NFL Offseason
Sean Gordon
Staff Writer
The Biggest Moves from 2025 NFL Offseason So Far
Free agency is underway in the NFL and the league has already been reshaped by multiple unexpected moves. Here are some of the biggest moves from the busy offseason so far.
Commanders trade for Deebo Samuel and Laremy Tunsil
Washington acquired WR Deebo Samuel from the 49ers for a fifth-round draft pick. Samuel has struggled to stay on the field consistently as of late, but he can still offer a unique presence to an offense. It can’t hurt to give Jayden Daniels another weapon.
Washington also sent a second and a third-round pick to Houston in exchange for OT Laremy Tunsil. The Washington offensive line was inconsistent last season, often collapsing, forcing Daniels to use his legs more than his arm. The five-time Pro Bowler will play a huge role in protecting the franchise quarterback.
Bengals extend Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins
Cincinnati managed to finally retain their young superstar after all the drama. Chase agreed to a four-year, $161 million contract that makes him the highest paid non-QB in NFL history. This deal was well-earned by Joe Burrow’s favorite target, who has been selected to the Pro Bowl in each of his first four seasons.
After negotiations failed last offseason and tensions were at an all-time high, Chase went on to explode for a historic season. The LSU product caught 127 passes for 1,709 yards and 17 touchdowns, enough production to earn the receiving triple crown.
The Bengals also came to an agreement with Tee Higgins, after franchise tagging him twice before. The two sides agreed to a four-year, $115 million deal to keep one of the league’s most dynamic offensive units together. Higgins has been a huge part of the unit’s success, having scored 34 times over five seasons.
Seahawks trade Metcalf to Steelers, Smith to Raiders, sign Sam Darnold
Seattle decided to completely reshape the direction of their team, making multiple major moves. The most surprising of the bunch came when they shipped D.K. Metcalf to Pittsburgh for a second-round and seventh-round pick. Seattle has depth at the position, with last year’s breakout Jaxon Smith-Njigba and veteran Tyler Lockett. The 23-year-old, Smith-Njigba, caught 100 passes for over 1,100 yards and six touchdowns in his second season.
On the other hand, Pittsburgh had a lack of depth at wide receiver in their below-average passing offense. Tight end Pat Freiermuth led the team in receiving touchdowns, with seven. George Pickens, who saw over 100 targets in 14 games played, only managed three touchdowns and failed to reach the 1,000-yard mark. Metcalf offers big-play ability that can open up this offense and make the game easier for the quarterback.
Speaking of quarterback, the Seahawks trade Geno Smith to Las Vegas and sign Sam Darnold. Smith was a viable option under center for Seattle, leading them to three consecutive winning seasons, but only making one playoff appearance. Last season, Smith threw for over 4,300 yards but added 15 interceptions.
Sam Darnold was nearly an MVP finalist last season. He had a ridiculous stretch of games in Minnesota where he looked unrecognizable as the player we once knew him as. He wasn’t outstanding down the stretch, underperforming in a few big games in the regular season and disappointed in the playoff loss. Could it be a one season wonder?
Rams sign Davante Adams
Matthew Stafford is still under center in LA and has a new target to pair with Puka Nacua. Adams signed a two-year, $44 million deal to join the Rams and help McVay’s crafty offense. LA’s wide receiver room struggled with injuries and consistency all last season. Not one player managed to net 1,000 total receiving yards in one of the league’s best offenses. Adams is seemingly past his prime, but still has enough left to make an impact.
Bears trade for Joe Thuney
Chicago only had to give up a fourth-rounder to acquire OT Joe Thuney from the Chiefs. The 32-year old has won four Super Bowls throughout his career, with both the Chiefs and Patriots. Thuney adds a much-needed presence to an offensive line that was historically poor a season ago. This is a huge move for the development of Caleb Williams.
Patriots sign Stefon Diggs
New England makes a move to help young QB Drake Maye by signing Stefon Diggs to a three-year, $63.5 million deal. Diggs is 31, but he produced last season in Houston before injury ended his season. He had nearly 500 receiving yards and scored four times in eight games played. Diggs should be a great veteran first option for the promising quarterback.
Jets sign Justin Fields
The Jets signed QB Justin Fields to a two-year, $40 million deal. After parting ways with Aaron Rodgers after the failed experiment, the Jets found themselves with a gap at quarterback. They bring in a 26-year-old that won four games in six starts for the Steelers last season. It’s a low risk signing that could really pay off for the team as it goes through a bit of a transition.
Giants sign Russell Wilson
The other former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback gets scooped up by the Giants on a one-year, $10.5 million deal. The Giants had three different quarterbacks under center on their way to a three-win season, while being one of the worst passing offenses in the league. This unit does have one bright spot in Malik Nabers, who surpassed the 100 receptions mark and racked up over 1,200 yards and seven touchdowns. Russ adds veteran leadership to a team that desperately needs it.
Contact Sean at sean.gordon@student.shu.edu