The 2025 NFL offseason is a crucial time for all 32 teams, as they face important decisions that could change the course of their franchises. With the March 12 deadline approaching, front offices must work hard to keep their most valuable players while also dealing with salary cap limitations.
The stakes couldn’t be higher:
- Star players entering free agency
- Franchise tag decisions
- Complex contract negotiations
- Roster stability vs. financial flexibility
Every NFL team has identified at least one indispensable free agent whose departure could create significant ripple effects throughout their roster. These players represent more than just statistical contributions – they embody leadership, scheme fit, and long-term strategic value.
From the Ravens’ blind-side protector Ronnie Stanley to the Bengals’ dynamic receiver Tee Higgins, these pivotal free agents hold the power to shape their teams’ competitive outlook for years to come. Let’s explore the one player each NFL team must prioritize retaining in the 2025 offseason to maintain their trajectory toward success.
AFC East
Buffalo Bills: RB Ty Johnson
The Buffalo Bills face a critical decision regarding running back Ty Johnson’s future with the team. Johnson’s dynamic presence in the Bills’ backfield has created a perfect complementary tandem with James Cook, bringing versatility and explosiveness to their offensive arsenal.
Johnson’s impact extends beyond traditional rushing statistics:
- Speed Merchant: His 4.4 speed provides the Bills with breakaway potential on every touch
- Receiving Threat: Demonstrated reliable hands out of the backfield, creating mismatches against linebackers
- Pass Protection: Excels in blitz pickup, essential for protecting Josh Allen
The Bills’ offensive scheme thrives on Johnson’s ability to:
- Execute zone runs with precise cutting ability
- Create separation in the passing game
- Maintain defensive honesty with his dual-threat capabilities
His 2024 performance showcased improved vision and decision-making, averaging 4.8 yards per carry and contributing 300+ receiving yards. These numbers reflect his growing importance within Buffalo’s offensive system.
The 2025 season projects Johnson to take on an expanded role, particularly in:
- Third-down situations
- Two-minute drill scenarios
- Red zone packages
His chemistry with Josh Allen and understanding of the Bills’ complex offensive system makes him an invaluable asset. The Bills’ front office must prioritize retaining Johnson to maintain their offensive efficiency and preserve the backfield balance that has served them well.
Miami Dolphins: S Jevon Holland
Jevon Holland has become a key player for the Miami Dolphins since they picked him in the 2021 NFL Draft. He can play both deep safety and closer to the line, making him a valuable asset in Miami’s defensive strategies.
Holland’s impact goes beyond traditional statistics:
- Coverage Skills: Holland’s range allows him to effectively patrol the deep third of the field
- Run Support: His aggressive downhill playing style helps fortify the Dolphins’ front seven
- Blitz Capability: 5 sacks and 14 quarterback pressures in his first three seasons
Even though he sometimes struggles with consistency in covering assignments, Holland’s ability to make big plays has been extremely valuable. His talent for forcing turnovers – including a memorable 99-yard interception return touchdown against the Jets – shows how much of a game-changer he can be.
With Holland leading the way, the Dolphins’ secondary has become one of the most exciting groups in the league. Having him alongside Xavien Howard has formed a strong defensive backfield that opposing quarterbacks have to be aware of on every play.
New England Patriots: DL Deatrich Wise Jr.
Deatrich Wise Jr. is a steady presence in New England’s post-Brady era. The experienced defensive lineman has consistently performed well during the Patriots’ difficult transition period, achieving consistent pressure rates and showing impressive durability with over 50 consecutive game appearances.
His ability to play multiple roles on the defensive line has proven invaluable, enabling him to excel in both stopping the run and rushing the passer. Wise Jr.’s skill in lining up at various positions – including edge rusher and interior defender – gives the Patriots’ defense important flexibility in adjusting their game plan.
The numbers tell a compelling story:
- 4.5+ sacks per season average since 2020
- 75% defensive snap participation rate
- 15 quarterback hits in 2023
In a division where quarterbacks like Josh Allen and Aaron Rodgers require constant pressure, Wise Jr.’s role becomes even more crucial. He naturally takes on a leadership position by mentoring younger defensive linemen while maintaining his own high-level performance.
