were quick to make headline-grabbing moves to reshape their rosters. Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson were both available, prompting speculation about where the veteran stars would land next.
The Seattle Seahawks were among the busiest teams, signaling a clear shift from the Pete Carroll era as they embraced a new direction under head coach Mike Macdonald and British defensive coordinator Aden Durde. Wide receiver DK Metcalf, who requested a trade, was shipped to the Pittsburgh Steelers in a $150 million (£116.5m) deal, making him the fourth highest-paid wide receiver in the NFL.
Seattle also traded veteran quarterback Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders, replacing him with Sam Darnold on a three-year, $100.5 million (£78m) contract. Darnold, who excelled last season with the Minnesota Vikings, will now link up with receiver Cooper Kupp, recently released by the Los Angeles Rams three years after earning Super Bowl MVP honors. The Seahawks’ aggressive moves indicate a commitment to rebuilding around Macdonald’s vision while giving Darnold a fresh start.
Elsewhere, teams focused heavily on offensive line improvements, particularly to protect younger quarterbacks. The New England Patriots and Chicago Bears reinforced their lines to provide better protection for second-year passers Drake Maye and Caleb Williams, respectively. Williams, the first overall pick in last year’s draft, endured 68 sacks in his rookie season, highlighting the urgent need for additional support. The Tennessee Titans, holding the first pick in this year’s draft, also invested heavily in their line, signaling plans to select a quarterback. Cam Ward remains the favorite to join them.
Star players across the league were also securing massive contract extensions. Ja’Marr Chase of the Cincinnati Bengals signed a four-year deal worth $161 million (£125m), making him the highest-paid non-quarterback in NFL history, while teammate Tee Higgins earned a $115 million (£89m) extension. Pass rushers Myles Garrett and Maxx Crosby were similarly rewarded, with Garrett staying with the Cleveland Browns on a $160 million (£124m) contract and Crosby joining the Raiders as the third highest-paid non-quarterback.
The San Francisco 49ers made salary-cap adjustments ahead of offering quarterback Brock Purdy a long-term deal. To free space, they traded versatile receiver Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders, signaling that their Super Bowl window could be narrowing after two title losses in six years.
The New York Jets, having invested in Aaron Rodgers, replaced the 41-year-old with Justin Fields after last season’s gamble did not pay off. Receiver Davante Adams was released and quickly signed by the Los Angeles Rams, while Russell Wilson joined the New York Giants. Rodgers remains in discussions with the Giants, Steelers, and Vikings. Meanwhile, the Indianapolis Colts are giving Daniel Jones an opportunity to compete with Anthony Richardson for the starting job.
Other notable moves included Stefon Diggs signing with New England, Joey Bosa joining Buffalo, and DeAndre Hopkins being added to the Baltimore Ravens’ offense, giving quarterback Lamar Jackson another weapon.
This year’s free agency period has not only highlighted the NFL’s dynamic nature but also underscored how teams are balancing immediate success with long-term planning. From blockbuster trades to strategic extensions, the 2025 off-season promises a thrilling season ahead.
