2025 NFL Free Agency Big Board: Ranking Top 50 Players Before Wild-Card Weekend

The 2024 NFL regular season has come to a close. For the 18 teams that didn't make the playoffs, it's officially time to start the offseason.

Many teams have been out of contention for some time and have already had one eye on 2025. Now that the early draft order is set, the real offseason work can begin.

While the predraft evaluation process will largely dominate the next two months, free agency is right around the corner. Set to begin on March 12—with the legal-contact window opening on March 10—this year's market promises to be another strong one.

The Bleacher Report Scouting Department has regularly evaluated team needs throughout the season and released its updated draft board on January 2.

Here, you'll find our updated 2025 free-agent big board, with 50 of the top impending free agents ranked based on factors such as past production, upside, age, positional value, positional market depth and health. We'll also identify some potential suitors for those in the top 25.

50. Levi Onwuzurike, DT, Detroit Lions

Detroit Lions defensive lineman Levi Onwuzurike battled a back injury early in 2024 but managed to be an integral piece of Detroit's defense for most of the season. Set to turn 27 in March, he should have a bright future if he can stay healthy.

The biggest concern with Onwuzurike is his injury history. He missed the entire 2022 season following back surgery.

49. Malcolm Koonce, Edge, Las Vegas Raiders

Las Vegas Raiders pass-rusher Malcolm Koonce would rank higher on our board if he wasn't out with a season-ending knee injury. There's always uncertainty surrounding a player with just one year of impressive production, but Koonce had that in 2023.

The 26-year-old tallied eight sacks and 23 quarterback pressures in 2023 while playing only 44 percent of the Raiders' defensive snaps. Medical checks will be important for Koonce, but his upside is high.

48. Kristian Fulton, CB, Los Angeles Chargers

Cornerback Kristian Fulton had a down year with the Tennessee Titans in 2023 but reestablished himself this past season as a quality starter on a one-year, prove-it deal with the Los Angeles Chargers.

The 26-year-old allowed an opposing passer rating below 92.0 in each of his first three seasons, and he's been mostly reliable for the Chargers when healthy. He missed some time with a hamstring injury in 2024, but that shouldn't be viewed as a significant issue.

47. Chase Young, Edge, New Orleans Saints

Chase Young, the second overall pick in the 2020 draft, revitalized his value over the last two seasons. While the New Orleans Saints struggled this year, Young managed to produce back-to-back five-plus-sack seasons for the first time in his career.

Young was more impactful this past season than his raw sack numbers might suggest, but he needs to show he can finish more consistently. Expect the 25-year-old to earn another short-term contract in 2025.

46. Stefon Diggs, WR, Houston Texans

From a talent standpoint, Stefon Diggs is still a No. 1-caliber wide receiver. In his last season with the Buffalo Bills in 2023, he caught 107 passes for 1,183 yards and eight touchdowns.

However, Diggs was more of a No. 2 receiver with the Houston Texans, and he suffered a torn ACL in Week 8. He should draw heavy interest if he's close to 100 percent by March, but the 31-year-old can't expect a lucrative long-term deal.

In eight games with Houston, the four-time Pro Bowler caught 47 passes for 496 yards and three scores.

45. E.J. Speed, LB, Indianapolis Colts

Indianapolis Colts linebacker E.J. Speed fared well in a contract year, setting career highs in both total tackles and solo stops. A capable chase-and-tackle 'backer, he's also serviceable in coverage.

While Speed should be valued as a starter, his age (30 in June) and penchant for missed tackles will likely limit him to a mid-market contract.

44. Keenan Allen, WR, Chicago Bears

Chicago Bears wide receiver Keenan Allen will turn 33 in April, and he's been limited by injuries over the last three years. However, he was a bright spot in an incongruous Bears offense when healthy this past season.

Allen regularly served as a go-to target for Caleb Williams in 2024. The veteran should be valued by other teams that are looking to develop a young signal-caller.

43. Paulson Adebo, CB, New Orleans Saints

Saints cornerback Paulson Adebo could be a tough evaluation for many teams. He suffered a broken femur in mid-October, and he has a tendency to draw defensive holding and interference penalties.

At the same time, though, Adebo has been an effective starter when he can avoid flags. He allowed an opposing passer below 72.0 in each of the past two seasons and will turn only 26 in July.

42. Bobby Wagner, LB, Washington Commanders

With Tom Brady retired and Aaron Rodgers stumbling, linebacker Bobby Wagner might be the NFL's new ageless wonder. Though he'll turn 35 in June, Wagner continues to be a defensive leader, a legitimate star and a playmaker in all phases.

Wagner was a centerpiece of the Washington Commanders defense this season and helped spark Washington to a playoff berth. Age may eventually catch up to the nine-time Pro Bowler, but he remains a starter who can chase quarterbacks, stonewall ball-carriers and provide second-level coverage.

41. Sebastian Joseph-Day, DT, Tennessee Titans

Christian Wilkins commanded a massive four-year, $110 million contract from the Raiders, which is proof of the rising value of interior defenders. Tennessee Titans defensive tackle Sebastian Joseph-Day isn't Wilkins but could still secure a sizable payday.