The Patriots’ defensive identity heavily relies on experienced players who understand their system, making it essential for them to prioritize Wise Jr.’s retention in their plans for 2025.
New York Jets: LB Jamien Sherwood
The Jets’ defense has found an unexpected key player in Jamien Sherwood. The young linebacker has transformed from a fifth-round selection into a defensive powerhouse, making impressive tackles and showing great awareness on the field.
Versatility in Complex Defensive Schemes
Sherwood’s versatility stands out in the Jets’ intricate defensive strategies. His ability to quickly understand plays and adapt to both stopping the run and covering receivers makes him an invaluable part of the defense. In 2024, he showcased this adaptability by:
- Leading the team in tackles during crucial divisional games
- Excelling in assignments involving zone coverage
- Consistently maintaining control over gaps
Pivotal Decision for the Jets’ Front Office
The Jets’ front office faces an important decision about Sherwood’s future. His rise as a dependable defensive leader comes at a time when the offensive power of AFC East teams continues to grow. Teams like the Bills and Dolphins have invested heavily in dynamic playmakers, making Sherwood’s presence in the middle of the field increasingly vital.
His development suggests that he is only beginning to reach his potential. The Jets’ defensive identity has become closely tied to Sherwood’s aggressive yet disciplined style of play, making it a top priority for the 2025 offseason to keep him on the team.
AFC North
Baltimore Ravens: OT Ronnie Stanley
The Ravens face a critical decision regarding left tackle Ronnie Stanley’s future – a cornerstone of their offensive line since 2016. Stanley’s elite pass-blocking abilities have been instrumental in Lamar Jackson’s success, allowing the dynamic quarterback to execute both designed runs and passing plays with confidence.
Stanley’s impact on the Ravens’ offense:
- Pass Protection Excellence: 92.1 pass-blocking grade in 2023, ranking among the top tackles in the NFL
- Run Game Support: Key contributor to Baltimore’s league-leading rushing attack
- Quarterback Security: Only 2 sacks allowed in 15 starts during the 2023 season
The 29-year-old tackle has bounced back strong from his 2020 ankle injury, proving his durability by starting 28 games over the past two seasons. His technical prowess and athleticism make him irreplaceable in Baltimore’s scheme, particularly in maintaining the offensive rhythm that defines their attack.
Stanley’s presence directly impacts:
- Jackson’s ability to extend plays
- The effectiveness of Baltimore’s RPO concepts
- Protection adjustments against complex defensive fronts
The Ravens’ brass understands Stanley’s value extends beyond individual performance – he’s a vital piece in their championship aspirations. His chemistry with Jackson and understanding of the offensive system would be nearly impossible to replicate with a new tackle.
The market for premier left tackles continues to rise, placing additional pressure on Baltimore to secure Stanley’s services. Recent contracts for top tackles have exceeded $23 million annually, setting a baseline for negotiations with their Pro Bowl protector.
Cincinnati Bengals: WR Tee Higgins
The Bengals face a critical decision with Tee Higgins entering free agency in 2025. His presence alongside Ja’Marr Chase has created one of the NFLmost formidable receiving duos, presenting constant matchup nightmares for opposing defenses.
Higgins brings unique value beyond his role as WR2:
- Elite Route Running: His precise route-running creates consistent separation, particularly on intermediate routes
- Contested Catch Specialist: 6’4″ frame allows him to win jump-ball situations
- Red Zone Threat: 19 touchdowns in his first three seasons
- Chain Mover: 75% of his receptions result in first downs
The former Clemson star’s chemistry with Joe Burrow has produced multiple 1,000+ yard seasons. His ability to work both outside and in the slot provides crucial offensive flexibility, allowing Chase to move around formations without sacrificing production.
Defensive coordinators must account for Higgins on every snap – his presence prevents double teams on Chase while creating favorable one-on-one matchups across the field. This dynamic has been instrumental in Cincinnati’s offensive success.
In the competitive AFC North landscape, losing Higgins would significantly impact the Bengals’ passing attack potency. His retention remains vital for maintaining their offensive firepower.
