2025 NFL Free Agency Team-by-Team Grades: Bears, Patriots, Vikings, and Commanders Stand Out

The 2025 NFL free agency period has already delivered significant moves that will reshape rosters and have a lasting impact on the season. Teams across the league are looking to fill key gaps, bolster their defenses, and improve their offensive lines. Among the most impressive performances so far, the Chicago Bears, New England Patriots, Minnesota Vikings, and Washington Commanders have earned top marks for their strategic moves. Let’s break down why these teams are receiving high praise during the opening days of free agency.

Chicago Bears: A

The Chicago Bears have been one of the most active and strategic teams in the early stages of free agency. After a challenging 2024 season, the Bears have prioritized strengthening their offensive line, which has been a key area of concern.

One of the standout signings for the Bears is the acquisition of offensive lineman Jonah Jackson. Jackson’s familiarity with head coach Ben Johnson is a crucial factor, as it sets the stage for continuity in the Bears’ blocking scheme. But the Bears didn’t stop there—further signings of linemen Joe Thuney and Grady Jarrett significantly bolster their front. These moves indicate a firm commitment to protecting their quarterback and improving the overall efficiency of the offense.

Additionally, the Bears have been smart about their defensive needs, ensuring that their defensive unit remains stout and competitive. With a focus on the trenches, the Bears are laying a solid foundation for a more potent offense and a tough defense that can compete in a tough NFC North division.

Grade: A

New England Patriots: A

Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots are known for their shrewd decision-making, and 2025 free agency has been no exception. The Patriots have made moves to address their offensive and defensive needs, particularly at wide receiver and in the secondary.

One of the biggest potential moves is the acquisition of wide receiver Cooper Kupp. Although Kupp has had some injury challenges in recent years, he remains one of the NFL’s most reliable receivers when healthy. His veteran presence would give quarterback Mac Jones a trusted target in critical situations, elevating the Patriots’ passing game to new heights.

On the defensive side of the ball, the signing of cornerback Darius Slay to a one-year, $10 million deal provides the Patriots with a seasoned cornerback capable of shutting down top receivers. Slay’s veteran experience will be pivotal in the Patriots’ defensive schemes, and his leadership in the secondary cannot be overstated. These moves suggest that the Patriots are not only preparing for a competitive 2025 campaign but also positioning themselves for a deep playoff run.

Grade: A

Minnesota Vikings: A-

The Minnesota Vikings have been quietly but effectively addressing their needs in free agency. The focus has been primarily on strengthening their defense, particularly in the secondary and along the defensive line.

Re-signing cornerback Cameron Dantzler was a key move for the Vikings. Dantzler’s ability to play both physically and intelligently in coverage makes him a reliable presence in their defensive backfield. Keeping him ensures that the Vikings maintain stability at cornerback, which is critical to containing the high-powered offenses in the NFC.

The Vikings also made a significant move by acquiring defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson. This is a crucial addition to a defensive line that was susceptible to the run game in 2024. Tomlinson is a force in the interior, providing both strength against the run and the ability to disrupt quarterbacks. With these signings, the Vikings are clearly focused on improving their defensive consistency, which was a key weakness last season.

Grade: A-

Washington Commanders: A

The Washington Commanders have been aggressive in their pursuit of top-tier talent this offseason, particularly on both sides of the line of scrimmage. After an up-and-down 2024 season, the Commanders seem committed to improving their chances for 2025 with some savvy signings.

Perhaps the most noteworthy of these moves is the trade for left tackle Laremy Tunsil from the Houston Texans. Tunsil is widely regarded as one of the top left tackles in the league, and his acquisition provides a massive upgrade to the Commanders’ offensive line. Protecting young quarterback Jayden Daniels will be crucial for the team’s success, and Tunsil is expected to be a pivotal part of that protection.

On the defensive side of the ball, the signing of cornerback Jonathan Jones is an excellent move to bolster the secondary. Jones is a fast, agile cornerback with excellent ball skills, and he’s sure to provide solid coverage in key matchups. These additions to both lines, along with a general emphasis on improving team depth, position the Commanders as serious contenders in the NFC East next season.

Grade: A

As the 2025 NFL free agency period rolls on, teams like the Chicago Bears, New England Patriots, Minnesota Vikings, and Washington Commanders have separated themselves with well-executed strategies. The Bears have focused on fortifying their offensive line, the Patriots have added key pieces to their offense and defense, the Vikings have bolstered their defense, and the Commanders have made major upgrades to both their offensive and defensive lines.

All four of these teams have demonstrated a clear vision for the future, filling gaps and improving their rosters in a way that will impact the 2025 season. While it’s still early in free agency, these teams are well-positioned to compete and potentially make deep playoff runs in the coming year. As always, the next few weeks will be crucial for other teams looking to follow suit and make the necessary adjustments before the start of the season.

For now, these top-performing teams have earned their accolades and are heading into the new season with renewed hope and strength.