NFL Teams Eye Offseason Free Agent Market After Darnold’s Exit

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — As the NFL offseason approaches, teams are gearing up to reflect on their rosters, focusing heavily on free agency and upcoming drafts. Coaches and general managers alike are shifting their attention from individual players to collective improvements, as highlighted by Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales and general manager Dan Morgan‘s recent comments at the NFL combine in Indianapolis.

This offseason marks a significant change in strategy for the Panthers, particularly with the stability of quarterback Bryce Young, their No. 1 pick from the 2023 draft. “I’m excited to go into this offseason knowing we have this quarterback,” Canales said. “Now let’s start building this team.” In previous seasons, the quarterback position was a contentious point, leading to a carousel of 12 starters since 2016.

The Panthers’ management is now more focused on addressing their defensive needs after ranking last in the NFL for the 2024 season. They plan to prioritize the defensive front, emphasizing solutions to the issues that allowed the highest rushing yards per game (179.8) and the lowest pressure rate (16.2%).

“Let’s be honest, we know we have to address the [defensive] run game. We know it starts up front,” Canales said, adding that the return of defensive tackle Derrick Brown, who missed the entire 2024 season due to injury, would be beneficial.

While the Panthers have some players under contract, Morgan acknowledged the impending need for change: “Whether up front, at safety, at corner, there are a lot of holes to fill,” he stated.

The franchise is also dealing with contract negotiations for key players, including center Bradley Bozeman and right tackle Taylor Moton, whose cap hit sits at $31 million for 2025. Morgan expressed willingness to renegotiate if able to secure both players without jeopardizing financial flexibility.

As teams prepare to dive into the free agent market, the Minnesota Vikings are facing their own challenges. Quarterback Sam Darnold became one of the most sought-after free agents after not receiving the franchise tag before the upcoming deadline. Darnold’s impressive 2024 season, where he threw for 4,319 yards and earned his first Pro Bowl selection, has made him a valuable commodity.

Despite Darnold’s success in leading the Vikings to 14 wins, he struggled at the end of the season, raising questions about his long-term viability. In his final two playoff games, he threw several off-target passes and took numerous sacks. It’s unclear if Minnesota will be able to re-sign him as they look to the future, possibly drafting a quarterback.

With agency opening soon, many analysts expect a wealth of players changing teams, especially on defense. Notably, eleven defenders acquired through free agency made it to the Pro Bowl in 2024, and the competition for top defensive talent remains high.

Canales and Morgan’s comments indicate a new direction for the Panthers, focusing on a steady core while intent on enhancing their roster through calculated free agent acquisitions. Such maneuvers may serve them well in a division that is often tightly contested. As teams prepare for what could be a transformative offseason, all eyes will be on how front offices navigate these critical decisions.