The consensus says this is a poor free-agent class. The consensus is wrong.
While this year's list of the top 101 free agents doesn't boast great star power at the top, it's incredibly deep. In the 13 years I've been performing this exercise -- in partnership with through 2020 -- there has never been a stronger group of players left out.
In short: If your team can't improve its roster in free agency, don't blame me. Blame them!
This ranking is based on whom I'd want to sign. Position scarcity, age and market value are all taken into account, but it's not a prediction of who is going to get the most money. It's who I believe will be the best players at their respective positions.
EDITOR'S NOTES:
- Each player's listed age represents how old he will be on Monday, Sept. 7.
- The initial version of this ranking was originally published on Feb. 23.
BEST AVAILABLE
Everyone’s favorite instigator, Jennings is a rugged receiver who can block, make contested catches and occasionally carry an offense. .
There’s no official word about whether Campbell will retire. It’s outrageous how he continually winds up being the best defensive lineman -- or close to it -- on every team he joins, with his 40th birthday (Sept. 1) now on the horizon.
Bosa took over a few games early last season and proved to be a quality pickup overall for the Bills. But he faded badly and ultimately hurt his team in the playoffs.
Cousins looked better another year removed from Achilles surgery. He remains too hesitant to stand in against pressure, but can still manage a game like a high-level backup or bridge starter.
Run-stuffing nose tackles used to stick around the league forever. So here’s to Reader occupying blockers like Ted Washington and Pat Williams once did until he’s 40.
Still an excellent route runner and third-down option, Diggs would be ranked higher as a short-term play if not for his pending legal matter.
He’d help a team more as a high-octane backup. As a starter, Rodgers finished 31st of 33 qualified passers in success rate. When under pressure, he fell to last place in that category by a huge margin. The greatness comes out in flashes, but it’s hard to anchor a season on.
Deebo looked like his old self in Washington for stretches. His burst seems to come and go these days, so a role with reduced snaps could maximize his impact.
Zeitler might not fit in every system, but PFF is still grading him as one of the top right guards in football. It wouldn’t be surprising to see him follow offensive line coach Bill Callahan from Tennessee to Atlanta.
Reddick looked better than his lack of production in Tampa showed, but it’s admittedly been a few years since he put it all together for a full season.
Taylor became well-known for his penalties in Kansas City, but he’s a solid pass protector when he’s not getting flagged. He was just overpaid with the Chiefs, so he’s in line to hit the market again.
Jordan recorded 10.5 sacks in 2025 at age 36 after combining for six during the previous two seasons. The more important number might be a different "two," as in the amount of games Jordan has missed in his entire 15-year career.
I’m as surprised as anyone he’s back on this list, but Waller’s scoring explosion was awesome in his comeback with the Dolphins.
I would buy low on Diggs after a brutal stretch of injuries and unhappiness with the Cowboys -- especially if I was old partner Dan Quinn.
The production and pass-catching consistency came and went during Njoku’s nine-year run in Cleveland, but he still looks athletic enough to be a real asset.
The longer Van Noy stays in the league, the more players enter who approximate his versatility. The original is still getting it done, however.
Sean McVay trusted him to back up Matthew Stafford, and there were whispers last offseason (before Stafford returned) that Jimmy G might run the show. That’s a good enough endorsement for me.
Decker appeared diminished physically at times last year and couldn’t work out a new deal with the Lions when they presumably asked him to take a pay cut. There are warning signs, but he fits the profile as a solid one-year option at a thin position.
Johnson, whom Philly reacquired last August after an offseason stint in Jacksonville, was a serviceable fill-in whenever the Eagles needed him.
No one has earned his role as Mr. 101 more convincingly than Clowney, a near-annual fixture on this list. I thought that run was over before he started sacking fools straight off the couch in 2025, just like he'll do for the next 25 years.
