Now that the 2024 NFL season is over, we're looking ahead at just how much work each franchise must do this offseason -- and potentially beyond. Which teams need to tear it all down and regroup? Which should take a new approach to move toward contender status? Which can be in the mix after only a savvy move or two? And which are already trending in the right direction and could arrive near the top of the league sooner rather than later?
To get a better sense of how the league stacks up right now, we tiered all 32 teams based on their current trajectory, from the no-doubt perennial contenders to the full rebuilds. And for each club, we took a closer look at the franchise's current state -- and what needs to be done in the coming months. We get started with the two teams that are on cruise control atop the NFL. (Note: Teams are organized alphabetically within each tier, cap space is via Roster Management System and projected draft picks do not include potential compensatory picks.)
Jump to tier:
Still major contenders
On the cusp
Need a postseason breakthrough
Teetering contenders
Headed on the right track
Stuck in the middle ... but a move or two away
Stuck in QB purgatory
This could go either way
New coach, new direction
Rebuild in the works
Yep, still rebuilding
STILL MAJOR CONTENDERS
Kansas City Chiefs (15-2)
Average age of roster: 26.4
Salary cap space: $5.1 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 7
What's next: One game won't diminish Kansas City's presence -- thanks to five Super Bowl appearances and three Lombardi Trophies in six years -- as the gold standard in modern football. But Sunday's ugly Super Bowl loss shook Kansas City to its core and highlighted the shortcomings of a team that greatly overachieved in 2024. How it pulled off 17 wins, including the playoffs, is a testament to the franchise's culture of greatness. But the holes got exposed, particularly along the offensive line. On offense, getting Rashee Rice back will help, but the Chiefs need more than that. They can't Band-Aid their way to a championship. And Patrick Mahomes holds the sort of clout that he can now start asking for these things, if he isn't already. If Travis Kelce (scheduled to receive $17.25 million in 2025) retires, getting more explosiveness over the middle will be paramount. Assuming the Chiefs lose guard Trey Smith to free agency, it would be wise to retain linebacker Nick Bolton and/or safety Justin Reid.
Philadelphia Eagles (14-3)
Average age of roster: 26.6
Salary cap space: $3.7 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 7
What's next: The Eagles have done a masterful job of building a complete roster that can beat teams in a variety of ways. In a league where batting .500 on draft picks and free agency signings is considered good, general manager Howie Roseman and his staff are leading the league by a wide margin. That places Philly in a position of power unlike any other team entering 2025. While the Eagles don't need to change much, figuring out which core players to keep will be crucial. Guard Mekhi Becton, pass rusher Josh Sweat and defensive lineman Milton Williams are among free agents who can land nice deals elsewhere. Most of the team's marquee players are under contract for multiple years. A decision looms on tight end Dallas Goedert, a 2026 free agent with a $12.1 million cap hit.
ON THE CUSP
Baltimore Ravens (12-5)
Average age of roster: 26.8
Salary cap space: $3.6 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 7
What's next: The Ravens have one of the league's best rosters and are on the verge of their first Super Bowl since 2013. But they will need reinforcements to overcome January struggles. Despite Lamar Jackson's greatness as a two-time MVP, Baltimore is 3-5 in the playoffs during the Jackson era that began in 2018. Baltimore could use another key player on defense, particularly in the secondary after a slow start to the season. Safety Marcus Williams will likely be a cap casualty. Re-signing left tackle Ronnie Stanley will be a priority. And the team faces a tough decision on tight end Mark Andrews, who has a $16.9 million cap hit in the final year of his deal.
Buffalo Bills (13-4)
Average age of roster: 27.1
Salary cap space: -$17.6 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 8
What's next: The Bills have emerged as one of the league's most consistent performers, a perennial contender with Josh Allen ascending into an MVP stratosphere. Their once-stagnant running game is now potent, and the defense is swarming. What became clear through the playoffs, however, is that Buffalo needs to add more true difference-makers to the roster. Many around the league agree: Working a potential trade for Myles Garrett or another high-end pass rusher would make sense. The Bills need more edge prowess. Several key free agents could score quality deals elsewhere, including corner Rasul Douglas and wide receiver Amari Cooper. James Cook, a 2026 free agent, entered the upper tier of running backs, and he is potentially in line for a new deal. The Bills can save $8.4 million on the cap by releasing Von Miller, who will turn 36 in March. Upgrades at safety might be in order, as well.
