2024 Free Agency

intrigued by daniel jones, now i haven't seen him a ton in terms of breaking down his film, but he's 6'5, 230, he runs well, athletic and he can make all the pro throws. he crashed out in NYG so that means he is cheap. i like getting a top ten pick type guy and paying a cheap price. i remember thinking lance is like a daniel jones just a non functional version. jones is pretty big, athletic and toolsy. that would pair well with shanny.

Latest from PFF:

• Tee Higgins is set to cash in: Higgins has missed time with injury over the past two years but still produced an 82.2 PFF receiving grade in that span.

• A slew of defensive back talent: Jevon Holland, D.J. Reed, Rasul Douglas and other players will be available to shore up secondaries.

• Unlock your edge with a PFF+ subscription: Get full access to all our in-season fantasy tools, including weekly rankings, WR/CB matchup charts, weekly projections, the Start-Sit Optimizer and more. Sign up now!

As the NFL regular season winds down, it's time to take a closer look at the upcoming free agency class with a more comprehensive lens. Moving on from our early-season evaluations, we now have a larger sample size of data to refine our rankings and project how teams might approach their offseason spending.

This iteration highlights the top 50 free agents poised to shape the 2025 offseason, with our full rankings expanding to include 200 players as we inch closer to March.

When evaluating free-agent talent, it's important to consider context. All data included in our tables reflects player performance from the two years before their unrestricted free agency (UFA) eligibility, offering a balanced snapshot of recent production and consistency. Teams will operate under a projected 2025 salary cap of $275 million, a significant increase driven by the league's growing revenue streams. This starkly contrasts with the 2021 season, when the salary cap dropped due to the pandemic's financial impact.

With those notes in mind, let's dive into the top 50 free agents who are set to command attention — and potentially record-breaking contracts — this offseason.

1. WR Tee Higgins, Cincinnati BengalsHiggins rarely missed playing time over his first three seasons but has, unfortunately, been bitten by the injury bug in back-to-back contract years. That said, when Higgins has suited up so far in 2024, he has consistently produced at a high level. The fourth-ranked player in PFF's Free Agency Rankings last season, Higgins figures to be one of the most sought-after players on the market again in 2025.

Top free agent comparison: Kenny Golladay, 2021PlayerReceiving gradeYards per route runAverage depth of targetYards after catch per receptionAPY as % of Cap at signingTee Higgins82.21.8712.64.8?**Kenny Golladay82.22.1215.814.19.8%****All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• G Trey Smith, Kansas City ChiefsSmith's 80.4 PFF overall grade currently ranks 10th among all guards this season, and he will still be only 25 years old when free agency opens. That's a good combination for a big payday, given that multiple players at the position signed deals at or exceeding $20 million per year in 2024.

The complicated element when projecting a contract for Smith is the reason he fell to the end of the sixth round in the 2021 NFL Draft: He was diagnosed with blood clots in his lungs. On the field, he is every bit of a prized free agent. Factoring in his health is the key question.

Top free agent comparison: Coming Soon!PlayerPass-block gradeTrue pass set pass-block gradePositive run-block grade percentageAPY as % of Cap at signingTrey Smith68.658.618.2%?–––––*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• S Jevon Holland, Miami DolphinsA second-round draft pick out of Oregon in 2021, Holland ranked as one of the five highest-graded safeties in two of his first three seasons in the league. Having earned a 62.7 PFF grade through 12 weeks in 2024, he's currently on track for a career-low mark in that category, but there's a long way to go this season and his body of work previously more than speaks for itself.

Top free agent comparison: Jessie Bates III, 2023 PlayerCoverage grade w/ no pressureCov. grade on throws in ≤ 3sForced incompletion rateRun-defense gradeAPY as % of Cap at signingJevon Holland74.472.210.9%86.8?Jessie Bates III65.780.35.7%78.17.1%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• WR Chris Godwin, Tampa Bay BuccaneersGodwin has consistently displayed reliable hands, dropping fewer than 6% of catchable passes in six of his first seven NFL seasons. He was on pace to maintain that standard in 2024, earning an 85.7 PFF receiving grade through nearly seven weeks without a single drop on 52 catchable targets. However, Godwin sustained a season-ending left ankle dislocation. He is no stranger to entering free agency with an injury, and hopefully, the recovery will be even quicker this time around.

