2025 NFL Free Agency Day 1: Winners and Losers – Mike Vrabel Beefs Up Patriots Defense; What’s Steelers QB Plan?
By ABC News Sports Team | March 12, 2025
Winners:
1. New England Patriots – Mike Vrabel Makes Big Moves to Strengthen Defense
The New England Patriots made a statement on Day 1 of the 2025 NFL free agency period, as head coach Mike Vrabel continues to reshape the team’s defensive core. After a disappointing 2024 season, Vrabel has taken a hands-on approach to improve the Patriots’ defense, and his first moves paid off.
The Patriots made several high-profile signings, including veteran linebacker Devin White from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. White, a two-time Pro Bowler, adds much-needed versatility to New England’s defense, and his ability to cover the field from sideline to sideline gives Vrabel a crucial asset to build around. Additionally, the Patriots locked in Javon Hargrave, a top-tier defensive tackle, to solidify their defensive line. The combination of White and Hargrave will help set the tone for a more aggressive, dynamic defense in 2025.
“We’re looking to dominate the line of scrimmage and get back to our roots,” Vrabel said during a press conference. “This is just the beginning.”
2. Chicago Bears – Roquan Smith and Darnell Mooney Return to Form
After a disappointing 2024 season, the Bears have reloaded with key acquisitions to revamp their defense and offense. Most notably, Chicago signed Roquan Smith to a long-term deal, ensuring their defense has a leader to build around for years to come. The Bears also inked a contract with wide receiver Darnell Mooney, keeping Justin Fields’ receiving corps intact and providing the young QB with another trusted target.
These moves signal the Bears’ commitment to building around their budding quarterback and improving on both sides of the ball.
3. Arizona Cardinals – Kyler Murray Gets Major Support
The Arizona Cardinals emerged as one of the biggest winners of the first day of free agency by making key acquisitions to support quarterback Kyler Murray. The team signed DeAndre Hopkins to a lucrative multi-year extension, ensuring that Murray will have a top-tier target for the foreseeable future. In addition, the Cardinals bolstered their offensive line by signing Mike McGlinchey from the San Francisco 49ers. The move to protect Murray will give him more time in the pocket to find open receivers.
“We need to build around Kyler,” said head coach Jonathan Gannon. “Our goal is to make him comfortable, confident, and ready to lead this team.”
Losers:
1. Pittsburgh Steelers – Quarterback Uncertainty Continues
While the Pittsburgh Steelers had an active first day of free agency, they left many fans scratching their heads regarding the future of the quarterback position. Despite rumors that they were targeting high-profile quarterbacks such as Jimmy Garoppolo or Trey Lance, the Steelers opted to stand pat, making only minor additions to their offensive line and secondary.
The lack of any major moves at quarterback raises questions about the team’s plan moving forward. Kenny Pickett, the Steelers’ young QB, showed flashes of potential in 2024, but with no veteran presence added to compete for the starting role, many wonder if the team is confident in his development or if they are preparing for a more long-term rebuild at the position.
“It’s hard to say if we’re fully ready to put all our chips in with Pickett right now,” said a source close to the Steelers’ front office. “This is a pivotal year for him, and they are taking a wait-and-see approach.”
2. Los Angeles Rams – Defensive Woes Persist
The Los Angeles Rams entered free agency needing to strengthen their defense, but the first day left many disappointed. While the Rams signed a few lower-profile players, they failed to land any significant pieces that could help them bounce back from a defensive collapse in 2024.
The team has struggled with injuries and aging stars in recent seasons, and despite their efforts to bring in fresh blood, the lack of immediate impact players may leave their defense vulnerable again in 2025.
“It’s tough to rebuild a defense that’s aging and decimated by injury,” Rams general manager Les Snead said. “We’re trying to hit on the right guys, but it’s not an easy fix.”
3. Green Bay Packers – No Immediate Help for Jordan Love
The Green Bay Packers were quiet on Day 1 of free agency, leaving many fans frustrated as they watched other teams aggressively pursue upgrades. With Jordan Love set to take over the starting quarterback role in 2025, the Packers were expected to add offensive weapons to help him succeed. However, the Packers failed to bring in any notable playmakers, leaving Love with a largely unproven group of receivers and tight ends.
“The Packers have a long-term vision with Love, but it’s going to be a difficult year if they don’t surround him with better talent,” said ESPN analyst Louis Riddick. “They’ve got to find a way to give him the tools to succeed.”
Looking Ahead:
As the 2025 NFL free agency period continues, teams will continue to refine their rosters in hopes of building playoff-caliber squads. The Patriots and Bears have set themselves up for success in the near future, while the Steelers, Rams, and Packers have some key decisions to make as they head into the rest of the offseason.
With the NFL draft just around the corner, it will be fascinating to see how these moves and lingering questions shape the upcoming season. Stay tuned for more update
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