OFF THE MARKET
I see him as the most dynamic quarterback in football as a runner, and his tape in Green Bay showed incredible growth as a passer over his two years with Matt LaFleur. Despite his limited sample size, Willis jumped to the top spot of this ranking based on the same logic that applies to the NFL draft: If a potential franchise quarterback is good enough to be ranked in the top five of a list like this, then he should be placed first, by virtue of the position. The ceiling is the roof.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Willis signed with the Miami Dolphins on a three-year, $67.5 million deal that includes $45 million fully guaranteed. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
No NFL player made himself more money in 2025. After dealing with devastating injuries in back-to-back seasons, Phillips was excellent in Miami, then helped transform the Eagles defense with his complete arsenal. His best should still be ahead of him.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Phillips signed with the Carolina Panthers on a four-year, $120 million deal. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Dynamic in the running game, Linderbaum quickly established himself as a top-10 center in Baltimore. Some struggles holding up as a pass protector won’t stop him from becoming the game’s highest-paid center, because young players this good don’t often reach free agency.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Linderbaum signed with the Las Vegas Raiders on a three-year, $81 million deal. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Although Murray has been streaky as a pro and there are limitations to his game, he's been incredibly productive as a starting QB. The talent is obvious and would provide an immediate upgrade to a number of teams, as long as the head coach is also the right match for him.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Murray signed with the Minnesota Vikings on a one-year deal. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero originally reported news of the deal on March 12.
A throwback to the 1970s, Pierce has posted a ridiculous 21.8 yards per reception over the past two seasons. He's been so effective stretching the field that he just joined Hall of Famer James Lofton with rare production, becoming the second player since 1982 to notch consecutive campaigns with six or more receiving touchdowns and an average of 20+ yards per reception (H/T NFL Research). Big plays are at a premium in today’s NFL, and Pierce's skill set is nearly impossible to find.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Pierce re-signed with the Indianapolis Colts on a four-year, $114 million contract (maximum value of $116 million) that includes $84 million in guarantees with $60 million fully guaranteed at signing. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Only one season removed from finishing second in Defensive Player of the Year voting, Hendrickson hits free agency again, this time as a 31-year-old coming off core muscle surgery. He’s a boom-or-bust signing for a team looking to get over the hump.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Hendrickson signed with the Baltimore Ravens on a four-year, $112 million deal with $60 million fully guaranteed and a maximum value of $120 million. NFL Network Insiders Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 11.
There aren’t many three-down linebackers in the league right now who can rush the passer. Lloyd just earned second-team All-Pro honors in Year 4, though his improvement actually started in his third season. His next team should get his best years -- if the Jaguars aren't able to keep him.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Lloyd signed with the Carolina Panthers on a three-year, $45 million deal with $25 million fully guaranteed. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Oweh exploded as a pass rusher after being acquired by the Chargers in early October, finally finishing the plays he often missed in Baltimore. He’s not a great run stopper, but that’s not what teams pay for in free agency.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Oweh signed with the Washington Commanders on a four-year, $100 million deal that includes $68 million guaranteed. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Walker has the type of running talent you can’t teach, the type that could one day flip a Super Bowl.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Walker signed with the Kansas City Chiefs on a three-year deal worth up to $45 million with $28.7 million guaranteed. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Mafe’s film is more intriguing than his stats. He is an incredible athlete who plays hard and can handle a variety of roles. He’s worth the premium he’ll cost.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Mafe signed with the Cincinnati Bengals on a three-year, $60 million deal. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Seattle's Super Bowl run showed both Shaheed’s potential and the risk he comes with. He made a handful of big plays along the way, yet never fully integrated into the Seahawks' system. His penchant for long scores, however, is as rare as his speed.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Shaheed re-signed with the Seattle Seahawks on a three-year, $51 million contract. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
A borderline Pro Bowl guard when he’s right, Vera-Tucker is coming off a torn triceps suffered just days before the season started. But that's not an injury that is worrisome long-term, so he looks like an outstanding buy-low candidate.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Vera-Tucker signed with the New England Patriots on a three-year, $42 million deal that includes $21 million guaranteed. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Consistent plus starters at guard get paid huge money in free agency. Edwards has been one of the best free-agent signings (2023) of the Brandon Beane era.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Edwards signed a free-agent deal with the New Orleans Saints. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
There aren’t many true "X" receivers who can win on the outside and physically beat press coverage. Though Evans missed time in 2025, his tape shows he’s still that dude.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Evans signed with the San Francisco 49ers on a three-year contract. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
By pure statistical profile (success rate, quarterback rating and EPA per target), Dean was one of the best cornerbacks in football last year. His roller-coaster career and tendency to leave games with injury dims his value, but not below what Carlton Davis received a year ago.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Dean signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers on a three-year, $36.75 million deal. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Welcome to Cade Otton Island, where you can run any offense you want while never giving an inch in the run game. In our growing two-tight end world, every NFL team needs an Otton.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Otton re-signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on a three-year, $30 million deal that includes $20 million fully guaranteed. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
On the most important snap of Baltimore's 2025 season, Lamar Jackson trusted Likely, who came through with a leaping downfield grab over Jalen Ramsey. (Ravens fans know what happened next.) That catch was a reminder of Likely’s untapped potential, especially now that he's improved his run-blocking ability.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Likely signed with the New York Giants on a three-year, $40 million deal that can be worth up to $47.5 million with incentives. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Robinson caught 185 passes over the last two seasons from a variety of quarterbacks. His improvement on intermediate and deeper throws shows he can help any offense.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Robinson signed with the Tennessee Titans on a four-year, $78 million deal that includes $38 million guaranteed. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
A seventh-round pick in 2022, Walker kept fending off challengers for his bookend spot in Green Bay. He’s probably league average as a starting left tackle, which is worth plenty.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Walker is signing with the Carolina Panthers on a one-year, $4 million deal with $3.215 million guaranteed, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported on March 19.
