In the first week of NFL free agency, all 32 teams made strategic moves to strengthen or maintain their rosters. Among the significant shifts in the quarterback lineup, Justin Fields, Geno Smith, and Sam Darnold found new teams. Meanwhile, other teams decided to hold onto their current players; the Baltimore Ravens re-signed Ronnie Stanley, and the Cincinnati Bengals secured contracts with both Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.
Teams still in search of quarterbacks, like the Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Giants, and Minnesota Vikings, are waiting on Aaron Rodgers to decide on his future. NFL Nation’s reporters have evaluated the moves and provided insights into each team’s performance: which teams achieved their goals, who experienced the most substantial losses, and what areas still need addressing?
AFC EAST
For the Buffalo Bills, the key highlights of the free agency were bringing in Joey Bosa and Joshua Palmer, while they lost Von Miller and Mack Hollins. The Bills mostly hit their free agency targets, improving their roster significantly, although they still need to address their defensive line’s issues given two members will start the season with suspensions. Josh Allen emphasized the team’s drive to elevate their game in pursuit of a Lombardi Trophy, with new additions aimed at overcoming past obstacles. The Bills’ uncertainty remains at the outside corner position, especially after trading Kaiir Elam to the Cowboys. — Alaina Getzenberg
The Miami Dolphins focused on adding Zach Wilson, James Daniels, and Ifeatu Melifonwu, while losing Jevon Holland, Raheem Mostert, and Braxton Berrios. The Dolphins approached the free agency with an eye on offensive line improvements and secondary depth and seem to have succeeded. Coach Mike McDaniel is optimistic about Wilson’s capabilities, seeing his arm talent as a long-term developmental opportunity. The team still needs to figure out their starting cornerback slot next to Jalen Ramsey. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
The New England Patriots welcomed Milton Williams, Carlton Davis III, and Harold Landry III but lost Jacoby Brissett, Jonathan Jones, and Deatrich Wise Jr. Despite setting out with numerous goals, the Patriots fell short of them. They aimed to secure major talents like Ronnie Stanley and Chris Godwin, but these players stayed with their teams. The team is transitioning to a more aggressive defense, with Williams being crucial to this new strategy. Left tackle and receiver positions remain pressing concerns, with limited options in free agency. — Mike Reiss
For the New York Jets, the pivotal additions were Justin Fields, Brandon Stephens, and Andre Cisco, countered by the losses of Aaron Rodgers, Davante Adams, and D.J. Reed. The Jets aimed to rejuvenate their roster by opting for younger players over more established stars. Fields was brought in as a new quarterback option, though the Jets are still exploring drafting another QB. They have various roster gaps, most notably at wide receiver and defensive tackle, and need a strong draft to bolster these areas. — Rich Cimini
AFC NORTH
The Baltimore Ravens’ major moves included re-signing Ronnie Stanley and adding DeAndre Hopkins and Cooper Rush, offset by the losses of Patrick Mekari, Brandon Stephens, and Malik Harrison. While they retained top talent with Stanley, their defense still has several gaps to fill. Stanley expressed the team’s unwavering priority: winning a Super Bowl, beyond their record-breaking stats. Their biggest need going forward is solidifying their cornerback position. — Jamison Hensley
The Cincinnati Bengals focused on B.J. Hill, T.J. Slaton, and Mike Gesicki, with the departures of Alex Cappa, Sheldon Rankins, and Sam Hubbard. The Bengals hit most of their targets by securing key players like Chase and Higgins. While they’ve solidified some positions, they still need starting guards and edge rushers. Gesicki, who took less to play with Joe Burrow, reflects the team’s culture and chemistry. — Ben Baby
The Cleveland Browns made Kenny Pickett, Cornelius Lucas, and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka their primary signings, losing Dalvin Tomlinson, Juan Thornhill, and James Hudson III. The Browns are overhauling their quarterback room but haven’t fully succeeded in locking down top-tier talent. Myles Garrett re-signed following assurances that the offense’s needs would be addressed. Finding the right quarterback remains a top priority. — Daniel Oyefusi