The 29-year-old (30 in March) was a full-time contributor and regular starter in 2024. He was a catalyst of an underrated Tennessee run defense and flashed the ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks. A two- or three-year deal would be warranted for Joseph-Day.

40. Tyrel Dodson, LB, Miami Dolphins

Linebacker Tyrel Dodson had an odd 2024 campaign. He was one of the Seattle Seahawks' most impactful defenders until they waived him in early November. Once he landed with the Miami Dolphins, he wasted little time in becoming an impact player.

Dodson is a strong tackler with above-average coverage skills and enough burst to moonlight as an occasional blitzer. The AFC's Defensive Player of the Week in Week 17 is a do-it-all linebacker who won't turn 27 until June.

39. Aaron Jones, RB, Minnesota Vikings

Aaron Jones is 30 years old and has battled knee and hamstring issues over the last two years. However, he's still likely to be the top running back in free agency this offseason.

Jones has been just as valuable as a dual-threat back with Minnesota as he was with the Green Bay Packers. With Chuba Hubbard and James Conner both receiving late-season extensions, Nick Chubb (broken foot) injured again and Najee Harris remaining inconsistent, Jones should be the top target for any playoff-caliber team.

38. Byron Murphy, CB, Minnesota Vikings

Cornerback Byron Murphy has enjoyed a bit of a resurgence since joining the Minnesota Vikings in 2023. He allowed an opposing passer rating of 103.1 in coverage during his last season with Arizona but has been a dependable starter in his two seasons with Minnesota.

Murphy is coming off his best year in coverage as a pro and won't turn 27 until later this month. A deep free-agent cornerback class may limit his contract ceiling, but Murphy should be off the board early in free agency.

37. Carlton Davis, CB, Detroit Lions

Lions cornerback Carlton Davis is roughly a year older than Murphy—he turned 28 on New Year's Eve—but is coming off a phenomenal season as a perimeter starter for a Super Bowl contender. Davis allowed an opposing passer rating of only 77.0 during the regular season and hasn't allowed an opposing rating above 100.0 since his 2018 rookie campaign.

Davis did end the year on injured reserve with a fractured jaw. However, that isn't the sort of injury that carries a risk of recurrence.

36. Alaric Jackson, OT, Los Angeles Rams

It'll be surprising if the Los Angeles Rams don't extend Alaric Jackson this offseason. The 2021 undrafted free agent has settled in as L.A.'s left tackle and was a dependable piece of the offense in 2024. He allowed only three sacks, according to Pro Football Focus.

Jackson's draft pedigree and limited full-time starting experience (two years) may depress his value on the open market. That doesn't change the fact that he's a starting-caliber left tackle who will turn only 27 in July.

35. Jarran Reed, DT, Seattle Seahawks

The knock on Seahawks defensive tackle Jarran Reed is that he'll turn 33 before the end of next season. On the positive side, he's a versatile and disruptive lineman who can fit a variety of schemes.

Capable of playing end, defensive tackle or nose tackle, Reed has consistently shown the ability to swallow ball-carriers and pressure opposing passers. Having reached 40 tackles and 2.5 sacks in four straight seasons, Reed remains a top-tier defender.

34. Camryn Bynum, S, Minnesota Vikings

After racking up 137 tackles and 94 solo stops in 2023, Vikings safety Camryn Bynum produced more reserved numbers in 2024. However, that's largely because Minnesota's defense improved on the front end, while Bynum made a significant jump in coverage.

Bynum, who will turn 27 in July, allowed an opposing passer rating below 80.0 this season for the first time since he was a rookie role player in 2021. Even in a crowded safety market, he'll be a top free-agent target.

33. Kevin Zeitler, G, Detroit Lions

Guards are getting expensive, with Landon Dickerson and Chris Lindstrom both topping $20 million annually last offseason. Detroit's Kevin Zeitler shouldn't command that sort of money, which will be a selling point for playoff-ready teams.

Zeitler will turn 35 in March but has played extremely well for the Lions this year. He may only command a one- or two-year deal in free agency, but he can anchor an offensive interior for the short-term.

32. Ernest Jones IV, LB, Seattle Seahawks

Linebacker Ernest Jones IV has been traded twice in the last calendar year, first from the Rams to the Titans and then to the Seahawks. He's been productive at every stop, though, and he was a full-time starter since arriving in Seattle in October.

Though he doesn't offer much as a pass-rusher, Jones excelled against the run and in coverage for the Seahawks. He has topped 110 tackles in each of the past three seasons and won't turn 26 until November. He should be one of the top off-ball linebackers on the market.

31. Mike Hilton, CB, Cincinnati Bengals

Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Mike Hilton had his ups and downs in coverage this past season, arguably his worst campaign since joining Cincinnati in 2021. He's also at his best playing nickel and will turn 31 in March.

With that said, Hilton is a terrific slot defender who can do a little bit of everything well. He remains a starting-caliber defender, a willing tackler and a disruptor on cornerback blitzes.

30. Anthony Nelson, LB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Linebacker Anthony Nelson has never been a full-time starter with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. What he's been over the past three years is a highly productive outside 'backer who can set the edge, clog passing lanes and get after the opposing quarterback.

