2025 NFL free agency team-by-team grades: Bears, Patriots, Vikings, Commanders earn top marks through 3 days
The 2025 NFL free agency period has been a whirlwind of activity, with teams across the league making strategic moves to bolster their rosters. Through the first three days, several franchises have distinguished themselves with astute acquisitions and roster management. Here’s a comprehensive team-by-team analysis and grading of the notable moves thus far:
Chicago Bears: A-
The Bears have been proactive in addressing key areas, particularly the offensive line. The addition of offensive lineman Jonah Jackson, who expressed eagerness to reunite with head coach Ben Johnson, is a significant boost. Jackson’s familiarity with Johnson’s system should facilitate a smoother transition and immediate impact. Additionally, the Bears’ flexibility in the upcoming NFL Draft, holding picks 10, 39, and 41, positions them well to further strengthen their roster. The focus on the trenches is evident with the signings of linemen Joe Thuney and Grady Jarrett, aiming to revamp both the offensive and defensive lines.
New England Patriots: B+
Under new head coach Mike Vrabel, the Patriots have embarked on a comprehensive rebuild, leveraging their ample cap space to attract top-tier talent. The marquee signing of interior defender Milton Williams on a four-year, $104 million deal stands out. Williams is coming off a stellar season with a 91.7 PFF pass-rushing grade, the highest among interior defenders in 2024. To fortify their defense, the Patriots also secured cornerback Carlton Davis III, edge rusher Harold Landry III, and linebacker Robert Spillane, aiming to enhance their run defense. However, the offensive line and wide receiver positions, critical areas of need, saw less aggressive addressing. While the addition of wide receiver Mack Hollins and tackle Morgan Moses are steps forward, the Patriots may need further moves to solidify these units.
Minnesota Vikings: A
The Vikings have been among the most aggressive teams in free agency, making significant upgrades across the board. The offensive line received a substantial boost with the signings of guard Will Fries and center Ryan Kelly, both former Colts. Kelly, known for his pass protection prowess, and Fries, who earned an impressive 86.9 PFF grade in limited action due to injury, are expected to solidify the interior line. Defensively, the acquisitions of interior defenders Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave are noteworthy. Both have elite pass-rushing track records, with Hargrave and Allen ranking third and fifth, respectively, among interior defenders in PFF pass-rush grades from 2020-2023. These moves not only address immediate needs but also position the Vikings favorably for compensatory draft picks, crucial for a team with limited selections in the 2025 draft.
Washington Commanders: B-
In a bold move to protect quarterback Jayden Daniels, the Commanders traded for left tackle Laremy Tunsil, sending third and seventh-round picks in 2025, along with second and fourth-round picks in 2026, to the Houston Texans. Tunsil, despite being 31 and carrying a significant salary, is expected to be a substantial upgrade for an offensive line that allowed 47 sacks last season. However, his inconsistency and penalty issues in 2024 raise some concerns about the trade’s value.
Detroit Lions: B
The Lions made strategic moves to enhance their secondary and pass rush. The signing of cornerback D.J. Reed, ranked eighth among free agents by analyst Pete Prisco, is a significant addition, potentially upgrading their defensive backfield. Re-signing edge rusher Marcus Davenport, who is recovering from a season-ending injury in September, provides the Lions with a high-upside pass rusher aiming for a strong comeback.
Green Bay Packers: B
Addressing the offensive line was a priority for the Packers, leading to the acquisition of left guard Aaron Banks from the 49ers on a four-year, $77 million contract. Banks has been a stalwart in pass protection, surrendering just one sack in 897 pass-blocking snaps since 2023. The addition of cornerback Nate Hobbs, ranked 76th among free agents, aims to bolster the Packers’ secondary, especially with the departure of Eric Stokes to the Raiders.
Houston Texans: D+
The Texans’ decision to trade elite left tackle Laremy Tunsil to the Commanders was unexpected, especially given the offensive line’s struggles in protecting quarterback C.J. Stroud, who was sacked 52 times last season. While Tunsil had penalty issues, his pass protection was top-tier. The return for Tunsil, involving multiple draft picks, raises questions about the immediate protection for Stroud. The trade for defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson from the Eagles adds talent to the secondary, but it cost them starting offensive lineman Kenyon Green. The Texans’ strategy on the offensive front remains unclear, leading to concerns about Stroud’s protection moving forward.
Denver Broncos: B
The Broncos made notable additions to both their offense and defense. The signing of tight end Evan Engram on a two-year, $23 million deal provides quarterback Bo Nix with a dynamic weapon, particularly effective in the short-passing game favored by coach Sean Payton. However, Engram’s past efficiency issues temper expectations. Defensively, the acquisitions of safety Talanoa Hufanga and linebacker Dre Greenlaw, both former 49ers, aim to bolster the Broncos’ defense. Health concerns linger, as the trio missed a combined 33 games in 2024, making their durability a focal point for the upcoming season.