Top free agent comparison: Allen Robinson, 2022PlayerReceiving gradeYards per route runAverage depth of targetYards after catch per receptionAPY as % of Cap at signingChris Godwin83.91.918.95.4?Allen Robinson83.81.7110.92.977.4%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• EDGE Khalil Mack, Los Angeles ChargersMack has enjoyed a late-career resurgence over the past two seasons, proving he can still be a force as a pass-rusher and a run defender. His 88 quarterback pressures in 2023 marked his highest total since 2016, and his 86.3 PFF pass-rushing grade was his best since 2020. Mack's situation entering free agency is eerily reminiscent of Von Miller's back in 2022, as his six-year, $120 million contract with the Buffalo Bills was more like three years and $52.5 million, in reality.

Top free agent comparison: Von Miller, 2022PlayerPass-rush gradeTrue pass set pass-rush gradePass-rush win rateRun-defense gradeAPY as % of Cap at signingKhalil Mack89.688.317.5%92.2?Von Miller87.790.518.8%88.29.6%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• CB D.J. Reed, New York JetsReed is poised to enter free agency at an ideal moment, as he's on track for a career year. His 75.1 coverage grade ranks 14th among players at his position this season. He's also excelled in PFF's advanced metrics, boasting a 52.26% lockdown percentage.

Top free agent comparison: Malcolm Butler, 2018PlayerCoverage grade w/ no pressureCov. grade on throws in ≤ 3sForced incompletion rateSingle coverage gradeAPY as % of Cap at signingD.J. Reed73.788.216.7%65.3?Malcolm Butler76.590.014.066.66.9%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• WR Amari Cooper, Buffalo BillsEven at 30 years old, Cooper will be an attractive option for teams looking to improve at wide receiver, having earned a PFF receiving grade above 70.0 in every full season he has been in the league. He has struggled with drops in 2024, though, failing to bring in 18.4% of the catchable passes thrown his way.

Top free agent comparison: DeAndre Hopkins, 2023PlayerReceiving gradeYards per route runAverage depth of targetYards after catch per receptionAPY as % of Cap at signingAmari Cooper77.51.8913.43.3?DeAndre Hopkins80.31.8811.73.05.8%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• T Ronnie Stanley, Baltimore RavensIt's hard to argue that any player has improved their stock more this season than the Ravens' left tackle. After a devastating ankle injury in 2021 seemed to stall his career, Ronnie Stanley is finally back to top form in 2024, posting an impressive 80.0 PFF pass-blocking grade through the first 12 weeks.

Top free agent comparison: Anthony Castonzo, 2020PlayerPass-block gradeTrue pass set pass-block gradeNegative run-block grade percentageAPY as % of Cap at signingRonnie Stanley79.875.210%?Anthony Castonzo84.877.39.9%8.3%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• QB Sam Darnold, Minnesota VikingsThe debate surrounding Darnold in the 2025 offseason will likely focus on whether he can be more than just a bridge quarterback. While his raw stats look impressive — 32 touchdowns and 11 interceptions — his performance in key areas is more mixed, with 31 big-time throws balanced by 21 turnover-worthy plays.

Top free agent comparison: Jay Cutler, 2014PlayerClean-pocket grade1st- & 2nd-down gradeStandard dropback gradeSack rateAPY as % of Cap at signingSam Darnold86.488.789.58.9%?Jay Cutler90.570.579.06.5%14.7%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• EDGE Josh Sweat, Philadelphia EaglesSweat signed an early extension with the Eagles in 2021 and then a revised one-year contract for 2024, which he's currently making the most of to the tune of seven sacks through Week 13. With the departure of Haason Reddick and the unfortunate injury to Eagles legend Brandon Graham, Sweat has plenty of runway to boost his stock through the end of the season.

Top free agent comparison: Paul Kruger, 2013PlayerPass-rush gradeTrue pass set pass-rush gradePass-rush win rateRun-defense gradeAPY as % of Cap at signingJosh Sweat75.580.714.9%55.9?Paul Kruger81.8N/A11.4%59.26.6%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• WR Stefon Diggs, Houston TexansPlaying in an offense where he was no longer the top target hadn't hindered Diggs' effectiveness. The star wideout was on pace to extend his streak of seasons with a PFF receiving grade above 75.0 and a drop rate below 10% on the catchable passes thrown his way. A season-ending ACL injury for an older player who wins with lateral agility will make for an interesting free-agent dance. Diggs' situation has shades of Odell Beckham Jr.'s free agency period in 2023, when he tore his ACL in the Super Bowl in 2021 and did not play in 2022 before signing a one-year, $15 million fully guaranteed contract.

Top free agent comparison: Pierre Garcon, 2017PlayerReceiving gradeYards per route runAverage depth of targetYards after catch per receptionAPY as % of Cap at signingStefon Diggs82.41.8710.03.9?Pierre Garcon83.31.7510.63.65.7%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• EDGE Haason Reddick, New York JetsReddick's absence from the Jets to start the season leaves questions about how interested other teams will be in his services in 2025. While his standout 2022 season marked career highs in both PFF overall grade and sack total, he has consistently been a reliable pass-rusher, earning a PFF pass-rushing grade of at least 65.0 each season since 2018.