The Pittsburgh Steelers’ significant actions included Darius Slay Jr., Mason Rudolph, and DK Metcalf; they lost Justin Fields, Najee Harris, and James Daniels. The Steelers still lack a standout QB1, although Rudolph is a step. The team’s recent trade for Metcalf shows confidence in their evolving quarterback strategy. Rodgers’ decision will be critical in shaping further moves. — Brooke Pryor
AFC SOUTH
Houston Texans rebuilt their line with Laken Tomlinson, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and Christian Kirk while trading away Laremy Tunsil and losing Stefon Diggs. They restructured the offensive line to protect C.J. Stroud better but still need depth and performance across the board. The trade of Tunsil appears linked to financial strategy, considering future player contracts. The Texans’ line, however, remains a primary focus. — DJ Bien-Aime
For the Indianapolis Colts, Charvarius Ward, Camryn Bynum, and Daniel Jones were significant additions, while losing Dayo Odeyingbo, Will Fries, and Ryan Kelly. The Colts strengthened their secondary but need more robust solutions at tight end. They considered trading for defensive reinforcements but decided to conserve assets. They’ll likely draft a tight end for fresh talent. — Stephen Holder
The Jacksonville Jaguars’ key recruits were Jourdan Lewis and Patrick Mekari, having lost Christian Kirk and Evan Engram. They largely succeeded in their free agency plans, especially in bolstering areas of need like right guard and center. Jaguars’ GM insists the team’s rookie class will play a vital role, indicating a reliance on young talent moving forward. Additional help on edge rushers is still required. — Mike DiRocco
Tennessee Titans made Dan Moore Jr. and Kevin Zeitler their focus, losing Harold Landry III and Nick Westbrook-Ikhine. The Titans concentrated on strengthening their offensive line, a front-office mission achieved under Mike Borganzi. Durability was emphasized in player selection, hoping for consistent performance. With the first draft pick, quarterback options remain their critical concern. — Turron Davenport
AFC WEST
The Denver Broncos signed Evan Engram, Talanoa Hufanga, and Dre Greenlaw, and parted ways with Cody Barton, Javonte Williams, and Zach Wilson. They made thoughtful choices given tight budget constraints from Wilson’s release, focusing on enhancing their defensive quality. Plans to acquire serious running back talent are underway in the draft to compensate for departures. — Jeff Legwold
Kansas City Chiefs added Jaylon Moore and Kristian Fulton, losing Joe Thuney, Tershawn Wharton, and Justin Reid. They crafted their strategy around finding talent in drafts after addressing critical needs like defense depth. Financial flexibility allowed a focus on key players like Fulton, despite tight cap space. Upcoming movements revolve around verifying the efficacy of recent line changes. — Adam Teicher
Las Vegas Raiders introduced Geno Smith, Raheem Mostert, and Jeremy Chinn as main new entrants, with the departure of Tre’von Moehrig, Robert Spillane, and Nate Hobbs. They’ve beefed up their quarterback situation but weakened their defense through significant losses. The move to retain Smith is part of their revitalized competitive outlook. The future may still hold quarterback selections in the draft. — Ryan McFadden
The Los Angeles Chargers made smart moves by signing Mekhi Becton, Najee Harris, and Mike Williams, even as they lost Poona Ford and Kristian Fulton. They improved focus areas well within their budget, sticking to drafting as their primary rebuilding tool. Their challenge is finding further answers at wide receiver or tight end, where Williams may soon shine. — Kris Rhim
NFC EAST
Dallas Cowboys brought on Solomon Thomas and Kenneth Murray Jr., while losing DeMarcus Lawrence, Jourdan Lewis, and Chauncey Golston. They’ve taken a step forward with important trades while cautious about hefty guarantees. Deciding on Prescott’s backup quarterback remains a key ongoing question, amidst trade and drafting prospects. — Todd Archer
New York Giants saw Paulson Adebo, Jevon Holland, and Darius Slayton as crucial additions, with the losses of Azeez Ojulari and Jason Pinnock. While bolstering defense, they missed out on quarterback solutions as Rodgers ponders his options. The offensive potential needs substantial player enhancements with no leading QB yet decided. — Jordan Raanan
