Osa Odighizuwa has secured a lucrative four-year, $80 million extension with the Dallas Cowboys, solidifying his future in the NFL. Meanwhile, Chris Godwin is eyeing the free market in 2025 as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers opted not to franchise tag him, paving the way for him to become a highly sought-after free agent. The New England Patriots stand ready with an estimated $129 million in cap space for 2025, making them a potential big player in the upcoming free agency.
As the free agency landscape evolves, Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold is set to enter unrestricted free agency in 2025. The Vikings chose not to franchise tag Darnold, positioning him for a potential multiyear contract due to the league's increasing demand for quarterbacks. Across the league, the Bengals are eyeing a significant extension for wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase, although this move may complicate matters with fellow receiver Tee Higgins.
Higgins was franchise-tagged by Cincinnati for the second consecutive year. He earned $20.6 million last season and is projected to make $26.2 million in 2025, bringing his two-year cash flow to $46.8 million. However, the Bengals face a dilemma as they risk losing Higgins without securing an extension. This potential loss is compounded by their 2024 draft pick Jalen McMillan, who is seen as a possible replacement for Godwin.
Odighizuwa's deal with the Cowboys underscores their commitment to retaining key talent on defense. For Godwin, becoming a free agent allows him to explore opportunities outside of Tampa Bay, where he has been an integral part of the Buccaneers' receiving corps. As the Patriots prepare for 2025 with substantial cap space, they could emerge as major contenders in acquiring top-tier talent.
Darnold's entry into unrestricted free agency highlights the league's voracious appetite for quarterbacks capable of leading teams to success. His potential new contract could reshape quarterback salaries across the NFL. Meanwhile, Chase's anticipated extension with the Bengals signals their focus on securing top offensive talent, yet it may strain their relationship with Higgins.
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