Arizona Cardinals: EDGE Baron Browning
As the NFL free agency looms, the Arizona Cardinals are faced with a pivotal decision regarding EDGE Baron Browning. Acquired from Denver in a trade that saw the Cardinals part with a sixth-round pick at the trade deadline, Browning has been a revelation since joining the team. Despite playing only 50 percent of the team’s snaps, he led Arizona with 20 pressures, notching two sacks and five tackles for loss (TFLs). His acquisition was aimed at replacing Dennis Gardeck, who suffered a season-ending ACL injury. Gardeck, now over four years older and also a free agent, might not be ready for Week 1, making the Cardinals’ pursuit of Browning even more aggressive. The team sees him as a vital piece of their pass-rushing arsenal and is likely to prioritize re-signing him to solidify their defensive line.
Atlanta Falcons: C Drew Dalman
The Atlanta Falcons are in a tricky position as they weigh their options with center Drew Dalman. Dalman’s season was cut short by an ankle injury, but when healthy, he consistently produced elite performances. Pro Football Focus (PFF) ranked him as a top-five center for the second consecutive year, highlighting his consistent play. However, the Falcons’ cap situation is complicated by Kirk Cousins’ contract, which takes up a significant portion of their budget. Despite this, keeping Dalman is paramount for the team, especially to protect second-year quarterback Michael Penix. His presence and performance are crucial for the Falcons’ offensive line, and the team will make it a priority to re-sign him this offseason.
Baltimore Ravens: LT Ronnie Stanley
For the Baltimore Ravens, left tackle Ronnie Stanley’s future is a focal point as they prepare for free agency. 2024 marked the first time in Stanley’s career that he played a full season, which is significant given his history of injuries. His consistent presence on the line was a major boon for the Ravens, and GM Eric DeCosta has already expressed a strong desire to bring him back. While Stanley’s age and injury history might prevent him from securing a long-term deal, he is likely to command a substantial one-year contract. The Ravens will need to balance his value with their cap constraints, but Stanley’s importance to the team’s offensive line is undeniable.
Buffalo Bills: CB Rasul Douglas
The Buffalo Bills find themselves with an interesting decision regarding cornerback Rasul Douglas. Traded from the Packers midseason in 2023, Douglas quickly became a key figure in Buffalo’s secondary. He finished second on the team with nine pass breakups in just nine games and ranked third in pass defenses with five. Fellow trade acquisition Amari Cooper is also a free agent, but his impact was limited, averaging only 27.2 yards per game and struggling in the playoffs. Cooper’s market value is high, but his performance in Buffalo suggests he may not be a priority. On the other hand, keeping Douglas is crucial for the Bills’ defensive depth and performance.
Carolina Panthers: S Xavier Woods
The Carolina Panthers are considering re-signing safety Xavier Woods, who has been a stabilizing force for their defense. Woods signed a cheap, three-year deal a few years ago and has consistently contributed, finishing third, first, and fourth in pass breakups over the past three seasons. Last year, he led the Panthers with 119 tackles and three interceptions, stepping up significantly on a struggling defense. Woods’ reliability and leadership make him a valuable asset, and the Panthers are likely to make a strong effort to retain him. His experience and production are too important to let go, especially in a rebuilding phase.
Chicago Bears: WR Keenan Allen
The Chicago Bears face a decision with wide receiver Keenan Allen, whose season started with a rough patch. In his first eight games, Allen averaged a meager 35 yards on 3.8 catches, but he found his rhythm in the latter half of the season, averaging 5.7 catches for 66 yards and scoring five touchdowns over his final seven games. Despite his late-season surge, Allen’s future in Chicago is uncertain. The team has locked in DJ Moore and Rome Odunze as their starting wideouts, and Allen’s time in Chicago may be limited. With all three starting interior linemen—Teven Jenkins, Coleman Shelton, and Matt Pryor—also free agents, newly appointed head coach Ben Johnson has a chance to reshape his team around quarterback Caleb Williams.
