League Meetings Conclude with Key Decisions and Discussions
April 1, 2025, 05:00 PM ET
PALM BEACH, Fla. — The NFL wrapped up its annual league meeting on Tuesday, and as always, it was a whirlwind of decisions, discussions, and debates. One of the most talked-about topics was the effort to ban the “tush push” play, which was tabled after receiving support from only 16 teams, falling short of the 24 needed. While the ban didn’t pass, the owners did approve some significant changes, including expanding the league’s replay assist program and altering the kickoff rule. Additionally, the league 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. The chain crew will still be present on the sidelines, but in a secondary role.
The three-day event was a hub of activity, with owners, general managers, and coaches discussing team compositions and addressing pressing questions during this period between free agency and the draft. Over 20 ESPN reporters were on the ground to capture the highlights and insights from the meetings.
League Buzz
One of the notable changes announced was a tweak to the NFL’s funding rule. Previously, teams were required to hold in escrow an amount sufficient to cover the fully guaranteed money in future years of players’ contracts by March 31. This year, the date has been permanently extended to two business days after the April television contract distributions, which is April 8, 2025. This change allows clubs to use these distributions as a funding source. This adjustment could impact how some teams manage their finances. For instance, the San Francisco 49ers, who have historically included an April 1 trigger date for future guarantees in their veteran contracts, now have to adjust to this new timeline. Wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk’s $27 million salary in 2026 and bonus money became fully guaranteed on Tuesday, and due to the date change, it is now subject to the funding rule.
New York Jets
The New York Jets are all-in on quarterback Justin Fields, both publicly and privately. While they might still draft a quarterback, it’s unlikely to happen in the first round, even if Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders is available at No. 7. Coach Aaron Glenn believes Fields has untapped potential, stating, “I think he’s a dynamic player and I think there’s more that we can get out of that player, and I’m looking forward to that.” The Jets are eager to capitalize on Fields’ running ability and believe he can improve as a pocket passer. Last season, Fields completed 66% of his passes, up from 60% during his time with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Chicago Bears. Veteran backup Tyrod Taylor is expected to push Fields, while the third-string position remains uncertain. Jordan Travis, a 2024 fifth-round pick, is still recovering from a leg injury, and the Jets might draft a quarterback on Day 3 to challenge him.
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, but the Patriots are not considering trading him at this time. Coach Mike Vrabel hinted that Milton’s situation could change as April progresses. “Everybody wants to play. Everybody wants to be the starter,” Vrabel said. “That’s great to have that attitude. And he was ready for his opportunity there late in the season, which I commend him on.” The Patriots are keeping an eye on the draft and Milton’s status as they approach the offseason program.
Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles have not indicated any intention to keep tight end Dallas Goedert on the roster. Coach Nick Sirianni’s comments suggested otherwise, stating, “Right now, he’s on our football team.” While Sirianni praised Goedert’s contributions, he acknowledged that financial considerations are at play. Goedert, 30, is in the final year of a deal averaging $14 million per season, and the Eagles have made significant financial commitments to other players. Goedert’s injury history and salary make it unlikely he’ll return to Philadelphia in 2025 unless he takes a pay cut.
Las Vegas Raiders
General manager John Spytek is exploring options to bolster the Raiders’ wide receiver group, looking at both free agency and the draft. The team already has a strong receiver in Jakobi Meyers, who had his first 1,000-yard season, and Tre Tucker, who recorded 539 yards in his second year. However, the rest of the receiver room combined for just 49 yards and a touchdown in 2024. Spytek noted that tight end Brock Bowers serves as a primary target, and the team is looking to add more talent to the mix.
Despite acquiring quarterback Geno Smith from the Seahawks, Raiders coach Pete Carroll acknowledged the possibility of drafting a quarterback with the No. 6 overall pick. “Yeah, we’re building, always,” Carroll said, emphasizing that Smith is an “immediate fix” but not ruling out future potential.
Baltimore Ravens
Tight end Mark Andrews is expected to remain with the Ravens, despite speculation about his future. Coach John Harbaugh stated, “I do fully expect him to be playing for us next year. He’s just too good a player.” Andrews, 29, is entering the final year of his contract and is coming off a challenging season, but the Ravens value his contributions.
