NFL Free Agency Frenzy: The Biggest Moves Shaking Up the League

The 2025 NFL free agency period has been nothing short of chaotic, with blockbuster trades, high-profile signings, and unexpected reunions reshaping teams across the league. Quarterbacks changed teams, elite receivers switched allegiances, and defensive stars secured lucrative deals. With the dust beginning to settle, let’s break down some of the biggest moves from this year’s free agency.

Justin Fields made one of the most significant moves of free agency, opting not to re-sign with the Steelers and instead landing a two-year, $40 million deal with the New York Jets. Fields will lead a new era in New York under first-time head coach Aaron Glenn, and he’ll reunite with former Ohio State teammate Garrett Wilson, giving the Jets an intriguing offensive duo. Another major shift saw Geno Smith traded from the Seattle Seahawks to the Las Vegas Raiders for a third-round pick. Smith, who thrived in Seattle under Pete Carroll, will reunite with his former coach in Vegas. The Seahawks, meanwhile, turned to Sam Darnold, signing him to a three-year, $100.5 million deal as their new starting quarterback after his breakout season with the Vikings.

The Pittsburgh Steelers made a splash by trading for DK Metcalf and immediately signing him with a five-year, $150 million contract. The Steelers hope Metcalf will open up the passing game and complement young star George Pickens—though they still need to figure out who will be throwing them the ball. In Los Angeles, the Rams made a bold move by parting ways with Cooper Kupp and signing Davante Adams on a two-year, $46 million deal. Adams, one of the best receivers of his generation, now teams up with Matthew Stafford in what could be one of the most dangerous passing attacks in the league.

Aaron Jones secured his future with the Vikings, signing a two-year, $20 million extension after a career-best season. The 30-year-old running back proved he still has plenty left in the tank, rushing for 1,138 yards last season. Meanwhile, former Steelers Pro Bowler Najee Harris found a new home with the Los Angeles Chargers, signing a one-year deal worth up to $9.25 million. Harris, known for his durability and consistent production, will look to continue his streak of consecutive 1,000-yard seasons in Los Angeles.

The New England Patriots made a statement by signing Milton Williams to a four-year, $104 million contract after his dominant performance in Philadelphia’s Super Bowl run. The defensive tackle notched a career-high five sacks last season and had two sacks of Patrick Mahomes in the Super Bowl, making him a key addition to New England’s defensive front. The Patriots were one of the most aggressive teams also acquiring CB Carlton Davis III, edge rusher Harold Landry III, and linebacker Robert Spillane. In the edge rusher market, Josh Sweat left the Eagles for the Arizona Cardinals on a four-year, $76.4 million contract, while Joey Bosa joined the Buffalo Bills on a one-year, $12.6 million deal after being released by the Chargers.

The Indianapolis Colts bolstered their secondary by signing Charvarius Ward to a three-year, $54 million contract. Ward, one of the league’s top corners in 2023, will look to return to form after an injury-riddled 2024 season. The Detroit Lions also made a splash by signing D.J. Reed to a three-year, $48 million deal, securing their replacement for Carlton Davis III. Meanwhile, the New York Giants landed standout safety Jevon Holland on a three-year, $45.3 million contract, making a strong investment in the back end of their defense.

The Bears, perhaps the biggest winner in free agency, have completely overhauled their offensive line while reinforcing their defense. Their biggest offensive moves include signing top free-agent center Drew Dalman to a three-year, $42 million deal and acquiring All-Pro guard Joe Thuney from the Chiefs, alongside former Rams guard Jonah Jackson. With the hope that Caleb Williams is their franchise quarterback, Chicago is prioritizing pass protection and run blocking, ensuring their young signal-caller has a strong foundation. On the defensive side, the Bears landed defensive end Dayo Odeyingbo and veteran defensive tackle Grady Jarrett, bolstering their front line to complement Montez Sweat. These moves signal a win-now mentality, as the Bears look to take a major step forward in the NFC North under first-year coach Ben Johnson.

With teams now preparing for the draft and the upcoming season, the impact of these moves will soon unfold on the field. One thing is certain—2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year in the NFL.