2025 NFL Offseason Superlatives: AFC Edition
Bill Barnwell, ESPN Senior NFL Writer, May 22, 2025
It’s graduation season, the perfect time to hand out superlatives to NFL teams. After free agency and the draft, all 32 teams are brimming with optimism. But which franchises truly excelled in the offseason? This article analyzes the AFC, with the NFC to follow next week.
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(Note: Placeholder links above should be replaced with actual links to the corresponding team sections within the original article.)
AFC EAST
Buffalo Bills: Most Likely to Stay the Course
After the Von Miller experiment failed, GM Brandon Beane wisely prioritized extending key players from their 2021 and 2022 drafts (Christian Benford, Terrel Bernard, Greg Rousseau, Khalil Shakir) for over $61 million annually. Matt Milano took a pay cut to return. Josh Allen signed a record-breaking deal, but with significant guarantees. Instead of a splashy free agent signing, the Bills focused on mid-tier additions like Michael Hoecht and Larry Ogunjobi, and a one-year deal for Joey Bosa. This approach, while less exciting, reflects a commitment to their established roster-building strategy.
Miami Dolphins: Least Likely to Find a Solution for Their Most Pressing Problem
The Dolphins’ impasse with Jalen Ramsey is entirely self-inflicted. His hefty contract extension makes trading him extremely difficult, and finding a team willing to absorb his remaining guaranteed money is proving challenging. While Ramsey remains a talented player, his age, injury history, and recent dip in performance make him a risky acquisition for other teams.
New England Patriots: Most Likely to Need Name Tags at Training Camp
After a disappointing 2024 season, the Patriots aggressively pursued veteran free agents, potentially adding up to 11 new starters. Significant investments were made in players like Milton Williams and Stefon Diggs. The defensive overhaul, in particular, is notable, with additions like Carlton Davis III, Harold Landry III, and Robert Spillane aimed at addressing last year’s defensive collapse. Coach Mike Vrabel’s ability to maximize veteran talent will be crucial to their success.
New York Jets: Most Likely to Go on a Late-Summer Spending Spree
The Jets face crucial decisions regarding their 2022 draft class, all eligible for extensions. While Sauce Gardner’s performance has been inconsistent, and Breece Hall’s injury history is a concern, Garrett Wilson’s talent demands a significant contract. Jermaine Johnson’s recovery from injury will also influence contract negotiations. The Jets’ offseason has been relatively quiet so far, suggesting a potential late-summer spending spree to address these key players.
AFC NORTH
Baltimore Ravens: Most Likely to Sign a Post-June 1 Free Agent
The Ravens’ strategic use of compensatory picks influences their free agency approach. They’ve been relatively quiet, focusing on signings that don’t impact their compensatory pick projections. Expect them to target veteran players after June 1st, potentially addressing needs on the offensive line and at inside linebacker.
Cincinnati Bengals: Most Likely to Hope Their Biggest Problem Just Forgets About Being Mad
The Bengals’ failure to address Trey Hendrickson’s contract demands is a significant concern. Hendrickson’s production and the rising market value for edge rushers make his situation increasingly problematic. The Bengals’ lack of communication and Hendrickson’s willingness to sit out games highlight a potential crisis.
Cleveland Browns: Most Likely to Pepper the Wall and Hope Something Sticks
With Deshaun Watson’s injury, the Browns have assembled a quarterback room of diverse styles and experience (Kenny Pickett, Joe Flacco, Dillon Gabriel, Shedeur Sanders). This lack of clarity at the quarterback position suggests a focus on building a run
Tomado de https://www.espn.com/
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