The NFL offseason is in full swing, and teams are making major roster moves as they prepare for the 2025 season. Several high-profile players are on the move, including San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk and Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp. Here’s a roundup of some of the biggest free agency developments.
49ers Part Ways with Kyle Juszczyk
San Francisco 49ers fullback Kyle Juszczyk, a cornerstone of the team since 2017, has been informed of his release. The decision comes after an impressive eight-year tenure in the Bay Area, during which he earned Pro Bowl honors every season and was named First-Team All-Pro in 2023.
Juszczyk, 33, expressed his desire to continue playing in 2025, regardless of the team. “I know I’m not done,” he stated after the Niners’ season-ending loss to the Arizona Cardinals. Despite nearly parting ways last offseason, he accepted a pay cut to remain with the team. However, with the 49ers facing tighter salary cap constraints, a new deal could not be reached.
Releasing Juszczyk saves the 49ers $2.93 million against the cap while leaving a dead money charge of $3.57 million. His departure signals a shift in San Francisco’s offensive structure, as newly signed tight end Luke Farrell is expected to take over some of Juszczyk’s blocking responsibilities.
Rams Set to Release Cooper Kupp if No Trade Materializes
The Los Angeles Rams are also making bold moves, reportedly planning to release wide receiver Cooper Kupp at the start of the new league year unless they find a trade partner. Kupp, the Super Bowl 56 MVP and a key figure in the Rams’ offense since 2017, has been on the trade block since February.
After a record-breaking 2021 season, Kupp signed a three-year, $80.1 million contract extension. However, with the Rams acquiring six-time Pro Bowl receiver Davante Adams, Kupp’s future with the team became uncertain.
Should the Rams trade Kupp post-June 1, they would save $20 million against the 2025 salary cap. A release, depending on timing, could save them anywhere from $7.52 million to $15 million while leaving a significant dead cap hit.
Seahawks Land Sam Darnold as New Starting QB
The Seattle Seahawks have secured their replacement for Geno Smith, agreeing to a three-year, $100.5 million deal with former Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold. The contract includes $55 million in guaranteed money.
Darnold, 27, revitalized his career last season with Minnesota, leading them to 14 wins and earning his first Pro Bowl selection. He reunites with Seattle’s new offensive coordinator, Klint Kubiak, who previously worked with him in San Francisco.
Darnold’s arrival marks a new era in Seattle, especially following the team’s decision to trade Smith to the Las Vegas Raiders and move on from star wide receivers DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett.
Jets Sign Justin Fields to Two-Year Deal
The New York Jets made a big move by signing former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields to a two-year, $40 million deal, with $30 million guaranteed. Fields is expected to be the team’s Week 1 starter after the departure of Aaron Rodgers.
Fields, 26, started his career with the Chicago Bears before being traded to Pittsburgh last season. He performed well in limited action, going 4-2 as a starter and proving his potential as a dual-threat quarterback. Now in New York, he will reunite with former Ohio State teammate Garrett Wilson, adding a new dynamic to the Jets’ offense.
Final Thoughts
As the NFL offseason continues, teams are making aggressive moves to reshape their rosters. With veterans like Juszczyk and Kupp facing uncertain futures and quarterbacks like Darnold and Fields securing fresh starts, the landscape of the league is rapidly evolving. Stay tuned as more blockbuster signings and trades unfold in the coming weeks.
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