As the NFL landscape heats up, we’re already witnessing a flurry of activity in the early stages of the free agency period. While the official frenzy hasn’t kicked off just yet, players are locking in deals at a surprising rate. Stars like Davante Adams, Justin Fields, and Sam Darnold have already found new homes, igniting excitement for fans and franchises alike. But there’s still a treasure trove of talent out there, and teams are keen to snag these top-notch free agents. Let’s dive into the best remaining players who could make an immediate impact.
Best Remaining NFL Free Agents: Defense
While defensive signings will be plentiful, a select group of standout players continues to draw attention.
Jevon Holland, Safety, Miami Dolphins
It’s surprising that Jevon Holland remains on the market, but his potential contract demands likely play a role. Projections suggest he could ink a deal around four years for $98 million, and with stats like 235 tackles, six forced fumbles, and six interceptions to his name, it’s hard to argue against it. At just 25 years old, Holland’s skill set makes him a hot commodity who won’t be available for long.
Justin Reid, Safety, Kansas City Chiefs
Another valuable safety in this year’s crop is Justin Reid, who carved out a significant role for the Kansas City Chiefs. At 28, he still has plenty of football ahead of him. Reid’s intelligence and flexibility in various defensive alignments provide a substantial advantage for any defensive coordinator looking to elevate their strategy.
Azeez Ojulari, Edge, New York Giants
Azeez Ojulari has the potential that simply hasn’t been fully realized yet. Accumulating 26 sacks and 109 pressures when given playing time showcases his ability to disrupt the backfield. His quickness off the line and agility makes him equally effective against the run, making him a dual threat that teams will want to tap into.
Joey Bosa, Edge, Los Angeles Chargers
Despite a productive season with five sacks, Joey Bosa’s hefty $36.5 million cap hit led to his departure from the Chargers. While injuries have limited his snaps in recent years, a savvy team could maximize his impact through a rotational strategy, taking advantage of his elite pass-rushing abilities.
Other Noteworthy Names:
- DeMarcus Lawrence, Edge, Dallas Cowboys
- Jonathan Allen, Defensive Interior, Washington Commanders (Note: Allen has since signed with the Minnesota Vikings)
- Asante Samuel Jr., Cornerback, Los Angeles Chargers
Best Remaining NFL Free Agents: Offense
The offensive landscape is just as exciting, with a range of positions filled with intriguing free agents, including potential starting quarterbacks.
Aaron Rodgers, Quarterback, New York Jets
Aaron Rodgers is exploring free agency for the first time, following a tumultuous year with the Jets. While rumors swirl about his next destination, including a possible return to the Giants, there’s no guarantee. Rodgers has shown he can still lead an offense effectively, making him an appealing bridge option for teams looking to draft a quarterback in the near future.
Amari Cooper, Wide Receiver, Buffalo Bills
After a solid tenure with the Browns, Amari Cooper’s time at the Bills was less impactful, partially due to limited usage in their disjointed offense. As he approaches 31 years old, Cooper still boasts 10,033 career receiving yards and could bring valuable experience to a team searching for depth at the wide receiver position.
Will Fries, Guard, Indianapolis Colts
In an era where interior pressure is paramount, quality guards are hard to come by. Will Fries is one of the top guards still available, though he’ll need to prove his health after a season-ending injury in Week 5. Prior to his injury, he was proving himself as a reliable pass protector and run blocker, making him a player to watch in the free agency hunt.
Teven Jenkins, Guard, Chicago Bears
When it comes to guards, Teven Jenkins stands out as the top available option. As one of the few consistent performers on last season’s tumultuous Chicago offensive line, Jenkins is expected to command significant interest on the open market. With the Bears making changes to their roster, it’s highly likely that Jenkins has played his last game in Chicago, making him a coveted target for teams needing to fortify their offensive front.
Other Top Names:
There are plenty of intriguing free agents still on the board, and as teams continue to address their needs, the second wave of free agency is shaping up to be just as exhilarating as the first. Keep an eye on these players, as they have the potential to reshape rosters and create new dynamics in upcoming seasons.