Detroit Lions (15-2)
Average age of roster: 26.5
Salary cap space: $46.1 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 6
What's next: The Lions still have one of the premier rosters in football and are one of its most complete teams despite their divisional round loss to Washington. They also are set up for long-term success, locking up several key players to extensions with plenty of 2025 cap space to spare. (Pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson and safety Kerby Joseph could be next on the extension line.) This allows Detroit to take calculated risks on premier talent without feeling beholden to addressing depth. They are deep just about everywhere. Detroit could use one more player on the defensive front, though, perhaps another pass rusher. Detroit can save $12.7 million in cap by releasing DJ Reader and Za'Darius Smith, but both veterans played well for the Lions last season.
NEED A POSTSEASON BREAKTHROUGH
Green Bay Packers (11-6)
Average age of roster: 25.5
Salary cap space: $35.8 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 7
What's next: Known for drafting and developing most of the roster, the Packers would be wise to comb the trade or free agency market for bigger swings. This is a good but not great team that can vault into the elite with a few more players. Why not call the Raiders on Maxx Crosby? He would change the complexion of the team's defense. And when Josh Jacobs is publicly questioning the Packers' need for a No. 1 receiver, that's probably a cue to at least look into it. The Packers sport one of the league's youngest rosters, which bodes well for the future. Re-signing center Josh Myers is a sensible move.
Minnesota Vikings (14-3)
Average age of roster: 27.0
Salary cap space: $50.5 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 3
What's next: How Minnesota allocates its healthy cap trove will be worth monitoring this offseason. The big question: Do the Vikings pay Sam Darnold? They haven't made a firm determination on this, but many around the league see them starting over with J.J. McCarthy if a new suitor prices Darnold out of Minnesota. Like with Kirk Cousins, the Vikings won't mortgage their future on a free agent quarterback contract. Several free agents -- Byron Murphy II, Camryn Bynum, Cam Robinson, Aaron Jones -- could get cushy deals elsewhere, but GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah has shown adaptability in adding new talent. (A prime example is last season's pass-rush duo of Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel.) In the secondary, the sense here is Murphy walks but Bynum could stay under a new deal.
TEETERING CONTENDERS
Cincinnati Bengals (9-8)
Average age of roster: 26.2
Salary cap space: $45.9 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 6
What's next: The Bengals' threshold for spending will be tested more than any other team this offseason. Three of their top stars -- Ja'Marr Chase, Trey Hendrickson and Tee Higgins -- need new deals. Chase and Hendrickson are 2026 free agents who have no interest in playing out their current deals, and both can command well above $30 million per year. Heck, Chase might try to push for $40 million. Higgins, a free agent, will be difficult to keep, as many teams project him pushing the threshold of $30 million per year. And that's not even counting the need to improve the defense at several positions that have aged or underperformed. It will be fascinating to see how the Bengals' front office handles it all. At least it has money to spend, with more than $40 million in cap space. It can create more by releasing Sam Hubbard ($9.6 million) and Sheldon Rankins ($9.5 million).
Pittsburgh Steelers (10-7)
Average age of roster: 27.3
Salary cap space: $36.8 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 8
What's next: The five-game losing streak to end the 2024 campaign should prompt changes for a franchise that leans conservative. Deciding whether to sign Russell Wilson, Justin Fields or an alternative at quarterback should come into focus over the next month. My sense is that Fields and Pittsburgh are both open to a new deal as long as Fields gets a shot to be the full-time starter. After that, Pittsburgh badly needs to reload at the skill positions. Last year's receiver group was inadequate. A decision looms on free agent Najee Harris' future. Pittsburgh's defense was uneven against the run, calling for reinforcements. And, oh yeah, T.J. Watt is a 2026 free agent.