Nelson, who will turn 28 in March, isn't quite a pure pass-rusher, but he was very effective in that role in 2024. Having played both outside linebacker and defensive end in Tampa, he should be viewed as a fit for a variety of base schemes.

29. Mekhi Becton, G, Philadelphia Eagles

What a difference a year—and a change of scenery—can make.

This time last year, Mekhi Becton was a disappointing offensive tackle and a draft bust for the New York Jets. The Philadelphia Eagles moved him to guard, and the 25-year-old has reemerged as a dependable high-level starter.

The question for teams considering Becton is this: Was he simply miscast in his early career, or was this season's success due to Eagles offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland?

That uncertainty could prevent Becton from securing a long-term deal. However, players with his combination of age, size (6'7", 363 lbs) and recent production don't hit the market often.

28. Charles Omenihu, DE, Kansas City Chiefs

Kansas City Chiefs defensive end Charles Omenihu wasn't on our post-trade-deadline big board because he had yet to return from last year's ACL tear. Omenihu suffered the injury in the AFC title game and didn't make his 2024 debut until late November.

However, Omenihu is back to being the same difference-maker he was before the injury. Having tallied seven sacks, five tackles for loss, 11 quarterback hits and two forced fumbles in 2023, the 27-year-old (28 in August) figures to be a hot commodity in free agency.

27. Asante Samuel Jr., CB, Los Angeles Chargers

Cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. carries a few concerns heading into the offseason. Tackling has been an issue for the 25-year-old. (He missed 12 tackles in 2023.) He also landed on injured reserve with a shoulder injury after four games this season and never returned.

In years past, however, Samuel has been a largely dependable cover man when healthy. He allowed an opposing passer rating of 87.4 in coverage last season and carries a combination of youth and upside that teams can't usually find in free agency.

26. Zack Baun, LB, Philadelphia Eagles

The Eagles added Zack Baun this past offseason, made him a full-time starter and watched him thrive. The 28-year-old started all 16 games in which he appeared and finished with a career-high 151 tackles, 3.5 sacks and five forced fumbles while allowing an opposing passer rating of only 80.5 in coverage.

Baun is an off-ball linebacker who can do it all. The only real unknowns are if his breakout season was the result of Philadelphia's scheme and if Baun is capable of having that level of production on a year-to-year basis.

Bengals defensive tackle B.J. Hill will turn 30 in April and missed time with a hamstring injury this season. He also suffered a rib injury in Week 9. However, he returned to finish out the regular season for the Bengals.

Hill is also one of the league's most disruptive interior defenders when healthy. He started all 17 games for Cincinnati in 2023 and finished with 51 tackles, 4.5 sacks and 23 quarterback pressures.

In a market that is lacking at defensive tackle—which has become a premium position in recent years—Hill will draw serious interest. Some teams will undoubtedly prefer to go younger, but Hill is a high-level defender.

Addressing the defensive line should be a priority for the Cardinals, who are projected to have $85.3 million in available cap space. The Panthers aren't as cap-rich ($32.1 million) but would be wise to add a defender like Hill to complement Derrick Brown this offseason.

Potential Suitors: Arizona Cardinals, Carolina Panthers

With interior linemen becoming a hot NFL commodity, Teven Jenkins has done well to establish himself as a guard in Chicago.

Drafted as a tackle in 2021, the 26-year-old has since settled in on the interior and been a high-level run-blocker, though he's been a bit less reliable in pass protection. Injuries have been an issue for the Oklahoma State product, but Jenkins appeared in more than 13 games for the first time in his career this past season.

Jenkins' combination of age and positional value should make him a target during the legal-contact window.

The rebuilding Patriots should essentially examine all options along the offensive line. Drake Maye has shown the potential to be New England's long-term answer at quarterback, so protecting him must be a priority.

Meanwhile, the Vikings could eye Jenkins as a potential upgrade over Blake Brandel, who was one of the weaker links along their offensive line in 2024. Minnesota has a tough decision to make at quarterback, but its playoff window is wide open.

With $77.0 million in projected cap space, the Vikings should be willing to invest in their line.

Potential Suitors: Minnesota Vikings, New England Patriots

There wasn't a strong market for veteran safeties this past offseason, but Justin Simmons might be more coveted than he was a year ago. A two-time Pro Bowler with the Denver Broncos, Simmons joined the Atlanta Falcons late last offseason and proved that he's still a high-level starter.

The 31-year-old had a terrific campaign in coverage and was a bright spot in a Falcons defense that otherwise largely underwhelmed. Having now proven himself in multiple defensive schemes, Simmons should see a broad market.

Age may limit Simmons' earning potential, although the three-year, $54 million extension that Budda Baker signed late in the season with the Cardinals should have the safety market on the rise.

The Commanders, who have $103.7 million in projected cap space, should take a long look at Simmons. Washington is just opening its playoff window, and general manager Adam Peters has been willing to bolster the roster with older talent.

Minnesota is another playoff contender that could look to add Simmons for a 2025 run. Harrison Smith will be 36 at the start of the offseason, while Camryn Bynum is an impending free agent.

