2024 NFL Free Agency Big Board: Top 50 Available Players
We're on the cusp of 2024 free agency, which will officially begin at 4 p.m. ET on March 13—with the legal contact period beginning on March 11.
With the franchise-tag deadline passing on March 5, we now have a good idea of how the 2024 free-agent class will look. It's set to be deep at several key positions, including edge-rusher, cornerback, defensive tackle, wide receiver and running back.
Though free agency is rarely loaded with starting-caliber quarterbacks, a few are slated to hit the market this year.
With the salary cap jumping to a record $255.4 million this year, the market is likely to unfold rapidly. Where are the top cap dollars likely to go? Below, you'll find a look at our initial top 50 rankings—based on factors like past production, player upside, age, positional value and player health—along with individual positional rankings.
We'll check back next week with updated lists as top players come off the board. Before we dive into the list, though, let's examine how things unfolded at the tag deadline.
All rankings contributed by B/R NFL Scouting Department contributor Kris Knox.
Franchise Tag and Extension Tracker
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Josh Allen, Edge, Jacksonville Jaguars: Franchise Tag
Brian Burns, Edge, Carolina Panthers: Franchise Tag
Kevin Dotson, G, Los Angeles Rams: Three-Year, $48 Million Extension
Kyle Dugger, S, New England Patriots: Transition Tag
Mike Evans, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Two-Year,$41.2 Million Extension
Hunter Henry, TE, New England Patriots: Three-Year Extension
Tee Higgins, WR, Cincinnati Bengals: Franchise Tag
Jaylon Johnson, CB, Chicago Bears: Four-Year, $76 Million Extension
Justin Madubuike, DT, Baltimore Ravens: Franchise Tag
Michael Pittman Jr., WR, Indianapolis Colts: Franchise Tag
Dalton Schultz, TE, Houston Texans: Three-Year, $36 Million Extension
Antoine Winfield Jr., S, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Franchise Tag
Nos. 50-46
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50. Za'Darius Smith, Edge, Cleveland Browns
Statistically, Za'Darius Smith's first season with the Cleveland Browns wasn't overly impressive. The 31-year-old had just 5.5 sacks and eight tackles for loss, though he did tally 29 quarterback pressures.
However, Smith was primarily used in a complementary role opposite Myles Garrett and had a bigger impact in that role than raw sack numbers might suggest.
Smith is still quite capable of collapsing the edge, forcing ball-carriers inside and causing opposing quarterbacks to uncork passes before they're fully set. With the edge pool shrinking, he should be in demand.
49. Laken Tomlinson, G, New York Jets
The New York Jets released guard Laken Tomlinson ahead of free agency, and the 32-year-old is sure to draw plenty of interest on the open market.
While Tomlinson is no longer a top-tier interior lineman—he was responsible for three penalties and seven sacks allowed in 2023, according to Pro Football Focus—he's a seasoned veteran with an alluring level of durability.
Tomlinson hasn't missed a single regular-season start over the past six seasons and has played 100 percent of the offensive snaps over the last five.
48. Jermaine Eluemunor, OT, Las Vegas Raiders
While Jermaine Eluemunor might not be a household name, Las Vegas Raiders fans have seen his growth over the past couple of seasons.
Eluemunor has become a fairly consistent pass protector, and he brings a physical presence to the running game on the edge. Notably, the 29-year-old also cut down on mental mistakes in 2023 after having a slew of them the previous year.
According to Pro Football Focus, Eleumunor was responsible for 10 penalties in 2022 but only five of them this past season.
47. Andrew Van Ginkel, LB, Miami Dolphins
A combination pass-rusher and linebacker, Andrew Van Ginkel has filled multiple roles for the Miami Dolphins since joining the team as a fifth-round draft pick in 2019.
This past season, Van Ginkel spent a bit more time in Vic Fangio's defense rushing the passer, and he finished with six sacks and 20 quarterback pressures.
While Van Ginkel is equally comfortable defending the run and occasionally dropping into coverage—he allowed an opposing passer rating of only 61.7 in 2023—he may draw more interest as an edge-rusher this offseason. Franchise tags for Brian Burns and Josh Allen cut into the top end of the edge market.
46. Donovan Smith, OT, Kansas City Chiefs
Donovan Smith showed he's still a capable starting tackle at age 30 by helping the Kansas City Chiefs win the Super Bowl in his first campaign with the franchise.
That said, Smith is far from an ideal option for left tackle-needy teams. He is prone to outright whiffs in pass protection and is quick to hold once beaten. Over the past two seasons, Smith was responsible for 21 penalties and eight sacks allowed, according to Pro Football Focus.
That said, Smith is a functional starter at a premium position, and he'll garner interest on the open market.