Top free agent comparison: Jerry Hughes, 2015PlayerPass-rush gradeTrue pass set pass-rush gradePass-rush win rateRun-defense gradeAPY as % of Cap at signingHaason Reddick72.073.713.6%66.8?Jerry Hughes77.378.313.4%85.76.3%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• CB Charvarius Ward, San Francisco 49ersWard has struggled so far in 2024 and is on track for career lows in a number of PFF metrics, but his body of work heading into this season will keep him as one of the top options on the market in 2025. Last year was his best in the NFL to date, with his 86.5 PFF coverage grade ranking third among all players at the position. With cornerback teammate Deommodore Lenoir receiving an in-season extension, the writing appears to be on the wall that Ward will be on the way out of San Francisco.

Top free agent comparison: Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, 2014PlayerCoverage grade w/ no pressureCov. grade on throws in ≤ 3sForced incompletion rateSingle coverage gradeAPY as % of Cap at signingCharvarius Ward83.581.316.3%44.3?Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie72.680.915.1%N/A5.3%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• WR DeAndre Hopkins, Kansas City ChiefsHopkins was traded at the deadline from the struggling Tennessee Titans to the perennial Super Bowl contender Kansas City Chiefs. A national spotlight through the playoffs never hurts, and Hopkins has continued to play through a knee injury that would suggest he can fully heal up over the offseason in time for 2025.

Top free agent comparison: Andre Johnson, 2015PlayerReceiving gradeYards per route runAverage depth of targetYards after catch per receptionAPY as % of Cap at signingDeAndre Hopkins84.22.0313.72.7?Andre Johnson86.12.1410.84.14.9%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• CB Rasul Douglas, Buffalo BillsDouglas has faced some challenges to start the 2024 season, but his knack for making plays on the ball ensures he'll attract significant interest in 2025. Heading into this season, he had recorded at least seven pass breakups in six of his seven NFL seasons and notched four or more interceptions in each of the past three seasons.

Top free agent comparison: James Bradberry, 2023PlayerCoverage grade w/ no pressureCov. grade on throws in ≤ 3sForced incompletion rateSingle coverage gradeAPY as % of Cap at signingRasul Douglas76.883.510.9%40.4?James Bradberry70.176.418.9%38.45.6%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• EDGE Malcolm Koonce, Las Vegas RaidersIf Koonce hadn't suffered a season-ending knee injury before 2024 began and instead carried over his momentum from the back half of 2023, he could've been squarely within the top 10 of our list. Perhaps the silver lining, if there is one, to getting injured so early in the year is that Koonce should be healthier entering the free agency period than if he got hurt during the season. A short-term deal where Koonce can hit the market again in 2026, or sign an extension one year into a two-year deal a la recent edge defenders like Uchenna Nwosu, could make sense.

Top free agent comparison: Romeo Okwara, 2021PlayerPass-rush gradeTrue pass set pass-rush gradePass-rush win rateRun-defense gradeAPY as % of Cap at signingMalcolm Koonce78.982.514.2%66.3?Romeo Okwara74.879.813.2%52.86.8%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• T Cam Robinson, Minnesota VikingsRobinson was part of a Jaguars team that had a dismal start to 2024. But individually, he was a reliable option at left tackle before being acquired by the Minnesota Vikings at the trade deadline. His 95.5 pass-blocking efficiency rating so far this year would be his worst since 2019, but if anything, that's a testament to his play over the past four years.

Top free agent comparison: Russell Okung, 2016PlayerPass-block gradeTrue pass set pass-block gradeNegative run-block grade percentageAPY as % of Cap at signingCam Robinson78.272.717.6%?Russell Okung80.271.511.9%6.8%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• LB Dre Greenlaw, San Francisco 49ersGreenlaw is still working his way back from an Achilles injury he suffered in the Super Bowl last February, but assuming he can return to the same level we saw in 2023, he will likely see a lot of interest in free agency. He excels in coverage, having earned PFF coverage grades of 82.6 and 79.5 over the past two seasons.

