Breaking Down the Free Agent Signings That Could Make or Break Teams

29 October 2025

Free agency is that chaotic and thrilling part of the offseason when teams throw big money around, chasing that game-changing piece to complete their puzzle. Some signings are instant game-changers; others? Well, let’s just say they look great on paper but flop harder than a fish out of water.

Whether you're glued to ESPN updates or just a casual fan trying to keep up, it’s always entertaining to break down what could be the next big hit—or disastrous miss. So grab your coffee, sit back, and let's dive into the free agent signings that could either elevate franchises or send them spiraling.

The High-Risk, High-Reward Game of Free Agency

Before we even start talking names, let’s get one thing out of the way: free agency is a gamble. It’s like trying to predict the weather with a leaky umbrella—you might stay dry, but there’s a good chance you’ll end up soaked.

Teams are betting millions on hope. Hope that the player fits into the system. Hope that they stay healthy. And perhaps most importantly, hope that they perform under the pressure of a fresh contract. Now, let’s break down some of the 2024 free agent signings that could tip the scales—either way.

1. Kirk Cousins to the Atlanta Falcons

Yep, you read that right. After years in Minnesota, Cousins packed his bags and headed to Atlanta. Now, this one’s spicy.

Why It Could Make Them

Atlanta has been crying out for stability under center. Cousins brings leadership, experience, and a track record of solid (if not spectacular) stats. With a young offensive core—Drake London, Bijan Robinson, and Kyle Pitts—the table is set for a playoff push.

Why It Could Break Them

Cousins is coming off an Achilles injury. And let’s not forget, he’s in his mid-30s. That’s not exactly the time when players become more mobile or durable. Plus, did Atlanta overpay? If he’s not 100% or loses his touch, this could be a franchise set back for years.

2. Saquon Barkley to the Philadelphia Eagles

Imagine seeing your rival’s star running back wearing your team's jersey. That’s what Giants fans are dealing with right now.

Why It Could Make Them

Saquon brings versatility. He’s not just a runner—he’s a reliable receiver and blocker. Philly’s offensive line is a dream for any backfield. Slide him in behind that unit, and you might just see his best season yet.

Why It Could Break Them

Injuries. It’s the elephant in the room with Barkley. He’s incredibly talented, but he’s had trouble staying on the field. If he misses games or isn’t explosive, the Eagles might regret giving him a top-tier deal.

3. Calvin Ridley to the Tennessee Titans

The Titans made some noise with this one, landing a dynamic weapon for their evolving offense.

Why It Could Make Them

Ridley, when dialed in, is one of the best route runners in the league. Paired with DeAndre Hopkins and young QB Will Levis, the Titans’ air attack could actually be... fun?

Why It Could Break Them

Consistency. Ridley’s had a rollercoaster of a career, including time away from football. If he doesn’t return to peak form, that’s a lot of money tied up in a receiver who might not move the needle much.

4. Danielle Hunter to the Houston Texans

This signing flew under the radar a bit, but it could be massive.

Why It Could Make Them

Hunter is a beast. Adding him to a defense already featuring Will Anderson Jr.? That’s nightmare fuel for opposing quarterbacks. The Texans are building something real, and Hunter brings both production and leadership.

Why It Could Break Them

Injuries and age. He’s had multiple surgeries, and although he bounced back strong, you never really know how long that body can hold up. Still, if healthy, this might be a steal.

5. Josh Jacobs to the Green Bay Packers

Running backs don’t always get paid—but Jacobs did, and he’s now in Green Bay.

Why It Could Make Them

Jacobs is a downhill runner with a nose for the end zone. He’s incredibly durable and brings a physical edge that can help wear out defenses late in the season. For a young Packers team, he’s exactly the kind of tone-setter they need.

Why It Could Break Them

The tread on his tires. He’s taken a beating in previous seasons, leading the league in touches more than once. Will his body hold up for a full season, let alone multiple years? That’s the million-dollar question.

6. Baker Mayfield Stays with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Sometimes the boldest move is to stay put—and that’s what the Bucs did with Baker.

Why It Could Make Them

Baker showed real flashes last season. He’s fiery, competitive, and finally looks comfortable in an offense. With Mike Evans returning and a solid defense, the Bucs might just be sneaky contenders in a wide-open NFC South.

Why It Could Break Them

You always wonder if last year was the exception or the rule. Baker’s had a rollercoaster of a career, and if he regresses, Tampa might’ve hitched their wagon to the wrong horse.

7. Mike Evans Re-Signs with the Buccaneers

Loyalty is rare these days, but Evans staying in Tampa is probably the most heartwarming move of free agency.

Why It Could Make Them

Evans is Mr. Consistency. The guy has posted 1,000+ yard seasons like clockwork, regardless of who’s throwing him the ball. That kind of reliability can elevate any offense.

Why It Could Break Them

This one’s tough to criticize because Evans has never really let his team down. But if age catches up or injuries pile up, his contract could become more of a burden than a blessing.

8. Christian Wilkins to the Las Vegas Raiders

The Raiders finally addressed their defensive woes—big time.

Why It Could Make Them

Wilkins is a game-wrecker in the trenches. Putting him next to Maxx Crosby gives Las Vegas a terrifying defensive front. For a team that’s struggled on D for years, this could be a franchise-shifting addition.

Why It Could Break Them

He cashed in—big. And history has shown that some players struggle to live up to their contract once they secure the bag. If Wilkins doesn’t dominate, this could be another Vegas gamble gone wrong.

What These Signings Mean for the Bigger Picture

Free agency isn’t just about filling holes—it's about shifting directions. A splash signing can energize a fan base, shift locker room culture, and even turn a fringe playoff team into a contender.

But there’s always a dark side.

The wrong deal can tie up cap space, create locker room drama, or worse—lead to coaching changes. Teams that strike gold look like geniuses. The ones that don’t? They’re back at the draft board praying for a miracle.

The Emotional Rollercoaster for Fans

Let’s not forget the fans in all this. Free agency is emotional. Your favorite player might leave. Your team might sign someone you’ve loved from afar. Or maybe—just maybe—they drop a fat contract on a guy you’ve barely heard of.

You hope. You dream. You tweet. And then you wait.

That’s the love-hate relationship we all have with free agency. It’s the ultimate sports soap opera—packed with drama, surprise twists, and jaw-dropping reveals.

Final Thoughts: Boom or Bust?

So, which of these signings will pan out? Honestly, we don’t know yet—and that’s kind of the fun part. The regular season will show us who’s worth their contract and who’s just burning a hole in the team’s budget.

But one thing’s for sure: 2024’s free agency class has the potential to reshape the NFL landscape. Whether your team made a splash or stayed quiet, one move could either launch a Super Bowl run—or land them in rebuilding mode.

Keep your popcorn ready, folks. This story is just getting started.