Nos. 45-41
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45. Jacoby Brissett, QB, Washington Commanders
Washington Commanders quarterback Jacoby Brissett projects as one of the top backups or spot-starters on the 2024 market. Though he never got an opportunity to start for Washington, he was a serviceable bridge for the Cleveland Browns in 2022, and he did flash in limited action last season.
Brissett threw three touchdowns and posted a 146.8 QB rating in three appearances with Washington this past season. A big (6'4", 235 lbs) and experienced signal-caller with good enough accuracy and functional mobility, the 31-year-old Brissett can fill a variety of needs in a variety of offensive systems.
44. Jadeveon Clowney, Edge, Baltimore Ravens
Baltimore Ravens pass-rusher Jadeveon Clowney proved to be one of the best bargains of 2023 free agency. The 31-year-old matched his career high in sacks (9.5) while providing 23 quarterback pressures to a stout Ravens defense.
Consistency has never been Clowney's strong suit, and teams will wonder which version of him they're likely to get. However, Clowney is an elite disruptor when playing up to his potential, and he's a game-wrecker against the run, even when his pass-rushing production is down.
43. Jonathan Greenard, Edge, Houston Texans
Houston Texans edge-rusher Jonathan Greenard made a huge jump in his first season under head coach DeMeco Ryans. The 26-year-old posted career highs in sacks (12.5), tackles (52) and quarterback pressures (32).
Greenard should be valued as a player on the rise, not unlike Ogbonnia Okoronkwo in 2022. However, his past tape wasn't as impressive as his 2023 tape, so there will be some questions about whether he was a product of Ryans' defense or truly a budding star in the making.
42. Frankie Luvu, LB, Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers didn't boast a ton of overall talent in 2023, but linebacker Frankie Luvu was an exception. The 27-year-old has developed into a legitimate playmaker over the last couple of seasons, and while he requires a specific role, he can be a three-down defender.
Coverage is not Luvu's strong suit, but he's consistent against the run and is a vastly underrated pass-rusher—he logged 12.5 sacks and 26 pressures over the past two years. While he's not a do-it-all linebacker, Luvu is great at what he does well.
41. Andre James, C, Las Vegas Raiders
Andre James is arguably the top pure center in this year's free-agent class. He combines above-average play strength with fluid footwork and has steadily improved in his three years as the Las Vegas Raiders' starter.
While not a truly elite interior lineman—he allowed four sacks in 2023, according to Pro Football Focus—James is a surefire starter. At only 26 years old, he's a logical target for any team in need of a center.
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Nos. 40-36
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40. Gardner Minshew, QB, Indianapolis Colts
Gardner Minshew should be a top target for multiple quarterback-needy teams. With the Indianapolis Colts in 2023 (3,305 yards, 15 TDs), the 27-year-old once again showed that he's a very capable spot starter.
Pocket presence, footwork and decision-making are not Minshew's strong suits, but he can command the huddle and make every throw. He's an ideal target for teams seeking a high-end backup or those looking to patiently develop a rookie quarterback.
Minshew gets a slight edge over Jacoby Brissett, who should be equally valued as a backup/temporary starter but will also turn 32 in December.
39. Josh Jacobs, RB, Las Vegas Raiders
Raiders running back Josh Jacobs wouldn't crack the top 50 based on his 2023 campaign alone. He tallied 1,101 scrimmage yards but averaged just 3.5 yards per carry and missed time with a quad injury.
However, Jacobs has repeatedly shown in the past that he can be a quality every-down back. He led the league in rushing in 2022 and was a Pro Bowler in 2020. The big question is whether Jacobs' 2022 workload (393 touches) had a permanent effect on his career trajectory.
Jacobs' lack of burst showed on film this past season, and his market won't be as strong as it would have been a year ago. Still, his combination of power, vision and receiving ability will earn him a starting opportunity.
38. Lavonte David, LB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Age is working against Lavonte David, who turned 34 in January. The two-time Pro Bowler is also coming off a disappointing campaign in coverage, as he allowed an opposing passer rating of 102.4 in 2023.
However, David's ability to diagnose plays, flow to the football and play from sideline to sideline still pops on film. Playoff-caliber teams seeking an elite run defender, as well as rebuilding teams seeking a proven defensive leader, should have heavy interest in David.
37. Kristian Fulton, CB, Tennessee Titans
Kristian Fulton's ranking is based more on traits and tools than what he has actually accomplished as a pro. The Tennessee Titans corner is coming off a down campaign (114.1 opposing passer rating) and has missed time due to injury in each of his four seasons.
However, the 25-year-old flashes elite traits on film, including great play recognition, recovery speed and ball skills. He showed what he is capable of as a sophomore in 2021, recording 14 passes defended and allowing an opposing passer rating of just 71.3 in 13 games. If Fulton can stay on the field, he could be one of the steals of 2024 free agency.
