The offseason in the NFL is winding down, but three larger-than-life figures are left as free agents: Quarterback Aaron Rodgers, Wide Receiver Stefon Diggs, and Running Back Nick Chubb. All three stars have had storied careers and still have much to offer in the right system. While rosters begin turning their attention to establishing theirs before training camp, these are the last of the high-profile dominoes to fall in free agency. They won’t just determine their futures but maybe shift the balance of power in the league during the 2025 season. Where will these free agents wind up?
Aaron Rodgers: Free Agent Quarterback Carousel Tipping Point
Aaron Rodgers’ destiny is the offseason’s largest open question. The four-time MVP recently visited with the Pittsburgh Steelers, and while no contract has been signed, the visit suggested Pittsburgh’s strong desire to bring him aboard. The Steelers have a good supporting cast, topped by an upper-echelon defense featuring T.J. Watt and a recently bolstered offense with the addition of DK Metcalf. Most significant, however, is that the culture and stability of the Pittsburgh organization align with what Rodgers had under the Green Bay Packers. This makes them a top contender to sign the veteran quarterback free agent.
Rodgers may not be done weighing his options. The New York Giants are still in the mix, even after signing Jameis Winston, and the Minnesota Vikings have not ruled out signing him entirely. Rodgers’ recent remarks regarding his Green Bay days suggest he likes a stable, winning environment, which would favor Pittsburgh. The Vikings could offer a fascinating alternative if they re-enter the picture, and it would keep him in the NFC North. Wherever he does go, Rodgers’ decision will dictate the direction of the rest of the quarterback free agents.
Stefon Diggs: A Dynamic Playmaker In Limbo
Stefon Diggs is one of the best receivers still on the market, but his next move is in question. He recently stopped by with the New England Patriots, but the meeting was preliminary rather than a done deal. Diggs is rehabbing a torn ACL, but insiders tell us he’s a little bit ahead of pace in that endeavor. If healthy, he remains one of the league’s most explosive receivers with over 5,800 yards and 40 touchdowns since 2020. The Patriots are desperate for playmakers for young Quarterback Drake Maye. Diggs is a natural fit if they’re willing to take a risk.
Even so, Diggs may prefer a team that’s closer to immediate contention. The Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens make sense as destinations, given the receiver support that they need. Kansas City particularly has been in search of a reliable WR1 as a free agent to go with Patrick Mahomes. Diggs would make the perfect match for Travis Kelce. If he prefers a shot at the championship over his bank account, he may hold out for a contract with an established contender. For now, though, it doesn’t appear Diggs is anxious to sign, waiting for the optimal bid.
Nick Chubb: A Workhorse At a Crossroads Of His Career
Nick Chubb’s situation is different from Rodgers and Diggs to some extent as he recovers from a severe knee injury that had him play just eight games last season. Despite the injury, he is one of the most talented running backs in the NFL when healthy. The Cleveland Browns have expressed interest in bringing him back, but they are allowing him to look elsewhere first. Chubb’s body of work is his testament. When healthy, he is one of the most productive and strongest backs. Any team that requires a high-upside running back may be willing to take a shot on him.
Potential suitors for the free agent are the Los Angeles Chargers and Dallas Cowboys, both of which have question marks at running back. The Cowboys need a stable presence in the backfield following the departure of Tony Pollard, while the Chargers could use a power back to complement their offense. Chubb’s proving ground will be showing that he can return to his former self and remain healthy in the process. If he cannot secure a satisfactory contract, another trip to Cleveland on a short-term, incentive-laden deal remains possible.
Final Thoughts
Most of free agency has been completed, leaving Rodgers, Diggs, and Chubb as the last major pieces remaining. Rodgers’ decision will set off quarterback activity throughout the league, Diggs could propel a contender’s offense to another level, and Chubb’s return to health could improve the running attack of a team. Every player’s choice will be heavy, impacting not only their future but the rest of the competitive field for 2025 as well. During the offseason, teams will launch their final blitzes, and the free-agent marketplace will decide where they end up.