Potential Suitors: Arizona Cardinals, Minnesota Vikings

Age and health are the two biggest question marks surrounding Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence. The four-time Pro Bowler will turn 33 in April and was limited to only four games in 2024 by a Lisfranc injury.

However, Lawrence was his usual impactful self in those games. He tallied 14 tackles, three sacks. four tackles for loss, 10 quarterback pressures and a forced fumble in his one month of action this past season.

In 2023, Lawrence recorded four sacks, 50 tackles, 10 tackles for loss and six passes defended. While he may be more of an all-around defensive end than a pure pass-rusher at this stage in his career, Lawrence is still a disruptor when healthy.

Washington is a logical landing spot for Lawrence both because the Commanders need defensive line help and because head coach Dan Quinn used to be the Cowboys' defensive coordinator. Quinn added former Cowboys like Dorance Armstrong and Dante Fowler Jr. last offseason and could go a similar route in 2025.

The Lions, who have $69.8 million in projected cap space, should also be interested. Aidan Hutchinson should be healthy next season, but even after adding Za'Darius Smith at the trade deadline, Detroit could use more firepower on the edge.

Potential Suitors: Detroit Lions, Washington Commanders

San Francisco 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw has fallen a bit since our initial rankings after the trade deadline. That's because he returned from last year's Achilles tear and played in only two games before returning to injured reserve with a calf injury.

It's possible that Greenlaw tried returning too soon, which is unfortunate considering that San Francisco fell out of the playoff picture this season.

When healthy, the 27-year-old (28 in May) has been an absolute difference-maker. Greenlaw started 15 games last season and finished with 120 tackles, 1.5 sacks, four passes defended and five tackles for loss. He had another 18 tackles and two interceptions in the postseason before suffering the Achilles injury in the Super Bowl.

The rival Rams should be heavily interested in Greenlaw given their need for help in the back seven. The Commanders should also be interested as they look to continue building a contender in Washington.

Greenlaw would be a particularly logical target if the Commanders don't re-sign Bobby Wagner in free agency.

Potential Suitors: Los Angeles Rams, Washington Commanders

Chiefs linebacker Nick Bolton missed half of the 2023 season after undergoing wrist surgery. However, he played a major role in their playoff run with 40 tackles in four postseason games and has been a full-time starter this season.

Though Bolton is merely average in coverage and has a tendency to miss the occasional tackle. However, he's a physical defender who can tally tackles in bunches, deliver big hits and bring pressure on the blitz.

Bolton is a bit undersized (5'11", 237 lbs) and lacks elite athleticism, so he won't be a fit for every team. However, those looking for a throwback downhill defender at the second level could fall in love with his game tape.

Bolton will turn 25 on the opening day of the legal-contact period and should draw immediate interest. He'd be a solid fit for the Chargers, who have $76.0 million in projected cap space.

With just $7.0 million in projected cap space, the Falcons won't be as financially flexible. However, Bolton would be a prized addition for a defense that lacked playmakers in the back seven this past season.

Potential Suitors: Atlanta Falcons, Los Angeles Chargers

Starting-caliber left tackles will always hold value in free agency. Cam Robinson, whom the Vikings acquired in an in-season trade with the Jacksonville Jaguars, has been a valuable addition since his arrival.

Minnesota acquired the 29-year-old following Christian Darrisaw's season-ending knee injury. Robinson has held down the starting job since joining the Vikings and has performed admirably.

While he's not an elite tackle—penalties have been a particular issue this season—Robinson provides an attractive blend of experience and relative youth. He won't turn 30 until October, and he already has 101 regular-season starts on his resume.

Robinson's ability to quickly adapt to the change of scenery in Minnesota should be a selling point for tackle-needy teams.

"I don't know many teams that can lose one of the best left tackles in football and win six straight," Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell told reporters in December.

The Chiefs should have interest in Robinson given their recent inability to find a long-term answer at left tackle. The Cleveland Browns should also be interested if they can somehow find the cap space. However, Cleveland is projected to be $21.7 million over the cap.

Jedrick Wills Jr. has proven not to be Cleveland's franchise left tackle, and while 2023 fourth-round pick Dawand Jones has shown starting ability, he's struggled to stay on the field.

Potential Suitors: Cleveland Browns, Kansas City Chiefs

Pass-rusher Haason Reddick did nothing in 2024 to help his market value. He held out for a new contract for nearly half of the season, and he only made a marginal impact for the Jets upon his return.

Based on his New York tenure alone, Reddick isn't a top-100 free agent, let alone a top-25 one. Of course, nothing went right for the Jets this season, and the 30-year-old has an impressive track record of production.

Last season with the Eagles, Reddick amassed 11 sacks, 13 tackles for loss and 35 quarterback pressures. He had four straight seasons of double-digit-sacks before his Jets debacle.

The Falcons should be eager to add Reddick, even if their cap situation is a potential roadblock. Though Atlanta did find some late production from Arnold Ebiketie, its inability to consistently pressure quarterbacks was a massive liability.

