The NFL landscape is buzzing as teams gather in Indianapolis this week for a pivotal event.

The NFL Scouting Combine is not just about timing 40-yard dashes and counting bench press reps; it’s a crucial platform for team executives to negotiate trades and contracts. Expect to see general managers and head coaches addressing the media frequently, unveiling insights about their roster strategies for the upcoming 2025 season.

Our NFL reporters from The Athletic are primed to absorb every detail. What key developments should they be on the lookout for during this essential week? Check out their insights on all NFL teams below.

Arizona Cardinals

The main question for the Cardinals is how they will tackle the offseason’s most urgent issue — securing an edge rusher. While general manager Monti Ossenfort has emphasized a draft-centric approach and has been successful thus far, this marks Year 3 for the team under its current leadership. After improving from four to eight wins, it’s time to enhance the roster significantly, especially with $76 million in available cap space, ranking them fourth in the NFL. The deadline to make decisive moves and return to the playoffs, a feat last achieved nine years ago, is approaching. — Doug Haller

Atlanta Falcons

Clarification is needed regarding Kirk Cousins’ situation. Head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot have remained tight-lipped following Cousins’ surprising admission during Super Bowl Week about his shoulder and elbow issues. Following a brief injury report appearance, he was declared healthy, but the narrative has shifted. The Falcons’ reaction to these developments will be noteworthy. — Josh Kendall

Baltimore Ravens

Questions will abound about kicker Justin Tucker’s future, but don’t expect much clarity from general manager Eric DeCosta or head coach John Harbaugh amid an ongoing NFL investigation. A significant concern for the Ravens is finding more salary cap flexibility before free agency arrives. With only about $13 million in cap space, questions looms regarding potential cuts, contract extensions for stars like Derrick Henry and Marlon Humphrey, and whether they’ll restructure Lamar Jackson’s contract. The next few weeks will be critical for the Ravens as they navigate their options. — Jeff Zrebiec

Buffalo Bills

This year promises a compelling offseason for the Bills, with little pressure from key free agents, yet ample cap space to release resources not seen since 2022. Coming close to breaking through against the Chiefs last year, the Bills reflect on past strategies, such as signing edge rusher Von Miller. As they seek to reinforce their defense following a disappointing AFC Championship Game, keep an eye on potential high-profile targets like Myles Garrett. Their activities in Indianapolis could signal a significant offseason move. — Joe Buscaglia

Carolina Panthers

After last year’s bold move to sign free agent guards Robert Hunt and Damien Lewis, the Panthers are under pressure to enhance their roster. With the team allowing unprecedented points against in 2024, expect general manager Dan Morgan to deepen their defensive lineup. They require a nose tackle, edge rusher, safety, and possibly a linebacker, alongside strengthening the offense for Bryce Young. This offseason is shaping up to be hectic. — Joseph Person

Chicago Bears

Former Bears coach Matt Eberflus previously shared insights about defensive roster requirements; now, new coach Ben Johnson will discuss what he seeks from running backs, receivers, and linemen. Johnson’s vision should dominate discussions in Indianapolis. With a number one draft pick and significant salary-cap space, GM Ryan Poles remains a central figure at the combine, shaping the Bears’ future strategy. — Adam Jahns

Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals are likely to steal the spotlight in Indianapolis, given their active contract negotiations with star players. Discussions surrounding Tee Higgins’ future—extension, tag, or trade—will be closely monitored, along with Trey Hendrickson’s possible trade or extension. As Ja’Marr Chase looks to secure the highest non-quarterback contract in the league, Joe Burrow is pressuring management to maintain their talented core. The Bengals’ handling of these negotiations will be under scrutiny. — Paul Dehner Jr.

