As NFL free agency unfolds, teams are not just securing big-name stars but also making savvy moves that can significantly bolster their rosters. Let’s dive into five intriguing transactions that may fly under the radar but could have notable impacts in the upcoming season.
T Cornelius Lucas Signs with Cleveland Browns
Contract: Two years, $10 million
The Browns made a strategic addition by bringing in offensive tackle Cornelius Lucas. With injury concerns looming over their existing tackle depth, Lucas offers versatile flexibility, capable of anchoring either the left or right side. The 11-year veteran has consistently proven his worth, logging over 450 snaps in five of the last six seasons while maintaining a solid PFF overall grade of 67.6 or higher across those years.
Last season with the Washington Commanders, Lucas showcased his skills, ranking 29th out of 80 qualifying tackles in PFF’s pass-blocking grade, allowing just one sack over 273 pass-blocking snaps. As the Browns prepare for the 2025 season, Lucas provides a reliable option to back up an injury-prone Jack Conklin and a developing Dawand Jones. His track record suggests he’ll be ready to step up whenever he’s called upon.
DI Teair Tart Re-signs with Los Angeles Chargers
Contract: One year, $5.5 million
Teair Tart found success in his first season with the Chargers under defensive coordinator Jesse Minter, and he has now re-signed to a one-year deal. Tart enjoyed a career year, finishing with a PFF overall grade of 78.1, which was buoyed by his impressive pass-rush grade of 79.3 and solid run defense. As a rotational player, he logged 378 snaps in each of the past two seasons, consistently making a mark on a per-snap basis and establishing himself as one of the top 25 interior defenders according to PFF’s WAR metric.
At 28, Tart is looking to continue his upward trajectory in a Chargers squad aiming for growth under head coach Jim Harbaugh. Expect him to be a key factor in the defense’s success as they build their young lineup.
WR Nick Westbrook-Ikhine Signs with Miami Dolphins
Contract: Two years, $6.5 million ($3.2 million guaranteed)
The Dolphins welcomed wide receiver Nick Westbrook-Ikhine to their roster, and he comes in at an opportune time. Last season, he stood out among a struggling Titans offense, notching nine receiving touchdowns and 11 explosive plays of 15 yards or more. His 6-foot-2, 211-pound frame adds a distinct style to Miami’s receiving core, complementing the diminutive speeds of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.
Westbrook-Ikhine’s size is advantageous not just as a deep threat, but also in terms of blocking and contested catches. After the Dolphins’ WR3 struggles in previous seasons, he aims to establish a more reliable presence in the passing game as they look to elevate their offensive output.
DI Levi Onwuzurike Re-signs with Detroit Lions
Contract: One year, $5.5 million
The Lions made a savvy move by bringing back Levi Onwuzurike at what can only be described as a bargain price. Projected to land a hefty two-year contract worth $20 million, Detroit managed to sign him for a one-year deal under $6 million. After grappling with injuries in his early career, Onwuzurike broke out in 2024 with substantial playing time and impressive stats—47 quarterback pressures and 20 defensive stops, culminating in a 70.2 overall PFF grade.
At just 27, Onwuzurike is stepping into the prime of his career, and should he replicate his performance, he’ll be a hot commodity in next year’s free agency, making this re-signing a wise investment for the Lions heading into 2025.
G Kevin Zeitler Signs with Tennessee Titans
Contract: One year, $9 million
Kevin Zeitler’s signing with the Titans adds another layer of experience and skill to the offensive line. The 34-year-old proved last season with the Lions that he’s still among the elite at his position, ranking third in overall grade among guards. The former first-round pick recorded a career-high run-blocking grade of 87.2 and has consistently exceeded 1,000 snaps each season, barring only one exception.
With the Titans likely looking to draft a young quarterback like Cam Ward with the first overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Zeitler’s expertise and steady presence will be invaluable as they navigate a rebuild. Working alongside offensive line coach Bill Callahan, Zeitler could prove pivotal in developing their new signal-caller.
These savvy under-the-radar moves are shaping the landscape of the NFL as teams prepare for the 2025 season. As free agency continues, expect more surprising deals that could redefine depth charts and boost franchise trajectories going forward.