Cleveland Browns: OT Jedrick Wills
The Cleveland Browns face a critical decision with left tackle Jedrick Wills heading into the 2025 free agency. Despite battling through multiple injuries since his rookie season, Wills has proven his worth as a cornerstone of the Browns’ offensive line. His performance when healthy justifies the investment made in him as a first-round pick (10th overall in 2020), and his natural athleticism fits perfectly within Cleveland’s zone-blocking scheme.
Wills’ pass-blocking efficiency stands out:
- 92.4% pass block win rate in 2023
- Only 4 sacks allowed across 15 starts
- Consistent improvement in run blocking grades
His ability to protect Deshaun Watson’s blindside has been particularly noteworthy under pressure. In crucial third-down situations, Wills maintained a stellar 89% success rate against elite edge rushers, demonstrating his value in high-stakes moments.
The injury concerns remain valid – Wills missed significant time with knee and ankle issues. Yet his performance when healthy justifies the investment:
- First-round pedigree (10th overall pick in 2020)
- Natural athleticism that fits Cleveland’s zone-blocking scheme
- Strong chemistry with guard Joel Bitonio
In the ultra-competitive AFC North, where elite pass rushers lurk on every roster, securing a proven left tackle like Wills becomes paramount for the Browns’ continued offensive success. This is especially critical as they look to build on their performance in the upcoming 2024 season and evaluate their overall offensive line.
Pittsburgh Steelers: QB Justin Fields
Justin Fields is an important part of Pittsburgh’s plan for finding a new quarterback. The former Bears starter has the ability to both pass and run effectively, which fits well with the direction the Steelers’ offense is heading. During his time in Chicago, he showcased his skills by throwing for over 2,200 yards and scoring 12 touchdowns on the ground.
Fields will have the opportunity to learn from Kenny Pickett, creating an interesting dynamic within Pittsburgh’s quarterback group. His knack for extending plays and making things happen on his own is reminiscent of how the Steelers’ offense used to operate when Ben Roethlisberger was at the helm.
At just 25 years old, Fields brings valuable experience as a starting quarterback to Pittsburgh’s offensive system. This makes him a reliable backup option and a potential future starter if Pickett struggles.
The AFC North is known for its tough defenses, which puts pressure on quarterbacks to perform under duress and make plays even when things don’t go according to plan. Fields’ athleticism and improving ability to navigate the pocket make him an asset that Pittsburgh needs to keep in order to stay competitive in one of the NFL most challenging divisions.
AFC South
Houston Texans: WR Stefon Diggs
The Houston Texans’ acquisition of Stefon Diggs marked a crucial moment in their offensive evolution. His presence alongside C.J. Stroud has transformed the Texans’ passing attack into a multi-dimensional threat. Diggs brings elite route-running precision and exceptional separation ability that demands constant defensive attention.
Key attributes that make Diggs irreplaceable:
- Veteran Leadership: His experience helps accelerate Stroud’s development
- Route Tree Mastery: Creates defensive confusion with precise timing and deception
- Red Zone Efficiency: Excels in tight spaces near the goal line
- Double-Team Magnet: Opens opportunities for Tank Dell and other receivers
The numbers tell a compelling story:
Diggs has maintained a 70%+ catch rate when targeted, demonstrating reliable hands and consistent production in crucial situations.
His impact extends beyond statistical production. Diggs’ ability to read defensive coverages pre-snap allows him to adjust routes on the fly, creating spontaneous opportunities for Stroud to exploit mismatches. This veteran savvy proves invaluable for a young quarterback still mastering NFL defenses.
The Texans’ offensive scheme heavily relies on Diggs’ versatility. He excels both as an outside threat and from the slot, giving offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik multiple options in personnel groupings. His presence forces defenses to commit additional resources to coverage, creating favorable matchups for Houston’s emerging playmakers.
Retaining Diggs becomes crucial for maintaining offensive continuity and supporting Stroud’s continued development. His combination of technical skill, football IQ, and proven production makes him an essential piece in Houston’s push toward AFC South dominance.
Indianapolis Colts: OG Will Fries (investment in trenches)
Will Fries has become a vital part of the Colts’ offensive line. His technical skills and deep understanding of the game make him an invaluable asset for Indianapolis’s run-heavy offensive strategy. The 2022 seventh-round pick has grown into a dependable starter, showing significant improvement in both pass protection and run blocking.
