Our NFL free agency cheat sheet: Sleepers, top QBs and teams to watch

What can we expect in free agency, and when does it start?

As the NFL free agency period approaches, excitement is building among fans and teams alike. Officially kicking off at 4 p.m. ET on March 12, the frenzy begins a bit earlier with teams allowed to start negotiating with players on March 10. This period is always a whirlwind of activity, and this year promises to be no different. With a record salary cap of $279.2 million, teams have more room to maneuver and make significant moves.

One of the most intriguing aspects of this year’s free agency is the quarterback market. Matthew Stafford’s contract adjustment with the Rams has set off a ripple effect for teams in need of a quarterback, including the Raiders, Giants, Steelers, and Browns. Notable quarterbacks available include Sam Darnold, Justin Fields, Russell Wilson, and Aaron Rodgers, who is expected to be released by the Jets.

On the offensive side, the franchise-tag deadline and negotiation window have reshaped the class of available receivers. The Bengals tagged Tee Higgins for the second consecutive season, while the Jets released Davante Adams, who will have to decide whether to reunite with Rodgers or chart his own course. Chris Godwin and Stefon Diggs are also set to hit the open market, though both are coming off season-ending injuries, which could impact their value.

Outside of the receiver position, teams are expected to spend on the offensive line, with tackle Ronnie Stanley and center Drew Dalman reaching free agency. Defensively, pass rushers are always in demand, and veterans like Josh Sweat, Khalil Mack, Haason Reddick, and Joey Bosa are expected to draw significant interest.

For those looking to dive deeper into the free agency frenzy, ESPN has a live tracker and grading signings available for more detailed updates.

Who are the top free agents available?

Matt Bowen has ranked the top 10 free agents available this year, and it’s a list that showcases some of the best talent in the league:

1. Ronnie Stanley, OT
2. D.J. Reed, CB
3. Chris Godwin, WR
4. Sam Darnold, QB
5. Josh Sweat, Edge
6. Milton Williams, DT
7. Khalil Mack, LB
8. Charvarius Ward, CB
9. Jevon Holland, S
10. Joey Bosa, Edge

For a more comprehensive list, check out the top 100 free agents and 32 players who need a change of scenery.

Who was franchise-tagged?

This year, only two teams opted to use the franchise tag before the deadline. The Kansas City Chiefs tagged guard Trey Smith, while the Cincinnati Bengals tagged wide receiver Tee Higgins for the second year in a row. For more details, check out the franchise tag tracker and learn more about the NFL franchise tag.

Who are the top quarterbacks available?

The quarterback market is always a hot topic during free agency, and this year is no exception. Sam Darnold is coming off a career-best season, throwing for 4,319 yards and 35 touchdowns. Despite the Vikings’ commitment to J.J. McCarthy, they would love to bring Darnold back, but he is likely to find better deals on the open market.

Aaron Rodgers, at 41 years old, is another intriguing option. Although he won only five games last season, his experience and skill set make him a valuable asset for teams like the Giants, Raiders, and Titans, who are not likely to be 2025 contenders.

Justin Fields, who was 4-2 as a starter for the Steelers last season, is another quarterback to watch. With his ability to run and flashes of passing prowess, Fields could attract interest from teams looking for an upside play.

Other quarterbacks in the mix include Kirk Cousins, Russell Wilson, Daniel Jones, Jameis Winston, Carson Wentz, Joe Flacco, Jimmy Garoppolo, and Jacoby Brissett. For more insights, check out the predictions for all 32 starting QBs and the path to career recovery for free agent QBs.

Free agents who will break the bank

Some free agents are expected to command significant contracts this year. Milton Williams, a defensive tackle, has steadily improved and delivered his best performance in 2024. His disruptive play and 12.5% pressure rate make him a valuable asset.

Sam Darnold is another player expected to make a splash in free agency. With a career-best season under his belt, Darnold is likely to receive an unquestioned QB1 job and a substantial contract.

Byron Murphy Jr., a cornerback, is hitting the market at the right time. At 27 years old, he had his most productive season with six interceptions and 14 passes defensed. Murphy is expected to create a bidding war for his services.

Will Fries, a guard, is another player to watch. Despite a fractured tibia ending his 2024 season, Fries was a plus starter and is expected to command a significant contract. For more insights, check out the offensive contract tiers and the defensive contract tiers.

Which teams could be active in free agency?