Top free agent comparison: Nick Kwiatkoski, 2020PlayerRun-defense gradeCoverage grade in the boxForced incompletion rateRun-stop rateAPY as % of Cap at signingDre Greenlaw68.370.92.7%5.6%?Nick Kwiatkoski69.364.84.7%7.7%3.5%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• QB Justin Fields, Pittsburgh SteelersIf there's a lesson to be learned from the recent resurgences of highly touted quarterback prospects like Baker Mayfield, Sam Darnold and others, it's that we probably shouldn't completely give up on a quarterback until they've had a shot with a quality coaching staff and supporting cast. While Fields did eventually cede duties to Russell Wilson, we already saw signs of improvement during his 4-2 run as the Pittsburgh Steelers' starting quarterback. The physical tools are still undeniable and offer value, even if he is solely deployed in certain packages as a juiced-up backup.

Top free agent comparison: Marcus Mariota, 2020PlayerClean-pocket grade1st- & 2nd-down gradeStandard dropback gradeSack rateAPY as % of Cap at signingJustin Fields83.972.871.59.0%?Marcus Mariota79.367.975.510.9%4.4%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• RB Aaron Jones, Minnesota VikingsJones took a one-year deal with the Vikings this offseason and looks set to be one of the top players available at the position again in 2025. His 74.0 PFF pass-blocking grade ranks tied for fourth among running backs, and he brings consistent rushing and receiving production to boot.

Top free agent comparison: Mark Ingram, 2019PlayerMissed tackles forced per attemptYards after contact per attemptReceiving gradeYards per route runAPY as % of Cap at signingAaron Jones0.193.1864.11.31?Mark Ingram0.123.0164.61.472.6%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• CB Carlton Davis III, Detroit LionsThe Tampa Bay Buccaneers traded Davis in the offseason, and he has provided immediate stability to a young, oft-injured Detroit secondary that has seen a strong defensive turnaround even after the loss of Defensive Player of the Year front-runner Aidan Hutchinson.

Top free agent comparison: Aaron Colvin, 2018PlayerCoverage grade w/ no pressureCov. grade on throws in ≤ 3sForced incompletion rateSingle coverage gradeAPY as % of Cap at signingCarlton Davis III73.184.013.7%52.8?Aaron Colvin75.375.31.0%61.94.8%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• C Drew Dalman, Atlanta FalconsThere aren't many long-term answers in free agency at center, which will make Dalman the primary beneficiary if he reaches the open market. Any team that deploys an outside-zone rushing scheme will be all over the former fourth-round pick. Dalman has room to grow as a pass protector but is one of the best run-blocking centers in the NFL and will advance the continued growth of the interior offensive line market after Kansas City Chiefs center Creed Humphrey finally reset the center market.

Top free agent comparison: Brian Allen, 2022PlayerPass-block gradeTrue pass set pass-block gradePositive run-block grade percentageAPY as % of Cap at signingDrew Dalman52.845.821.1%?Brian Allen56.148.716.9%2.9%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• S Talanoa Hufanga, San Francisco 49ersA fifth-round draft pick in 2021, Hufanga earned PFF coverage grades above 65.0 in both 2022 and 2023. He has played just 64 snaps so far this season and looks set to miss more time through injury, so how he ends the season will likely play a big role in how high he can climb these rankings before free agency opens.

Top free agent comparison: Jabrill Peppers, 2023PlayerCoverage grade w/ no pressureCov. grade on throws in ≤ 3sForced incompletion rateRun-defense gradeAPY as % of Cap at signingTalanoa Hufanga61.665.20.0%74.9?Jabrill Peppers59.351.52.3%81.14.0%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• G Will Fries, Indianapolis ColtsFries has shown tremendous strides over the duration of his rookie contract and could be the next guard to cash in during the free agency period after a wave of big deals landed in 2024. Unfortunately, Fries fractured his tibia in Week 5 against the Jacksonville Jaguars and underwent immediate surgery, but he had earned an 86.8 PFF overall grade up to that point on 268 snaps.

Top free agent comparison: Damien Lewis, 2024PlayerPass-block gradeTrue pass set pass-block gradePositive run-block grade percentageAPY as % of Cap at signingWill Fries68.063.314.4%?Damien Lewis68.563.013.1%5.2%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• G Teven Jenkins, Chicago BearsJenkins is a force to be reckoned with on most Sundays; the issue over his career thus far has been getting on the field on Sundays. There are some occasional whiffs to clean up in pass protection, but it can't exactly help his pass-set footwork going from right tackle to left tackle to left guard while also rehabbing a bunch over his rookie contract. Fellow 2021 second-round draft pick Sam Cosmi signed a four-year, $74 million extension with the Washington Commanders before the 2024 campaign, which could serve as a favorable comparison for Jenkins, as Cosmi also kicked inside from tackle to guard and missed some time to injury through his first three seasons.