Houston Texans (10-7)
Average age of roster: 26.6
Salary cap space: $-1.3 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 6
What's next: Expect GM Nick Caserio to get to work figuring out what went wrong with an offensive line that isn't void of talent. C.J. Stroud took too many hits, and Houston can target interior players who fit seamlessly into new offensive coordinator Nick Caley's system. The Texans face a decision on free agent Stefon Diggs. And as far as extensions, pass rusher Danielle Hunter and cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. are prime candidates.
HEADED ON THE RIGHT TRACK
Denver Broncos (10-7)
Average age of roster: 26.4
Salary cap space: $50 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 7
What's next: With the Bo Nix-Sean Payton tandem in place for years to come, Denver can take this opportunity to elevate the offense. Adding a versatile running back in either free agency or high in the draft will be pivotal, and more receiver help would be useful. Zach Allen and Nik Bonitto are among defensive stars who need new deals. The Broncos also must decide whether to extend wideout Courtland Sutton, 29, who was consistent when the team had bad quarterback play but now finally has a good one.
Los Angeles Chargers (11-6)
Average age of roster: 26.2
Salary cap space: $74.2 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 7
What's next: This one seems pretty clear; good wide receivers are available to acquire for Justin Herbert. This team isn't far from playoff success, but it needs a player on the outside to pair with Ladd McConkey. If Tee Higgins' contract is too pricey, perhaps Davante Adams -- who is open to playing on the West Coast if released by the Jets -- would fit seamlessly. Re-signing running back J.K. Dobbins seems like a logical move. The defense is coming along nicely but must solidify its pass rush. The Chargers want to re-sign Khalil Mack, who still has juice at age 33. Los Angeles either needs to move on from Joey Bosa or rework his contract. His $36.5 million cap hit is untenable, and the team can save $25.4 million by releasing him.
Los Angeles Rams (10-7)
Average age of roster: 26.4
Salary cap space: $42.4 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 6
What's next: The top priority is finding a way to reconfigure Matthew Stafford's contract, which has cap hits of $49.7 million and $53.7 million over the next two years. While a clean break might have been tempting for both sides at one point, he is by far the Rams' best option at quarterback for 2025. It feels like the team should make something work here, though I'm not taking an eventual trade off the table, either, if a team is aggressive enough. But the Rams likely will try to facilitate a few other trades, starting with wide receiver Cooper Kupp, who should have value. Guard Jonah Jackson was benched last season, and despite his $8.5 million guarantee for 2025 in the form of a signing bonus, building a trade market for him wouldn't be the worst thing for the Rams.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers (10-7)
Average age of roster: 26.8
Salary cap space: $6.6 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 6
What's next: The Buccaneers are in the mix in the NFC, which is why investing in a few defensive players would be prudent. The Bucs made their Super Bowl run five years ago with a dominant pass rush and multiple corners with man-to-man ability. Adding to both positions either in free agency or high in the draft will give coach Todd Bowles more flexibility in key matchups. Among key free agents to re-sign include wide receiver Chris Godwin, who seems like a Buc for life, and surprisingly good guard Ben Bredeson. Tampa Bay can save $4.5 million against the cap by releasing safety Jordan Whitehead.
Seattle Seahawks (10-7)
Average age of roster: 26.5
Salary cap space: -$31.3 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 6
What's next: With five veterans carrying cap hits in excess of $20 million, Seattle likely needs to restructure contracts or release veterans to get cap compliant. One of those players is quarterback Geno Smith ($44.5 million cap), whose $10 million roster bonus is due March 16. Signs point to Seattle running it back with Smith. The contract situation of 2026 free agent DK Metcalf ($31.9 million cap) will deepen the intrigue in Seattle. He is still a major talent and would garner trade interest if Seattle entertained it. Does new Raiders coach Pete Carroll want to reunite with Metcalf or fellow wideout Tyler Lockett? Seattle wants to run the ball more efficiently under new coordinator Klint Kubiak, and that could require at least one move along the offensive line.
