The NFL’s new league year officially begins at 4 p.m. ET on Wednesday, allowing free agents to formally sign contracts. The legal tampering period saw several moves, including Sam Darnold heading to the Pacific Northwest, the Minnesota Vikings strengthening their lines, Justin Fields joining the New York Jets, and Joey Bosa moving to Buffalo. Many quality players are still available, with USA TODAY Sports ranking the top 20 free agents. Some notable players include Stefon Diggs, who may be a good fit for teams like the Cowboys, Patriots, or Chargers; Amari Cooper, a skilled route runner looking for a better connection with Josh Allen; Aaron Rodgers, who had a rough season with the Jets but showed improvement towards the end; Cam Robinson, a solid left tackle option; Keenan Allen, a veteran receiver adjusting to a new team; Russell Wilson, a capable QB looking for the right situation; J.K. Dobbins, a running back with potential but plagued by injuries; Evan Engram, a pass-catching tight end recovering from a torn labrum; and Justin Simmons, a top safety option for teams like the Falcons.
A few seasons ago, he was one of the top safeties in the NFL. He had a successful partnership with Jessie Bates during his time in Atlanta. While he continues to be a starting safety, he no longer maintains the same level of excellence that he once did in Denver.
10. Julian Blackmon, safety (2024 team: Colts)
Blackmon has started in 62 games for Indianapolis and has recorded a minimum of three interceptions and 86 tackles over the past two seasons.
11. Teven Jenkins, offensive line (2024 team: Bears)
The Bears decided to let Jenkins go after making changes to their interior offensive line. Jenkins was accountable for four sacks and 17 pressures in 738 snaps.
12. Dante Fowler, edge (2024 team: Commanders)
Fowler had a standout season as a pass rusher, leading the Commanders with 10.5 sacks. At 31 years old, he may excel as a situational pass rusher at this stage of his career.
13. Azeez Ojulari, edge (2024 team: Giants)
Ojulari showed promise in his rookie season with eight sacks, but he needs to demonstrate growth as an edge rusher to reach his full potential.
14. Asante Samuel Jr., cornerback (2024 team: Chargers)
Samuel started the season as the Chargers’ primary corner but ended on injured reserve. He possesses solid coverage skills but struggles with tackling.
15. Mekhi Becton, offensive line (2024 team: Eagles)
Becton found success with the Eagles after a challenging start with the Jets. He performed well at right guard, allowing three sacks and 25 pressures.
16. Kyzir White, linebacker (2024 team: Cardinals)
White tallied 137 tackles in 17 starts for the Cardinals last season. He is an athletic linebacker with a consistent track record of at least 90 tackles per season.
17. DeMarcus Lawrence, edge (2024 team: Cowboys)
Lawrence’s 2024 season was cut short due to a foot injury. When healthy, he was one of the Cowboys’ top pass rushers. He will turn 33 at the start of the next season.
18. Levi Onwuzurike, defensive line (2024 team: Lions)
Onwuzurike started 10 games for a depleted Lions defense and achieved a career-high 13 QB hits in 2024. He has the potential to further improve as a defensive tackle.
19. Josh Myers, center (2024 team: Packers)
Myers allowed only one sack and 29 pressures in over 1,000 snaps last season. He is a reliable center who has started every game for the past three years.
20. Za’Darius Smith, edge (2024 team: Lions, Browns)
Smith performed well with both the Lions and Browns, totaling nine sacks
