Making sense of QB moves in free agency: We ranked the 10 best fits and answered big questions.

Making Sense of the 2025 NFL Quarterback Carousel

As the 2025 NFL free agency period unfolds, the quarterback landscape is undergoing significant changes. From record-breaking contracts to unexpected trades, the past week has been a whirlwind of activity. Let’s dive into the latest developments and what they mean for the teams involved.

First up, the Buffalo Bills have made headlines by extending Josh Allen on a record-setting six-year, $330 million deal. This move not only secures Allen’s future with the team but also sets a new benchmark for quarterback contracts. Meanwhile, Geno Smith has reunited with coach Pete Carroll in Las Vegas through a surprising trade, leaving the Seattle Seahawks to sign Sam Darnold as his replacement on a $100.5 million deal. And the suspense continues as we await news on where Aaron Rodgers and Russell Wilson will land next season.

To make sense of these quarterback movements, we turned to a panel of experts and reporters. NFL analyst Dan Orlovsky has ranked his top 10 quarterback moves, evaluating which fits make the most sense. NFL Nation team reporters have tackled six big questions about what happens next, while NFL draft analyst Jordan Reid has analyzed what these moves mean for April’s first round. Additionally, NFL analyst Ben Solak has identified the three best fits for Rodgers, and national NFL reporter Dan Graziano has explained the broader impact of Allen’s new deal on the quarterback market.

Here’s a comprehensive look at the recent quarterback signings, trades, and extensions:

• Ranking moves
• Big questions
• Draft spin
• Rodgers’ best fits
• Allen’s extension impact

Orlovsky: Ranking the Top 10 QB Moves

Dan Orlovsky has ranked the top 10 quarterback moves of the offseason, providing insights into the strategic decisions made by various teams. Here’s a look at his rankings:

1. Sam Darnold to the Seattle Seahawks: Darnold’s transition from the Vikings’ offense to Seattle is expected to be smooth, given the similar offensive schemes. The Seahawks are looking to bolster their offensive line and receiving corps to support Darnold, who threw 35 touchdown passes last season.
2. Geno Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders: Smith’s arrival in Las Vegas is expected to bring a lot of play-action passing under new offensive coordinator Chip Kelly. The Raiders are aiming to win immediately with Smith, while also considering drafting a quarterback.
3. Justin Fields to the New York Jets: Fields’ mobility and connection with top New York receiver Garrett Wilson make him a promising fit for the Jets’ creative offense. However, the Jets may still draft a quarterback.
4. Daniel Jones to the Indianapolis Colts: Jones is expected to compete with Anthony Richardson for the starting job. His ability to execute run-pass options makes him a valuable asset in Shane Steichen’s offense.
5. Zach Wilson to the Miami Dolphins: Wilson’s potential is still there, and he may get playing time given Tua Tagovailoa’s injury history. The Dolphins’ offense could be a good fit for Wilson’s skills.
6. Kenny Pickett to the Cleveland Browns: With Deshaun Watson out due to a re-torn Achilles, Pickett provides the Browns with a competitive option, despite his 15-14 career touchdown-to-interception ratio.
7. Jimmy Garoppolo to the Los Angeles Rams: Garoppolo’s experience makes him a reliable backup for Matthew Stafford, ensuring the Rams remain Super Bowl contenders even if Stafford misses games.
8. Mac Jones to the San Francisco 49ers: Jones’ fit with the 49ers’ QB-friendly scheme makes him a valuable backup to Brock Purdy, allowing him to distribute the ball effectively.
9. Joshua Dobbs to the New England Patriots: Dobbs’ experience with various teams and offensive systems will aid in the development of second-year starter Drake Maye.
10. Jacoby Brissett to the Arizona Cardinals: Brissett provides stability behind Kyler Murray, giving the Cardinals a reliable Plan B in case of injury.

NFL Nation Reporters: Big QB Questions

Our NFL Nation reporters have tackled some of the biggest questions surrounding the quarterback moves:

Is Kirk Cousins really unavailable to other teams? While the Falcons are open to trading Cousins, they want suitable compensation. A return to Atlanta is the most likely scenario, but trade talks could heat up if quarterback injuries occur. — Marc Raimondi, Falcons reporter

Is Kenny Pickett the Browns’ only solution while Deshaun Watson is out? The Browns are exploring options, including meeting with Russell Wilson. Targeting Cousins is also a possibility, but they may consider drafting a quarterback with the No. 2 pick. — Daniel Oyefusi, Browns reporter

Will Daniel Jones compete with Anthony Richardson for the QB1 spot, or is he the clear backup? The Colts have an open competition, giving Jones a legitimate shot at the starting job. Both quarterbacks are looking to prove themselves. — Stephen Holder, Colts reporter

Are the Jets all-in on Justin Fields as the starter, or could they still add a QB in the draft? Fields’ addition doesn’t rule out drafting a quarterback. The Jets could take one at any point in the draft, depending on their conviction. — Rich Cimini, Jets reporter

What does Matthew Stafford’s contract restructure to stay in Los Angeles say about the team’s direction? The Rams are committed to winning another Super Bowl with Stafford, keeping their championship window open by retaining key players. — Sarah Barshop, Rams reporter

What is the Seahawks’ plan to support Sam Darnold after losing receiver and O-line help in free agency? The Seahawks are looking to add offensive linemen and receivers to support Darnold, with plans to use early draft picks for upgrades. — Brady Henderson, Seahawks reporter

Reid: Spinning It Forward to the Draft

With the No. 1 pick and recent free agency moves, the Tennessee Titans are likely to draft a quarterback in Round 1. They’ve fortified their offensive line, signaling preparation for a rookie QB. Cam Ward is the top-ranked quarterback in the class and could provide the Titans with a true playmaker.

Solak: Ranking Team Fits for Aaron Rodgers

Ben Solak has identified the best team fits for Aaron Rodgers:

1. Minnesota Vikings: The Vikings offer the best combination of pass protection, playcalling, and offensive playmakers, making them an ideal fit for Rodgers.
2. Pittsburgh Steelers: While the Steelers have pass-protection questions, their defense and exciting pass-catching duo make them a strong contender for Rodgers.
3. New York Giants: The Giants are a viable option if other teams don’t work out, with a good young receiver and a creative coach.

Graziano: Where the QB Market Stands

Josh Allen’s new contract has significant implications for the quarterback market. His six-year, $330 million deal provides the Bills with cap relief while setting a new benchmark for guarantees. However, it doesn’t move the top of the market much, as Allen’s salary aligns with other top quarterbacks. The next big contract extension is anticipated for San Francisco’s Brock Purdy, who could command a high salary based on his performance. Other quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson and Jalen Hurts may also seek adjustments to their contracts in the future.