As the 2025 NFL season unfolds, several franchises find themselves at a crossroads. With aging rosters, cap space constraints, and underwhelming performances, the question arises: Is it time to shift focus toward rebuilding through the 2026 draft?
This article delves into the challenges faced by these teams and explores whether a future-oriented strategy is the prudent path forward.
New York Giants: Wasting Dexter Lawrence’s Prime
Despite Dexter Lawrence’s elite performance, the New York Giants have struggled, posting a 9-25 record over the past two seasons. Lawrence, a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time Second-Team All-Pro, has amassed 103 nose tackle pressures since 2022, leading his position. However, he ranks only 10th on average annual salary among his peers.
The team’s decision to trade Leonard Williams, undervalued Saquon Barkley, and the controversial handling of Daniel Jones have raised concerns about their direction. With the selection of quarterback Jaxson Dart in the 2025 draft, the Giants are initiating a rebuild, but the risk of squandering Lawrence’s prime remains high.
Dallas Cowboys: Win-Now Mentality vs. Cap Realities
The Dallas Cowboys, under owner Jerry Jones, have adopted a “win-now” approach, evident in the $240 million contract extension for quarterback Dak Prescott and the hiring of coach Brian Schottenheimer.
The team has also brought in wide receiver George Pickens, who is in the final year of his contract and could command a significant deal next offseason. However, looming cap-space limitations pose challenges. The Cowboys must weigh the benefits of re-signing key players like Pickens against potential future financial constraints.
Pittsburgh Steelers: High-Stakes Moves for Immediate Success
The Pittsburgh Steelers have made bold moves, acquiring All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey from the Miami Dolphins in exchange for star safety Minkah Fitzpatrick and a draft pick swap. Ramsey’s salary increased by $1.5 million, bringing his compensation to $26.6 million, despite a recent decline in performance.
Additionally, the Steelers have added veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers and wide receiver DK Metcalf to their roster. While these acquisitions aim to secure immediate success, they come with significant financial commitments that could impact the team’s future flexibility.
New Orleans Saints: Navigating a Financial Quagmire
The New Orleans Saints face a daunting financial situation, projected to be $54.1 million over the cap in 2025—the worst in the NFL. Quarterback Derek Carr carries a $51.5 million cap hit, the fourth highest in his position. Releasing Carr post-June 1 saved $30 million but would still leave $21.5 million in dead money.
Veteran defensive end Cameron Jordan, with a $20.1 million cap hit, is also a candidate for release. The Saints must make tough decisions to navigate their financial constraints while considering a potential rebuild.
Chicago Bears: Rebuilding Amidst Organizational Changes
Following a 5-12 season, the Chicago Bears have undergone significant changes, including the hiring of head coach Ben Johnson. The team has made several rosters of moves, acquiring guards Jonah Jackson and Joe Thuney, and signing players like defensive tackle Grady Jarrett and center Drew Dalman.
Despite these efforts, the Bears’ offensive line remains a concern, and the team must address key positions throughout the draft. With the passing of owner Virginia Halas McCaskey, the Bears are at a pivotal point, balancing immediate improvements with long-term planning.
Washington Commanders: Strategic Investments for Future Success
The Washington Commanders are actively building a competitive team, planning to use up to $100 million in cash to strengthen their roster. Notable acquisitions include left tackle Laremy Tunsil and wide receiver Deebo Samuel.
The team is also focusing on contract extensions and preparing for draft picks, with Texas Longhorns Kelvin Banks Jr. as a notable target. Under the leadership of Adam Peters, the Commanders are making strategic investments to capitalize on their current momentum and achieve a strong 2025 season.
Cincinnati Bengals: Balancing Contention with Financial Realities
The Cincinnati Bengals are categorized as “Teetering Contenders” for the 2025 NFL season. With over $50 million in cap space, the team faces the challenge of securing new deals for key players like Ja’Marr Chase, Trey Hendrickson, and Tee Higgins.
Additionally, the Bengals must address several defensive positions that have aged or underperformed. As a result, Cincinnati has started to appear in football mock draft projections, with analysts speculating which defensive prospects could fill those looming gaps.
The success of the 2025 season hinges on the team’s ability to manage cap space and make strategic signings and drafts.
New York Jets: Evaluating Trade Proposals and Roster Development
The New York Jets have been the subject of trade speculation, including a proposed deal by CBS Sports suggesting the trade of star cornerback Sauce Gardner to the Packers for underwhelming returns. Such proposals have been dismissed as illogical, considering Gardner’s exceptional status and contract value.
As training camp approaches, the Jets are focusing on roster development and evaluating players like Breece Hall and Justin Fields, under the guidance of new head coach Aaron Glenn.
Philadelphia Eagles: Emphasizing Youth and Financial Prudence
The Philadelphia Eagles are shedding salary to manage their cap effectively. According to Adam Schefter, the team is more likely to reduce salary than acquire inexperienced players. The departures of veteran players like cornerback Darius Slay and safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson signal a shift towards youth.
The Eagles are emphasizing development and trusting recent draft choices to step up, preparing for future financial commitments by offloading existing expensive contracts.
Las Vegas Raiders: Transitioning Under New Leadership
The Las Vegas Raiders are entering a new era under head coach Pete Carroll. The team is assessing players like cornerback Jakorian Bennett for potential position changes and considering trades for players like Tampa Bay’s Jamel Dean.
The offensive line may implement a hybrid blocking scheme under offensive coordinator Chip Kelly. The Raiders are also evaluating their free agency strategy and potential signings, such as Von Miller, to strengthen their roster.
Atlanta Falcons: Addressing Defensive Struggles and Cap Issues
The Atlanta Falcons’ pass defense struggled in the 2024 season, allowing a league-high +3.4% completion percentage over expected. The team is projected to be $5.3 million over the cap in 2025, necessitating strategic decisions to improve their defense.
Key areas of need include cornerback, edge rusher, safety, interior offensive line, and defensive tackle. The Falcons must navigate their financial constraints while addressing these critical positions.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 NFL Draft
As teams evaluate their current rosters and future prospects, the 2026 NFL Draft emerges as a pivotal opportunity to acquire foundational talent. With the draft scheduled for April 23–25, 2026, in Pittsburgh, franchises are already scouting potential picks to address their most pressing needs.
As fans speculate on what is next, several of these teams are popping up frequently on football mock draft boards with eyes on foundational talent. The decisions made in the coming months will significantly impact the trajectory of these organizations.