36. Jeremy Chinn, DB, Carolina Panthers
It'll be interesting to see how teams evaluate Carolina Panthers defensive back Jeremy Chinn after he was hampered by a quad injury in 2023. The 26-year-old has never established himself as an elite coverage option, and he's coming off the most underwhelming campaign of his career (132.7 opposing passer rating).
Chinn's value lies in his versatility, as he's capable of filling a safety, linebacker or nickelback role. He's a big (6'3", 220 lbs), physical defender who has shown improved tackling over the past two seasons. Not every team will covet Chinn's unique skill set, but young players with his combination of physical traits and versatility don't reach the market often.
Nos. 35-31
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35. Jonah Williams, OT, Cincinnati Bengals
A relatively underwhelming tackle market is solely responsible for Jonah Williams' spot in the top 50. The 2019 first-round pick failed to solidify the left tackle position for the Cincinnati Bengals and was moved to the right side in 2023. There, his power and athleticism as a run blocker were better utilized.
However, Williams' footwork and technique in pass protection has been a lingering issue, regardless of where he's been aligned. He was responsible for five penalties and eight sacks allowed this past season, according to Pro Football Focus.
Still, Williams is a 26-year-old starting-caliber tackle in a market that doesn't have many of them. His projected market value of $10.8 million annually may actually be low.
34. Geno Stone, S, Baltimore Ravens
Baltimore Ravens safety Geno Stone is hitting the market at precisely the right time. The 24-year-old has been trending upward since earning a prominent role in 2022 (17 games, 7 starts) and was a full-time contributor this past season (11 starts, 82 percent of the defensive snaps).
Stone's best football may be ahead of him, and there's already a lot to like. While he does have a habit of taking poor angles and failing to finish tackles, he's tremendous in coverage. He recorded seven interceptions this past season while allowing an opposing passer rating of only 63.8.
Teams seeking a pure coverage safety on the back end should have Stone high on their wish list.
33. Kevin Zeitler, G, Baltimore Ravens
Ravens guard Kevin Zeitler just turned 34, but he's still playing at an extremely high level. He earned his first Pro Bowl nod in 2023 after playing 97 percent of the offensive snaps in Baltimore.
Zeitler hasn't started fewer than 15 games or played less than 97 percent of the snaps in those games since the 2014 season.
His age will prevent Zeitler from landing a lucrative long-term deal, but any team seeking a proven, dependable starting guard will have interest.
32. Xavien Howard, CB, Miami Dolphins
Miami Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard was a late addition to the FA cornerback pool, being released in February.
Set to turn 31 in July, Howard's best days are likely behind him. He was inconsistent in coverage in 2022 (101.2 opposing passer rating), though he still earned Pro Bowl honors. He rebounded under Vic Fangio in 2023 but also missed time with a foot injury. He still has all the tools to be a quality starting corner, though it's fair to wonder for how much longer.
31. Steven Nelson, CB, Houston Texans
A deep free-agent cornerback class could prevent Steven Nelson from truly cashing in this offseason. However, that only means that some team is going to get a bargain.
The 31-year-old played at a consistently high level over the past two years in two very different systems for the Houston Texans. Nelson allowed an opposing passer rating of 80.5 in 2022 and an opposing passer rating of 73.3 in 2023. He also played at least 92 percent of the defensive snaps in games in which he appeared over the past six seasons.
Experienced, dependable and scheme-versatile, Nelson is a relatively risk-free option.
Nos. 30-26
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30. Tyron Smith, OT, Dallas Cowboys
Tyron Smith would easily be this year's top tackle if players were judged on past accomplishments alone. The eight-time Pro Bowler may have a case for Canton one day and is still a top-tier tackle when healthy.
However, Smith turned 34 in December and has struggled to stay on the field. He started 13 games in 2023 but has also only appeared in 30 games over the past four seasons. Teams should only be interested in a short-term contract, and even then, Smith will represent an injury risk.
29. Kenny Moore II, CB, Indianapolis Colts
Colts cornerback Kenny Moore II is an undersized (5'9", 190 lbs) but physical and functional starting cornerback. His lack of length can be an occasional issue in coverage at times, but Moore possesses terrific ball skills (3 INTs in 2023), playmaking ability (2 TDs) and is a willing open-field tackler.
The 2021 Pro Bowler isn't an elite cover corner, but he does enough of everything to be valued as a dependable starter in free agency.
28. Marquise Brown, WR, Arizona Cardinals
Arizona Cardinals wideout Marquise Brown is not a well-rounded receiver. His 5'9", 180-pound frame limits the roles he can fill, and his hands and route-running aren't reliable enough to make him a true No. 1 target.
Cardinals quarterbacks had a collective passer rating of just 72.8 when targeting Brown and a collective rating of 82.9 overall in 2023.
However, Brown possesses the elite speed that NFL teams covet. It shows up when he is stretching the field on go routes but also when he is working across the field on slants and dig routes. Brown may not offer a lot of positional versatility, but what he does well, he does extremely well.
