J.J. McCarthy, Justin Fields headline 2025 breakout candidates post-free agency

We won’t know how NFL free agency impacts team performance league-wide until months from now, when games are played. 

But on paper, which players who signed with new clubs appear poised for big seasons? And who will benefit from departures and additions to their teams, taking their games to new heights in 2025? 

With the brunt of free agency in the books, here are eight breakout candidates for next season: 

J.J. McCarthy , QB, Minnesota Vikings

We’ve only seen McCarthy play one preseason game, due to his meniscus tear last year, and the Vikings had entertained signing Aaron Rodgers. But with the latter reportedly off the table, the No. 10 pick in 2024 is QB1 in Minnesota, which has created an ideal situation for the franchise's passer of the future. 

The Vikings have seemingly shored up their protection upfront, signing former Indianapolis Colts center Ryan Kelly and right guard Will Fries. They’ve also traded for a very good No. 2 running back in Jordan Mason, adding to an already deep and talented offensive skill group. McCarthy couldn’t ask for better circumstances to make his NFL debut. 

Jordan Schultz: Vikings fully invested in J.J. McCarthy's development

QB Justin Fields , QB, New York Jets

After playing in a stable organization last season for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Fields could see his career (finally) take off with the Jets, with whom he’s in line to be the full-time starting quarterback. The former first-round pick will be playing in an offense that features a few of his former Ohio State teammates, including star receiver Garrett Wilson. 

New Jets offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand comes from Detroit, where he was a key assistant for one of the league’s most creative and dynamic offenses.