The Atlanta Falcons stand at a crucial juncture as they approach the 2025 season. With an already solid offensive line bolstered by three first-round picks and a second, Drew Dalman has emerged as a key player at center, displaying remarkable potential despite being a fourth-round selection. His PFF ranking, bolstered by an impressive performance with just two sacks allowed over 295 pass-blocking snaps, underscores his value to the team. However, as he enters free agency, questions loom about whether the Falcons can afford to retain him.

Delving into the financials, a projected contract worth $14 million annually would position Dalman as the NFL's second-highest-paid center. Financial limitations, highlighted by the Falcons' 30th-ranked salary cap space, complicate matters. While retaining Dalman seems imperative given his significant contributions and potential, the Falcons also have Ryan Neuzil as a backup, who showed less effectiveness last season. The stakes are high as they navigate these negotiations, balancing financial health with the need for a strong offensive foundation as they prepare Michael Penix Jr. for his first full season as the starter.

With NFL free agency approaching, teams are evaluating their top free agents. The Arizona Cardinals are focusing on Baron Browning, who has quickly become a key contributor after being traded from the Broncos. Meanwhile, the Falcons must decide on Drew Dalman, whose performance remains elite despite injury concerns. The Ravens are keen on retaining Ronnie Stanley, while the Bills face decisions around standout corner Rasul Douglas and fellow free agent Amari Cooper.

In other developments, the Bengals franchise-tagged Tee Higgins, a decision reflecting his value despite injury struggles in recent seasons. The Browns are poised to let Nick Chubb hit free agency, contemplating his return after a tough season. The Cowboys face tough choices with both Demarcus Lawrence and breakout running back Rico Dowdle on the market. Meanwhile, the Broncos may part ways with Javonte Williams, who has not fully rebounded from a significant knee injury.

The NFL offseason is heating up as teams prepare for the upcoming negotiating window, following the franchise tag deadline. Major players are being preserved by their respective franchises to prevent them from hitting the free agent market. Key internal free agents across all 32 teams have been identified, with each club facing tough decisions about whom they can least afford to lose this offseason.

The Arizona Cardinals have Evan Brown, a proven offensive lineman. The Atlanta Falcons are focused on keeping Drew Dalman, while Baltimore Ravens' Ronnie Stanley remains a priority. The Buffalo Bills value RB Ty Johnson as a complementary piece, while the Cincinnati Bengals see WR Tee Higgins as vital for their offense.

With multiple teams eyeing significant roster changes, the stakes are high for free agency that starts on March 10. It’s a critical period that will shape the competitive landscape for the 2025 NFL season.

The Carolina Panthers are poised to aggressively pursue free agents this offseason, targeting key players to bolster their defense. Notable names linked to the Panthers include Josh Sweat, who showcased his prowess in the Super Bowl and would address their pressing need for edge rushers. Osa Odighizuwa, a former Dallas Cowboy, also fits the bill as a top-tier defensive tackle to mitigate last season's woes in stopping the run. Additionally, the Panthers may look at Dre Greenlaw, whose injury history could make him a cost-effective option, and Nick Bolton, who might prefer to stay with the Kansas City Chiefs but could be tempted by a lucrative offer.

On the offensive front, Drew Dalman is a center prospect who can finally provide stability at a vital position where the Panthers struggled last year. The wide receiver corps could see a boost with Darius Slayton potentially joining, adding depth and versatility, even if he’s primarily seen as a WR2. The Panthers are keen to revamp their roster and inject new talent, aiming for a substantial impact next season.

The Chicago Bears are bracing for an aggressive offseason as they aim to improve their offensive line to better protect quarterback Caleb Williams, who faced significant pressure during his rookie season, leading to 68 sacks. With the NFL Combine creating buzz, GM Ryan Poles plans to target several impactful free agents, particularly in the interior offensive line. Key targets include center Drew Dalman and guards Will Fries and Aaron Banks, with their strategy reminiscent of the Carolina Panthers' successful free agency moves last year.

As free agency approaches, expectations are high for Poles to deliver upgrades, especially given the intense pressure surrounding his roster-building efforts. Fans are eager for the Bears to make strategic investments in veteran talent, particularly for the offensive line, which was a critical weakness last season. Anything less than two new starters will likely be viewed as a disappointment.