Washington Commanders (12-5)
Average age of roster: 26.8
Salary cap space: $59.1 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 7
What's next: The buzz is palpable in Washington, which was one win from the Super Bowl during what was supposed to be a transitional year. A series of veterans on one-year deals performed well -- including Zach Ertz, Bobby Wagner and Dante Fowler Jr. -- so the Commanders must decide which players should return. Some around the league expect Washington to secure a viable No. 2 receiver to Terry McLaurin. Improvements along the offensive line could be in order. Releasing offensive tackle Andrew Wylie would save $7.8 million on the cap, though serviceable right tackles are valuable.
STUCK IN THE MIDDLE ... BUT A MOVE OR TWO AWAY
Atlanta Falcons (8-9)
Average age of roster: 27.4
Salary cap space: -$12.7 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 6
What's next: Atlanta has been stuck in the middle for years, but there's reason for optimism. Michael Penix Jr. is the closest thing to a long-term quarterback solution the team has had since Matt Ryan. A big decision looms with Kirk Cousins, whose $27.5 million base salary is guaranteed. Atlanta has a chance to swing a trade, admit the mistake and move on. But the bigger issues lie on defense. The Falcons must get better in the pass rush and other levels of the defensive back seven. Reworking veteran contracts such as Grady Jarrett, Kaleb McGary and Jake Matthews can alleviate the cap.
Dallas Cowboys (7-10)
Average age of roster: 26.5
Salary cap space: -$10.4 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 6
What's next: The Cowboys need to get their edge back in a hurry. The NFC East won't wait for them. The Eagles are atop the NFL, and the Commanders aren't going anywhere. The major decision this offseason is whether to pay Micah Parsons a market-setting deal. Re-signing defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa should be a priority. And while Dallas will likely be strapped for cash once again due to top-heavy deals, it will need to get creative to address needs, including adding a No. 2 receiver, a running back and offensive line reinforcements. If Dallas wants to remodel its secondary, releasing safeties Donovan Wilson and Malik Hooker would save more than $9 million in cap.
Indianapolis Colts (8-9)
Average age of roster: 26.6
Salary cap space: $27.3 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 7
What's next: Time to change. No team embodies the NFL middle quite like the Colts, whose 8-9 record last season was quasi-impressive given the drama around quarterback Anthony Richardson and the defense's late-season collapse. GM Chris Ballard has embraced the need for change, something that others in the building have echoed privately. Everyone in Indy is looking inwardly for solutions after a weird campaign. It is going to have to spend more than it has in the past, starting with a quality quarterback to push Richardson. Decisions loom along the offensive line, with guard Will Fries and center Ryan Kelly due paydays in free agency. The team can save cap space by releasing Braden Smith ($16.8 million), Samson Ebukam ($8 million), Raekwon Davis ($6.5 million) and Tyquan Lewis ($4.8 million).
San Francisco 49ers (6-11)
Average age of roster: 27.8
Salary cap space: -$21.6 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 8
What's next: The 49ers' subpar 2024 shouldn't prompt a full rebuild. And, really, is there any choice but to run it back? The roster is saddled with bloated salaries only suitable for a win-now plan. Scaling back in parts is a sound strategy -- and the 49ers are doing so by designating defensive tackle Javon Hargrave a post-June 1 cut and seeking to trade wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. Once those two moves are made, the 49ers can focus on a Brock Purdy extension. Star tight end George Kittle also is a year from free agency. Where San Francisco needs to improve is along the offensive line; it was thin before guard Aaron Banks was set to reach free agency.
STUCK IN QB PURGATORY
Cleveland Browns (3-14)
Average age of roster: 27.1
Salary cap space: -$66.6 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 9
What's next: Where do you start? The Browns face a critical offseason. The roster is void of a viable quarterback option. Myles Garrett wants a trade. The pressure is on after a three-win campaign. A roster that entered 2024 perhaps in the league's top 10 greatly underperformed, leaving the Browns floating between rebuilding and resetting. Relief is available via the No. 2 draft pick, giving Cleveland a real chance to find a long-term answer at quarterback. Whether Cleveland entertains trade calls on Garrett will test its mettle. Among cap casualty decisions: offensive tackle Jack Conklin ($5 million) and safety Juan Thornhill ($3.4 million as a post-June 1 cut).
