NFL Offseason: Predictions for Free Agent Targets by Team

The NFL offseason is in full swing, packed with significant events and strategic moves as teams prepare for free agency. With the Super Bowl having taken place on February 9, the scouting combine followed closely, and now teams are gearing up for the legal tampering period that begins next week. General managers will finalize their strategies to address team needs as they prepare to navigate a salary cap that has increased to $279.2 million, allowing for diverse spending scenarios across the league.

Team-Specific Free Agent Targets

Arizona Cardinals

Target: Edge Haason Reddick

The former first-round pick is back on the market after a disappointing 2024 season, blighted by injuries and limited usage. With the Cardinals in dire need of a stronger pass-rush, Reddick’s potential return could fill a critical void.

Atlanta Falcons

Target: Edge Khalil Mack

After a dismal sack count last season, the Falcons must improve their pass rush. Mack, a seasoned Pro Bowler, would provide the required edge experience and skill as Atlanta seeks to enhance their defensive capabilities.

Baltimore Ravens

Target: FS Tre’von Moehrig

The Ravens need to bolster their secondary. Moehrig’s strong statistics from last season indicate he could fit well into Baltimore’s defense, bringing speed and playmaking ability.

Buffalo Bills

Target: WR Hollywood Brown

To optimize quarterback Josh Allen’s performance, the Bills are looking for a dynamic receiver like Hollywood Brown, who, after recovering from injuries, could stretch the defense and add a big-play dimension.

Carolina Panthers

Target: DT D.J. Jones

Aiming to strengthen their defense, the Panthers could benefit from Jones, who is known for his disruptive presence on the interior line, bolstered by his prior collaboration with Carolina’s defensive coordinator.

Chicago Bears

Target: C Drew Dalman

The Bears’ top priority is ensuring a solid offensive line for potential franchise quarterback Caleb Williams. Dalman’s reliability at center would significantly aid the offensive development.

Cincinnati Bengals

Target: G Brandon Scherff

The Bengals are focusing on reinforcing their offensive line following personnel changes. Scherff’s proven ability in the trenches would provide added strength for Joe Burrow’s protection.

Cleveland Browns

Target: QB Kirk Cousins

If released by the Falcons, Cousins could be a sensible option for the Browns as they seek reliable quarterback play while waiting for Deshaun Watson to heal.

Dallas Cowboys

Target: RB Najee Harris

The Cowboys need to address their running back situation. Harris, coming off a solid season with the Steelers, could become a foundational piece for the Dallas offense.

Denver Broncos

Target: WR Amari Cooper

Following a challenging season, the Broncos are looking for a veteran wide receiver. Cooper could seamlessly fit into their offensive scheme and contribute significantly.

Detroit Lions

Target: Edge Azeez Ojulari

The Lions could enhance their rushing attack by acquiring Ojulari, who has shown potential previously and could pair effectively with their existing defensive linemen.

Green Bay Packers

Target: Edge Josh Sweat

As the Packers seek to improve their defense, Sweat’s prowess as a pass rusher makes him a compelling target, potentially providing the bolstered edge presence needed.

Houston Texans

Target: WR Stefon Diggs

Returning from injury, Diggs could anchor Houston’s receiving corps and allow them to develop their quarterback, ensuring a stable offense moving forward.

Indianapolis Colts

Target: QB Daniel Jones

With uncertainty surrounding Anthony Richardson, Jones could join the Colts to compete for starting duties and bring experience to the position.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Target: G Mekhi Becton

After a coaching overhaul, the Jaguars need to optimize Trevor Lawrence’s protection, making Becton’s addition a logical strategy for improvement.

Kansas City Chiefs

Target: LT Ronnie Stanley

In light of offensive line issues during the last season, acquiring Stanley could solidify Mahomes’ protection on the left side.

L.A. Chargers

Target: C Ryan Kelly

Kelly’s experience and skill at center would help establish a solid foundation for the Chargers’ offensive line, improving their run and pass game.

L.A. Rams

Target: WR Davante Adams

The Rams are likely to pursue Adams after his release, aiming to inject more talent into their receiving corps following potential roster changes.

Las Vegas Raiders

Target: QB Russell Wilson

If Wilson becomes available, the Raiders could benefit from his experience while they navigate their future quarterback needs.

Miami Dolphins

Target: S Talanoa Hufanga

The Dolphins might lose Jevon Holland and would benefit from Hufanga’s impact and playmaking ability in their secondary.

Minnesota Vikings

Target: QB Sam Darnold

Re-signing Darnold could provide continuity and experience as the Vikings look to build on their past performance amidst uncertainties at quarterback.

New England Patriots

Target: DT Milton Williams

To support emerging quarterback Drake Maye, the Patriots will likely prioritize defensive improvements, with Williams being a solid addition.

New Orleans Saints

Target: WR Darius Slayton

Slayton’s consistent production could provide Carr with the additional depth at the receiver position that he needs to succeed.

New York Giants

Target: QB Aaron Rodgers

Despite the team’s rebuilding effort, adding a veteran like Rodgers could accelerate their return to contention, especially with young offensive talent in the mix.

New York Jets

Target: QB Carson Wentz

Wentz could be a valuable addition for the Jets as a mid-tier veteran, providing competition and experience in a transitioning situation.

Philadelphia Eagles

Target: Edge Baron Browning

This young edge rusher brings potential and familiarity with the coaching staff, making him an ideal choice to enhance the Eagles’ defensive strategy.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Target: QB Justin Fields

Investing in Fields could provide the Steelers with a higher upside as they look to refine their quarterback lineup for lasting success.

San Francisco 49ers

Target: CB D.J. Reed

Aiming to fortify their secondary, Reed’s experience and past performance under the current defensive coordinator would strongly benefit San Francisco.

Seattle Seahawks

Target: S Jevon Holland

Bringing in a player like Holland would provide the Seahawks with versatility and toughness in their defensive backfield amidst roster adjustments.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Target: CB Charvarius Ward

The potential addition of Ward could significantly enhance the Buccaneers’ secondary, steping in as a key player on their defense.

Tennessee Titans

Target: QB Marcus Mariota

Reuniting with Mariota as a mentor for a new rookie quarterback could provide the Titans with stability and leadership while they rebuild.

Washington Commanders

Target: Edge DeMarcus Lawrence

Lawrence’s return from injury combined with his past performance could reinvigorate the Commanders’ pass rush, addressing a pressing defensive need.

The upcoming weeks promise to be crucial as teams navigate the complexities of free agency. Strategic acquisitions can significantly reshape rosters and influence each team’s chances heading into the next season.