Top free agent comparison: Brian Winters, 2017PlayerPass-block gradeTrue pass set pass-block gradePositive run-block grade percentageAPY as % of Cap at signingTeven Jenkins72.466.614.8%?Brian Winters75.066.012.2%4.7%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• CB Asante Samuel Jr., Los Angeles ChargersAfter posting PFF coverage grades of 75.6 or better in each of the past two years, Samuel struggled early in his first year with defensive coordinator Jesse Minter at the helm but played just four games before being placed on injured reserve with a shoulder injury. Likewise, Samuel's tackling woes — a problem that's reared its head throughout his career — were exacerbated, with the cornerback missing a whopping 22.2% of attempts. That said, Samuel's youth, pedigree and experience will still be very appealing.

Top free agent comparison: D.J. Reed, 2022PlayerCoverage grade w/ no pressureCov. grade on throws in ≤ 3sForced incompletion rateSingle coverage gradeAPY as % of Cap at signingAsante Samuel64.172.614.6%66.3?D.J. Reed76.172.09.6%57.55.3%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• G Kevin Zeitler, Detroit LionsAfter spending the past three years in Baltimore, Zeitler joined Detroit, which has been a near-seamless fit. Zeitler's 80.2 PFF overall grade is his best since 2016, and his 78.6 PFF run-blocking grade is his highest in 10 years. The 34-year-old could be a cheap yet effective guard option on the open market.

Top free agent comparison: Ramon Foster, 2019PlayerPass-block gradeTrue pass set pass-block gradePositive run-block grade percentageAPY as % of Cap at signingKevin Zeitler81.275.114.0%?Ramon Foster82.175.37.4%2.2%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• G James Daniels, Pittsburgh SteelersDaniels was turning in a career year, but unfortunately, he tore his Achilles in Week 4. The 27-year-old was solid in his first two years with the Steelers, recording PFF overall grades above 61.0, but showed some liabilities in run blocking. There should still be a solid market, given Daniels' age and experience (already seven years).

Top free agent comparison: John Miller, 2020PlayerPass-block gradeTrue pass set pass-block gradePositive run-block grade percentageAPY as % of Cap at signingJames Daniels61.650.313.4%?John Miller65.459.310.5%2.0%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• T Tyron Smith, New York JetsGiven Smith's age, teams may not want to commit to him long term, but he remains a solid option at left tackle. His 75.6 PFF overall grade before his injury ranked 25th among all tackles, making him a worthwhile short-term investment for teams seeking offensive line stability. Unfortunately, another injury landing Smith on injured reserve raises questions about whether the longtime stalwart will seek to continue playing in 2025 and beyond.

Top free agent comparison: Donald Penn, 2016PlayerPass-block gradeTrue pass set pass-block gradeNegative run-block grade percentageAPY as % of Cap at signingTyron Smith84.378.310.3%?Donald Penn90.276.89.7%4%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• DI Osa Odighizuwa, Dallas CowboysOdighizuwa is another interior pass-rusher with very strong underlying metrics that haven't quite translated to major sack production through nearly four seasons. While the Dallas Cowboys' season has fallen off the rails as injuries have piled up, Odighizuwa has stayed the course and played some of the best ball of his career over the second half of the campaign. The 2021 third-round pick is quietly one of the more underrated defenders across the entire NFL.

Top free agent comparison: Nnamdi Madubuike, 2024PlayerRun-defense gradePass-rush gradeTrue pass set pass-rush gradePass-rush win rateAPY as % of Cap at signingOsa Odighizuwa57.781.787.114.3%?Nnamdi Madubuike66.675.282.811.7%9.6%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• S Camryn Bynum, Minnesota VikingsBynum has made his fair share of game-changing plays through three and a half NFL seasons, with eight career interceptions and a career-best three through Week 13 of the 2024 campaign. Add in the fact that Bynum's 104 solo tackles in 2023 led all safeties, and you have a trustworthy player on the back end to keep the offense in front of him and limit big plays.

Top free agent comparison: Nate Allen, 2015PlayerCoverage grade w/ no pressureCov. grade on throws in ≤ 3sForced incompletion rateRun-defense gradeAPY as % of Cap at signingCamryn Bynum59.970.98.8%80.5?Nate Allen57.671.13.5%74.64.0%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• DI Milton Williams, Philadelphia EaglesWilliams is already a candidate for the biggest riser on this list, and his stock is still pointing upward down the homestretch. His five sacks through Week 13 is already a career best in a single season. A rotational interior defender with serious pass-rush juice is often the profile for a player who does very well in free agency, and Williams has limited tread on his tires, given he's never eclipsed 50% of defensive snaps played in a season despite playing at least 36% in every year since his debut. Leave it to the Eagles to get an extension done before the year ends, but if not, don't be surprised when Williams makes a major splash in March.

