The fantasy football offseason has been busy as usual, and it heats up with NFL free agency and some big-time trades. This column is designed to be a one-stop shop for quick-hitting analysis of the most impactful player movement.
ESPN Fantasy writers Matt Bowen, Tristan H. Cockcroft, Eric Karabell, Liz Loza and Eric Moody offer their insights into what each move means for a player's fantasy value in 2025.
Wide receiver
Stefon Diggs signs with New England Patriots
Fantasy impact: Positive
Moody: Diggs and the Patriots agreed on a three-year, $69 million contract, including $26 million guaranteed Tuesday. He averaged 15.2 fantasy points per game and caught 47 of 64 targets with the Houston Texans in 2024 before an ACL injury in Week 8 ended his season.
Diggs now has a clear path to a massive target share as second-year quarterback Drake Maye's No. 1 receiver. The Patriots have not had a 1,000-yard receiver since Julian Edelman in 2019, and their wide receiver group finished 28th in receptions and last in receiving yards last season.
Diggs remains a lethal playmaker when healthy and his arrival should help Maye's development. Diggs is best viewed as a high-end flex option in fantasy with WR2 upside as the 2025 season progresses.
Clay's projection: 113 targets, 80 receptions, 888 yards, 4 TDs
Cooper Kupp signs with Seahawks
Bowen: The scheme fit in Seattle works here for Kupp and there will be opportunities to see consistent target volume as the No. 2 receiver for quarterback Sam Darnold opposite of Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
At this stage of his career, Kupp is still a highly instinctual route runner with the coverage awareness to find open turf. But his lower body quickness is fading, and he doesn't separate at the same rate, which can lead to more contested throws.
However, under new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, the Seahawks will deploy more motion/movement and use the play-action pass game. That's a positive for Kupp, who can get free access off the ball based on formation and reduced sets, as well as schemed concepts that create zone voids and defined throws for Darnold.
Both Kupp and Smith-Njigba have the inside/outside flex to play on the perimeter or in the slot, which gives the Seahawks more alignment versatility in three wide receiver sets. And given the anticipated volume, Kupp has a path to post WR3/Flex numbers in 2025.
Clay's projection: 110 targets, 75 receptions, 862 yards, 5 TDs
Steelers trade for former Seahawks WR Metcalf
Bowen: We don't know who will be throwing the ball to DK Metcalf for the Pittsburgh Steelers just yet. Now, if the Steelers add a pocket thrower by re-signing Russell Wilson or landing Aaron Rodgers, then we will see Metcalf using his powerful, straight-line speed as an explosive-play threat -- with red zone upside -- in Arthur Smith's offense.
Metcalf can see perimeter targets at the third level, while also working the intermediate in-cuts and producing on slants/screens. Catch-and go. Metcalf has topped the 1,000-yard receiving mark in two of his last three seasons, and I would have him slotted as a mid-tier WR2 in this scenario, with George Pickens as a WR3/Flex.
Clay's projection: 117 targets, 68 receptions, 940 yards, 6 TDs
Rams to sign former All-Pro Davante Adams to two-year deal
Fantasy impact: TBD by the QB
Moody: The Los Angeles Rams made a much-needed splash on offense by agreeing with Davante Adams on a two-year deal, addressing their lack of receiving playmakers outside of Puka Nacua. This move likely signals the end of Cooper Kupp's time in Los Angeles.
Adams' 2024 season was a rollercoaster, starting with the Las Vegas Raiders before being traded to the New York Jets for a reunion with Aaron Rodgers. Despite the movement, he remained as dominant as ever, finishing as the WR11 in fantasy while averaging 10.0 targets per game.
Adams is one of just four players with at least 1,000 receiving yards in each of the last five seasons, joining Mike Evans, Justin Jefferson and Terry McLaurin. But Adams is the only one of that group to also record eight or more touchdowns in each of those years. Over that span, he has averaged 19.8 fantasy points per game.
Adams should be a seamless fit in Sean McVay's offense, and Matthew Stafford has shown he can support two fantasy-relevant receivers. At 32, Adams still creates space, and Stafford's ability to manipulate defenses with his eyes will be a match made in fantasy football heaven. Nacua will remain a key part of this offense and continue to command significant targets, so Adams projects as a high-end WR2 in 2025.
Clay's projection: 132 targets, 82 receptions, 1101 yards, 9 TDs
Chris Godwin resigns with Bucs
Fantasy impact: Positive
Bowen: Chris Godwin suffered a dislocated ankle in Week 7 of last season, but until that point, he led the NFL with 50 receptions while averaging 19.7 PPG (WR5). Remember, Godwin is more than willing to work the dirty areas of the field, and he can get loose in space. In '24, 59.7% of his receiving totals came after the catch, plus he has the formational flexibility to align wide or operate out of the slot.
