The 2024 NFL season has concluded with the Philadelphia Eagles emerging victorious in Super Bowl 59 against the Kansas City Chiefs. With the final coaching vacancy for 2025 now filled, teams are eagerly looking ahead to the upcoming season. The new league year kicks off on Wednesday, March 12 at 4 p.m. ET, allowing teams to engage in negotiations with pending free agent players in the 48 hours leading up to the deadline.
Every year sees significant player movements in free agency, and the Eagles made notable acquisitions last offseason, including Saquon Barkley and Zack Baun, who both played crucial roles in the Eagles’ championship run. As teams gear up for the upcoming season, there is a pool of talented free agents available once again.
Here is a breakdown of the top 15 defensive free agents for 2025:
1. Defensive End Josh Sweat, Philadelphia Eagles:
Leading the Eagles in sacks during the regular season and delivering a standout playoff performance, Sweat’s size and athleticism make him a formidable force on the field. At 28 years old, he is expected to command top dollar in free agency.
2. Defensive Tackle Milton Williams, Philadelphia Eagles:
While overshadowed by other defensive stars on the Eagles, Williams proved himself with impressive stats in the Super Bowl and the regular season. With a high pressure rate, he is set to be a sought-after player in free agency.
3. Safety Jevon Holland, Miami Dolphins:
Despite injury setbacks in 2023, Holland showcased his skills in 2024, making him a valuable asset at the safety position. With a track record of success, he is likely to attract considerable interest this offseason.
4. Cornerback D.J. Reed, New York Jets:
A proven starter at outside cornerback, Reed boasts solid defensive metrics and should be compensated accordingly as he approaches his 29th birthday next season.
5. Linebacker Zack Baun, Philadelphia Eagles:
After a breakout season with the Eagles, Baun is poised to be a top linebacker in free agency. His stellar performance under defensive coordinator Vic Fangio’s guidance will likely earn him a lucrative deal.
6. Cornerback Charvarius Ward, San Francisco 49ers:
Noteworthy for his league-leading passes defensed and interceptions in 2023, Ward is a key player in the free agent market for his defensive prowess.
After receiving Pro Bowl honors for his outstanding efforts, the year 2024 brought about significant challenges for Ward. Following a brief absence due to an ankle injury, he took time away from the field to grieve the loss of his daughter. As Ward approaches his 29th birthday and enters free agency for the second time, he is expected to secure a shorter contract due to his age but still command a lucrative deal.
1. Defensive Tackle Osa Odighizuwa, Dallas Cowboys:
Coming off a breakout season as a pass rusher in 2024, Odighizuwa, a 2021 third-round pick, achieved career-highs in sacks and pressures. Despite being slightly undersized for his position at 6-foot-2 and 280 lbs, his impressive pass-rushing abilities position him as a top interior defensive lineman after Williams.
2. Safety Tre’Von Moehrig, Las Vegas Raiders:
Despite the Raiders’ lack of contention in 2024, Moehrig excelled with career-best performances in various defensive categories. At 26 years old, his proficiency against both the run and pass makes him a desirable target for teams seeking secondary support.
3. Cornerback Byron Murphy Jr., Minnesota Vikings:
Murphy emerged as the Vikings’ top cornerback in 2024, showcasing his skills with a career-high six interceptions and an impressive quarterback rating when targeted. At 27 years old, he is poised to secure a substantial deal in the upcoming season.
4. Cornerback Carlton Davis III, Detroit Lions:
After a successful stint with the Lions was cut short by a fractured jaw, Davis III’s experience in different defensive schemes makes him a valuable asset. As he turns 28 next season, he is expected to command a similar market value to Murphy Jr.
5. Linebacker Dre Greenlaw, San Francisco 49ers:
Greenlaw faces a comeback after missing most of the 2024 season due to injury. Known for his athleticism and defensive prowess, the 28-year-old linebacker presents a potential high-reward opportunity for interested teams.
6. Safety Justin Reid, Kansas City Chiefs:
A two-time Super Bowl champion with the Chiefs, Reid offers a blend of experience, tackling ability, and coverage skills. As he hits free agency at 28 years old, he is likely to attract interest from teams in need of stability in the secondary.
7. Linebacker Nick Bolton, Kansas City Chiefs:
Bolton’s strength against the run and knack for disrupting plays make him a valuable asset despite his limitations in coverage. At 25 years old, he presents a promising option for teams seeking defensive reinforcement.
8. Safety Camryn Bynum, Minnesota Vikings:
With a balanced skill set encompassing solid tackling and impressive coverage stats, Bynum, approaching 27, is positioned as a reliable starter for teams in search of defensive upgrades.
9. Cornerback Paulson Adebo, New Orleans Saints:
Recovering from a season-ending injury
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