The NFL offseason is officially underway, with teams strategizing for the 2025 season through free agency, potential player cuts, and the pursuit of mega-contracts.
As franchises gear up, key dates and potential player movements are generating significant buzz around the league.
The 2025 NFL free agency period promises strategic moves, blockbuster signings, and unexpected trades that could redefine teams for years to come. With a staggering 776 players set to become free agents, the landscape is ripe for significant changes.
The official start of the 2025 league year is slated for March 12 at 4 p.m. ET, but the action begins sooner with the legal tampering period.
Key Dates for NFL Free Agency 2025
The legal tampering period, a crucial 52-hour window, commences on March 10 at noon ET. During this time, teams can negotiate with unrestricted free agents through certified agents, setting the stage for a flurry of activity.
Direct contact between team personnel and players is strictly prohibited, as the Atlanta Falcons learned after being fined for violating these rules.
Once March 12 arrives, all deals agreed upon during the tampering period become official, marking the start of the new league year and the trade window.
Teams must also decide on franchise and transition tag designations, with a deadline of March 4 to apply these tags, allowing them to secure top talent with one-year deals.
By July 15, long-term deals with franchise-tagged players must be finalized, or those players will play the 2025 season under the tag. Training camps will then open in mid-July, signaling the countdown to the regular season.
As teams look to create cap space, several notable players could be released. In the AFC, Davante Adams of the Jets and Travis Kelce of the Chiefs are among potential cut candidates.
Releasing Adams would free up nearly $30 million for the Jets, who are in need of an overhaul. Allen Lazard’s future with the Jets also appears uncertain, particularly with Aaron Rodgers likely departing. In the NFC, Tyler Lockett of the Seattle Seahawks and Derek Carr of the New Orleans Saints are among those who could be cut.
The Seahawks could save $17 million by releasing Lockett, whose production has declined since 2023. The Atlanta Falcons may also release either Grady Jarrett or David Onyemata to alleviate cap issues.
Predictions for Mega-Contracts in 2025
Several players are expected to command significant contracts in the 2025 free agency period.
Sam Darnold of the Minnesota Vikings is projected to receive a three-year, $120 million contract, making him one of the highest-paid free agents due to the demand for quarterbacks.
Tee Higgins of the Cincinnati Bengals is also expected to command a substantial contract, potentially around $100 million for three years.
Various analysts have speculated on ideal free agent signings for different teams. For example, the Cleveland Browns, facing cap constraints, might hope to retain Nick Chubb at a reduced price.
The Dallas Cowboys, also strapped for cash, could target Poona Ford as a cost-effective defensive addition.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers might pursue Matthew Judon to revamp their pass rush.
The Tennessee Titans could consider Sam Darnold to address their quarterback situation.
Some analysts would like to see Tee Higgins join Terry McLaurin with the Washington Commanders.
As the 2025 NFL free agency approaches, teams are making critical decisions to shape their rosters.
The combination of strategic signings, potential cuts, and high-stakes negotiations will create a compelling narrative for fans and analysts alike.