Yes, the Bucs are making a transition at offensive coordinator with Josh Grizzard taking over the play-calling this season. However, with quarterback Baker Mayfield's aggressive throwing mentality, Godwin should be expected to post WR2 numbers working opposite Mike Evans in Tampa.
Clay's projection:128 targets, 95 receptions, 1061 yards, 7 TDs
DeAndre Hopkins signs with Ravens
Fantasy impact: Neutral
Loza: Set to join his fifth team in 13 years, Hopkins averaged a career-low five targets per game, splitting the season between Tennessee and Kansas City in 2024. The 32-year-old managed almost 11 fantasy points per game as a member of the Chiefs, registering double-digit fantasy points in four outings from Weeks 8 through 17.
Clearly focused on ending his career on a Super Bowl contending club, the vet could struggle for looks in Baltimore, particularly with Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman and Mark Andrews all vying for opportunities. Ultimately, this is a better signing in real life than for fantasy. Hopkins brings plenty of experience and savvy to the Ravens, but his potentially capped involvement makes him more of a WR4/WR5 for fantasy football purposes.
Zay Jones re-signs with Cardinals
Fantasy impact: Neutral
Loza: Jones returns to Glendale, where he worked as the Cardinals No. 4 WR, behind Marvin Harrison Jr., Michael Wilson, and Greg Dortch in 2024. His 3.1% target share ranked 10th on the team, which makes sense given the additional contributions of Trey McBride and James Conner. Jones offers Arizona a veteran presence on a relatively young squad. His value to fantasy managers, however, is minimal at best.
Deebo Samuel traded to Commanders
Fantasy impact: Positive
Bowen: With the Washington Commanders trading a fifth round pick for wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr., let's discuss how he fits in Kliff Kingsbury's offense and what to expect from a fantasy perspective.
In Washington, Samuel will be deployed as a horizontal player based on scheme. And that fits with Kingsbury's system. Look for screens here, fly sweeps, underneath drive routes and crossers. Plus, Samuel could see some carries from backfield alignments. Remember, Samuel is better after the catch than before, using his straight line power to produce in open space.
Based on Samuel's '24 tape, I do see declining play-speed. But in Kingsbury's offense, with Jayden Daniels at quarterback, the Commanders can deploy Samuels as a catch-and-run target opposite of Terry McLaurin and that puts Samuel in the WR3 mix heading into next season.
Clay's projection: 101 targets, 66 receptions, 928 yards, 4 TDs; 27 carries, 124 yards, 2 TDs
Quarterback
Russell Wilson signs with the New York Giants
Bowen: The Giants and head coach Brian Daboll can scheme for Wilson off play-action, creating movement to the edges with boot, while mixing in third level concepts and quick game throws. There's a path here for Wilson to play steady football in New York, and he has a dynamic, playmaking target in receiver Malik Nabers.
Yes, Wilson can still deliver the ball with pace and touch on perimeter shots down the field, as his QBR of 98.4 on throws of 20 or more air yards ranked second in the NFL last season. Nabers will factor in here on vertical throws, as will Darius Slayton. But given his reduced mobility, Wilson must now play as a ball distributor from the pocket and that limits his fantasy ceiling.
In 11 starts with the Steelers last season, Wilson averaged 15.7 PPG, and I see a similar script for the veteran quarterback in New York. He's a mid-tier QB2 who could potentially have value as a matchup-based streaming option in 12-team leagues.
Sam Darnold signs with the Seahawks
Bowen: The scheme fit works here for Darnold with new Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak. Look for motion, mis-direction and play-action off the outside zone run looks. That is the foundation of the system. And this will open-up coverage voids for Darnold to attack the middle of the field, or take vertical shots, plus he can get to the edges on boot concepts. That works.
In '24 with the Vikings, we know Darnold posted career best numbers, averaging 18.1 PPG, throwing for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns, while rushing for 212 yards. However, there could be a drop-off here in Seattle given a wide receiver group currently going through a transition with the team trading away DK Metcalf and releasing Tyler Lockett. I get it. And that's why I'm more neutral on this move, as I see Darnold projecting as a QB2 with the Seahawks.
Justin Fields signs with the Jets
Bowen: In six starts with the Steelers last season, Fields showed improved footwork and vision from the pocket, and we saw the numbers from a fantasy perspective. From Weeks 1-6, Fields averaged 18.7 PPG, throwing for 1,106 yards and five touchdowns, while adding 231 yards rushing and five more scores.
