2025 NFL Free Agency Fantasy Football Takeaways, Division by Division and Team by Team
2025 NFL Free Agency Fantasy Football Takeaways, Division by Division and Team by Team
We all have experienced new things, whether a new pair of sneakers, a new car, or a new destination to travel to. New things can be exciting and sometimes stressful, but new things are necessary in life.
Ok, enough of the sweet talk. Every year at the beginning of March, you can be sure of two things: The first is the sheer pandemonium March Madness can bring us, leaving us on the edge of our seats. The other is the new league year that starts for the NFL. Yes, only a short time after the last team was left standing at the top of the mountain, hoisting the Lombardi Trophy. See, I couldn’t even say your team name, Philadelphia.
Anyway, this year’s free agency was a complete frenzy from the jump! Teams were busy trying to improve their team and to take the next step.
It first started when Saquon Barkley re-signed with Philly. Congratulations, and it’s much deserved! But when it comes to drafting Saquon Barkley in fantasy. I am out! He had over 436 carries last year. Have you heard of the “Curse of 370?” It's a thing, and I don’t want to take any chances.
We all know there will be a time when Saquon Barkley takes a turn. Could it be this year?
After that, we had a lot of players change teams. The way we are going to do this thang is to break it up by divisions. Starting with the division I like least …
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NFC East Free Agency Takeaways
Dallas Cowboys
First off, HOW 'BOUT DEM COWBOYS!!!! Trash!
Is Micah Parsons staying, or is he going? Jerry Jones is not spending money on key positional players, and they can’t seem to get the right culture changing coach, but Jerry would never allow it.
Oh wait, the Cowboys made a move! They acquired a running back and it wasn’t an aging one either! Yes, they signed JaVonte Williams. I have to say I don’t hate the move, love his contact balance and shiftiness. Hopefully, they follow this up with work on the offensive line.
New York Giants
The Giants, oof! Stay away unless your name rhymes with sabers.
Philadelphia Eagles
Regarding the team that shares the city with the Sixers, congratulations once again to the Eagles on their Super Bowl victory! Signing Zach Baun was a crucial move, especially after losing some key players from that special defensive unit to other teams. As for fantasy football, the same players remain relevant, but be cautious with Barkley!
Washington Commanders
The young guns in our nation’s capital have acquired a key asset in Deebo Samuel, who could bring much-needed versatility to the offense.
From a fantasy football perspective, Samuel is an intriguing option. Last season wasn't too bad for him, but from Weeks 11 to 15, he failed to score over 10 points in any game. This could've been impacted by his battle with pneumonia. Kliff Kingsbury is eager to utilize Samuel; he had high hopes for Rondale Moore, but health issues derailed those plans. With Samuel on the team, there is potential for increased offensive versatility.
Overall, from a fantasy standpoint, he should be an interesting player to watch. Let's hope he stays healthy!
NFC West Free Agency Takeaways
Los Angeles Rams
Thankfully, the Rams addressed the loss of Cooper Kupp by getting future Hall-of-Fame wide receiver Davante Adams. This is by far my favorite move in free agency. He can still get separation consistently with those moves at the line of scrimmage.
Puka Nacua is still the alpha dog here, but both together will be special to see and then Sean McVay was recruiting Adams too. No wonder Matthew Stafford wanted to get back to LA.
Seattle Seahawks
Late Friday afternoon, the Prodigal Son returned to Washington State. Yes, the Seahawks signed Cooper Kupp. The main issue has been the offensive line, but Kupp should help as he is a good, smart blocker for a wideout.
He'll be a fringe starter and more of a bench guy for fantasy football, except for two games next season. Can you guess which two games that could be?
The only fantasy player I'm interested in, besides Jaxon Smith-Njigba (JSN), is possibly Zach Charbonnet. It would be Kenneth Walker, but he struggles to stay healthy.
