Everything we heard at 2025 NFL league meetings: QB options, draft maneuvers, roster holes

NFL League Meetings Wrap-Up: Key Decisions and Team Insights

As the sun set on Palm Beach, Florida, the NFL wrapped up its annual league meeting on Tuesday. The gathering was a whirlwind of discussions, decisions, and deliberations that left fans and analysts buzzing. One of the most talked-about topics was the effort to ban the “tush push” play, which was ultimately tabled. Despite support from 16 teams, it fell short of the 24 votes needed to pass. This controversial play, often used in short-yardage situations, will remain a part of the game for now.

In other significant developments, the league approved an expansion of the replay assist program and introduced a major change to the kickoff rule. Additionally, the NFL announced a shift from the traditional chain gang for first-down measurements to a more modern, camera-based technology, akin to the line calls used in tennis. While the chain crew will still be present on the sidelines, their role will be secondary.

The three-day event was not just about rule changes. It was a platform for owners, general managers, and coaches to discuss their teams’ compositions and address pressing questions during this period between free agency and the draft. Over 20 ESPN reporters were on the ground, capturing the highlights and insights from various teams.

League Buzz

One of the notable changes discussed was the adjustment to the NFL’s funding rule. Previously, teams were required to hold in escrow an amount of money sufficient to cover the fully guaranteed money in the future years of their players’ contracts by March 31. This year, the date was changed to April 8, allowing clubs to utilize April television contract distributions as a funding source. This change could impact how some teams manage their finances and contracts.

For instance, the San Francisco 49ers have historically included an April 1 trigger date for future guarantees in their veteran contracts. Wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk’s $27 million salary in 2026 and bonus money became fully guaranteed on Tuesday. With the date change, this money is now subject to the funding rule, meaning the 49ers may need to allocate more funds into escrow to cover future guarantees.

Team Insights

• New York Jets: The Jets are all-in on quarterback Justin Fields, despite the possibility of drafting a quarterback. Coach Aaron Glenn believes Fields has untapped potential, particularly as a pocket passer. Fields showed improvement in accuracy last season, completing 66% of his passes compared to 60% in his previous seasons with the Steelers and Bears.
• New England Patriots: Quarterback Joe Milton III’s strong performance in a season-ending win over the Buffalo Bills has caught the attention of some teams. However, the Patriots are not considering trading him at this time. Coach Mike Vrabel hinted that Milton’s situation could change as April unfolds.
• Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles have not signaled their intention to keep tight end Dallas Goedert on the roster. Coach Nick Sirianni praised Goedert’s contributions but acknowledged financial constraints. Goedert’s injury history and sizable salary make his return to Philly in 2025 uncertain.
• Las Vegas Raiders: General manager John Spytek is exploring options to bolster the wide receiver position. While Jakobi Meyers and Tre Tucker have shown promise, the rest of the receiver room lacks depth. Tight end Brock Bowers is considered a key target for the team.
• Baltimore Ravens: Tight end Mark Andrews is expected to remain with the Ravens, despite previous speculation about his future. Coach John Harbaugh expressed confidence in Andrews’ abilities and value to the team.
• Chicago Bears: Second-year quarterback Caleb Williams will be learning a new offense that emphasizes playing under center. Coach Ben Johnson believes this change will enhance the Bears’ play-action game and overall offensive success.
• San Francisco 49ers: The 49ers are focused on securing a contract extension for quarterback Brock Purdy. While no deal is imminent, general manager John Lynch is optimistic about reaching an agreement before the offseason program begins.
• New York Giants: Evan Neal is likely to move to guard, given the presence of Andrew Thomas and Jermaine Eluemunor as starting tackles. Neal’s struggles at tackle have prompted this potential position change.
• Minnesota Vikings: Defensive coordinator Brian Flores has been instrumental in successful free-agent signings. Cornerback Isaiah Rodgers is expected to play a significant role in the Vikings’ defense.
• Seattle Seahawks: The trade of DK Metcalf to the Pittsburgh Steelers was influenced by his repeated trade requests. Metcalf’s preferred destinations were the Texans and Chargers, but contract complexities led to his move to Pittsburgh.
• Indianapolis Colts: The Colts are eyeing tight ends in the draft to address their lack of productivity at the position. General manager Chris Ballard and coach Shane Steichen are optimistic about the depth of this year’s tight end class.
• Washington Commanders: The Commanders are excited about the potential of newly acquired receiver Deebo Samuel. With his contract year approaching, the team expects a motivated performance from Samuel.
• Los Angeles Rams: The Rams are working on a contract extension for running back Kyren Williams, who led the NFL in touches last season. General manager Les Snead is hopeful for a long-term partnership.
• Pittsburgh Steelers: The acquisition of DK Metcalf does not signal a move away from George Pickens. The Steelers value having multiple strong receivers, especially in the competitive AFC North.
• Detroit Lions: There are no concerns about Aidan Hutchinson’s recovery from a fractured tibia and fibula. The Lions are confident in his return to form for the 2025 season.
• Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals are focused on addressing the offensive guard and linebacker positions in the draft. Coach Zac Taylor is keeping options open for potential changes.
• Tennessee Titans: Despite an unproven quarterback room, coach Brian Callahan is confident in the team’s direction. The Titans are still evaluating their draft options, including the possibility of selecting a quarterback with the No. 1 pick.
• Dallas Cowboys: The Cowboys are in search of a backup quarterback for Dak Prescott. They are considering both veteran options and potential draft picks to fill the role.
• Green Bay Packers: Team president Mark Murphy is set to retire, marking the end of an era. Murphy’s leadership has been instrumental in the Packers’ success and development over the years.
• Cleveland Browns: The Browns hold the No. 2 pick in the draft but are not committed to selecting a quarterback. Kenny Pickett, acquired in a trade, is a potential starter for the upcoming season.

As the NFL offseason continues, teams are making strategic moves to strengthen their rosters and prepare for the upcoming draft. The league meetings provided valuable insights into the direction each team is heading, setting the stage for an exciting 2025 season.