In a Jets' system that should be catered to maximize Fields' dual threat ability, I expect the quarterback to play productive football. Fields has a No.1 target in Garrett Wilson, a dynamic playmaker, plus running back Breece Hall, who can get free as a pass catcher. High-percentage throws there. And with Fields ability to create as a runner, especially in the low red zone, he fits as an upper-tier QB2 who can produce breakout games.
Daniel Jones signs with Colts
Fantasy impact: Negative
Cockcroft: Jones' arrival in Indianapolis potentially sets up an unappealing quarterback battle, as incumbent Anthony Richardson is coming off a 2024 season that saw him post the third-worst completion rate (47.7%) of any starter this century, and worst off-target rate (25.2%) by a starting quarterback since 2015. Jones doesn't bring the Colts a much stronger alternative, as most of his metrics across his six-year NFL career grade league-average or below, and both his completion rate and air yards per attempt paled in comparison to higher-floor predecessor Joe Flacco.
Richardson, who is spending the offseason working with biometrics coach Chris Hess, in all likelihood will retain the starting job, from which he'll be one of fantasy's riskiest picks. The Colts aren't in quite as stable a spot this time around should things go south, which could detract from the numbers of receivers Michael Pittman Jr., Josh Downs and Alec Pierce.
Geno Smith reunites with Pete Carroll on Raiders
Fantasy impact: Neutral
Moody: Las Vegas Raiders coach Pete Carroll made a move Friday night to acquire his former QB Geno Smith from the Seahawks in exchange for a third-round pick. Smith is coming off a solid 2024 season where he started all 17 games, completed 70.4% of his passes, throwing for 4,320 yards and 21 touchdowns and finished as fantasy's QB14. However, his 15 interceptions were the third-most in the league, with four of those coming in the red zone -- leading the NFL. While not perfect, Smith isn't afraid to rely heavily on his favorite target, a trend that should continue in Las Vegas with tight end Brock Bowers.
Bowers was the fantasy TE1 last season and while Las Vegas' QB play was among the league's worst last year, with Smith now likely under center Bowers' 2025 fantasy outlook remains strong. He'll likely be an early-round pick for managers. Jakobi Meyers also stands to benefit, having finished as a top 25 fantasy wide receiver in 2024, averaging 14.5 points per game. Meyers is now firmly in the flex conversation, especially considering Smith's ability to support multiple wideouts.
For Smith, his fantasy value remains relatively unchanged with the move to Las Vegas, and he is best drafted as a mid-range QB2 in superflex formats or a streamer or waiver wire option in single-QB leagues.
Clay's projection: 363-of-531, 3873 yards, 20 TDs, 12 INTs; 53 carries, 263 yards, 2 TDs
Running back
Viking re-sign RB Aaron Jones to a two-year, $20 million deal
Fantasy impact: Neutral
Moody: Aaron Jones is staying with the Minnesota Vikings, signing a two-year deal with $13 million guaranteed, per ESPN's Adam Schefter. Jones was a solid fantasy asset last season, bouncing back from an injury-plagued 2023 to finish as a top-15 fantasy running back. Jones set career highs in touches (306) and rushing yards (1,138), proving he could still handle a heavy workload.
However, injuries have been an issue. The 30-year-old dealt with multiple ailments throughout last season, including a quad injury that lingered into the playoffs. Still, he was a key piece of Minnesota's offense, joining Justin Jefferson as the first duo in Vikings history to each record 1,500 scrimmage yards in the same season.
Looking ahead, Jones should remain a focal point in 2025, regardless of who is at quarterback. Minnesota will likely bring in another back to complement Jones, but he remains a solid mid-range RB2 for fantasy managers heading into next season.
Clay's projection: 189 carries, 845 yards, 4 TDs; 60 targets, 47 receptions, 357 yards, 3 TDs
Najee Harris signs with the Chargers
Loza: Harris is neither fast nor elusive or even efficient, having averaged no better than 4.1 yards per carry over his four years in the league. However, he's also never missed an outing during that time. Equally impressive is that fact he's cleared 1,000 rushing yards in each of his first pro campaigns, a feat last accomplished by Chris Johnson from 2008 to 2011.
A quintessential high-floor player with adequate pass-catching chops, Harris will have an opportunity to skim his professional ceiling as a member of the Chargers in 2025. Signed to a one-year deal worth an estimated $9.25M, Harris figures to replace J.K. Dobbins as the Bolts' primary ball carrier. Dobbins averaged 17 touches and nearly 15 fantasy points per game (RB18) in 2024. Expect similar numbers from Harris. Ultimately, volume and dependability will buoy his fantasy stock, providing the 27-year-old with RB2 appeal come the fall.