Top free agent comparison: Javon Hargrave, 2020PlayerRun-defense gradePass-rush gradeTrue pass set pass-rush gradePass-rush win rateAPY as % of Cap at signingMilton Williams57.576.081.811.8%?Javon Hargrave81.377.580.112.2%6.6%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• CB Byron Murphy Jr., Minnesota VikingsMurphy signed a two-year, $17.5 million free agent contract with the Vikings in the 2023 offseason and has certainly played up to that deal, looking like a good fit in defensive coordinator Brian Flores' uber-aggressive defense. His six interceptions in 2024 are tied for the most among cornerbacks.

Top free agent comparison: Brandon Flowers, 2015PlayerCoverage grade w/ no pressureCov. grade on throws in ≤ 3sForced incompletion rateSingle coverage gradeAPY as % of Cap at signingByron Murphy Jr.72.272.66.6%55.8?Brandon Flowers70.470.74.0%N/A6.3%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• LB Nick Bolton, Kansas City ChiefsThe Chiefs have consistently cycled through rookie contract players in the back seven of their defense and generally let them hit free agency, with Willie Gay Jr. the latest example at off-ball linebacker last offseason. That said, Gay was a part-time player and Bolton has been a staple at the middle linebacker spot almost from day one. Bolton is a bit stiff when flipping his hips and can get picked on at times in coverage, but he is an absolute bruiser coming forward in the run game.

Top free agent comparison: Dannell Ellerbe, 2013PlayerRun-defense gradeCoverage grade in the boxForced incompletion rateRun-stop rateAPY as % of Cap at signingNick Bolton77.250.92.8%8.8%?Dannell Ellerbe75.738.72.3%8.6%5.7%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• CB Mike Hilton, Cincinnati BengalsOne of the best slot defenders in the NFL of the past decade, Hilton, like most of the Bengals' defense, struggled early in 2024. He turns 31 right as free agency opens in 2025, but with PFF coverage grades above 70.0 in five of the past seven seasons, he should still receive plenty of interest.

Top free agent comparison: Chris Harris Jr., 2020PlayerCoverage grade w/ no pressureCov. grade on throws in ≤ 3sForced incompletion rateSingle coverage gradeAPY as % of Cap at signingMike Hilton72.780.97.1%61.4?Chris Harris Jr.72.781.39.9%64.44.3%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• WR Marquise Brown, Kansas City ChiefsBrown was expected to be a marquee addition to a Chiefs' receiving corps in need of playmakers but instead missed almost the entire season with a shoulder injury. But there's no better time to prove your value than during a chase for the No. 1 seed over the final month of the regular season and through the playoffs. Brown posted a PFF receiving grade between 68.1 and 68.7 in each of the past three years, giving teams an indication of what he brings to the table.

Top free agent comparison: Markus Wheaton, 2017PlayerReceiving gradeYards per route runAverage depth of targetYards after catch per receptionAPY as % of Cap at signingMarquise Brown68.11.2512.73.3?Markus Wheaton66.21.4214.73.73.3%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• TE Juwan Johnson, New Orleans SaintsThere will be slim pickings at the tight end position in free agency this offseason, but Johnson offers a large catch radius and good hands over the middle, critical on third down and in the red zone. His 17 touchdowns over the past four seasons ranks eighth among tight ends, and his 8.9-yard average depth of target ranks seventh, illustrating he is not just a check-down outlet but a true downfield threat at the position.

Top free agent comparison: Gerald Everett, 2024PlayerReceiving gradeYards per route runPositive run-block grade percentageAPY as % of Cap at signingJuwan Johnson70.21.214.9%?Gerald Everett70.81.254.0%2.3%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• WR Darius Slayton, New York GiantsShaky quarterback and offensive line play have arguably limited Slayton's production during his time with the Giants, which is unfortunate for a player who is a threat to break off an explosive play at any moment. The former fifth-round steal nonetheless had four seasons of at least 700 receiving yards on 15 yards per reception over his first five years in the league, which is harder to do when the quarterback has little time to wait for longer-developing routes downfield. Slayton is also the Giants' 2024 Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee, showing he'd be an asset to any locker room.