The Bengals should also consider taking a flier on Reddick, especially if he's open to a team-friendly deal. (They have major contract decisions looming for receivers Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.) While Cincinnati has one premier pass-rusher in Trey Hendrickson, it lacks a top-tier complement and battled major defensive deficiencies in 2024.

Potential Suitors: Atlanta Falcons, Cincinnati Bengals

The Bills acquired cornerback Rasul Douglas in a 2023 trade with the Packers. Though he suffered a torn MCL last season, he didn't miss a game for Buffalo and proved to be a quality starter on the perimeter. He allowed an opposing passer rating of only 38.6 in coverage.

Unfortunately, the 29-year-old hasn't been quite as dependable in coverage this season, and he missed time with a knee injury. With that said, Douglas is a starting-caliber corner who has rarely come off the field for the Bills when healthy.

With an excellent blend of size (6'2", 209 lbs) and ball skills, Douglas should draw interest from most cornerback-needy teams.

The Bengals should have interest in Douglas given their lack of reliable pass defense in 2024. Pairing him with Cam Taylor-Britt would give Cincinnati a pair of physical corners who regularly attack the ball in the air.

The Lions, who could lose Carlton Davis in free agency, should also have Douglas on their radar.

Potential Suitors: Cincinnati Bengals, Detroit Lions

Quarterbacks are valuable. Just ask the teams that didn't have a reliable one in 2024 and enter the offseason looking for an answer.

Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Justin Fields was replaced by Russell Wilson after six starts, but he showed a ton of growth on the field this season. The 25-year-old has always possessed elite scrambling ability, but he often struggled to recognize coverages, make snap decisions, throw with accuracy and get the ball out quickly during his time in Chicago.

Fields was markedly better in those areas in Pittsburgh this season.

Was Fields perfect? No, which is why Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin turned to the more experienced Wilson. However, Fields posted a career-best 93.3 passer rating and remains a young signal-caller with a lot of upside.

Fields would be a logical target for teams who can't (or won't) spend big on a free-agent quarterback and/or those who aren't in position to draft one early.

The Browns hold the No. 2 pick in the draft, but they could consider adding Fields as competition for Deshaun Watson, who recently suffered a setback with his torn Achilles. The Jets could also be a sensible landing spot if they move on from Aaron Rodgers this offseason.

Potential Suitors: Cleveland Browns, New York Jets

For a stretch in the middle of the season, Russell Wilson was trending toward being a top-10 free agent in this year's class. Starting-caliber quarterbacks aren't easy to find, and it seemed like Pittsburgh might have found its answer.

However, Wilson's late-season slide may have cooled his market considerably. The 36-year-old was average at best over the final month, and the Steelers lost four straight games to end the regular season.

Some context is warranted here, though. Wilson's last four games came against the Eagles, Baltimore Ravens, Chiefs and Cincinnati Bengals. Philly and Kansas City had terrific defenses this season, while Baltimore's and Cincinnati's improved dramatically late in the year. Wilson also played two of those games without top receiver George Pickens, and Pickens appeared either unhealthy or unfocused in the other two.

The Steelers lacked reliable receiver depth behind Pickens. A few bad games with a poor supporting cast shouldn't completely tank Wilson's value. He went 6-1 before the final month of the regular season, and he still projects as an above-average starter who can lead an offense with a capable receiving corps.

Wilson will likely be valued as a high-end bridge quarterback, just as Kirk Cousins was last offseason, although Wilson's slide should lead to a much more manageable contract. Teams that fell outside of the top five in the draft order—like the Jets and the Saints, if they move on from Derek Carr—could be the most interested.

Potential Suitors: New Orleans Saints, New York Jets

Chargers pass-rusher Khalil Mack will turn 34 in February, which is the only real knock on the potential future Hall of Famer. He remains a regular contributor—he played 61 percent of the Chargers' defensive snaps in 2024—and a capable sack artist.

Mack finished the regular season with six sacks, six tackles for loss and 22 quarterback pressures. Those aren't eye-catching numbers, but it's worth noting that Mack battled a groin injury late in the season. He had four sacks after eight games and was incredibly productive a year ago when he tallied 17 sacks, 21 tackles for loss and 36 quarterback pressures.

While Mack's age will likely keep him away from teams in the early stages of a rebuild, he should be coveted by those with realistic 2025 playoff aspirations.

The Packers could make sense as a landing spot. Green Bay was able to pressure opposing quarterbacks (45 sacks), but it often relied on interior defenders to do so. Packers passing game coordinator Derrick Ansley was Mack's defensive coordinator in L.A. in 2023.

The Falcons, who had only 31 sacks in 2024, could use pass-rushing help however they can get it. Falcons defensive line coach Jay Rodgers was Los Angeles' defensive line coach for most of last season.

Potential Suitors: Atlanta Falcons, Green Bay Packers

Eagles pass-rusher Josh Sweat should have a broader market than Khalil Mack this offseason because he won't turn 28 until March. While Sweat has only reached double-digit sacks once in his career (2022), he was Philly's most productive pass-rusher this season and was more disruptive than raw statistics might indicate.

Sweat finished the regular season with eight sacks and 15 quarterback hits. He should draw interest from both contenders and rebuilding teams looking to bolster their pass rush.