San Francisco 49ers
The beloved 49ers, who recently had a substandard season, have been surprisingly quiet in making significant moves. They did, however, re-sign Jordan Mason, which raises the question: will this backfield turn into a strange committee?
While Christian McCaffrey will likely receive an early share of the touches, he won’t be getting all of them. If you're considering drafting him in redraft leagues, keep in mind that his name alone will command a high draft capital, which I believe isn't worth it.
Additionally, Deebo Samuel's departure has me keeping an eye on Ricky Pearsall this offseason.
Arizona Cardinals
Just say you don’t care about getting better Cardinals. This team actually was leading the division at one point in 2024, and they aren’t worried about building.
NFC North Free Agency Takeaways
Detroit Lions
These cute and cuddly kittens are ... the best in their division. Sorry, had to mess you, Lions fans.
Although they lost some players, they signed key linebackers and brought in D.J. Reed, formerly of the Jets, which is a great addition to help compensate for the players they've lost.
On the offensive side, particularly regarding fantasy football, the same principles apply. Even with the loss of Ben Johnson, their offensive line remains very talented, so we'll just have to wait and see how it plays out.
Green Bay Packers
No Pack No!
You didn’t get DK Metcalf. Did they not want to pay him? Did they not want to get Jordan Love some help? Disappointing, because it would have been pretty dope seeing Jordan Love, DK Metcalf, and Jayden Reed on the field together. Oh and Josh Jacobs in the backfield too. Opportunity missed.
The Packers did help by adding big Aaron Banks. He had a good year last season for the 49ers and should help with the interior line almost instantly.
Chicago Bears
Da Bears are a sneaky team.
They kick off their Free Agency by trading for Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson to help with the one glaring weakness on the team: the offensive line. Currently, they are sitting at +400 to win the division, and that might be a bet worth looking into.
With Ben Johnson at the helm and GM Ryan Poles focusing on improving this team so far during the new league year. Another underrated move was the signing of Grady Jarrett to a three-year deal, prioritizing the defensive line. Perhaps the biggest move was signing Drew Dalman to help keep Caleb Williams alive.
Watch out Da Bears are lurking.
Minnesota Vikings
One of the most surprising teams in 2024 was undoubtedly the Vikings. Projected to win only a handful of games, they finished with 14.
Minnesota's made several key moves this offseason, but how ready is J.J. McCarthy to lead this team?
They signed Aaron Jones, but an aging running back with some knee issues in his past is not going to be the only move they make in the backfield. Perhaps they will address a backfield running mate for Jones. Depending on who the Vikings add will let us know more about where to draft Jones for fantasy.
NFC South Free Agency Takeaways
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
I'm tired of doubting the Buccaneers! The departure of Dave Canales was expected to be a downgrade for the offense, right? Wow, was I wrong! They averaged just under 30 points per game, and Baker Mayfield ended up being a Fantasy Football MVP.
Re-signing Chris Godwin was essential for this team, but the move will have a negative impact on one Cade Otton.
I appreciate his talent, but the issue lies with his target share. I recommend steering clear of him in fantasy this season — unless you need a backup for Travis Kelce or George Kittle, both of whom are in their mid-thirties in this young man’s sport.
New Orleans Saints
The team in the Big Easy is a big stay away for me! No part of it is what keeps resonating in my mind.
Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons were another disappointing team last year, though some would argue that their division is the weakest in the NFL.
They allowed a quarterback who wasn't at 100% continue trying his best to win games, and by the time Michael Penix Jr. took over, it was too late for any significant comeback.
Anyone who knows me is aware that Bijan Robinson is my top fantasy football player of the year. Choosing Bijan over Christian McCaffrey was an easy decision last year, especially since McCaffrey was dealing with injuries during training camp.
Robinson should not only be one of the top running backs selected in drafts, but I'll argue that, with the return of Zac Robinson and Jake Matthews, he should be considered for the top overall pick in the upcoming season.