Top free agent comparison: Paul Richardson, 2018PlayerReceiving gradeYards per route runAverage depth of targetYards after catch per receptionAPY as % of Cap at signingDarius Slayton67.01.3412.94.7?Paul Richardson68.81.3914.83.44.5%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• EDGE Baron Browning, Arizona CardinalsThe Denver Broncos traded Browning ahead of the deadline to the Arizona Cardinals, a team in desperate need of pass-rush help, and there was a logjam of good edge defenders in Denver with the recent extension of Jonathon Cooper and the continued emergence of Nik Bonitto. Browning's 14.2% pressure rate over the 2022-23 seasons ranked 24th among edge defenders, and he converted from off-ball linebacker to a full-time edge rusher in 2022. Injuries are the only thing keeping Browning from being a consistent problem off the edge for opposing offenses.

Top free agent comparison: Shaquil Barrett, 2019PlayerPass-rush gradeTrue pass set pass-rush gradePass-rush win rateRun-defense gradeAPY as % of Cap at signingBaron Browning77.776.413.9%68.2?Shaquil Barrett80.181.512.0%80.12.1%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• DI Levi Onwuzurike, Detroit LionsOnwuzurike has flashed whenever he's been healthy over his first four seasons in the league after getting drafted one round ahead of recently extended interior defender Alim McNeill in 2021. The former second-round pick out of Washington is the penetrating three-technique interior pass-rusher that every team covets, with his 11.2% pass-rush win rate in 2024 ranking as a top-25 mark at the position.

Top free agent comparison: Sheldon Rankins, 2021PlayerRun-defense gradePass-rush gradeTrue pass set pass-rush gradePass-rush win rateAPY as % of Cap at signingLevi Onwuzurike59.365.871.811.2%?Sheldon Rankins61.866.172.29.4%3.0%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• G Mekhi Becton, Philadelphia EaglesBecton is the latest in a very long line of star pupils to attend Jeff Stoutland University in Philadelphia, working with arguably the league's best offensive line coach to get his career back on track. A kick inside to guard for 2024 may not be a permanent move for Becton, as the Eagles have possibly the best tackle tandem in the NFL, but his demonstrated versatility across the line is only a good thing.

Top free agent comparison: Ezra Cleveland, 2024PlayerPass-block gradeTrue pass set pass-block gradePositive run-block grade percentageAPY as % of Cap at signingMekhi Becton60.948.415.2%?Ezra Cleveland55.153.116.8%3.1%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• EDGE Dayo Odeyingbo, Indianapolis ColtsOdeyingbo has had a patient but steady ascent over his NFL tenure after he sustained an unfortunate Achilles injury during the pre-draft process that still didn't drop him past the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft. His game has rounded into form over the past two seasons, headlined by eight sacks in 2023 followed by a career-high seven tackles for loss or no gain on 66% of snaps played through Week 13 of 2024.

Top free agent comparison: Vinny Curry, 2016PlayerPass-rush gradeTrue pass set pass-rush gradePass-rush win rateRun-defense gradeAPY as % of Cap at signingDayo Odeyingbo67.773.611.1%50.5?Vinny Curry72.171.710.7%49.06.0%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• WR Keenan Allen, Chicago BearsAfter Allen had his fewest yards since 2016 during a 2022 season marred by soft-tissue injuries, he followed that up in 2023 with his most receiving yards since 2017. Nonetheless, a Chargers team going through something of a rebuild under the direction of new head coach Jim Harbaugh in 2024 decided to trade Allen to the Chicago Bears. While Allen has served as a mentor to rookie quarterback Caleb Williams and leads the team with seven touchdown receptions, he looks a step slower in his age-32 season and has had a handful of uncharacteristic drops/unforced errors.

Top free agent comparison: Emmanuel Sanders, 2020PlayerReceiving gradeYards per route runAverage depth of targetYards after catch per receptionAPY as % of Cap at signingKeenan Allen79.91.8710.13.5?Emmanuel Sanders82.41.8710.73.84.0%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• QB Russell Wilson, Pittsburgh SteelersIf Wilson keeps playing at a high level, he could catapult his way into the top 10 of this list simply because it's exceedingly difficult to find sure-fire starting quarterbacks in free agency, even if age is a concern with Wilson set to turn 37 years old in 2025. Much like there was no comparable contract situation in the history of the NFL like Wilson's headed into 2024, there really isn't a good free agency comparison for Wilson headed into 2025, either.

Top free agent comparison: Coming Soon!PlayerClean-pocket grade1st- & 2nd-down gradeStandard dropback gradeSack rateAPY as % of Cap at signingRussell Wilson89.383.490.58.3%?––––––*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• LB Bobby Wagner, Washington CommandersThe ageless wonder that keeps going, Wagner has been one of the few bright spots on a dismal Commanders defense. He's posted an 82.4 PFF overall grade in each of the past three seasons and is even finding new ways to improve: His 81.7 pass-rushing grade this year is his best since 2018.