Philadelphia Eagles maintained focus on team cohesion, primarily through re-signing critical players like Zack Baun despite losing Darius Slay Jr., Josh Sweat, and Milton Williams. Holding onto key talent was their strategy, putting possible Dallas Goedert moves under speculation. They must address safety problems after trading a major player. — Tim McManus
Washington Commanders’ notable sign-ins include Deebo Samuel and Laremy Tunsil, but they parted with Dante Fowler Jr., Dyami Brown, and Jeremy Chinn. They tackled core weaknesses, particularly in offensive tackle and receiving, bringing Samuel to boost offensive dynamism. Their focus needs to shift towards addressing voids in edge rushing. — John Keim
NFC NORTH
Chicago Bears welcomed Drew Dalman, Grady Jarrett, and Dayo Odeyingbo, with departures of Keenan Allen, Teven Jenkins, and DeMarcus Walker. They mainly revamped their offensive line and defensive side through astute signings, paving the way for draft flexibility. As they look forward, a running back addition could augment their draft approach. — Courtney Cronin
Detroit Lions maximized D.J. Reed’s entry amidst losses like Carlton Davis III and Za’Darius Smith. Their quiet yet impactful free agency decisions align with the winning trajectory, maintaining a strong defensive synergy. Fortifying the defensive edge is crucial, anchored by Hutchinson’s anticipated return. — Eric Woodyard
Green Bay Packers brought in Nate Hobbs and Aaron Banks while losing T.J. Slaton, Josh Myers, and AJ Dillon. They strategized around vital position enhancements like cornerback and offensive line, though WR needs persist. The likelihood of making a historic first-round receiver selection is undeniable this year. — Rob Demovsky
Minnesota Vikings buttressed crucial areas with Jonathan Allen, Ryan Kelly, and Will Fries, losing Sam Darnold, Cam Bynum, and Nick Mullens. The Vikings consistently managed to meet their primary goals, addressing defensive and offensive fronts. Cornerback depth stands out as a continuing necessity heading into further drafts. — Kevin Seifert
NFC SOUTH
Atlanta Falcons recruited Leonard Floyd, albeit losing Grady Jarrett and Drew Dalman. Their strategic decisions improved pass rush efficiency within cap limitations, and further edge exploration surfaces as anticipated. Finding steady edge contributors could continue with first-round selections if available. — Marc Raimondi
Carolina Panthers bolstered defense with Bobby Brown III and Tre’von Moehrig, which offset losses like Johnny Hekker and Lonnie Johnson. They stabilized key defensive concerns but left room for potential overemphasis on select players, aiming at sustainable defensive evolution. Adding a young, dynamic edge talent will be essential. — David Newton
The New Orleans Saints have seen Justin Reid adding depth despite losing significant roles like Paulson Adebo and Marquez Valdes-Scantling. Their targeted defensive refurbishment includes securing crucial talents while keeping former assets. They should focus on resolving an unsettled left guard roster. — Katherine Terrell
Tampa Bay Buccaneers strategically acquired Haason Reddick and Kindle Vildor while releasing Robert Hainsey and Justin Skule. Retaining star players and enhancing pass rush were critical achievements, although cornerback duties remain a challenge to address further. They might prioritize additional linebacker stability. — Jenna Laine
NFC WEST
Arizona Cardinals landed Josh Sweat and Dalvin Tomlinson but faced departures such as Naquan Jones and Roy Lopez. They managed to fortify needed defensive positions but still have receiver gaps to fill. Strengthening their receiving unit could unlock their offensive capabilities further. — Josh Weinfuss
Los Angeles Rams reshaped their receiving game with Davante Adams after losing Cooper Kupp, coupled with adding Poona Ford. They precisely focused on both offensive and defensive line enhancements, showcasing proactive roster management. Future defensive recruitment still holds some weight as a priority. — Sarah Barshop
San Francisco 49ers made constructive moves, with Demarcus Robinson, Luke Farrell, and Mac Jones offsetting the release of key figures. Clearing the salary book for future stars appears to be their immediate goal, considering comprehensive rebuilds leading to potential roster strength. Addressing defensive lining is forecasted to be their next big move. — Nick Wagoner
Seattle Seahawks added Sam Darnold and Cooper Kupp as standout free agency figures, negotiating predecessor voids following trades. Line protection necessities command attention post-free agency, and strategic offensive line recruitment through drafts remains critical. — Brady Henderson