Carolina Panthers
Carolina fans are in need of something to cheer for; it’s been too long.
While it’s not quite time to celebrate yet, the team is making moves to improve. Rico Dowdle was brought in after being undervalued in Dallas and he didn’t want to re-sign with a team that was focused on saving money at the running back position. To add to that addition, the offensive line made significant progress last year, and I believe the Panthers will be exciting to watch.
AFC South Free Agency Takeaways
Houston Texans
Let's start with the defending champions of the AFC South, the Texans.
They had a lackluster season with double-digit wins, largely due to key injuries affecting all of their starting wide receivers. Their struggles were further compounded by a subpar offensive line that had difficulty keeping C.J. Stroud upright.
Unfortunately, Tank Dell is expected to miss the entire season after a gruesome injury. That meant when Christian Kirk became available, the Texans seized the opportunity to sign him. But should you consider him for your fantasy team? Make sure you have a plan in place.
Although Kirk is a strong player when he is on the field, he played in only eight games last season. His fit with the team is promising, but his tendency to be unavailable is a concern.
Indianapolis Colts
Colts fans, I need to know how do you feel about Daniel Jones as your starter this season?
Anthony Richardson was brought in to save your franchise, but despite being a dynamic playmaker he struggled to find a groove and has been hampered by injury. Can he quickly put things together to avoid losing his starting quarterback status? I’ll tell you one thing: taking yourself out of the game doesn’t help your cause.
Say what you will about Daniel Jones, it’s hard to see him do that to his team. It would seem the Colts could be looking for another quarterback in the distant future.
Tennessee Titans
As the Titans look for a quarterback, they will need to consider their options if Will Levis continues to make questionable choices — like putting mayonnaise on everything. Seriously, he needs to lay off the mayo!
The Titans are focusing on improving their offensive line to better protect Levis. Let’s see if this change helps him make better decisions.
Overall, I would avoid this offense in fantasy football this season.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Once again, the Jaguars had a disappointing campaign.
Rookie wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. (BTJ) was a clear standout and there were several plays where he saved the offense with his polished routes, looking like a veteran out there. However, despite BTJ's heroics, Trevor Lawrence still seemed lost at times.
We’ll have to see what Liam Coen can do to improve this unit. Hopefully, there will be an emphasis on the run game, which could help bring Travis Etienne Jr. back to fantasy relevance. Etienne caused a lot of frustration for fantasy managers in 2024, but for now, we should hold off on labeling him as a player to avoid.
As drafting season for fantasy football approaches, we can keep an eye on good landing spots for Etienne. Right now, targeting him in the eighth round or possibly later seems like a reasonable strategy.
AFC East Free Agency Takeaways
Buffalo Bills
First of all, Buffalo, please take your version of the tush push out of the playbook! I had to address that.
The Bills have been busy signing Khalil Shakir, Greg Rousseau, and Terrel Bernard to four-year deals. They also signed former Chargers players Joey Bosa and Josh Palmer. There is still no update on James Cook, who certainly surprised everyone and deserves a pay raise, but he will need to be patient, especially after Josh Allen signed a significant six-year extension.
New York Jets
The Aaron Rodgers takeover with the Jets is done. What a disastrous two seasons.
Last year, the Steelers were 4-2 when they decided to start Russell Wilson in favor of Justin Fields. Whether you were in favor of this move or not, Fields and the Steelers knew there was no future among them. As for the future of the Jets, they should be more run-heavy after last year finishing dead last in rush attempts at just over 21 touches per game.
For fantasy, I am all in on Fields, not just because of his rushing ability but also because he has solid options in Breece Hall (watch for a big comeback season) and Brealon Allen in the backfield. Look for them to be closer to the top of the list for rush attempts in 2025.
Miami Dolphins
The best word to describe the Dolphins’ 2024 season is "floundering."
