The NFL offseason is heating up with several teams facing critical decisions that will shape their futures.
Starting with the Cincinnati Bengals, the team is at a crossroads with several key players. Wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase is entering the final year of his contract and is seeking to become the highest-paid wide receiver in NFL history, potentially earning close to $40 million per season. The Bengals also need to address the future of wideout Tee Higgins, who is set to become a free agent, and defensive end Trey Hendrickson, who is seeking a new contract. With approximately $46 million in salary cap space, the Bengals' decisions on these players will significantly impact their roster and cap situation.
In Cleveland, the Browns are dealing with multiple challenges. Quarterback Deshaun Watson's recovery from an Achilles tendon rupture could keep him out for the 2025 season, prompting the team to consider using their No. 2 overall pick on a quarterback. Additionally, defensive end Myles Garrett has requested a trade, complicating the team's defensive strategy. Despite the team's insistence on not trading Garrett, his desire to compete for a Super Bowl creates tension.
The New York Jets are also in a state of flux. With a new coach, Aaron Glenn, and general manager, Darren Mougey, the team is addressing key roster decisions. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers is unlikely to return in 2025, and the Jets may designate him a post-June 1 cut to manage the $49 million in dead money. This move could also impact the future of wide receiver Davante Adams. The Jets have several young players eligible for contract extensions, including wide receiver Garrett Wilson, running back Breece Hall, cornerback Sauce Gardner, and edge Jermaine Johnson.
On the injury front, San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk is recovering from an ACL and MCL injury. His surgery was delayed, and he is expected to be around 43 weeks post-op by the start of the 2025 season, which might lead to him starting the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list.
In coaching and front office news, the New Orleans Saints are expected to hire Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore as their new head coach. This change comes as the Saints face limited salary cap flexibility this offseason.
Off-field, there is growing concern about the influence of agents in coaching and front office hires. The NFL is working to increase diversity among coaching agents and reduce the dominance of a few agencies in the hiring process, which is seen as a barrier for qualified minority candidates.
Looking ahead, the NFL has several important dates approaching, including the Senior Bowl and the start of free agency on January 6, when clubs can begin signing free agents and renegotiating rookie contracts.
For fantasy football enthusiasts, the health and contract status of key players like Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins, and Brandon Aiyuk will be crucial to monitor as the offseason unfolds.
Thank you for listening to the Football News Tracker podcast. Don't forget to subscribe for the latest updates and analysis on all things NFL.