Eluemunor has improved from being a part-time player to one of the most consistent pass-protecting right tackles in football.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Eluemunor re-signed with the New York Giants. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Etienne has improved as a red-zone threat and in catching designed passes. He ranked in the top 10 among all players in rushes of 20+ and 40+ yards last season. He'll fit comfortably in a running back tandem.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Etienne signed with the New Orleans Saints on a four-year, $52 million deal. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
It's crazy to think the Rams cut Franklin-Myers after his rookie year. Since then, he's earned more than $40 million on two veteran contracts and is headed for a third. Defensive tackles are aging better than ever lately, and JFN's old Jets friend Robert Saleh is a head coach again, in Tennessee.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Franklin-Myers signed with the Tennessee Titans on a three-year, $63 million deal with $42 million guaranteed. NFL Network Insiders Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Jim Harbaugh said Zion Johnson was so great so many times it eventually came true. He's developed into a complete guard who is best positioned on the left side.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Johnson signed with the Cleveland Browns on a three-year, $49.5 million deal. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Doubs does everything well as a complementary receiver, especially catching difficult throws. He’s the type of workmanlike wideout who too often is underrated because he lacks flashy traits.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Doubs signed with the Green Bay Packers on a four-year contract. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 10.
Cook loves to hit and is a sure tackler; he played with an almost unhealthy level of confidence in 2025. His versatility fits perfectly in modern defenses, making him our top safety in a deep market.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Cook signed with the Cincinnati Bengals on a three-year, $40.25 million deal that will pay him $18 million in Year 1. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
The former Eagle played his best football in Pittsburgh over the past three seasons, which is why it’s odd the Steelers haven’t re-signed him yet.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Seumalo signed with the Arizona Cardinals on a three-year, $31.5 million contract. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
There is a risk Watson could decline if playing in defense that is not run by the Chiefs' Steve Spagnuolo. There is also a risk in underestimating a player who was a capable starter in the Super Bowl as a rookie and only improved after that.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Watson signed with the L.A. Rams on a three-year, $51 million deal that includes $34 million guaranteed. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Paye is more of an edge-setter than a great pass rusher; it’s telling that the Colts kept him around on his fifth-year option for last season but have not extended him. Some team will be dazzled by the physical potential of the former first-rounder.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Paye signed with the Las Vegas Raiders on a deal that will pay him $16 million per season. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Taylor is a blast to watch and a pain to play against. His lapses in judgement decreased under Saints DC Brandon Staley while playing in the slot, but he’s a boom-or-bust signing.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Taylor signed with the Tennessee Titans on a three-year deal worth $60 million with $42 million fully guaranteed. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
A much-criticized first-round pick in Jacksonville, Chaisson has rebuilt his career with the Raiders and Patriots over the last two seasons, providing excellent juice off the edge.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Chaisson signed with the Washington Commanders on a one-year, $12 million deal. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 11.
One of the most underrated players of his generation, Elliss is one of the best pass-rushing linebackers in football. In Atlanta, he played more than 1,000 snaps for three straight years at a high level.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Elliss signed with the New Orleans Saints on a three-year, $33 million deal that includes $23 million guaranteed and has a max value of $39 million. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 10.