They've maintained a strong focus on their defense, which ranked in the top 10 for fewest points allowed to opponents last season. However, there haven't been many changes on the offensive side. The question remains: will Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle bounce back this season? Additionally, is Jonnu Smith the go-to pass catcher for this offense now?
We’ll need to keep an eye on their developments over the next month or so. Devon Achane is proving to be a challenge for defensive coordinators. With Raheem Mostert no longer on the roster, Jaylen Wright could be a sneaky sleeper to watch in fantasy leagues.
New England Patriots
Investing in a good defense is what Mike Vrabel came to do in New England. He's done just that in adding Carlton Davis, Milton Williams, Harold Landry, and Robert Spillane. As a Raiders fan, it stings.
It looks as if the Patriots see an opportunity to make a move in the division. At least on paper. You still have to play the games.
AFC North Free Agency Takeaways
Pittsburgh Steelers
Where was DK Metcalf going to end up? The Steelers, of all places.
It's a great landing spot. Metcalf fits the black and blue division as a big physical receiver who can take the top off. Should George Pickens stay too, that is a hell of combo at wide receiver.
The big question, though, is who will be throwing the ball to these two? Well, Mason Rudolph resigned with them.
Ok, that was probably the best joke in the article. But seriously, maybe they'll end up landing Aaron Rodgers, oh no!
Cincinnati Bengals
Many would blame Zac Taylor for the issues the Bengals had the pervious season. The one to take the full blame ultimately was Lou Anarumo.
Tee Higgins was franchise-tagged again, and look for the offense to not skip a beat in 2025.
Cleveland Browns
Speaking of not skipping a beat, the Browns will continue to be the Browns.
Myles Garrett pulled the ultimate okey-doke, telling everyone and the Browns that he was taking his talents elsewhere in 2025. We all found out money talks as he signed a big-time deal to stay losing with the Browns. It’s a shame, because seeing him with a true contending team could be the piece to put them over the top.
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens have been relatively quiet in free agency. They re-signed key players Ronnie Stanley and Patrick Ricard, who are essential to the offensive line and running game. Additionally, they acquired De’Andre Hopkins, who perhaps felt that the magic in Kansas City had run its course for now.
At this stage in his career, recommending Hopkins for fantasy football would likely mean considering him as a depth piece on your team.
AFC West Free Agency Takeaways
Kansas City Chiefs
They are not machines.
The Chiefs have many questions to answer following their Super Bowl loss. Many will still consider them favorites to win their division again, primarily because of Patrick Mahomes, but their reign has to end eventually, right?
From a Fantasy Football perspective, you might want to avoid this team as well. They have shown that they are no longer the fantasy powerhouse they once were, and the prices for their players are far too high.
Los Angeles Chargers
Recently, while talking with a friend, he mentioned that the Chargers signing Najee Harris was one of the best moves of free agency. At first, I was skeptical, but the more I considered Harris in the powder blue uniform, behind a strong offensive line and good running schemes, the more I started to like the idea.
Najee Harris is a true iron man; he hasn’t missed a game in his NFL career. That said, the Chargers will likely continue to use a committee approach for their running backs. If J.K. Dobbins leaves L.A., then Harris will become even more appealing for fantasy football. However, it's almost certain that they will keep looking for additional talent as the draft approaches.
Denver Broncos
The tight end position was a significant need for the surprising Broncos. During Sean Payton's tenure, the team required a reliable pass-catching option in this role, taking advantage of the opportunity to sign Evan Engram.
As they look ahead, will they further develop their offense in 2025? It's important to remember that sophomore slumps can occur. However, I believe this team has the potential to be strong from a fantasy football perspective when it comes to their passing game. Keep an eye on this unit during fantasy draft season.
Las Vegas Raiders
Lastly, but certainly not least, the Raiders are up. You know what check out my first article with oddschecker, and it will give you what I think about them in 2025.
Keep tuned into us here at oddschecker as we continue to bring you plenty of news surrounding NFL free agency!
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