Several teams are expected to be active in free agency this year:

• New England Patriots: With nearly $130 million in cap space, the Patriots are poised to make significant moves. They need help on the offensive line, at wide receiver, and in the defensive backfield.
• Carolina Panthers: The Panthers are looking to rebuild their defense and add depth across the board. They have roughly $31 million in cap space to work with.
• Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals are focused on keeping their core intact and have $62 million in cap space to make it happen.
• New York Giants: With $47.6 million in cap space, the Giants are looking to upgrade their roster, particularly at quarterback.
• Denver Broncos: The Broncos are looking to improve their defense and have $43 million in cap space to make moves.

For more insights, check out the daring moves for all 32 teams and the one free agent every team should sign.

Which teams could be quiet in free agency?

While some teams are gearing up for a busy free agency period, others are expected to be more reserved:

• New Orleans Saints: The Saints are $46 million over the cap and will need to make moves to become cap compliant.
• Cleveland Browns: The Browns are over the cap for both 2025 and 2026, limiting their ability to make significant moves.
• San Francisco 49ers: With a new contract for Brock Purdy looming, the 49ers are expected to be cautious in free agency.
• Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles are leveraged with the salary cap and are expected to focus on the trade market instead.

For more insights, check out the cap questions for every team.

What are some of the best potential player-team fits?

Finding the right fit for players and teams is crucial in free agency. Here are a few potential matches:

• Josh Sweat to the Cardinals: Arizona coach Jonathan Gannon worked with Sweat in Philly, making him a great fit for the Cardinals’ defense.
• Drew Dalman to the Bears: Dalman’s technique and fit for the zone run game make him a valuable addition to the Bears’ offensive line.
• Nick Bolton to the Broncos: Bolton’s ability to stop the run and his potential in coverage make him a great fit for the Broncos’ defense.

For more insights, check out the best team fits for 50 free agents and the simulation of free agency for six players.

Big questions

As free agency approaches, several big questions loom:

• Will the Patriots target top free agents or add quality veterans on low-priced deals? The Patriots plan to target at least one top free agent, with Ronnie Stanley being a potential target. However, they also plan to be flexible and have backup plans.
• What’s the biggest priority for the Bengals in free agency? The Bengals need to improve up the middle, with guard and defensive tackle being primary concerns.
• Which of the Saints’ unrestricted free agents are most likely to stay? The Saints have 15 unrestricted free agents, with Paulson Adebo, Chase Young, and Juwan Johnson being the most notable names.

What is the deepest position?

Cornerback is the deepest position in this year’s free agency class. With several good, every-down starters in their prime, seasoned veterans, and standout slot specialists, teams will have plenty of options to choose from. For more insights, check out the potential free agency steals.

Which free agents are going under the radar?

While some free agents are expected to make headlines, others are flying under the radar:

• Patrick Mekari, OL: Known for his strong technique, Mekari is a versatile player who can play both tackle and guard.
• Dayo Odeyingbo, Edge: Despite a quiet career, Odeyingbo has shown potential for growth and led the Colts with 33 pressures last season.
• Darius Slayton, WR: A deep threat with above-average efficiency measurements, Slayton is a player to watch.
• Robert Spillane, LB: Spillane was involved in 19.2% of Las Vegas’ defensive plays last season and was one of the top linebackers in coverage DVOA.

Bold predictions

As free agency approaches, here are some bold predictions:

• The Browns will sign J.K. Dobbins and retain Nick Chubb. Dobbins’ explosiveness would fit the Browns’ offensive philosophy, while Chubb’s leadership presence would be valuable in the locker room.
• Najee Harris will sign with the Chargers. Harris would be an intriguing addition to the Chargers’ run-heavy offense.
• Sam Darnold will sign with the Raiders. Darnold’s big 2024 season makes him a valuable asset for the Raiders.
• Khalil Mack will sign with the Commanders. Mack’s ability to provide consistent pressure makes him a good fit for the Commanders’ aggressive defensive scheme.
• Darnold will sign with the Giants. This move would give the Giants a much-needed starter at quarterback.
• Most big names considered for trade will be cut, not traded. Financially steep deals make it difficult for teams to trade notable players.

What is the biggest draft implication for free agency?

The lack of elite quarterback prospects in this draft class makes free agency all the more important for teams. With just two quarterbacks expected to be drafted in Round 1, teams will be hustling to fill needs at the position before April 24. For more insights, check out the two-round NFL mock draft.

What could free agency mean for fantasy football?

This year’s free agent class is underwhelming for fantasy football enthusiasts. Sam Darnold, last year’s QB9, is the top signal-caller to watch, while Aaron Rodgers is a wild card. The running back market lacks elite talent, but Javonte Williams is intriguing. Wide receiver is the strongest position, with Chris Godwin, Amari Cooper, and Stefon Diggs leading the way. For more insights, check out the fantasy football free agency preview.