There are times Okonkwo looks like a potential All-Pro, running over fools and catching deep passes. At worst, he’ll add versatility in two-tight end sets.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Okonkwo signed with the Washington Commanders on a three-year deal worth up to $30 million. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo originally reported news of the deal on March 11.
Bryant prevented big plays, made a few of his own and was strong coming down to stop the run from his deep safety position.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Bryant signed with the Chicago Bears on a three-year, $40 million deal that includes $25.75 million guaranteed. NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Woolen had a wild time over the course of his rookie contract, going from Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate to benched to playing the role of hero and goat in a two-play sequence in the NFC Championship Game. He is cornerback volatility incarnate.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Woolen signed with the Philadelphia Eagles on a one-year deal worth up to $15 million. NFL Network's Cam Wolfe and Mike Garafolo originally reported news of the deal on March 10.
Name a spot on the field, and Steve Spagnuolo used Chenal there for the Chiefs. He’s the rare player athletic enough to effectively spy Lamar Jackson. But can he handle more than 500 snaps in a season?
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Chenal signed with the Washington Commanders on a three-year, $24.75 million contract. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 10.
There’s a center shortage in the NFL, and Mays as a fill-in starter in 2025. There will be a market for him.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Mays signed a three-year deal worth $25 million with the Detroit Lions. NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
A stat stuffer unlocked by defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, Cross creates pressures and run stuffs. He’s someone you can .
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Cross signed with the Washington Commanders on a two-year deal worth up to $14 million. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero originally reported news of the deal on March 11.
Teams need speed, and Dean has it. His best tape would put him in the top 20 of this list, but it’s hard to ignore his injury history and occasional lapses in coverage.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Dean signed with the Las Vegas Raiders on a three-year, $36 million deal that includes $20 million guaranteed. NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Jenkins has position versatility and a track record of plus starter play when he’s healthy. He’s going to be very attractive to some of his former coaches if his medicals check out.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Jenkins has signed with the Cleveland Browns on a two-year, $24 million deal that includes $20 million guaranteed, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero and Cam Wolfe reported on March 10.
It will be telling to see if Walker's old defensive coordinator in Green Bay, Jeff Hafley, pursues him now that he's head coach in Miami. While the speedy former first-round pick improved over his first four pro seasons, he never quite mastered the linebacker instincts worthy of a big contract.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Walker signed with the Las Vegas Raiders on a three-year, $40.5 million deal that includes $28 million guaranteed. NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Smith said he was close to retirement before in 2024. Unfortunately, his previously consistent play at right tackle dipped in 2025, and he’s hitting free agency after a neck injury ended his season.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Smith signed with the Houston Texans on a two-year deal worth up to $25 million with $13.5 million fully guaranteed. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo originally reported news of the deal on March 10.
After returning to the Bengals on a one-year deal, Ossai recorded a career-high 43 pressures, according to Pro Football Focus. He’ll do better in the market this time around.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Ossai signed with the New York Jets on a three-year, $36 million deal. His agent originally announced the terms of the deal on March 9.
A huge success story for most of his seven years in Cleveland, Teller said goodbye after a confusing campaign where he still looked like a solid starter before a benching and injury ended his season. He’s at an age where good starting years should still be ahead.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Teller signed with the Houston Texans on a two-year, $16 million deal that has a max value of $23 million, NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo reported on March 17.
If not for his history of concussions, Brisker would be ranked much higher on this list. He fulfilled his 1980s-style enforcer potential last season.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Brisker signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers on a one-year, $5.5 million deal. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo originally reported news of the deal on March 12.
A veteran of the show Last Chance U, Wright turned his career around with a breakout ballhawking season in Chicago. While that will be tough to repeat, he fits Dennis Allen’s defense incredibly well.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Wright signed with the New York Jets on a one-year deal with a max value of $5.5 million, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 10.
I’m as surprised to rank Flott this highly as the Giants surely would be to see him here, given the way they kept trying to play former first-round pick Deonte Banks over him. Flott gave us no choice!