Clay's projection: 215 carries, 856 yards, 8 TDs; 46 targets, 36 receptions, 250 yards, 1 TD
Javonte Williams signs with the Cowboys
Loza: Javonte Williams led the Broncos in carries in 2024, recording 139 rushing attempts (8.2 per game, RB33). Despite being nearly two years removed from ACL and LCL tears that upended his 2022 campaign, the former North Carolina standout struggled to regain the tackle-busting burst that made him an early second-round pick at the top of his pro career. Managing just four carries of 15 or more yards (RB40) and averaging fewer than 4.0 yards per carry in back-to-back efforts, Williams' efficiency woes could remain an issue in Dallas.
If, however, the club declines to re-sign Rico Dowdle or spend an early draft pick on the position (the Cowboys are currently in possession of the No. 12 overall selection, where Boise State star Ashton Jeanty could be in play) Williams' volume could skyrocket. The 24-year-old's fantasy ceiling was capped by Denver's crowded backfield last season. A capable pass-catcher out of the backfield (52 catches in 2024, RB6), Williams possesses upside in PPR formats and could retain RB2/RB3 value were he to earn the team's RB1 role (though that seems unlikely).
Clay's projection: 209 carries, 833 yards, 7 TDs; 63 targets, 48 receptions, 334 yards, 2 TDs
Rico Dowdle signs with the Panthers
Fantasy impact: Negative
Loza: Dowdle emerged as the Cowboys' RB1 in 2024, averaging nearly 15 carries and 2.5 catches per game. He registered double-digit rushing attempts in each effort from Weeks 9 to 18, logging seven outings of at least 70 rushing yards (and four games in which he cleared 100 rushing yards) during that span. Scoring just five total TDs (two on the ground and three recieving), Dowdle posted low-end RB2 numbers for investors whilst managing 12.4 fantasy points per game.
His volume figures to take a hit as he's expected to work alongside Chuba Hubbard in Carolina. Hubbard posted a career-best effort for the Panthers last season and is expected to lead the backfield in 2025 while Jonathon Brooks recovers from a torn ACL. Dowdle offers managers RB3 appeal heading into the fall.
Raheem Mostert signs with the Raiders
Bowen: Mostert, who will turn 33 years old before the start of the season, joins a Raiders running back room with Sincere McCormick and Zamir White, plus the Raiders have been linked to Boise State's Ashton Jeanty and North Carolina's Omarion Hampton in recent NFL mock drafts. Sure, new head coach Pete Carroll loves competition on the roster in camp. And we should expect a run heavy approach from the Raiders offense this season. However, Mostert averaged just 3.3 yards per carry (in 13 games played) with the Miami Dolphins last season, and his game speed is starting to slip. We can see that on the tape.
Now, if Mostert makes the final 53, and carves out a defined role in the backfield, then we can discuss potential fantasy value. For now, Mostert is simply a name to monitor in Vegas.
Tight End
Evan Engram signs with the Denver Broncos
Fantasy impact: Neutral
Loza: Engram enjoyed a resurgence over his first two seasons in Jacksonville, posting top-seven positional fantasy numbers in 2022 and 2023. However, he failed to deliver a third-straight TE1 performance in 2024 and was limited to just nine games due to various injuries. Engram still provided low-end TE1 appeal when on the field, averaging nearly 10 fantasy points per game from Weeks 6 to 14.
Coming off a labrum tear which required surgery, he'll look to regain his previous form while catching passes from upstart QB Bo Nix. Denver had an obvious need at the position and in Sean Payton's scheme, the 30-year-old offers top-12 positional fantasy appeal.
Clay's projection: 93 targets, 69 receptions, 597 yards, 3 TDs
Juwan Johnson re-signs with the Saints
Fantasy impact: Neutral
Loza: Johnson provided fantasy managers with streaming potential, recording double-digit fantasy points in five of 17 games last year. It is worth noting, however, that his largest production came with Spencer Rattler under center and with Alvin Kamara, Chris Olave, as well as Rashid Shaheed all sidelined. Additionally, the 28-year-old shared the field with fellow tight end Foster Moreau, registering 58 fewer total snaps, but running 164 more routes (21.5 per game) than his position mate. Moreau suffered a knee injury in Week 18 and could miss time next season, but has a year left on his current deal.
Johnson certainly appears to be the team's preferred pass-catching back. While he parlayed a career-best season into a three-year deal, it's unlikely he'll deliver big fantasy numbers in 2025. Volume figures to be an issue, assuming Carr stays in New Orleans and the corps returns to health.