Cleveland Browns

The Browns’ offseason centers around critical stories: Myles Garrett’s trade request and the search for two new quarterbacks, likely one veteran and one rookie. While using the No. 2 pick for a quarterback isn’t mandatory, the organization’s goal is clear: avoid picking early again. Can the combine reignite trade talks for Garrett, and which quarterbacks can emerge from this draft class? Cleveland will be on high alert for potential moves. — Zac Jackson

Dallas Cowboys

Team owner Jerry Jones and executive vice president Stephen Jones face key questions about their approach to free agency and trades. While Micah Parsons remains a fixture, the Cowboys’ success hinges on more aggressive roster-building to fill current gaps. Their discussions during this week will shed light on their strategy under first-year coach Brian Schottenheimer. The Cowboys must evolve to close the competitive gap, particularly with the standout strategies of their division rivals. — Jon Machota

Denver Broncos

How will Denver enhance their rushing game around quarterback Bo Nix? The Broncos struggled with dependable running back play last season, impacting their playoff performance. Coach Sean Payton’s quest for a dynamic player capable of creating mismatches will persist. With a promising draft class available, it will be interesting to see how high a priority running back becomes for Denver moving forward. — Nick Kosmider

Detroit Lions

As the combine progresses, attention will turn to Dan Campbell, who lost several key coaches recently. His insight on new assignments will be critical, alongside comments from his new coordinators. Their adaptations could be essential for the Lions, aiming to overcome previous challenges in 2025. — Colton Pouncy

Green Bay Packers

General manager Brian Gutekunst’s nuanced communication style keeps fans curious. His response to running back Josh Jacobs’ remarks about needing a top-tier wide receiver will be worth watching. After leaving room for an external addition, Gutekunst emphasized trust in current wideouts. Will his position adjust now that a prominent player has voiced the concerns? — Matt Schneidman

Houston Texans

Supporting quarterback C.J. Stroud remains a top priority for the Texans after a challenging previous season where he was sacked 52 times. Coach DeMeco Ryans will discuss strategies to revamp the system and roster. With limited cap space, Houston will likely rely significantly on the draft to strengthen its lineup around Stroud. — Mike Jones

Indianapolis Colts

The Colts must define their quarterback strategy. After promising moments from Anthony Richardson, his second year brought challenges. GM Chris Ballard and coach Shane Steichen will provide insights on Richardson’s offseason growth plans and whether competition for the quarterback position will come from free agency, the draft, or both. — James Boyd

Jacksonville Jaguars

Rookie head coach Liam Coen will discover if the spotlight is as bright during his first press conference as it was during the hiring period. Following the selection of his coaching staff, he will address roster developments, alongside the newly appointed general manager, James Gladstone, whose partnership with Coen will be closely monitored. — Jeff Howe

Kansas City Chiefs

As the offseason unfolds, tight end Travis Kelce remains a pivotal figure. The Chiefs need to enhance their offense, but with the uncertainty surrounding Kelce’s future, decisions must be made regarding his contract, especially with an $11.5 million roster bonus due shortly. — Nate Taylor

Las Vegas Raiders

Will the Raiders secure a quarterback via free agency and the draft? With several veteran options available, including potentially Matthew Stafford, the franchise must also consider college prospects. The connections around former college stars like Shedeur Sanders and their draft strategy will be crucial as they navigate the offseason. — Vic Tafur

Los Angeles Chargers

The Chargers will concentrate on identifying their top free agency targets this offseason, armed with ample cap space. The new leadership team has the flexibility to be bold when the negotiation window opens on March 10. Observers will keep a close eye on whether they pursue guards or edge rushers to solidify their roster. — Daniel Popper

Los Angeles Rams

With Matthew Stafford’s future hanging in the balance, the Rams’ subsequent roster moves hinge on his contract outcome. Should a deal be finalized, it will directly influence their future spending capabilities. Major needs, like offensive tackles and wide receivers, will follow once Stafford’s situation is clarified. — Jourdan Rodrigue

Miami Dolphins

Cap management will be critical for the Dolphins, who are operating slightly under the salary cap. Strategies will include potential cuts, trades, and restructuring existing contracts. Decisions regarding high-priced veterans like Terron Armstead and Tyreek Hill will greatly impact the team’s future trajectory. — Jim Ayello