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Flott signed with the Tennessee Titans on a three-year, $45 million deal that includes $32 million fully guaranteed. NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Ebiketie got boxed out for snaps in Atlanta last season by two highly drafted rookies despite winning his pass-rush reps more regularly. He’s going to get more money than people -- especially Falcons fans -- expect.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Ebiketie signed with the Philadelphia Eagles on a one-year, $7.3 million deal with $4.3 million guaranteed. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 12.
After missing the entire 2024 campaign while rehabbing a torn ACL, Chubb posted 8.5 sacks last season -- a mark that somewhat masks an overall dip in pressures and wins. He could probably play more efficiently with fewer snaps.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Chubb signed with the Buffalo Bills on a three-year, $43.5 million deal. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo originally reported news of the deal on March 11.
The best defenses have quality edge rushers coming off the bench. Epenesa fits in as a strong No. 3 who does the dirty work.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Epenesa is signing with the Cleveland Browns on a one-year deal, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported on March 18.
Jones immediately led the Ravens in pressures after they acquired him in a trade, resulting in a career-best 55. The last time he hit free agency on a high like this, Seattle gave him a big contract.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Jones signed with the New England Patriots on a three-year, $39.5 million deal that includes $14.5 million in Year 1. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
An afterthought signing in Seattle, Jobe took over a starting job late in the 2024 season and never gave it up. It would make sense to return him to a Seahawks secondary with a lot of free agents.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Jobe re-signed with the Seattle Seahawks on a three-year, $24 million deal with $14.25 million guaranteed and a maximum value of $24.75 million, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Kenny G’s teammates named him in 2025. He’s a passing-down ace as a blocker and receiver.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Gainwell is signing with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on a two-year, $14 million contract, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
A linebacker in his late 30s shouldn’t keep making the impact Davis does on a down-to-down basis. He’s a one-man communication system.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Davis signed with the Jets on a two-year, $22 million deal that includes $15 million fully guaranteed. NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Difference-making run-blocking tight ends are hard to find. Kolar also seems like he could catch more passes if asked after being buried behind two good players in Baltimore.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Kolar is signing with the L.A. Chargers on a three-year, $24.3 million contract that includes $17 million guaranteed, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported on March 9.
Nailor was stuck behind Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison and didn’t have a quarterback who could throw to the middle of the field in his contract year. He has fans as a speedy slot receiver.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Nailor signed with the Las Vegas Raiders on a three-year, $35.03 million deal with $23 million in total guarantees. NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
One of the most surprising players to receive All-Pro consideration in 2025, the former Steelers first-rounder cashed in on all his potential in Cleveland. Can he do it away from former Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz and Defensive Rookie of the Year Carson Schwesinger?
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Bush is signing with the Chicago Bears on a three-year, $30 million deal. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Thompson just finished an effective stint on a three-year, $36 million extension in Arizona. He’d be better known if he played anywhere else.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Thompson signed with the Dallas Cowboys on a three-year deal worth up to $36 million. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport and NFL Network's Jane Slater originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
If I was making this list a year ago, Newsome would easily be in the top 50. For stretches of his career, he's looked electric on tape. Can he put it all together consistently?
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Newsome signed with the New York Giants on a one-year, $8 million deal that includes $3 million guaranteed. NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero originally reported news of the deal on March 10.
As a young edge player who creates havoc in the running game, Enagbare is a rotational player at worst heading into his second contract.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Enagbare signed with the New York Jets on a one-year, $10 million deal. His agent originally announced news of the deal on March 9.
Mariota played some of the best ball of his career behind Jayden Daniels the last two seasons, establishing himself as one of the NFL’s top backup quarterbacks. That’s worth plenty!
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Mariota re-signed with the Washington Commanders on a one-year, $7 million deal that has a maximum value of $11 million with incentives. NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Don’t forget about Kohou after he missed all of last season with a partially torn ACL. Before that, he was an above-average starting slot defender who was particularly dynamic in run support.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Kohou is signing with the Kansas City Chiefs, the team announced on March 13.
One of the better blocking and receiving backs in football, White also created his own yards as a runner in 2025. He’d be a fun sleeper addition to any backfield.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: White signed with the Washington Commanders. NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo originally reported news of the deal on March 12.
