The 2025 NFL offseason has been marked by significant roster changes, coaching shifts, and draft speculation, setting the stage for an intriguing upcoming season.
Team Overhauls and Key Acquisitions
New York Jets:
The Jets have decided to move forward without veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers after a disappointing two-year tenure marred by injuries and inconsistent play. In his place, they signed Justin Fields, who went 4–2 as a starter with the Pittsburgh Steelers, in an attempt to revitalize his career. Fields already has a rapport with young star wide receiver Garrett Wilson from their college days at Ohio State. Rodgers, now 41, is contemplating his future in the league.
New York Giants:
In a bid to jumpstart their offense, the Giants signed quarterback Russell Wilson to a one-year, $21 million deal. They also added Jameis Winston and hold the third overall pick in the upcoming draft positioning themselves to potentially select a top quarterback prospect. Some experts speculate that the Giants could trade up or stay at No. 3 and draft former Colorado standout Shedeur Sanders, son of Hall of Fame legend Deion Sanders.
Baltimore Ravens:
The Ravens bolstered their receiving corps by signing DeAndre Hopkins to a one-year contract. At age 32, and coming off a Super Bowl loss in his first-ever appearance, will Hopkins be the missing piece the Ravens have long been searching for?
Cleveland Browns:
The Browns made significant coaching changes, promoting Tommy Rees to offensive coordinator. They also acquired quarterback Kenny Pickett via trade and signed linebacker Jerome Baker to enhance their depth. With Deshaun Watson likely to miss the entire 2025–26 NFL season due to a second surgery on the same torn Achilles, the Browns recently re-signed 2023 AP Comeback Player of the Year Joe Flacco, now 40, to help stabilize their quarterback situation.
Chicago Bears:
Ben Johnson takes the helm as head coach, focusing on developing Caleb Williams the first overall pick in the previous draft. After a historic season as the Lions’ offensive coordinator, the quarterback guru now hopes to elevate Williams in year two, with aspirations of ending the Bears’ five-year playoff drought.
Houston Texans:
The Texans have made significant strides on defense during the 2025 offseason, aiming to build upon their recent success and position themselves as strong contenders for a Super Bowl run in the AFC. They’ve extended key young pieces and added veteran talent on affordable contracts.
Notable Defensive Additions:
- Derek Stingley Jr., CB: Signed a record-setting three-year, $90 million extension making him the highest-paid cornerback in NFL history.
- Jalen Pitre, S: Received a three-year, $39 million extension despite a season-ending injury in 2024.
- Darrell Taylor, DE: Signed a one-year, $5.25 million deal, adding pass-rushing depth.
- Derek Barnett, DE: Re-signed on a one-year, $5 million contract.
- Sheldon Rankins, DT: Returned on a one-year, $7 million deal.
- Ronald Darby, CB: Signed for one year, $2.5 million.
- Tremon Smith, CB/Special Teams: Signed a two-year, $7.5 million deal.
- Nick Niemann, LB: Added on a two-year, $6.5 million contract.
With this blend of veteran experience and young talent, the Texans are poised to field a dynamic and disruptive defense in 2025.
Draft Prospects and Speculation
Shedeur Sanders:
Initially projected as a top-3 pick, Sanders’ stock has fluctuated. Recent reports from ESPN suggest the New Orleans Saints could be a landing spot following news that Derek Carr may miss the entire 2025 season with a shoulder injury. New head coach Kellen Moore, fresh off a Super Bowl win as the Eagles’ offensive coordinator, may view Sanders as a long-term solution under center.
Travis Hunter:
The 2024 Heisman winner is projected to go No. 2 overall to the Browns. A rare two-way player, Hunter’s usage on offense, defense, or both remains one of the draft’s biggest questions.
Cam Ward:
Once viewed as the likely No. 1 pick to the Titans, Ward’s destination is now uncertain. He remains a top-5 talent, but Tennessee is playing its cards close. A trade or surprise pick could shake up the draft board.
Ashton Jeanty:
Jeanty’s stock is rising rapidly. The Raiders, in need of a versatile three-down back, seem like a perfect fit. Jeanty excels as a runner, receiver, and blocker traits that suit newly signed head coach Pete Caroll’s run-heavy philosophy. Last year, the Raiders ranked bottom ten in rushing yards, a problem Jeanty could immediately help solve.
Lingering Questions
- What will Aaron Rodgers decide about his NFL future?
- Will the Titans keep the No. 1 overall pick to select Shedeur Sanders, or will they entertain trade offers?
- How will the Giants manage their quarterback room with Wilson, Winston, and a potential rookie?
As rosters begin to take shape, the 2025 NFL season is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable and exciting in recent memory.