27. Connor Williams, IOL, Miami Dolphins
Connor Williams would rank higher if he weren't coming off a torn ACL that he suffered in December.
The 26-year-old has been a solid starter over the past six years, as a guard for the Cowboys and as a center for the Dolphins. Though he isn't the strongest interior lineman or the soundest in pass protection, he explodes out of his stance and can generate a good initial push in the running game.
Williams' ability to play both center and guard adds to his value in free agency. Given the timing of the injury, though, teams may not be able to count on him as a Week 1 starter.
26. Derrick Henry, RB, Tennessee Titans
Derrick Henry turned 30 in January, which may be a red flag for many teams. It's entirely fair to wonder how much longer Henry can perform at a high level, given his physical running style and heavy usage in the Titans offense—he's led the league in rushing attempts in four of the past five seasons.
That said, Henry is still capable of playing at a high level. He was a Pro Bowler in 2023, despite playing behind a very inconsistent offensive line. His combination of power and breakaway speed—his long run in 2023 went for 69 yards—maintains Henry's spot as one of the league's biggest offensive mismatches.
Nos. 25-21
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25. Xavier McKinney, S, New York Giants
Xavier McKinney's stellar 2023 campaign was largely overshadowed by a bad New York Giants defense. Arguably the best player on that defense, McKinney managed to stand out in both coverage and run support.
McKinney recorded 116 total tackles while allowing an opposing passer rating of only 69.8. The 24-year-old is capable of playing deep or in the box, though New York has largely utilized him on the back end.
Even a cursory dive into the Giants' 2023 tape allows McKinney to stand out as a versatile all-around playmaker. With a better supporting cast, he should earn Pro Bowl consideration sooner than later.
24. Stephon Gilmore, CB, Dallas Cowboys
If Stephon Gilmore was a couple of years younger, Stephon Gilmore would likely be a top-10 free agent.
Even at 33 years old, though, Gilmore is still a quality starter. He's fully capable of playing on a perimeter island and can hold his own against some of the league's best receivers. Gilmore allowed an opposing passer rating of only 82.7 in coverage this past season despite being targeted a whopping 95 times.
While Gilmore's days as a true No. 1 cover corner may be behind him, he'll be a Week 1 starter wherever he lands.
23. D'Andre Swift, RB, Philadelphia Eagles
To get an accurate read on D'Andre Swift's value, one must examine his entire body of work. The 25-year-old was a Pro Bowler with the Philadelphia Eagles this past season, but the team's vaunted offensive line can obscure a running back's true value.
Miles Sanders was a Pro Bowler with Philadelphia in 2022, but he was a total flop after moving on to the Panthers.
However, Swift flashed many of the same traits that allowed him to excel in 2023—breakaway speed, good hands and short-area shiftiness—while playing for the Detroit Lions. Swift isn't a particularly physical ball-carrier, but his combination of youth, athleticism and every-down potential makes him one of the top backs in free agency.
22. Russell Wilson, QB, Denver Broncos
Quarterback Russell Wilson isn't technically a free agent yet, but the Broncos have informed him that he'll be released after the new league year opens and have granted him permission to speak to other teams.
The unknown is whether the 35-year-old can be the same high-end quarterback he was in Seattle ever again. He is, though, still a starting-caliber quarterback who finished with a 98.0 passer rating in 2023.
Because the Broncos still owe Wilson $85 million in dead money, he could take the league minimum with his next team. Presumably, though, he would only do so if he's guaranteed the starting role.
Wilson's market will be limited to a handful of teams, and he may have to wait for other QB dominoes to fall before drawing heavy interest.
21. Josh Uche, Edge, New England Patriots
New England Patriots pass-rusher Josh Uche may fly under the radar entering free agency because he wasn't particularly impactful in 2023. New England wasn't very good overall, and it lost No. 1 edge-rusher Matthew Judon early in the season to a torn biceps.
As a result, Uche rarely had the chance to shine as a complementary edge-rusher. With Judon healthy in 2022, though, he was fantastic. He finished that season with 11.5 sacks, 25 quarterback pressures and two forced fumbles while playing only 38 percent of the defensive snaps.
With quick feet and a strong initial burst, Uche carries a lot of value as a passing-down specialist.
20. Justin Simmons, S, Denver Broncos
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The Denver Broncos released safety Justin Simmons in a late cap-saving move, adding another premier defender to the market.
While Simmons didn't quite up to the then-record four-year, $61 million contract he signed in 2021, he's remained a solid starter for the Broncos. He earned his second Pro Bowl nod in 2023 and was a second-team All-Pro selection in both 2022 and 2021.
This past season, Simmons started 15 games and finished with 70 tackles, three interceptions and an opposing passer rating of 89.1.