Just when it looked like the Manitoba product was nearing the end of a sneaky-excellent NFL career, he put up another season with 600+ snaps as a strong run defender.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Onyemata signed with the New York Jets on a one-year, $10.5 million deal that includes $9.65 million guaranteed. NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Tua is not necessarily that scheme versatile, and his history of concussions is a concern. That combo makes him a clear backup, and I'd rather have a veteran like Marcus Mariota in that role. The good news is that Tua will come cheaply because the Dolphins still owe him so much money.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Tagovailoa signed with the Atlanta Falcons on a one-year deal worth the veteran's minimum. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
The well-traveled edge player emerged as a top-12 sack artist out of nowhere at age 30 for Detroit.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Muhammad is signing with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on a one-year deal worth up to $6 million, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported on March 12.
Left tackles absolutely get a position-scarcity bump on this list. Jones started 44 games as a fifth-round pick for Chicago and would fit on many teams as a swing tackle, at worst.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Jones is re-signing with the Bears on a one-year deal, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported on March 9.
It would be a shame to see Byard leave Chicago, where he all but ran the show for a playmaking secondary.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Byard signed with the New England Patriots on a one-year, $9 million contract. NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero originally reported news of the deal on March 11.
Dowdle’s strong year in Carolina faded late, but I still sometimes just for fun. What , young man?
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Dowdle signed with the Steelers on a two-year, $12.25 million contract. NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Koonce didn’t look right coming off his torn ACL, which sidelined him for the entire 2024 campaign. A year further removed from surgery, it’s worth betting on a bounce-back season from the former third-rounder, who emerged late in 2023 as a rising pass rusher.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Koonce re-signed with the Las Vegas Raiders on a one-year, $11 million deal. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport originally reported news of the deal on March 11.
Salyer’s stretch on the blind side for the Chargers late last season changed my opinion of him and should change his market. He’s definitely a left tackle, and teams could do a lot worse with Salyer as a third tackle or bridge starter.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Salyer signed with the Miami Dolphins, the team announced on March 13.
Somewhat miscast in Brian Flores' defense a year ago, Hargrave should still be able to contribute as a rotational pocket pusher.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Hargrave signed with the Green Bay Packers on a two-year, $23 million contract, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported on March 11.
An All-Pro in 2023, Quinnen Williams’s brother has gone through cornerback-style volatility in his career. That’s not necessarily what you want at linebacker, but he can still fit in many systems.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Williams is signing a two-year, $13 million deal that includes $9 million guaranteed, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported on March 10.
Blankenship is coming off a rocky season. The end called into question how much of his playmaking resulted from his ideal surroundings.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Blankenship signed with the Houston Texans on a three-year, $24.75 million deal with $16.5 million guaranteed. NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
The fullback snaps were fun. The defensive tackle snaps where he ran over double teams were better.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Tonga signed with the Kansas City Chiefs on a three-year, $21 million deal that includes $14 million guaranteed. NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport, Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo originally reported news of the deal on March 9.
Allgeier was so consistent and rugged that he kept Bijan Robinson off the field for stretches that would drive Falcons fans crazy. He’s a great 1B option in a backfield.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Allgeier is signing with the Arizona Cardinals on a two-year, $12.25 million contract, NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo reported on March 9.
The lack of interior defensive linemen hitting free agency after their rookie contracts should help Hall get a deal with a team looking for a rotational option.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Hall is signing with the Houston Texans on a two-year contract worth $7 million, NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported March 10.
Austin’s short-area quickness never quite caught on in Pittsburgh, but better offensive systems should find a role for him as a quality WR3/4.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Austin signed with the New York Giants, the team announced on March 14.
Twenty-nine starts over the last two seasons on a good Rams defense should get Durant looks in the second phase of free agency.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Durant signed with the Dallas Cowboys, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported on March 13.
A bargain for the Chargers last season, Hand was L.A.'s most consistent interior player outside of Teair Tart.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Hand is signing with the Atlanta Falcons on a one-year, $3 million contract, NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo reported on March 13.
Ceedy Deuce continues to bounce around the league, making plays, kissing babies and infuriating opponents along the way.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Gardner-Johnson signed with the Buffalo Bills on a one-year deal worth $6 million. NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero originally reported news of the deal on March 12.
A fine rotational player and will be just 31 years old by the start of the season, Joseph-Day figures to get another solid free-agent contract.
EDITOR'S UPDATE: Joseph-Day signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers on a two-year contract, the team announced on March 16.











