New England Patriots: Building a Support System for Drake Maye
The New England Patriots are in a unique position this offseason, boasting nearly $120 million in cap space and a top-five draft pick. This unprecedented level of flexibility will be crucial as they aim to surround their new franchise quarterback, Drake Maye, with a robust support system. However, the roster has significant needs on both sides of the ball, and while the primary focus here is on the offense, it’s clear that head coach Mike Vrabel won’t neglect a defense that ranked 30th in EPA per play allowed last season. Given these constraints, the Patriots will need to make strategic decisions to allocate their resources effectively.
One of the most pressing needs is the offensive line, which was a liability last season. The Patriots will likely prioritize this area in free agency, where savvy additions can make an immediate impact. Building a solid foundation in the trenches is crucial not only for protecting Maye but also for bolstering the run game, which can create a positive cascade effect throughout the offense. While it’s easier to find reliable offensive linemen in free agency, the wide receiver corps is another area that requires attention. However, with limited resources, the Patriots may have to hope that improved coaching can help their young receivers develop further.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Evaluating the Roster
The Jacksonville Jaguars are entering a new era under new head coach Bryan Coen, and with that comes the need to reassess the roster. Two of the highest cap charges, Christian Kirk and Evan Engram, have no guaranteed money left on their deals. Given the Jaguars’ ample cap space, they have the flexibility to make some tough decisions. Coen’s vision for the offense may not align with the skill sets of Kirk and Engram, particularly Engram, who is a hyper-specific player and may not fit the blocking needs of the new offensive scheme.
The running back situation is also up in the air. Coen has no attachment to the current duo of Tank Bigsby and Travis Etienne Jr., and with other pressing needs on the roster, adding a significant third option at running back is unlikely. However, if the Jaguars can revamp their interior offensive line, one of these running backs could still hold value in the 2025 fantasy season.
Denver Broncos: Adding Playmakers
The Denver Broncos are in an enviable position this offseason, with a solid foundation at premium positions and a wealth of resources to build upon. They have a strong quarterback in Bo Nix, a top corner, a formidable pass rush, and a solid offensive line. However, there are still areas where they can improve, particularly in the skill positions. The running back and tight end positions are nearly blank slates, and even a receiver addition would complement Courtland Sutton and some of the role players who showed promise in 2024.
With the strength of this year’s draft class at running back and tight end, the Broncos have a prime opportunity to add dynamic playmakers. Head coach Sean Payton, who designed a strong offensive operation last year, will be instrumental in identifying the right fits. The Broncos’ needs align well with the talent available, and they are likely to make significant additions that fantasy football enthusiasts will be keeping an eye on next season.
Pittsburgh Steelers: The Quarterback Dilemma
For yet another offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers are grappling with the most critical position in football: quarterback. The team’s rhetoric suggests they will bring back either Russell Wilson or Justin Fields, but not both. Given the struggles of the offense late in the season, it’s difficult to see Wilson as a long-term answer. Fields, on the other hand, has untapped potential, and if the Steelers bring him back, surrounding him with better wide receivers and a more explosive backfield will be essential.
While Fields has the potential to be a sleeper QB1, it’s unlikely that either Wilson or Fields is a long-term solution. The Steelers don’t have a clear path to a multi-year upgrade without a significant trade or acquisition, such as Matthew Stafford. This leaves them in a tricky position, and it’s likely they will add another veteran quarterback to provide stability. However, if they fail to significantly upgrade their skill positions, the 2025 Steelers could end up feeling too similar to previous underwhelming versions of the team.
Los Angeles Chargers: Enhancing the Skill Positions
The Los Angeles Chargers have a clear asset in Ladd McConkey, a versatile and talented receiver who can play outside and function as a No. 1 wideout. However, the team still needs to add more depth around him to create a formidable offense. At running back, J.K. Dobbins is a free agent, and Gus Edwards is a potential cut candidate, leaving the door open for the Chargers to dip into a deep draft class. If they also make some additions on the interior offensive line, a rookie running back could quickly become an enticing fantasy option.
While McConkey is a strong presence, the Chargers need to add another 100-target option to the passing game to fully realize their offensive potential. Quentin Johnston, while not a hopeless player, is best suited for a low-volume supporting role, and tight end Will Dissly, although a solid blocker, is not a high-volume target. The Chargers will likely bring back Dobbins but will also draft a rookie running back to push him. Despite these additions, McConkey will still be a top WR1 in 2025.
Conclusion: Strategic Offseason Moves
The offseason is a critical period for each of these teams, and their success in navigating it will be key to their future performance. The Patriots will focus on building a solid offensive line while hoping to get more out of their young receivers. The Jaguars may part ways with some high-cost players to make room for new additions. The Broncos have the flexibility to add dynamic playmakers at skill positions, while the Steelers will need to address their quarterback situation and surrounding talent. Finally, the Chargers will enhance their skill positions to support McConkey and create a more balanced offense. Each team has a unique set of challenges and opportunities, and their strategic decisions will shape the 2025 season.
