As the 2025 NFL offseason unfolds, it’s important to recognize that team rosters may still undergo significant changes well into the summer and even the season itself.

The reigning Philadelphia Eagles showcased this tactic last season with a key acquisition that contributed to their Super Bowl LIX victory. With so much time ahead before next year's Lombardi Trophy is awarded, it’s premature to pass judgment on teams based solely on their March performances. However, we can evaluate which franchises made strides in the early stages of free agency and which ones are struggling.

Major Moves in Free Agency: A Landscape Shift

The first wave of free agency has already seen dozens of prominent players switch teams or secure new contracts, reshaping the NFL world. So, which teams emerged victorious early on, and which ones are falling behind? Here’s a breakdown:

Winners: Chicago Bears

The Bears are showing a new commitment to their offensive line, crucial for their franchise quarterback, Caleb Williams. Chicago successfully added three significant players: Joe Thuney, Drew Dalman, and Jonah Jackson, reinforcing the protection essential for Williams’ development. On the defensive side, the addition of veteran Grady Jarrett and promising Dayo Odeyingbo alongside Montez Sweat bolsters the front four, providing new defensive coordinator Dennis Allen with a formidable lineup.

Losers: Dallas Cowboys

Despite Jerry Jones’s active presence in free agency, his approach seems outdated. The Cowboys’ notable moves, such as acquiring running back Javonte Williams and linebacker Kenneth Murray, haven’t attracted the excitement they once might have. With the retirement of star lineman Zack Martin, pressure mounts on quarterback Dak Prescott to excel under new head coach Brian Schottenheimer. While the Cowboys still possess skilled players, questions loom over their lack of impactful signings that could significantly elevate the team's performance.

Winners: Los Angeles Rams

Initially, it appeared that the Rams might pivot towards a future-focused rebuild, given their aging star, Matthew Stafford, and emerging defense. Instead, the team retained Stafford and key contributors like Alaric Jackson and Jimmy Garoppolo, while also adding superstar receiver Davante Adams to their offensive arsenal. With these strategic moves, a deep playoff run under head coach Sean McVay seems more plausible than ever.

Losers: C.J. Stroud and the Houston Texans

For a promising quarterback on a rookie contract like C.J. Stroud, the hope is for a strong supporting cast. Unfortunately, after a spending spree last offseason, the Texans now find themselves in a tough spot, having traded one injury-prone wide receiver, Stefon Diggs, for another in Christian Kirk. Coupled with the revamping of their offensive line—highlighted by the departure of Pro Bowl tackle Laremy Tunsil—Stroud could face another challenging year without adequate protection and playmaking options.

Winners: J.J. McCarthy and the Minnesota Vikings

The Vikings demonstrated their confidence in J.J. McCarthy by allowing Sam Darnold to explore free agency without hesitation. With a commitment to McCarthy as their starting quarterback, the team looks poised to support him with an improved offensive line featuring additions like Will Fries and Ryan Kelly, enhancing McCarthy’s chances for success.

Losers: Atlanta Falcons

The Falcons' offseason has been lackluster thus far, with their most significant move involving keeping Kirk Cousins under contract as a pricey backup. Although the possibility of Cousins stepping in if Michael Penix Jr. falters exists, the Falcons face hurdles as their offensive line loses crucial components, and their defensive strategy leans on players like Leonard Floyd, who has often been seen as a mercenary. With the draft approaching, the Falcons have the opportunity to address their weaknesses, but their free agency activity has left much to be desired.

Conclusion

As we move further into the offseason, it will be fascinating to observe how these strategies shake out and which teams ultimately thrive come September. Will the Bears and Rams maintain this upward trajectory? Can the Cowboys and Falcons find their footing? Only time will tell in this exhilarating NFL saga. Stay tuned for updates!