The new league year has officially kicked off, ushering in a surge of activity around the NFL. From high-profile signings to game-changing trades, the jigsaw pieces for the new season are clicking into place. In pursuit of a 2025 postseason ticket, teams are shuffling their locker rooms, contributing to an intriguing foundation. One explosive news from Monday afternoon stemmed from the Houston Texans who set the headlines ablaze with their decision to trade the excellent Laremy Tunsil to the Washington Commanders in return for four future picks, inclusive of a 2025 third-round selection.
This move allows five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Tunsil to redefine his market in Washington D.C., whilst bringing to light the pressing issue of revitalization that the Texans desperately need for their offensive line. The gaping hole left by Tunsil must now be plugged with an alignment for a future left tackle. However, the spotlight wasn’t solely on this transaction as the Texans kept active in free agency’s opening week.
Besides the significant tectonic shift in their offensive line, Houston has also pumped new blood into their special teams squad. Integrated into the team are cornerback Tremon Smith (two years, $7.5 million), record-holding returner Braxton Berrios (one-year $2 million), wide receiver Justin Watson (one-year, $4.5 million), and linebacker Jake Hansen (one-year, $1.7 million).
Simultaneously, the Texans also fortified their defensive stronghold. They re-signed Derek Barnett, their third pick defensive end (one-year, $5 million) and former starting defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins (one-year, $7 million). Moreover, they recruited Darrell Taylor for adding firepower in pass-rushing (one-year, $5.25 million) and secured the return of defensive M.J. Stewart and defensive tackle Mario Edwards Jr. (two-year, $9.5 million).
Traditionally, Houston Texans are not known for making brash moves in the initial stage of free agency. The Texans’ Nick Caserio prefers to play the long game, waiting for the first wave to pass before swooping in to acquire solid free agents who have the potential for long-term collaborations. With 25 free agents, including All-Pro receiver Stefon Diggs, leaving the team, the Texans still need depth in their roster.
In the post-first wave period, several positions still boast top-tier free agents. This paints a dynamic and fluctuating picture of the landscape after the first major movements of free agency. At quarterback, the noteworthy available agents include Aaron Rodgers (Jets, 41); Russell Wilson (Steelers, 36); Daniel Jones (Vikings, 28).
In the running back department, J.K. Dobbins from the Chargers (26) and Nick Chubb from the Browns (29) present excellent acquisition opportunities. Wide receivers also feature notable names such as Stefon Diggs (Texans, 31), Keenan Allen (Bears, 33), Amari Cooper (Bills, 31), Tyler Lockett (Seahawks, 32), Elijah Moore (Browns, 25), Robert Woods (Texans, 33) and Brandin Cooks (Cowboys, 31).
For the Tight end role, potential signees can turn to Tyler Conklin from the Jets who currently is on the market. The offensive tackle scene showcases Cam Robinson (Vikings, 29), Tyron Smith (Jets, 34), Jedrick Wills Jr. (Browns, 26), D.J. Humphries (Chiefs, 30) and Joe Noteboom (Rams, 26).
Focusing on the interior of the offensive line, influential players include Teven Jenkins (Bears, 27), Brandon Scherff (Jaguars, 33), Kevin Zeitler (Lions, 35), Dalton Risner (Vikings, 29), Josh Myers (Packers, 27) and Will Hernandez (Cardinals, 30). On the other hand, the Edge rusher position has Von Miller (Bills, 36), Za’Darius Smith (Lions, 32), Preston Smith (Steelers, 32), Joseph Ossai (Bengals, 25) and Azeez Ojulari (Giants, 25) as potential signees.
Cementing the defensive line, teams might look at free agents like Calais Campbell (Dolphins, 39), Dalvin Tomlinson (Browns, 31), Dre’Mont Jones (Seahawks, 28), Maliek Collins (49ers, 30) and Foley Fatukasi (Texans, 30). Alongside, the linebacker role sees the likes of free agents such as Eric Kendricks (Cowboys, 33), Kyzir White (Cardinals, 29), and Jerome Baker (Titans, 28).
Cornerbacks in the market include solid names like Rasul Douglas (Bills, 31), Asante Samuel Jr. (Chargers, 25), Stephon Gilmore (Vikings, 34), Mike Hilton (Bengals, 31) and Ahkello Witherspoon (Rams, 30). Security in the field can be enforced with free agent safeties like Marcus Williams (Ravens, 28) and Justin Simmons (Falcons, 31).
All these movements and possibilities confirm that the free agency period is a dynamic and exciting time, as the teams aim to refine their rosters in an attempt to find the best fit for the 2025 season. Each trade, each signature on a contract brings the teams one step closer to their postseason aspirations. With a plethora of free agents still on the table, the teams have an opportunity to stack their rosters with experienced and proficient talent.
In the world of NFL where every single move can dramatically change the future, the teams must make strategic adjustments utilizing free agency as a tool. And as the dust begins to settle on the first wave of agency signings, the spotlight is now turning to the second wave and the hidden gems it may reveal, thereby offering newer prospects for teams. The roster changes, the shift in personnel groups, and refreshing alignments have indeed begun, paving the path to the 2025 postseason run.