Fries’ impact on Jonathan Taylor’s performance cannot be overlooked. His ability to create running lanes and keep the quarterback safe has directly contributed to Taylor’s comeback. The guard’s knowledge of blocking techniques and timing has been crucial in executing the Colts’ zone-blocking strategies.
The 26-year-old’s durability adds another layer of value – he’s missed minimal time since earning his starting role. His consistency in both practice and game situations has earned him respect from coaches and teammates alike.
Keeping Fries would strengthen the Colts’ commitment to their offensive line, ensuring stability for their rushing attack and safeguarding their young quarterback. His presence helps maintain the offensive line’s unity, which is essential for the team’s quest to dominate the AFC South.
Tennessee Titans: WR Chris Godwin (long-term strategy)
The Titans’ pursuit of Chris Godwin represents a critical pivot in their offensive evolution. His ability to threaten defenses both deep down the field and with shorter routes makes him a nightmare for opposing teams.
Godwin’s skill set aligns perfectly with Tennessee’s need for a reliable target who can:
- Create separation in tight coverage
- Execute precise route-running across all three levels
- Provide consistent production in high-pressure situations
- Mentor younger receivers in the roster
The former Buccaneer’s proven track record of 1,000+ yard seasons showcases his ability to perform as a primary receiver. His presence would immediately elevate the Titans’ passing attack, giving their quarterback a dependable option in crucial moments.
At age 29, Godwin brings the perfect blend of experience and remaining prime years. His acquisition would signal Tennessee’s commitment to building a dynamic offense capable of competing with division rivals like the Texans, who’ve strengthened their receiving corps with Stefon Diggs.
NFC East
Dallas Cowboys: DL Osa Odighizuwa
Odighizuwa’s disruptive presence on the interior defensive line has become a cornerstone of Dallas’ defensive success. His ability to generate pressure up the middle creates opportunities for edge rushers, making him an indispensable piece of the Cowboys’ defensive puzzle.
New York Giants: OLB Azeez Ojulari
Ojulari’s explosive first step and bend around the edge have made him a constant threat in the pass rush. Despite battling injuries, his impact on the Giants’ defense remains significant – when healthy, he’s shown the potential to be a double-digit sack producer.
Philadelphia Eagles: LB Zack Baun
Recent three-year extension signals Eagles’ commitment
- Versatile linebacker who excels in coverage
- Strong special teams contributor
- Provides valuable depth behind starter group
Washington Commanders: WR Noah Brown
Brown’s emergence as a reliable target has added a new dimension to Washington’s passing attack:
- Speed element complements Terry McLaurin
- Proven ability to create separation
- Strong hands in contested catch situations
- Valuable depth piece with starter upside
His chemistry with developing quarterbacks makes him a priority retention target for a team building toward the future.
FAQs
Why is the 2025 NFL offseason significant for teams?
The 2025 NFL offseason is crucial as it shapes the future of teams in the league. Each team faces important decisions regarding free agents, which can significantly impact their success in the upcoming season and beyond.
Which free agent is the Buffalo Bills prioritizing for retention in 2025?
The Buffalo Bills are focusing on retaining RB Ty Johnson, who serves as a vital change-of-pace counterpart to James Cook in their backfield, contributing significantly to their offensive scheme.
What role does Jevon Holland play for the Miami Dolphins?
Jevon Holland is a key safety for the Miami Dolphins, known for his dual role as a playmaker despite some reliability concerns. His retention is essential for maintaining a strong secondary unit moving forward.
How has Deatrich Wise Jr. contributed to the New England Patriots?
Deatrich Wise Jr. has provided steady performance during New England’s transitional phase post-Tom Brady, making him an essential piece in their rebuilding efforts as they aim to stay competitive.
What makes Tee Higgins an important asset for the Cincinnati Bengals?
Tee Higgins is crucial as he complements Ja’Marr Chase in the Bengals’ receiving corps, possessing elite route-running ability and great hands that keep defenses guessing and benefit quarterback Joe Burrow.
What challenges does Jedrick Wills face with the Cleveland Browns?
Jedrick Wills has struggled with injuries throughout his career; however, he remains viewed as proven left tackle talent that is necessary for protecting Deshaun Watson’s blindside and ensuring offensive success.
