As the final seconds ticked off the game clock in Week 9 of the 2024 NFL season, signaling the passing of another trade deadline, front offices across the league were already shifting their attention to the critical months ahead. For playoff contenders, the focus is on making a deep postseason run. But for the 13 franchises already on the outside looking in, preparations for the 2025 offseason have begun in earnest.
According to sources close to multiple NFL teams, this upcoming offseason could see significant movement, with several high-profile free agents potentially hitting the market and a draft class brimming with game-changing talent. As organizations aim to retool their rosters and address glaring needs, let’s take an early look at what each team could prioritize come March and April.
Pressing Needs and Promising Prospects
NFL analyst Aaron Schatz, along with draft insiders Matt Miller and Jordan Reid, recently collaborated on an in-depth examination of all 32 teams’ rosters. By pinpointing positions of weakness and identifying college standouts who could step in and contribute from day one, they’ve painted a fascinating picture of how the 2025 offseason might unfold.
Arizona Cardinals
With the potential departure of six-time Pro Bowl safety Budda Baker, the Cardinals could be in the market for a dynamic playmaker on the back end. Georgia‘s Malaki Starks, a versatile defensive back with a nose for the football, would be an ideal replacement.
Atlanta Falcons
Pass rush has been a glaring issue for the Falcons, who rank near the bottom of the league in sacks. Texas A&M star Nic Scourton could provide an immediate boost with his power and run-stopping ability.
Baltimore Ravens
As the Ravens look to the future at offensive tackle, Ohio State‘s Josh Simmons could be a perfect fit. His elite movement skills and strength project well to the pros, even as he recovers from a knee injury that cut his final college season short.
Contenders and Pretenders
While some teams, like the Patriots and Raiders, appear poised to undergo major overhauls, others find themselves in a more enviable position. The defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs, for instance, could use an infusion of young talent on the defensive line but remain well-positioned for another title run.
The teams that successfully navigate the salary cap and draft process are the ones that consistently compete for championships. It’s a year-round process that requires equal parts scouting acumen and financial creativity.
– Anonymous NFL executive
As the 2024 season builds to a crescendo, the groundwork for 2025 is quietly being laid behind the scenes. The moves made in the coming months will go a long way toward determining which teams surge to the top of the standings and which ones find themselves mired in mediocrity.
- Several teams could see significant roster turnover in 2025
- The draft and free agency will be critical for addressing needs
- Contenders must balance win-now moves with future planning
One thing is certain: the 2025 NFL offseason promises to be a whirlwind of activity as teams jockey for position both on and off the field. As the pieces begin to fall into place, fans will eagerly await the kickoff of another season, one sure to be shaped by the decisions made long before the first whistle ever sounds.