Simmons thrives in deep coverage, and while his run support can be a bit inconsistent—he was credited with 31 missed tackles over the last four years—he's far from a liability on the back end.
Though he'll turn 31 in November, Simmons is reliable enough to draw interest from contenders and rebuilding teams alike.
19. Kamren Curl, S, Washington Commanders
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Like Xavier McKinney, safety Kamren Curl spent the 2023 season being a standout defender in a bad and usually overlooked secondary. The Washington Commanders struggled against the pass, often leaving Curl stuck trying to compensate in second-level coverage.
Curl's technique and recognition show up more on film than on the stat sheet—he allowed an opposing passer rating of 108.3 in 2023—and he's an instinctual run defender in the box.
Having only recently turned 25, Curl should be viewed as one of the best young defensive backs on the market. While some teams may prefer Justin Simmons—who is more experienced and more of a back-end coverage specialist—Curl's combination of youth and upside could give him a wider market.
With Antoine Winfield Jr. getting the franchise tag and Kyle Dugger receiving the transition tag, Curl becomes the top pure safety on the 2024 market.
18. Chase Young, Edge, San Francisco 49ers
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Chase Young had a few highlight moments for the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl LVIII, but he largely disappeared into the background of their defense after being acquired at the trade deadline.
In nine games with the 49ers, Young had just 2.5 sacks and seven quarterback pressures—numbers that don't quite match San Francisco's trade price (a 2024 third-round pick).
However, the 24-year-old has flashed elite upside in the past, like he did during his 2020 Defensive Rookie of the Year campaign.
Young's lack of consistency and production following his 2021 ACL tear leaves him a tier below the market's top edge-rushers. However, his age, physical tools and draft pedigree (second overall) should still land him a sizable contract.
17. Chidobe Awuzie, CB, Cincinnati Bengals
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Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Chidobe Awuzie may have to settle for a short-term "prove-it" deal in free agency. He suffered a torn ACL in 2022 and didn't look like the same player he was pre-injury in 2023.
However, diving into Awuzie's 2021 and 2022 tape highlights a player with legitimate No. 1 corner potential. Before the injury, Awuzie allowed an opposing passer rating of just 53.4 in coverage in 2022. He'll turn 29 in May, but Awuzie should be targeted by multiple teams for a starting role.
While 29 isn't exactly young, Awuzie should have several strong years ahead of him.
And with top cornerbacks Jaylon Johnson and L'Jarius Sneed getting the franchise tag, Awuzie should quickly become one of the top cornerbacks on the market.
16. Robert Hunt, G, Miami Dolphins
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Robert Hunt began his career at tackle before kicking inside and helping to solidify the interior of the Miami Dolphins offensive line.
A series of hamstring issues hampered Hunt in 2023, but he didn't miss a game due to injury over his first three seasons. Big (6'6", 330 lbs), powerful and stout at the point of attack, the 27-year-old is one of the best interior linemen in this year's free-agent class, and he may get some consideration at right tackle as well.
Interior linemen are expected to draw a premium price this offseason. According to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, the top guards could command "$16 million or more" on the open market.
Because of his age and versatility, Hunt should be in line for a substantial payday.
15. Saquon Barkley, RB, New York Giants
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Saquon Barkley remains the top running back in an impressive 2024 free-agent pool, even if he experienced another injury-impacted season in 2023.
Barkley's injury history cannot be ignored, but he's still one of the league's top dual-threat running backs when healthy. In an offense largely devoid of other playmakers, the 27-year-old still managed to amass 1,242 scrimmage yards and 10 touchdowns in 14 games this past season.
If there's a negative to Barkley's game, it's that his desire to create big plays often leads to a lack of rushing consistency. He can leave yards on the field by dancing instead of hitting the hole with authority. That said, his playmaking ability is high enough that he'll help boost any offense if he can stay healthy.
Running backs may not hold the premium value that they once did, but they're still needed, and Barkley is the best in this year's free-agent class.
14. Trent Brown, OT, New England Patriots
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The fact that Trent Brown tops the tackle market is telling. He'll turn 31 in April, and his lone Pro Bowl campaign came back in 2019. He was also hindered by a leg injury this past season.
The big unknown is whether Brown can truly thrive away from the New England Patriots. During a two-year stint with the Las Vegas Raiders, he was a Pro Bowler in Year 1 but was traded back to the Patriots after his second season.
However, Brown's injury history isn't quite as concerning as that of Tyron Smith, who is also three years older.
A dependable pass protector, Brown can anchor either side of the line if needed, and his versatility puts him at the top of an underwhelming overall class.
13. D.J. Reader, DT, Cincinnati Bengals
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Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle D.J. Reader would rank higher if he weren't coming off a torn quad that he suffered in December.
The 29-year-old is one of the best all-around interior defenders in the NFL. Though he won't wow with gaudy sack numbers, he can control the line of scrimmage and pressure quarterbacks inside. Against the run, he can swallow ball-carriers or command double-teams that allow linebackers to flow to the football.