Las Vegas Raiders (4-13)
Average age of roster: 25.8
Salary cap space: $63.2 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 8
What's next: Clearly in transition, the Raiders should temper expectations about contending in 2025. The roster is not close right now. Not to say it can't win games. But part of why Pete Carroll was hired was to clean up the mess and provide stability that can last. That takes more than a year. In the meantime, figuring out a quarterback plan that works would be useful. Multiple league execs have predicted that Sam Darnold is a viable option, given Las Vegas is picking outside of the top five in the draft. Others believe the Raiders will draft a QB high. And heck, Carroll's old friend Russell Wilson is available. But every option should be exhausted here. And since you can't throw to tight end Brock Bowers 300 times in a season (right?), please add receiver help. New general manager John Spytek faces tough decisions on free agent linebacker Robert Spillane, the ultimate glue guy, and safety Tre'von Moehrig, who will have a strong market.
THIS COULD GO EITHER WAY
Arizona Cardinals (8-9)
Average age of roster: 25.9
Salary cap space: $62.6 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 5
What's next: Arizona is positioned for success entering the third season under coach Jonathan Gannon and GM Monti Ossenfort. This regime hasn't spent big in free agency, relying on the draft to rebuild, but now might be the time to pounce, coming off a seven-win season. The offensive line, pass rush and cornerback positions need improvements. There's money to spend. Quarterback Kyler Murray is the only Cardinal with a cap hit above $20 million. Extending star tight end Trey McBride will be a priority.
Chicago Bears (5-12)
Average age of roster: 26.3
Salary cap space: $60.6 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 9
What's next: Despite last season's struggles, the Bears have balanced adequate roster help and a healthy cap outlook well. They are in a position to spend once again to add improvements for new coach Ben Johnson. The place to start is clear: offensive line. Yes, free agent guard Trey Smith is ideal. But he likely will reset the guard market, and the Chiefs could attempt to keep him. Other options include Zack Martin, Will Fries and Drew Dalman. The Bears have several veterans whose contracts offer cap space if released, such as DeMarcus Walker ($5.2 million), Gerald Everett ($5.5 million) and Kevin Byard III ($7 million).
Miami Dolphins (8-9)
Average age of roster: 26.8
Salary cap space: -$16.9 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 7
What's next: The Dolphins must find a way to improve in the trenches to acclimate for December and January football. The offensive line isn't good enough, in part due to injury. Injuries to Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips have sunk the pass rush, though Chop Robinson looks like a keeper. Improving both fronts should be high on the Dolphins' wish list. Safety Jevon Holland likely will price himself out of Miami, so the Dolphins will be on the hunt for a replacement. Miami can save $3 million against the cap by releasing running back Raheem Mostert. Every million counts for a team tight against the cap.
NEW COACH, NEW DIRECTION
Jacksonville Jaguars (4-13)
Average age of roster: 26.6
Salary cap space: $15.4 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 10
What's next: Getting a general manager would be helpful. Jacksonville is still trying to replace Trent Baalke, whom it waited more than two weeks after the regular season to fire. But it got its coach, Liam Coen, who should be able to maximize Trevor Lawrence. Jacksonville has weapons around Lawrence, but if it wants to start over, releasing wideout Christian Kirk saves $10.4 million against the cap, while moving on from tight end Evan Engram saves $6 million. Expect Jacksonville to look for a speed receiver. Free agent guard Brandon Scherff is one step closer to retirement. Many inside the Jaguars' building were perplexed at the defensive struggles a year ago. New coordinator Anthony Campanile will bring toughness, but just about everyone in that lineup should be questioned. Bringing back safety Andre Cisco seems unlikely. Watch for a free agent cornerback add here too.
