The Best and Worst NFL Offseasons in Hindsight: Barnwell’s 7-Tier Rankings

The NFL offseason is a whirlwind of blockbuster trades, draft surprises, and high-stakes free-agent signings—but which teams actually improved? ESPN’s Bill Barnwell recently ranked all 32 NFL teams into seven tiers based on their offseason moves, from “Super Bowl or Bust” to “What Were They Thinking?” Here’s a detailed look at the biggest winners, losers, and sleeper contenders.

Tier 1: Super Bowl or Bust

These teams made aggressive moves to solidify their championship aspirations.

• Kansas City Chiefs: The back-to-back champs retained core players and added WR Marquise “Hollywood” Brown, giving Patrick Mahomes another deep threat.
• San Francisco 49ers: Despite cap limitations, they upgraded their pass rush (Leonard Floyd) and WR depth. Brock Purdy’s development could make them NFC favorites.

Tier 2: Playoff Lock (If Healthy)

Barring injuries, these teams are built for deep postseason runs.

• Baltimore Ravens: Lamar Jackson now has Derrick Henry in the backfield, and their elite defense remains intact. Staying healthy is the key.
• Detroit Lions: They kept most of their NFC Championship core and shored up their secondary. A Super Bowl run isn’t unrealistic.

Tier 3: Sneaky Playoff Contenders

Underrated teams that made smart, impactful moves.

• Houston Texans: Added stars like Stefon Diggs and Danielle Hunter while drafting well. C.J. Stroud has everything he needs for a Year 2 leap.
• Chicago Bears: Caleb Williams, Keenan Allen, and Rome Odunze give them explosiveness. The NFC North could be up for grabs.

Tier 4: Middling, But Not Hopeless

Teams that didn’t dramatically improve—but didn’t fall behind either.

• Pittsburgh Steelers: Russell Wilson and Justin Fields are QB upgrades, but the O-line remains a concern.
• Indianapolis Colts: Anthony Richardson’s health is pivotal. Keeping Michael Pittman Jr. was wise, but did they do enough elsewhere?

Tier 5: Rebuilding with a Plan

Franchises focused on long-term growth, not immediate contention.

• Washington Commanders: Jayden Daniels could be their franchise QB, and their draft class was strong. Patience is key.
• New England Patriots: Drake Maye is the future, but the supporting cast needs work. A true rebuild year ahead.

Tier 6: Questionable Decisions

Teams that left fans and analysts puzzled.

• Dallas Cowboys: Did almost nothing in free agency and stalled on extensions for Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb. A risky approach.
• Denver Broncos: Still recovering from the Russell Wilson fallout. Bo Nix has potential, but the roster has glaring holes.

Tier 7: What Were They Thinking?

The most baffling and concerning offseasons.

• Carolina Panthers: Invested in guards but ignored Bryce Young’s need for WR help. Another rough season looms.
• Tennessee Titans: Signed aging playmakers (Calvin Ridley, Tony Pollard) but neglected the O-line. Will Levis faces major challenges.

Final Thoughts: Winners and Losers

Barnwell’s rankings highlight the stark contrast between well-executed offseasons (Chiefs, Texans) and perplexing ones (Cowboys, Panthers). While some teams positioned themselves for immediate success, others may regret their inaction or missteps.

Which team do you think had the best offseason? Share your take below!

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