The Cardinals would be a sensible destination for a few reasons. For one, Arizona logged 41 sacks in 2024 but didn't have a single player record more than five. The Cardinals also have $85.3 million in projected 2025 cap space. Head coach Jonathan Gannon coached Sweat as Philly's defensive coordinator for two seasons before taking the Arizona job.

The Ravens should also have some interest in adding Sweat, although they have just $11.8 million in projected cap space.

Baltimore's defense tightened up late in the season, and it finished with an impressive 54 sacks. However, 33-year-old Kyle Van Noy was the team's most productive edge-rusher and is only under contract through 2025.

Potential Suitors: Arizona Cardinals, Baltimore Ravens

The Buccaneers are NFC South champions once again, and while he missed over half the season with a dislocated ankle, wideout Chris Godwin played a role in Tampa's run. In seven games before the injury, he caught 50 passes for 576 yards and five touchdowns.

While Godwin will have to clear medical checks in the spring, he should be one of the top wide receivers available in this year's market. He's had three 1,000-yard campaigns over the last three years and will only turn 29 in late February.

Right now, it appears that Godwin is on track to recover by 2025.

"The first two weeks were not great, but the last two-and-a-half to three have been hopeful, and I have been making a lot of progress," Godwin said in late November, per Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official website.

Carolina is the most logical landing spot for Godwin. Bryce Young showed himself to be the playmaker whom the Panthers thought they were drafting first overall in 2023, so it's now time for them to strengthen his supporting cast. Panthers head coach Dave Canales coached Godwin as Tampa's offensive coordinator in 2023.

The Chargers should be interested in adding Godwin to round out a receiving corps headlined by Quentin Johnston and rookie Ladd McConkey.

Potential Suitors: Carolina Panthers, Los Angeles Chargers

Even though he'll turn 31 in June, we'll rank Amari Cooper slightly higher than Chris Godwin simply because of Godwin's season-ending injury. They may flip by March depending on recovery updates for Godwin.

Statistically, Cooper wasn't very impressive this year. He finished the regular season with only 547 yards and four touchdowns on 44 receptions. Granted, he was saddled with horrific quarterback play in Cleveland and has been learning Buffalo's offense on the fly.

It's also worth noting that Joe Brady's offense doesn't force the ball to any one receiver, so it was never likely that Cooper would come in and have the sort of production we saw from Stefon Diggs last season. Cooper had 1,250 receiving yards in 2023 and remains a savvy route-runner with strong hands and big-play ability.

Though the Patriots fired former Browns offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt along with head coach Jerod Mayo, Cooper would still be a sensible target for New England. The Patriots need to put reliable pass-catchers around young quarterback Drake Maye.

A return to Dallas could also make some sense. The Cowboys don't have a young signal-caller, but they need a legitimate No. 2 receiver opposite CeeDee Lamb.

Potential Suitors: Dallas Cowboys, New England Patriots

Steelers cornerback Donte Jackson dealt with a back injury late in the regular season and was more efficient early than late. However, the 29-year-old still had a career year in Pittsburgh.

Jackson, who was a largely reliable starter in Carolina as well, recorded eight passes defended and five interceptions in 2024 while allowing an opposing passer rating of just 69.9 in coverage. He may not be an elite cover corner, but he's an underrated tackle in run support and has tremendous ball skills.

Jackson probably won't be considered a big name in free agency, and his age—he'll turn 30 in November—could limit his market. However, any team seeking a proven, productive starting cornerback should be interested.

The Vikings, who ranked 28th in passing yards allowed and could lose Stephon Gilmore and Byron Murphy in free agency, should have Jackson high on their radar. Their defense has been built around its takeaway ability, and Jackson fits the mold.

The Bengals, who had secondary issues of their own in 2024, should also be interested. They poached cornerback Mike Hilton away from Pittsburgh in 2021.

Potential Suitors: Cincinnati Bengals, Minnesota Vikings

49ers cornerback Charvarius Ward will turn 29 in May and is coming off a down season. However, he battled hamstring and knee injuries this year, and San Francisco's defense as a whole collapsed in 2024.

Ward remains a high-end starter who was phenomenal when fully healthy in 2023. He finished that campaign with five interceptions and a league-high 23 passes defended. He's also been a productive player in both Kansas City and San Francisco. Prior to this year, Ward allowed an opposing passer rating below 83.0 in three consecutive seasons.

Before Ward landed in San Francisco, he was a 43-game starter for the Chiefs. His extensive playoff experience should attract contenders and rebuilding teams alike.

The Commanders should be interested in bolstering their secondary even after adding Marshon Lattimore at the trade deadline. Washington is cap-rich and poised to capitalize on a playoff window that is just opening.

The Buccaneers, who finished the season ranked 29th in passing yards allowed, should also be interested in a cornerback of Ward's caliber. Tampa won't be loaded with cap room, but it is expected to have $23.8 million available.

Potential Suitors: Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Washington Commanders

49ers safety Talanoa Hufanga didn't put together much quality tape in 2024. However, he suffered a torn ACL in 2023 and landed back on injured reserve this year with torn ligaments in his wrist.