New Orleans Saints (5-12)
Average age of roster: 27.3
Salary cap space: -$71.5 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 8
What's next: New coach Kellen Moore first must finalize a coaching staff. With the Saints waiting through the Super Bowl to hire Moore, he has lost several coaches he would have considered. Then he must decide on the future of Derek Carr. Moving on this year comes with a $50.1 million dead cap charge versus $28.7 million in 2026, so perhaps the first-time head coach opts for the veteran passer for one year and sees how it goes. But the franchise also is high on developmental quarterback Spencer Rattler. Many Saints veterans are more movable in 2026, so expect New Orleans to largely run it back with an aging roster. Defensive end Chase Young is a key free agent who will be looking for long-term money, while corner Alontae Taylor is an extension candidate.
REBUILD IN THE WORKS
Carolina Panthers (5-12)
Average age of roster: 27.1
Salary cap space: $30.6 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 9
What's next: The Panthers are in an ideal spot in the trajectory after coach Dave Canales and GM Dan Morgan's first season. They can sell optimism, but they didn't win enough games to overinflate expectations for 2025. The Panthers eschewed adding adequate defensive help last year, and it showed. Improvements at all three areas of the defense are necessary. On offense, don't be surprised if Carolina targets a speed receiver to complement Xavier Legette and Adam Thielen -- and a quality backup for Bryce Young.
Tennessee Titans (3-14)
Average age of roster: 26.2
Salary cap space: $41.3 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 7
What's next: Tennessee wants more draft picks for its rebuild, which is why some around the league wouldn't be surprised to see the Titans entertain a trade at No. 1 or create the perception that it's willing to do so. The Titans will do extensive work on quarterbacks Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders. Veteran passer options likely won't be off the table, either. After the Titans splurged in last year's free agency under former GM Ran Carthon, the new regime, led by Chad Brinker and Mike Borgonzi, could lean the other way. Trade chatter about defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons will persist, but I'm not sure that move is feasible or prudent; top-shelf interior pass rushers at age 27 are scarce.
New York Giants (3-14)
Average age of roster: 26.2
Salary cap space: $44.7 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 7
What's next: Quarterback, quarterback, quarterback. Expect New York, in a must-win situation for coach Brian Daboll and GM Joe Schoen, to potentially double down on the position -- signing a veteran (Russell Wilson and Matthew Stafford are among options on my radar) and drafting a rookie -- then reconfigure the offensive line to solve it once and for all. After that, the Giants have enough intriguing players to string together some wins. The defensive line is the strength of the team. New York can get pressure without blitzing, which is crucial, as the Super Bowl just showed.
YEP, STILL REBUILDING
New England Patriots (4-13)
Average age of roster: 26.5
Salary cap space: $88.4 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 9
What's next: New coach Mike Vrabel is set up reasonably well in Year 1 thanks to ample cap space, nine draft picks and a few intriguing players on both sides of the ball. While 2025 might be another transitional year, there's no reason the Patriots can't get back into contention over the next two seasons. New England must improve the offensive line. Free agent tackle options such as Ronnie Stanley, Cam Robinson and Alaric Jackson should be firmly on the team's radar. And as much as it might pain Vrabel to pay a wide receiver $30 million per year, Tee Higgins' market should be explored.
New York Jets (5-12)
Average age of roster: 27.4
Salary cap space: $20.1 million
Total 2025 draft picks (projected): 8
What's next: The Jets' new regime seems adept at making changes, setting the stage to release Aaron Rodgers sooner than later. They can save $9.5 million on the cap if they designate Rodgers a post-June 1 release. Davante Adams, with his $38.3 million cap hit and $30 million in cap savings if released, could be next, while cutting fellow wide receiver Allen Lazard saves $6.3 million against the cap. Moving on from those three ex-Packers helps the Jets recalibrate the roster under coach Aaron Glenn and GM Darren Mougey. The defense has enough players to compete, and the offensive line has promise. In the short term, the team must decide whether a trio of 2022 draft picks -- Sauce Gardner, Garrett Wilson, Breece Hall -- are worth extending early.