Reader has never been a Pro Bowler but consistently plays at a Pro Bowl level. He may have to settle for a "prove-it" deal because of the injury, but that only makes him one of the top potential bargains of 2024.
The injury will be a concern, but teams should view Reader as just a notch below top defensive tackles like Chris Jones and Christian Wilkins.
12. Bryce Huff, Edge, New York Jets
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New York Jets pass-rusher Bryce Huff has become one of the league's top situational edge-rushers over the past two seasons. He saw an expanded role in 2023 and finished with 10 sacks and 33 quarterback pressures while playing 42 percent of the defensive snaps.
The knock on Huff is that he'll struggle to set the edge and isn't wholly reliable as a run defender. Like Josh Uche, Huff is best suited to be a passing-down specialist, though he proved this past season that he can thrive in such a role.
Huff's market should grow in the wake of both Josh Allen and Brian Burns receiving the franchise tag. With those two off the table—barring a tag-and-trade by the Carolina Panthers or Jacksonville Jaguars—Huff becomes one of the best pure edge-rushers available.
And at only 25 years old, Huff is young enough to interest potential contenders and rebuilding teams alike.
11. Mike Onwenu, OL, New England Patriots
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We're considering New England's Mike Onwenu as an interior offensive lineman, even though he spent much of 2023 manning the right tackle spot.
The reality is that Onwenu is comfortable at virtually any position along the offensive line, and he's likely to draw interest at both guard and tackle. He also appears to be a top priority for the Patriots entering free agency.
"I would say that all the options are on the table. We definitely want to keep Mike," director of scouting and de facto GM Eliot Wolf said, per Andrew Callahan of the Boston Herald.
Onwenu isn't the quickest mover, which is why many teams may value him more highly as a guard. However, he positions himself well and can completely stonewall defenders with his massive 6'3", 350-pound frame.
At just 26 years old, Onwenu should be in line for a lucrative long-term deal.
10. Devin White, LB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Devin White was limited by a foot injury in 2023 and only appeared in 14 games. As a result, he had the most underwhelming statistical season of his career.
A "down" year for the 26-year-old still included 83 total tackles, five tackles for loss, 2.5 sacks, two interceptions and an opposing passer rating of only 65.5 in coverage.
While White's 2022 tape is more impressive than last year's, he's still one of the most physically gifted off-ball linebackers in the sport. Occasional lapses in coverage do crop up, but White is terrific at diagnosing plays pre-snap, pursuing ball-carriers all over the field and making high-impact plays.
White's down year did come at an inopportune time for him, and he undoubtedly would have drawn more interest a year ago. Still, the fact remains that the 2021 Pro Bowler has missed just four games over the past four seasons and has recorded more than 120 tackles in three of those campaigns.
9. Calvin Ridley, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars
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Calvin Ridley's inaugural campaign with the Jacksonville Jaguars was promising. Despite stepping away from football in 2021 to focus on his mental well-being and then serving a suspension throughout 2022 for betting on NFL games, the 29-year-old didn't take long to make an impact in Jacksonville.
Ridley finished the 2023 season with 1,016 yards and eight touchdowns. He performed well enough that the Jags weren't concerned about sending extra draft compensation to the Atlanta Falcons if it meant keeping Ridley—an extension will earn Atlanta a second-round pick instead of a third.
"We're not real concerned with that, whether it's a second or third round," general manager Trent Baalke said, per John Oehser of the team's official website.
While Ridley isn't a legitimate No. 1 receiver, he has all of the traits needed to be a high-end second option in virtually any offense.
8. Kendall Fuller, CB, Washington Commanders
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Like safety Kamren Curl, Washington Commanders cornerback Kendall Fuller was often overshadowed by a bad defense in 2023. He also saw a drop-off in efficiency (120.4 opposing passer rating) following three straight seasons of reliable coverage in Washington.
However, the 29-year-old remains a quality starting corner with enough schematic versatility to play inside, outside or at safety. That versatility should expand Fuller's market and give potential employers fallback options should Fuller start to lose some of his speed over the next couple of years.
Though Fuller isn't the biggest (511", 198 lbs) or fastest defensive back in the 2024 free-agent market, he possesses a solid blend of play strength, quickness and experience. He can also bring veteran leadership and a playoff pedigree, having won a Super Bowl with Kansas City in 2019.
Fuller should be valued as a Week 1 starter and should garner consideration from both playoff hopefuls and rebuilding teams alike. With L'Jarius Sneed and Jaylon Johnson both getting the franchise tag, Fuller becomes the top corner available.
7. Baker Mayfield, QB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield makes for a very interesting evaluation. At times, he looks like a perennial Pro Bowler on film. Other times, he looks like his ceiling is as a mid-level spot starter.