Hufanga rarely appeared to be at 100 percent this season, but his being back on the field for the final five games should ease any injury concerns that teams might have about him heading into 2025. However, he did suffer a concussion in the season finale.

Based on past production, Hufanga should be considered one of the top defensive backs headed into free agency. Fast, physical and with a keen eye for diagnosing plays, he can add a disruptive presence to any secondary.

When fully healthy in 2022, Hufanga rallied two forced fumbles, four interceptions and five tackles for loss while earning first-team All-Pro honors. He'll turn only 26 next month.

The Falcons could lose safeties Justin Simmons and Richie Grant in free agency. Even if one or both of them return, Atlanta needs more playmaking ability in its secondary. Hufanga could provide it.

The Lions, who have $69.8 million in projected 2025 cap space, should be interested in adding another difference-maker to their secondary. Detroit took a flier on safety Jamal Adams during the season but ultimately released him from its practice squad.

Potential Suitors: Atlanta Falcons, Detroit Lions

Cornerback D.J. Reed may not garner as much attention as he deserves heading into free agency. He played on a bad Jets team this season and has largely been overshadowed by Sauce Gardner in New York. However, the 28-year-old has been a top-end starter since joining the Jets in 2022.

A 2018 fifth-round pick of the 49ers, Reed spent time in San Francisco and Seattle before settling in New York. He's started every game in which he's appeared for the Jets and allowed an opposing passer rating of just 89.2 in coverage this season. Reed recorded 64 tackles, four tackles for loss, a sack and 11 passes defended in 2024.

According to The Athletic's Dianna Russini, Reed drew interest from other teams ahead of the trade deadline. He should receive heavy interest on the open market as well. He's developed into a capable cover corner with good ball skills and is a largely reliable tackler.

The Packers, who could use a more dependable corner to replace impending free agent Eric Stokes, should consider Reed. Former Jets head coach Robert Saleh currently serves with Green Bay as an offensive consultant.

The 49ers should also have interest in Reed if Charvarius Ward leaves in free agency.

Potential Suitors: Green Bay Packers, San Francisco 49ers

Giants pass-rusher Azeez Ojulari helped himself a lot this season. The 2021 second-round pick had an impressive 8.0 sacks as a rookie in 2021 but soon fell behind 2022 first-round pick Kayvon Thibodeaux in New York's defensive game plan. But with Thibodeaux on injured reserve with a wrist injury this season, Ojulari got a chance to reemerge.

Ojulari finished the year with six sacks, seven tackles for loss and 10 quarterback hits in 11 games. Though he missed the final six games of the season with a toe injury, it won't require surgery, according to Dan Duggan of The Athletic.

Though he was largely a role player in New York, Ojulari has the potential to explode as a full-time player elsewhere. He'll be healthy for the start of free agency, and he won't turn 25 until June. He'd have value to a contender and could also be a foundational piece for a rebuilding team.

The Patriots, who traded both Josh Uche and Matthew Judon this season, fall firmly into the second category. The Lions, who could use another sack artist alongside Aidan Hutchinson and Za'Darius Smith, reside in the first.

Potential Suitors: Detroit Lions, New England Patriots

Dolphins safety Jevon Holland has battled injuries over the last few years. He suffered injuries to both knees late last season and suffered a hand injury in 2024 that required surgery.

Holland still started 15 games in his contract season and allowed an opposing passer rating of only 84.3 in coverage. He tallied 62 tackles, two tackles for loss, a sack and a forced fumble—one that helped the Dolphins beat the Jaguars back in Week 1.

While Holland didn't produce gaudy statistics in 2024, he's still one of the best young defenders in the NFL. He'll turn 25 in March and should interest any team searching for a long-term answer on the back end if the Dolphins allow him to test the market.

Holland would be a sensible target for the Bears, who relied on 31-year-old Kevin Byard III this season. Byard is under contract through 2025, but Chicago could save $7 million in cap space by releasing him before free agency begins.

The Vikings—who have $77.0 million in projected 2025 cap space and upcoming questions at safety—should also target Holland.

Potential Suitors: Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings

Though he'll turn 31 in March, Ravens left tackle Ronnie Stanley figures to be the most coveted tackle available in free agency.

A top-tier lineman when healthy, Stanley has battled numerous injuries in recent years. An ankle injury caused Stanley to miss most of 2020 and 2021, plus part of 2022. He appeared healthy early in 2023 but saw his play suffer due to a nagging knee injury for much of that season.

However, Stanley was healthy in 2024 and returned to top form. He started all 17 games in the regular season and allowed only two sacks, according to Pro Football Focus. Penalties (13) were an issue, but Stanley has once again shown that he can anchor an offensive line.

Though Kansas City isn't loaded with cap space ($22.9 million), it should try to lure Stanley away from Baltimore. This year's competition between Wanya Morris and rookie Kingsley Suamataia didn't deliver a consistent starter, which led to the Chiefs picking up D.J. Humphries in-season.

The Patriots should be willing to throw money at every high-end offensive lineman in free agency. The line was a major liability this season, and New England must do everything it can to protect promising young signal-caller Drake Maye.