Chicago Bears
Second-year quarterback Caleb Williams will be learning a new offense that will push him out of his comfort zone. Coach Ben Johnson plans to have Williams play more under center, which should allow the Bears to run more play-action plays. Johnson’s offense with the Lions was under center for 56.2% of their snaps last season, and he believes this approach will benefit the Bears’ run and passing game.
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 expressed optimism about reaching an agreement. Owner Jed York called Purdy a top-10 quarterback, indicating the team’s willingness to pay him accordingly. The potential contract could fall between $53 million and $55 million per year.
New York Giants
Evan Neal is likely to move to guard, with coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen stating that Neal is “open” to playing either position. Neal has struggled at tackle, ranking 74th of 76 qualifying tackles in pass block win rate. The Giants are considering a move to guard to better utilize Neal’s skills.
Quarterback Russell Wilson anticipated joining the Giants well before his signing last week. Sources indicate that Wilson saw the Giants as a strong possibility after attending Super Bowl LIX, and he was right in his prediction.
Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings have benefited from defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ influence in free agency. Flores targeted cornerback Isaiah Rodgers, who signed a two-year, $14 million contract. Rodgers is expected to be a starter alongside Byron Murphy Jr. The Vikings’ roster is well-stocked at cornerback, reducing the need to draft at the position.
Seattle Seahawks
DK Metcalf’s trade request led to his move to the Pittsburgh Steelers. Metcalf had requested trades multiple times in recent offseasons, and the Seahawks ultimately decided to trade him for the No. 52 selection and a swap of late-round picks. Metcalf’s preferred destinations were the Texans and Chargers, but his contract situation complicated the trade process.
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts are focused on addressing the tight end position in the draft, with their current tight ends ranking 31st in receiving yards last season. General manager Chris Ballard and coach Shane Steichen acknowledged the depth of this year’s tight end class, with prospects like Tyler Warren and Colston Loveland in consideration for the Colts’ No. 14 pick.
Washington Commanders
The Commanders are optimistic about maximizing newly acquired receiver Deebo Samuel, who is in the final year of his contract. General manager Adam Peters believes Samuel’s motivation will lead to a strong season. Coach Dan Quinn is excited about Samuel’s versatility and the impact he can have on the team.
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 expressed a desire to secure a long-term partnership with Williams, but the process may take time.
Quarterback Matthew Stafford’s new contract is agreed upon in principle, but a few minor details remain. The Rams and Stafford have agreed that he will not be traded, and his compensation will be increased in 2025.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers’ acquisition of DK Metcalf does not signal a move away from wide receiver George Pickens. General manager Omar Khan emphasized the need for multiple receivers, and coach Mike Tomlin highlighted the challenges posed by strong receiving duos in the AFC North.
Detroit Lions
The Lions are confident in Aidan Hutchinson’s recovery from a fractured tibia and fibula. General manager Brad Holmes and former college coach Jim Harbaugh expressed confidence in Hutchinson’s ability to return stronger and better for the 2025 season.
Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals are keeping an eye on offensive guard and linebacker positions as they prepare for the draft. Coach Zac Taylor emphasized competition and flexibility in these areas, with the potential for changes based on draft outcomes.
Tennessee Titans
Despite an unproven quarterback room, Titans coach Brian Callahan is optimistic about the team’s situation. The Titans are considering Miami’s Cam Ward for the No. 1 pick, but their current quarterbacks do not indicate a definitive draft choice.
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys are in the market for a backup quarterback to Dak Prescott. Coach Brian Schottenheimer is considering both veteran options and draft prospects, with a meeting scheduled with Texas’ Quinn Ewers.
Green Bay Packers
This year’s league meeting marked the last for Packers president Mark Murphy, who will retire in July. Murphy’s tenure included navigating transitions between quarterbacks and overseeing the development of the Titletown District.
Cleveland Browns
The Browns hold the No. 2 pick in the draft but are not committed to selecting a quarterback. Coach Kevin Stefanski and general manager Andrew Berry expressed confidence in Kenny Pickett, acquired in a trade with the Eagles, as a potential starter.
New Orleans Saints
Receiver Chris Olave is expected to make a significant impact under new head coach Kellen Moore. Moore emphasized the importance of education and understanding Olave’s circumstances, expressing confidence in his potential.
Originally Written by: NFL Nation
