Despite signing a one-year contract extension this offseason, one NFL veteran, Tony Jefferson could be cut before the 2025 regular season. According to Isaac Zuniga of HeavySports, the Charger’s veteran safety might be the odd man out in their secondary situation. This is true because the team has a ton of youth depth in that department, and they don’t need Jefferson anymore if he can’t live up to expectations during NFL Training Camp this month. However, the Chargers will allow him to prove himself before the regular season, at least before deciding on his future.
After drafting RJ Mickens in this year’s draft and having talent like Derwin James, Elijah Molden and Alohi Gilman, the Chargers find themselves with a decision to make. What they could do is keep Jefferson on the practice squad, but it’s easier to let him loose on the market and sign any team he wants. Originally selected as an undrafted rookie in 2013, the former Oklahoma product became a journeyman for the majority of his career between the Cardinals, Ravens, 49ers and Giants. Jefferson signed a one-year deal under the first year of Jesse Minter’s wing as a defensive coordinator in 2024, and it paid its dividends since the Chargers had a solid secondary last year.
Unfortunately, all good things must come to an end, and these five teams could take a chance on Jefferson.
One NFL Veteran Tony Jefferson Could Be “Surprising” Cut Before 2025 Season – Top 5 Possible Next Teams
Best Fits
New Orleans Saints
Despite signing Justin Reid this offseason, the Saints could use the depth in their secondary unit. They don’t really have anyone, but Kool-Aid McKinstry and Alontae Taylor in that cornerback department, and they’re unproven. The Saints could use a reliable veteran voice in their locker room, and they could reap the benefits of Jefferson to do that, even as a backup for safety Tyrann Mathieu.
Dallas Cowboys
Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys’ secondary took a hit last year, which is why they got Kaiir Elam in a trade and signed Robert Rochell to provide reliable depth for both Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland. However, they could use some upgrades in the safety department which they haven’t got any type of depth for. Malik Hooker is still playing at his peak, but Donovan Wilson is coming off a down year and someone like Tony Jefferson could be a helping hand.
Washington Commanders
However, even though the Washington Commanders have a ferocious offense coming together, led by quarterback Jayden Daniels, they can’t ignore upgrading their defense. After losing Dante Fowler Jr., the last resort would be to salvage the secondary room if they have no plans to add any replacement other than what they have in Deatrich Wise. The Commanders always know how to bring out the best in a veteran, and Jefferson could complement both Quan Martin and Will Harris as a capable veteran.
Carolina Panthers
After rebuilding their offense, the Panthers are finally upgrading their defense. While they signed Trevon Moehrig this offseason to a long-term deal, which was arguably one of the best signings, he’s going to need help. Between Jaycee Horn and Michael Jackson, these are the only athletes in that secondary room who are dependable, but the same can’t be said about Scott. Jefferson is the best fit for this team to pair with Moehrig if the Chargers release him.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chargers will never trade Jefferson to Kansas City, but it’s hard to ignore the fit. After losing a crucial piece like Justin Reid, they will have to depend on Bryan Cook and Jaden Hicks. Jefferson could pair with Mike Edwards as another safe veteran to solidify the unit for the Chiefs.
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