Potential Suitors: Kansas City Chiefs, New England Patriots

You're going to find Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins at the top of a lot of free-agent lists in the coming weeks, and for good reason.

Higgins has an elite combination of size (6'4", 219 lbs) and ball skills with enough downfield ability to threaten all areas of the field. He missed five games in 2024 and still finished with 911 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns.

Few receivers in the NFL can make contested catches look as easy as Higgins does.

While Higgins will be the unquestioned top receiver in free agency, he falls short of our No. 1 overall spot for a few reasons. For one, hamstring injuries have hampered him in each of the past two seasons. Whichever team lands him will have to understand that Higgins may miss a few games each season.

Secondly, good receivers have become easier to find than elite players at some other positions. Higgins will only turn 26 this month and is worth a long-term investment, but he's likely to command a contract somewhere close to the $30 million-per-season range. The $25 million per year that DeVonta Smith received last offseason should be his absolute floor.

At that price, many teams may instead prefer to target the deep 2025 rookie receiver class. If Colorado's Travis Hunter is counted as a receiver, the B/R Scouting Department has five wideouts ranked among its top 14 draft prospects.

Higgins should still be a top target for receiver-needy teams like Washington and Tennessee. The Commanders need a dependable No. 2 receiver opposite Terry McLaurin and may not draft early enough to land one. The Titans may use the No. 1 overall pick on a quarterback and should surround him with more talent.

Titans head coach Brian Callahan coached Higgins as Cincinnati's offensive coordinator for four seasons.

Potential Suitors: Tennessee Titans, Washington Commanders

He won't carry the name recognition of Tee Higgins heading into free agency, but Chiefs guard Trey Smith has the potential to be one of the most important non-quarterback signings of the upcoming offseason.

We've seen a boom in the interior lineman market for a few reasons. A number of offenses are turning back to the running game—with playoff teams like the Eagles, Ravens, Buccaneers and Lions leading the trend—while many defenses have prioritized interior pressure.

Smith has a good chance to top Landon Dickerson's $21 million-per-season contract and become the league's new highest-paid guard in 2025. He won't turn 26 until June, has missed only one start in four seasons and is one of the best all-around linemen in the NFL.

In pass protection, Smith didn't allow a sack in 2024, according to Pro Football Focus. As a run-blocker, he's truly elite. His ability to pull, deliver blocks on the move and engage multiple defenders frequently pops on film.

Smith's ability to operate in a confined space and position defenders away from the play is harder to spot, but it's top-notch.

If the Chiefs allow Smith to leave, it'll be because they can't afford to keep him. If the 25-year-old hits the market, virtually any team that can afford him should be interested.

Smith should be a top target of the Bears, who have a need at right guard and are projected to have $83.2 million of cap space. Chicago's offseason should be all about improving quarterback Caleb Williams' supporting cast, and landing Smith would help do that.

The Patriots need help all along their offensive line. With the most cap space in the NFL, they could afford to chase Smith.

Potential Suitors: Chicago Bears, New England Patriots

Sam Darnold didn't finish the regular season on a high note. He had an extremely poor performance against Detroit on Sunday night, during which he struggled against pressure packages and failed to get the ball out quickly.

Those issues plagued Darnold early in his NFL career and serve as a reminder that the 27-year-old (28 in June) still isn't a finished product.

With that said, positional value matters, and Darnold is the top quarterback who's poised to reach free agency. He's blossomed under head coach Kevin O'Connell in Minnesota, and with a few more years of competent coaching, he could feasibly be a top-10 signal-caller.

Though Darnold's last game was arguably his worst of the season, the newly minted Pro Bowler had a slew of terrific ones this year. He finished the regular season with a career-high 4,319 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, 12 interceptions and a 102.5 passer rating.

More importantly, Darnold has shown an improved ability to scan the field, identify reads and deliver accurate passes.

While the Lions found ways to fluster Darnold in Week 18, he's been more poised in the pocket this season than he was at any point earlier in his career. He's always possessed elite arm talent and mobility, but he's now learned to manipulate the pocket and slide away from pressure while keeping his eyes downfield.

Darnold is still at his best when the offensive line keeps him clean, though few quarterbacks truly thrive in a muddied pocket.

Teams are likely to have two big questions about Darnold when free agency begins. They'll wonder how much is too much to pay a signal-caller with only one year of top-end production. (Spotrac now estimates Darnold's market value at $54.7 million annually.) They'll also wonder if he can continue developing in a different offensive system.

Landing in an offense that shares elements with the Kyle Shanahan or Sean McVay system would be optimal. Tennessee could be an ideal landing spot—head coach Brian Callahan previously served under McVay protege Zac Taylor—though the Titans may prefer to use the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 draft on a quarterback.

Don't be shocked if the Steelers make a play for Darnold now that their quarterback outlook appears much less sunny than it did a few months ago. ESPN's Brooke Pryor reported that Russell Wilson wants to play "five to seven more years," but Darnold would be a far better long-term investment for Pittsburgh.

Potential Suitors: Pittsburgh Steelers, Tennessee Titans

*Cap and contract information via Spotrac. Advanced statistics from Pro Football Reference unless otherwise noted.