Minnesota Vikings

The Vikings face crucial decisions around quarterback Sam Darnold as he nears free agency. The absence of a franchise QB would necessitate a pivot toward 2024 first-round pick J.J. McCarthy and possibly a veteran. Additionally, the Vikings must address multiple roster needs while being strategic about their cap space. — Alec Lewis

New England Patriots

Quarterback discussions are at the forefront following a disappointing season. With their draft position being pivotal, the Patriots will closely monitor what transpires with top quarterback prospects, hoping one falls into their range to bolster their defense. — Chad Graff

New Orleans Saints

With a focus on roster plans under new coach Kellen Moore, the Saints are pressed to address critical financial challenges, particularly with veterans like Derek Carr and Cam Jordan. The outcome of these discussions will shape the trajectory of the franchise in the coming months. — Larry Holder

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New York Giants

The Giants are navigating a quarterback quandary without a clear starter or viable options on the roster. Trade rumors, free-agent targets, and the performance of top draft prospects will dominate their combine conversations as the team looks to solidify its quarterback position. — Charlotte Carroll

New York Jets

With the certainty that Aaron Rodgers will not return, the Jets must strategize about potential quarterback options, evaluating both trades and free agency. Critical discussions about draft targets and realistic plans could set the foundation for the new regime’s future. — Zack Rosenblatt

Philadelphia Eagles

Head coach Nick Sirianni’s staffing decisions will be under scrutiny as he addresses changes and his plans for the upcoming season. While the Eagles’ offensive core remains intact, the focus shifts to retaining defensive assets and filling potential gaps throughout the roster. — Brooks Kubena

Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers are once again in a position where speculation hovers around their quarterback strategy. With previous hints from general manager Omar Khan indicating a search for options, the upcoming combine will likely reveal more about the team’s intentions. — Mike DeFabo

Brock Purdy’s contract extension is one of the more notable storylines for the San Francisco 49ers this offseason. (Ezra Shaw / Getty Images)

San Francisco 49ers

The 49ers’ potential contract talks with Brock Purdy’s agent will be one to watch since Indianapolis often witnesses significant negotiations. The upcoming weeks will also reveal whether the team engages with agents for free agents like Dre Greenlaw and Talanoa Hufanga as they navigate pre-contract conditions. — Matt Barrows

Seattle Seahawks

Geno Smith is seeking a new deal as he contends with a high cap hit. With Seattle above the salary cap, extending Smith could be a path to creating needed space while evaluating his performance from the previous season. How management responds will impact future team decisions. — Michael-Shawn Dugar

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The situation surrounding Chris Godwin’s contract looms large over the Bucs this offseason. Both parties seem inclined to negotiate a new deal, but with Godwin set to hit free agency, the urgency to finalize terms in Indianapolis could be critical. After previously resorting to franchise tags, the Bucs must balance hope and urgency in their discussions. — Dan Pompei

Tennessee Titans

The Titans must clarify their intentions regarding the No. 1 draft pick. President Chad Brinker’s comments about not overlooking a generational talent have sparked conversations about potential moves. Incoming GM Mike Borgonzi will face questions about potential picks, including Travis Hunter, as well as quarterbacks possibly shaping the team’s future. — Joe Rexrode

Washington Commanders

Fresh from an unexpected playoff run, the Commanders can shift gears in their rebuilding strategy thanks to quarterback Jayden Daniels. The question now is whether GM Adam Peters will adopt a pro-active approach or maintain a cautious one. Deals for high-impact players, such as Myles Garrett, could reshape their defense while providing Daniels new offensive weapons, depending on how they utilize their salary cap and draft assets. — Ben Standig

(Illustration: Demetrius Robinson / The Athletic; photos: Justin Casterline, Stacy Revere, Jason Miller, Kevin Sabitus, Steph Chambers / Getty Images)