Some context goes a long way here, as Mayfield has had a different offensive play-caller in five of his six seasons. He played for Kevin Stefanski and the Browns in 2020 and 2021, but he dealt with a significant shoulder injury in the latter campaign.
Mayfield's worst traits are a habit of bailing on pockets too early, some overconfidence in his arm strength and a tendency to throw high when he's out of rhythm. However, most of his miscues were at a minimum in 2023, a season that closely mirrored his record-setting 2018 rookie campaign and his 2020 playoff season.
When Mayfield is at his best, he can put the ball anywhere on the field and match almost any signal-caller with his accuracy. He quickly won over the Bucs with his toughness and leadership this past season, and if the 28-year-old can find a stable situation, he still has the potential to be a team's long-term answer at quarterback.
6. Leonard Williams, DL, Seattle Seahawks
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The Seattle Seahawks traded a 2024 second-round pick to the Giants to acquire defensive lineman Leonard Williams at the 2023 deadline. Now, there's a very real chance that Williams will at least test the open market.
If Williams can be had, he'd be a terrific pickup for any team looking to bolster its defensive front. He's always been a fairly consistent run defender, but he's also emerged as a reliable pass-rusher over the past few seasons.
In 10 games with the Seahawks this past year, Williams recorded 41 total tackles, 24 solo stops, nine tackles for loss, four sacks and 15 quarterback pressures.
Williams regularly gets a strong push up front. He possesses the size (6'5", 300lbs) and play strength to contain the edge or power-rush his way to the quarterback, and he can kick inside in a pinch if needed.
With Williams set to turn 30 in June, he might not draw heavy interest from teams in the early stages of a rebuild. However, he's playing at a high level and should have several productive seasons ahead of him.
5. Kirk Cousins, QB, Minnesota Vikings
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Were he fully healthy and perhaps just a shade younger, Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins would easily make the top three in our rankings because of positional value. The four-time Pro Bowler is easily the most proven, productive and consistent signal-caller headed to the 2024 free-agent market.
However, Cousins will turn 36 in August and is coming off a torn Achilles that he suffered in late October. He recently posted video of a brief throwing session on a tennis court, but Cousins is likely several months out from being in pre-injury form.
His performance was well above average before the injury in 2023, as he posted a passer rating of 103.8, and he can make all the throws. And while he possesses a good blend of accuracy and pocket mobility, Cousins won't regularly make things happen off-script.
While Cousins is perfectly capable of filling a starting job for a few years, he can't be viewed as a true quarterback of the future by rebuilding teams. That reality, along with the Achilles injury and a very impressive 2024 QB draft class keeps Cousins a bit lower on our list than his talent and past production might otherwise suggest.
4. Patrick Queen, LB, Baltimore Ravens
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2020 first-round pick Patrick Queen showed enough inconsistencies over his first three seasons that the Baltimore Ravens declined his fifth-year option and made a 2022 play for star linebacker Roquan Smith.
However, with Smith in the fold—and in his second season under Mike Macdonald—Queen exploded in 2023. The 24-year-old recorded his first Pro Bowl campaign by finishing with 133 tackles, 3.5 sacks, 10 QB pressures, six passes defended and nine tackles for loss.
Queen looks even better when one dives into his 2023 game film. Though not a true front-line disruptor or premium coverage linebacker, he does a little bit of everything well and is simply superb at diagnosing plays and using his elite closing speed to break to the football.
While Queen's career production isn't as impressive as some other free-agent linebackers, his combination of 2023 development, physical upside and youth makes him the premium target for teams in need of an off-ball linebacker.
3. Christian Wilkins, DT, Miami Dolphins
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Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Christian Wilkins spent the first four seasons of his career establishing himself as one of the league's top interior run defenders.
The 28-year-old is big (6'4", 310 lbs), physical, deceptively agile and can make plays in limited space. While many interior defenders his size excel at taking on blockers clogging lanes, Wilkins can actively get after ball-carriers—as evidenced by 59 solo stops in 2022.
This past season, however, Wilkins improved his play as an interior pass-rusher. He produced career highs in sacks (nine), quarterback pressures (30) and quarterback hits (23). However, with an added focus on pressuring signal-callers, Wilkins didn't appear to be as instinctual against the run.
Wilkins' total tackles dropped from 98 to 65, and he tied his career high with five missed tackles.
It'll be fair for teams to wonder which version of Wilkins they're going to get—a high-end interior rusher who is above average against the run or an elite run-defender who will occasionally pressure the quarterback. Either way, Wilkins is a relatively "safe" free-agent target who will command one of the largest contracts on the market.
2. Danielle Hunter, Edge, Minnesota Vikings
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In a vacuum, Minnesota Vikings star Danielle Hunter stands out as the top pure edge-rusher in the 2024 free-agent class. He has four Pro Bowls and five double-digit-sack seasons on his resume, and he's coming off arguably the best campaign of his career.
