The NFL’s “legal tampering” period kicked off this Monday, which is pretty much when teams can start flirting with players before free agency hits. You know, the whole “let’s make a deal” shenanigan that might have already been happening in secret. With trades and big player extensions flying around, fans are more hyped up right now than they’ll be when the official free agency window opens on Wednesday.
From big-name quarterbacks and receivers switching teams to the top defensive player signing a long-term deal, let’s dive into the biggest moves and how they’ll shake things up for the NFL Draft and the upcoming season.
Check out our take on who’s winning and losing so far in 2025 NFL free agency:
Winners
Tom Brady is pumped about the Raiders getting a solid QB. (Mark J. Rebilas/Imagn Images)
Tom Brady: If you’ve caught Brady calling games for Fox, you know he’s pretty picky about quarterback play. Spoiler alert: he wasn’t impressed with most guys out there. So, it’s safe to say he’s relieved the Raiders have upped their quarterback game big time.
They traded for Geno Smith from the Seahawks, who had a killer season last year compared to the Raiders’ struggles. This should be a solid upgrade for Brady and his minority stake in the team.
NFL draft star Cam Ward: This dude’s making waves as the top QB prospect in the draft. Teams like the Titans, Browns, and Giants, who all have high picks, still haven’t made their choices for their starters, which means Ward’s chances of going early just shot up.
While this QB class isn’t getting the same hype as guys like Abdul Carter or Travis Hunter, I’d bet my lunch money that teams won’t pass on Ward. With rookie QBs being way cheaper than veterans, teams love to jump on that opportunity.
Tyreek Hill: Remember when Hill was all grumpy about the Dolphins missing the playoffs? Well, looks like the team is trying to keep him happy now. They got Zach Wilson as insurance for quarterback depth after some struggles, which should mean a more reliable passing game for Hill, especially when Tagovailoa is healthy.
Buffalo Bills’ cap team: These guys are wizards with cash flow! They extended QB Josh Allen, giving him a huge deal that keeps him around through 2030. Allen is doing his part to make sure the team can still grab some talent while cashing in big time himself.
NFL schedulers: The Steelers just traded for DK Metcalf from the Seahawks, and you know what that means? Ratings boost! The NFL loves putting together matchups that have big names during prime time. Keep an eye out; this one’s gonna be a fun ride.
Losers
Jets fans craving a great passing offense: The Jets just snagged Justin Fields, who’s supposed to be the next big thing. But unless they sort out their offensive line, it might not matter much. Fields is quick on his feet, but he’ll need protection to shine.
Aaron Rodgers is having a tough time with free agency. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)
Aaron Rodgers: So, the 41-year-old QB still hasn’t found a new home! Rumor has it he wants to join the Rams, but they just re-upped with Matthew Stafford and brought in his buddy Davante Adams. If the Steelers opt for Russell Wilson instead, Rodger’s chances to compete next year might just slip away.
Cincinnati Bengals’ management: Bengals higher-ups have been eyeing a big payday for Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. But with Myles Garrett’s recent massive deal averaging $40 million per year, Chase’s worth just climbed significantly. They might have to cough up a lot more than expected to keep their star receiver.
Cowboys secondary: The Cowboys lost Jourdan Lewis to the Jaguars, which is a bummer because he’s been a solid player and leader for years. Now, the Cowboys are scrambling to fill that gap in their defense.
Vikings receivers: The Vikings are in a tough spot with J.J. McCarthy recovering from injury. After losing Sam Darnold to the Seahawks, Jefferson and Addison are facing a major adjustment period with a new QB. This could lead to some rough patches ahead.