Top free agent comparison: Daryl Smith, 2016PlayerRun-defense gradeCoverage grade in the boxForced incompletion rateRun-stop rateAPY as % of Cap at signingBobby Wagner92.757.94.5%9.0%?Daryl Smith77.262.75.0%8.5%–*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• T Alaric Jackson, Los Angeles RamsThe former undrafted free agent out of Iowa has settled in quite nicely over the past few years protecting the blindside of Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, with a career year across the board in 2024 coming at just the right time.

Top free agent comparison: Jared Veldheer, 2014PlayerPass-block gradeTrue pass set pass-block gradeNegative run-block grade percentageAPY as % of Cap at signingAlaric Jackson74.267.211.9%?Jared Veldheer79.167.78.4%5.3%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• T Dan Moore, Pittsburgh SteelersMoore has really rounded out his game over the course of his rookie contract and appears to have taken a major step forward in 2024 after consistent struggles in pass protection over his first three seasons. With the extension of Jacksonville Jaguars tackle Walker Little, Moore and Los Angeles Rams tackle Alaric Jackson stand to benefit as the young, potential multi-year solutions at left tackle who are hitting free agency.

Top free agent comparison: Chukwuma Okorafor, 2022PlayerPass-block gradeTrue pass set pass-block gradeNegative run-block grade percentageAPY as % of Cap at signingDan Moore54.146.114.5%?Chukwuma Okorafor61.952.612.8%4.7%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• RB Najee Harris, Pittsburgh SteelersHarris is a model of consistency, and there's value in that even if he isn't the most explosive or shifty player in the open field. His 1,072 rushing attempts since he entered the league in 2021 ranks second to only Derrick Henry over the span, his 4,206 rushing yards rank fifth and his 3,127 yard after first contact place third. The best thing going for Harris in 2024 may not even be his own production, but the fact that nearly every starting running back signed last offseason — Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs and Henry, to name a few — are all having outstanding seasons. However, a factor we reference every year in free agency work is the quality of the upcoming draft class at the position, and the running back group set to enter the 2025 NFL Draft is both strong at the top and remarkably deep, which does not help Harris' cause.

Top free agent comparison: Melvin Gordon, 2020PlayerMissed tackles forced per attemptYards after contact per attemptReceiving gradeYards per route runAPY as % of Cap at signingNajee Harris0.232.9655.91.08?Melvin Gordon0.192.5654.81.664.0%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• EDGE Chase Young, New Orleans SaintsYoung signed a one-year, prove-it deal with the Saints after he was traded at last year's deadline from the Washington Commanders to the San Francisco 49ers. Through Week 13, he was a top-30 edge defender in total quarterback pressures (41) and pressure rate (12.6%). He may not be the perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate he looked like as a prospect ahead of the 2020 NFL Draft, but Young is still a high-end No. 2 edge rusher for any team in need.

Top free agent comparison: Dante Fowler Jr., 2019PlayerPass-rush gradeTrue pass set pass-rush gradePass-rush win rateRun-defense gradeAPY as % of Cap at signingChase Young72.975.414.1%56.5?Dante Fowler Jr.68.875.510.4%55.56.4%*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing

Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings

• S Justin Reid, Kansas City ChiefsReid and his camp were probably happy to see a veteran safety in Budda Baker get rewarded with an extension to the tune of three years, $54 million before testing free agency, with Reid set to hit the open market for a second time after joining the Kansas City Chiefs back in 2022. Reid is one of the better run-defending safeties in the NFL, but as we've seen time and time again in Kansas City, the Chiefs are never afraid to cycle through defensive backs and find the next man up.

Top free agent comparison: Kyle Dugger, 2024PlayerCoverage grade w/ no pressureCov. grade on throws in ≤ 3sForced incompletion rateRun-defense gradeAPY as % of Cap at signingJustin Reid48.261.26.5%75.0?Kyle Dugger58.555.15.1%82.95.7%

Originally posted by 49erFaithful6:
intrigued by daniel jones, now i haven't seen him a ton in terms of breaking down his film, but he's 6'5, 230, he runs well, athletic and he can make all the pro throws. he crashed out in NYG so that means he is cheap. i like getting a top ten pick type guy and paying a cheap price. i remember thinking lance is like a daniel jones just a non functional version. jones is pretty big, athletic and toolsy. that would pair well with shanny.

He was terrible in ny. (I live here so I see all their games)

backup reclamation project maybe? Maybe? Lol

Jesus Christ guy

Who do I bill for the arthritis that post just caused

I almost poked my eye out swiping up on all that

bump

bump

bump

bump

bump

bump

Trying to turn this page.

Turn this page.

Hello turn please.