Hunter finished the 2023 season with 16.5 sacks, 41 quarterback pressures and a league-high 23 tackles for loss (tied with Maxx Crosby).
Dependable and productive as both a sack artist and a run defender—he recorded a missed-tackle rate of 5 percent or lower in each of the past four seasons—Hunter can do a little bit of everything well. He's also versatile enough to be a fit in either a 3-4 or a 4-3 base scheme.
However, the fact remains that Hunter will turn 30 in October and is only a few years removed from a neck injury that erased his 2020 season and a pectoral tear that cost him the bulk of 2021.
Hunter can be valued as a top-tier defender and a potential Defensive Player of the Year candidate, but his age and injury history may concern teams that don't plan to be immediate contenders next season.
1. Chris Jones, DT, Kansas City Chiefs
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The fact that Chris Jones will turn 30 in July could limit how much some teams would be willing to commit to him—to a very minor degree. Though he's likely entering the back half of his career, the five-time Pro Bowler and three-time Super Bowl champion is still one of the most disruptive defenders in the NFL.
Cap dollars and contract lengths aside, any team would be thrilled to employ Jones.
He is simply stellar against both the run and the pass, and he can do it from a variety of positions along the line. He's flipped between end and tackle in Kansas City and has rarely seen even a minor dip in production.
Over the past six seasons, Jones has produced at least 7.5 sacks and 27 QB pressures in every campaign. He finished the 2023 season with 10.5 sacks and three pressures while earning first-team All-Pro honors for the second straight year.
Jones is arguably the most impactful interior defender we've seen since the days of peak Aaron Donald, and players of his caliber simply don't hit the market often, if ever.
The unquestioned prize of 2024 free agency, Jones should be able to pick his next team—which could lead him right back to Kansas City.
Top 5 Positional Rankings
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Quarterback
1. Kirk Cousins, Minnesota Vikings
2. Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
3. Russell Wilson, Denver Broncos
4. Gardner Minshew, Indianapolis Colts
5. Jacoby Brissett, Washington Commanders
Running Back
1. Saquon Barkley, New York Giants
2. D'Andre Swift, Philadelphia Eagles
3. Derrick Henry, Tennessee Titans
4. Josh Jacobs, Las Vegas Raiders
5. Zack Moss, Indianapolis Colts
Wide Receiver
1. Calvin Ridley, Jacksonville Jaguars
2. Marquise Brown, Arizona Cardinals
3. Gabe Davis, Buffalo Bills
4. Josh Reynolds, Detroit Lions
5. Darnell Mooney, Chicago Bears
Tight End
1. Gerald Everett, Los Angeles Chargers
2. Noah Fant, Seattle Seahawks
3. Adam Trautman, Denver Broncos
4. Mike Gesicki, New England Patriots
5. Austin Hooper, Las Vegas Raiders
Offensive Tackle
1. Trent Brown, New England Patriots
2. Tyron Smith, Dallas Cowboys
3. Jonah Williams, Cincinnati Bengals
4. Donovan Smith, Kansas City Chiefs
5. Jermaine Eluemunor, Las Vegas Raiders
Interior Offensive Line
1. Mike Onwenu, New England Patriots
2. Robert Hunt, Miami Dolphins
3. Connor Williams, Miami Dolphins
4. Kevin Zeitler, Baltimore Ravens
5. Andre James, Las Vegas Raiders
Defensive Lineman
1. Chris Jones, Kansas City Chiefs
2. Christian Wilkins, Miami Dolphins
3. Leonard Williams, Seattle Seahawks
4. D.J. Reader, Cincinnati Bengals
5. Grover Steward, Indianapolis Colts
Edge-Rusher
1. Danielle Hunter, Minnesota Vikings
2. Bryce Huff, New York Jets
3. Chase Young, San Francisco 49ers
4. Josh Uche, New England Patriots
5. Jadeveon Clowney, Baltimore Ravens
Linebacker
1. Patrick Queen, Baltimore Ravens
2. Devin White, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
3. Lavonte David, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
4. Frankie Luvu, Carolina Panthers
5. Andrew Van Ginkel, Miami Dolphins
Cornerback
1. Kendall Fuller, CB, Washington Commanders
2. Chidobe Awuzie, Cincinnati Bengals
3. Stephon Gilmore, Dallas Cowboys
4. Kenny Moore II, Indianapolis Colts
5. Steven Nelson, Houston Texans
Safety
1. Kamren Curl, Washington Commanders
2. Justin Simmons, Denver Broncos
3. Xavier McKinney, New York Giants
4. Geno Stone, Baltimore Ravens
5. Jeremy Chinn, Carolina Panthers
*Contract and market information via Spotrac. Advanced statistics from Pro Football Reference unless otherwise noted.
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