The Las Vegas Raiders face a significant loss in free agency with the departure of safety Tre'von Moehrig, who is signing a lucrative three-year deal with the Carolina Panthers worth $51 million. Moehrig stood out among safety prospects, starting 64 games in his four seasons with the Raiders, amassing 297 tackles, 29 passes defended, and six interceptions. His breakout year came in 2024 when he recorded a career-high 104 tackles and 10 defended passes. His consistency and durability, having missed only two games in four years, contributed to his high ranking as a free agent.

As the Raiders attempt to rebuild their defense, losing Moehrig complicates their plans. Coach Pete Carroll emphasized the importance of retaining key defensive players like Moehrig. The Raiders also recently lost linebacker Robert Spillane to the New England Patriots, raising concerns about their defensive depth. The Raiders' backfield now faces fresh challenges as they look to fill the void left by Moehrig's departure, making their defensive strategy critical heading into the next season.

The Atlanta Falcons struggled significantly with their pass rush in the previous season, ranking near the bottom in both total sacks and pass-rushing grades. With key players like Matt Judon and Lorenzo Carter on the verge of free agency, the team faces a concerning future. Despite limited cap space, GM Terry Fontenot has taken steps to improve the situation, such as extending Jake Matthews and releasing Grady Jarrett. This puts the Falcons in a position to look for value in the second-tier of free-agent edge rushers.

One potential target is Malcolm Koonce, who demonstrated impressive pass-rushing ability before a knee injury sidelined him in 2024. After a productive 2023 season, Koonce's market value is projected at two years for $40 million. Another option is Azeez Ojulari, who has shown promise but struggles with injuries. The Falcons may prioritize these players to enhance their defensive capabilities.

Maxx Crosby's recent contract with the Raiders set a historic precedent for non-quarterbacks in the NFL, establishing a three-year deal worth $106.5 million. However, this title was short-lived as Myles Garrett surpassed him just three days later, signing a four-year extension with the Browns that brings his average annual salary to $40 million. This dramatic increase in pay for defensive players signals a shift in how teams value positions outside of the quarterback role.

With these landmark deals, players like Micah Parsons, Ja'Marr Chase, and Aidan Hutchinson are now in prime positions to negotiate significant extensions, while the market for non-quarterbacks continues to rise. As the salary cap increases, this trend is likely to continue, reshaping the financial landscape for defensive stars and elite skill position players across the league.

In the upcoming free agency, the Philadelphia Eagles are poised to explore bargain opportunities among injured players looking for one-year, prove-it deals. GM Howie Roseman has a history of capitalizing on such chances. Notable candidates include cornerback Asante Samuel Jr., who faced injury setbacks with the Chargers but aims to return strong, and Saint's Paulson Adebo, who has shown potential with three interceptions last season despite a serious injury. Linebacker Malcolm Koonce, who had a promising season before an injury, may be another intriguing option, especially with the Eagles possibly losing Josh Sweat to free agency.

Additionally, Evan Engram presents a unique case for the Eagles, having struggled with injuries but proving to be a valuable tight end option. Finally, former Eagle Javon Hargrave might be welcomed back after a rough season with the 49ers, potentially strengthening the defensive line. As teams rush to fill gaps before the draft, monitoring these players could lead to strategic fantasy picks.