Breaking Down Teams That Failed Free Agency and Must Nail the Draft
- By Jack Aaron
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Two weeks into free agency, several teams still enter the draft with major holes that could shape their seasons. The Seahawks have backfield and defensive concerns, the Bears have not addressed the defensive line, the Jaguars downgraded at running back and left linebacker unfilled, the Eagles are thin at edge, the Chargers did not meaningfully upgrade at guard, and the Ravens still need help at left guard and center. These teams need to land impact players in the draft to stay competitive.
With week two of free agency wrapping up, team needs across the league have shifted significantly. Some holes have been filled while others have become more urgent, reshaping how the first round could play out. My latest mock reflects that movement, with teams balancing immediate impact and long-term upside as they look to build through a class loaded with talent at premium positions.
After a brief trade saga, Maxx Crosby is back with the Raiders and expected to return with even more intensity, according to Kyle Van Noy. Already one of the league’s top defenders, Crosby now has more support around him with additions like Quay Walker, Nakobe Dean, and Kwity Paye, giving Las Vegas a stronger defensive foundation heading into the season.
With the wide receiver market thinning in free agency, the Los Angeles Rams have explored adding a top target like A.J. Brown but appear to have moved on from trade talks due to financial and roster constraints. Instead, draft analysts project the team could address the position by selecting Arizona State receiver Jordyn Tyson, who offers strong ball-tracking and upside, as part of a broader strategy to bolster the receiving corps alongside Puka Nacua and Davante Adams for both immediate impact and long-term stability.
With the average NFL career lasting just 3.3 years, players must take advantage of every opportunity to secure long-term financial stability. This year’s free agency period saw several players do exactly that, turning strong recent performances or timely surges into lucrative contracts. Despite concerns like injuries, inconsistency, or limited production, teams across the league were still willing to invest heavily in talent they believe can make an impact.
Ty Simpson entered the NFL Combine as the most discussed quarterback participating, and his showing reinforced both his high-end talent and lingering concerns about decision-making and pocket awareness. In a weak quarterback class where demand outweighs supply, that mix of upside and uncertainty could still push him into the late first round despite some scouts grading him as a Day 2 prospect. With several QB-needy teams picking late in Round 1, Simpson’s strong 2025 season and upcoming Alabama Pro Day may ultimately determine where he lands on draft night.
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Budding pro. Love your perspectives. Super knowledgeable about every aspect of the game.