The Top 10 NFL Free Agents of 2025

2025 NFL Free Agents: The Market Heats Up

The 2025 NFL free agency period is poised to be one of the most impactful in recent memory. With a number of top-tier players set to hit the open market, teams are preparing to make their moves in an effort to bolster their rosters. The 2023 NFL Draft will provide a glimpse into the future of the league, but the free agency period will truly shape the landscape of the NFL in the years to come.

Quarterbacks Take Center Stage

The quarterback position is always a hot commodity in the NFL, and this year’s free agent class is no exception. Several quarterbacks with starting experience are set to be available, including Derek Carr, Jimmy Garoppolo, and Ryan Tannehill. These players could provide a much-needed upgrade for teams looking to improve their quarterback play. Additionally, there are a number of young quarterbacks who could be available in trades, such as Trey Lance and Justin Fields. With so many options available, teams will have a variety of choices to make when it comes to upgrading their quarterback position.

Elite Quarterbacks Hitting the Open Market

The 2025 NFL free agent class is expected to be one of the most talented in recent memory, with a number of elite quarterbacks set to hit the open market. Here are three potential free agents who could command top dollar on the open market.

Lamar Jackson, Baltimore Ravens: Jackson is one of the most dynamic and exciting quarterbacks in the league, and he is coming off a season in which he led the Ravens to a 14-2 record and the AFC North title. Jackson is a dual-threat quarterback who can make plays with his arm and his legs, and he is one of the most dangerous players in the league when he has the ball in his hands.
Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals: Burrow is another young quarterback who has quickly established himself as one of the best in the league. In just his second season, Burrow led the Bengals to the Super Bowl, and he is one of the most accurate passers in the NFL. Burrow is a franchise quarterback who could be a cornerstone for a team for many years to come.
Justin Fields, Chicago Bears: Fields is a rising star who has shown flashes of brilliance in his first two seasons in the NFL. Fields is a mobile quarterback who can make plays with his legs, and he has a strong arm and good accuracy. Fields has the potential to be a top-tier quarterback in the NFL, and he could be a valuable asset for a team in need of a franchise quarterback.

These are just three of the many talented quarterbacks who could be available in the 2025 NFL free agent class. With so much talent available, it is sure to be a wild and unpredictable offseason.

Star Defenders Set to Seek New Deals

Several standout defensive players are poised to become free agents in 2025, setting the stage for a potential flurry of high-profile signings.

Elite Pass Rushers Hit the Market

A trio of dominant pass rushers headlines the list of available defenders in 2025. Nick Bosa, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, is expected to command a record-breaking contract. His brother, Joey, is also set to become a free agent, as is T.J. Watt, the 2021 Defensive Player of the Year. These elite defenders possess the ability to transform defenses and will likely be the subject of intense bidding wars.

Player	Position	2024 Status
Nick Bosa	Defensive End	UFA
Joey Bosa	Defensive End	UFA
T.J. Watt	Outside Linebacker	UFA

Other pass rushers set to test the market include Yannick Ngakoue, Bradley Chubb, and Za’Darius Smith, all of whom have proven to be game-changing performers.

Offensive Line Anchors on the Move

The 2025 NFL free agency class is expected to be one of the most talented in recent years, and several top offensive linemen are set to hit the open market. These players could have a major impact on the balance of power in the NFL, as they will be able to choose from a wide range of teams and destinations.

Interior Offensive Linemen

The interior offensive line is one of the most important positions in football, and several top players are set to hit free agency in 2025. These players include:

Brandon Scherff, Washington Commanders
Ryan Jensen, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Arik Armstead, San Francisco 49ers

Arik Armstead

Arik Armstead is one of the most versatile defensive linemen in the NFL, and he can play both defensive end and defensive tackle. He is a disruptive force in the pass rush, and he is also a solid run stopper. Armstead has been a key part of the 49ers’ success in recent years, and he is expected to be one of the most sought-after free agents in 2025.

Armstead is a physical specimen, and he has the size and strength to be a dominant force in the NFL. He is also a very good athlete, and he has the quickness and agility to get to the quarterback or running back quickly. Armstead is a complete player, and he is one of the best defensive linemen in the NFL.

Player	Position	Age
Arik Armstead	Defensive End/Defensive Tackle	29

Wide Receiver Glut in Free Agency Pool

The 2025 NFL free agency class is expected to be top-heavy at the wide receiver position, with a number of young, talented players set to hit the open market. This could create a buyer’s market for teams looking to add a playmaker to their offense.

Number 4: Deebo Samuel, San Francisco 49ers

Deebo Samuel is one of the most versatile players in the NFL, and he’s coming off a breakout season in which he had over 1,700 yards from scrimmage and 14 touchdowns. Samuel is a threat to score every time he touches the ball, and he can line up anywhere on the field. He’s a perfect fit for a team that wants to add a dynamic playmaker to their offense.

Year	Team	Receptions	Receiving yards	Touchdowns
2020	San Francisco 49ers	33	391	5
2021	San Francisco 49ers	77	1,405	6
2022	San Francisco 49ers	96	1,489	11

Pro Bowl Tight Ends Available

Several Pro Bowl-caliber tight ends will be available in free agency in 2025, including:

Darren Waller

The Raiders’ star tight end has been one of the most productive pass-catchers in the NFL over the past few seasons, with over 1,000 receiving yards in each of the last three years.

Travis Kelce

The Chiefs’ tight end is one of the best in the league and has been a key part of their success in recent years. He is known for his athleticism and ability to make big plays.

Mark Andrews

The Ravens’ tight end has quickly emerged as one of the top young players at his position. He is a dynamic playmaker who can stretch the field and make plays in the red zone.

TJ Hockenson

The Lions’ tight end is another young player who has shown a lot of potential. He is a big target with good hands and athleticism.

Mike Gesicki

The Dolphins’ tight end is a versatile player who can line up in a variety of positions. He is a good receiver and blocker, making him a valuable asset to any team.

Top-Tier Cornerbacks Seeking New Homes

The 2025 NFL free agency class is expected to feature a strong group of cornerbacks. Several top-tier players are set to hit the open market, and they could have a major impact on the league’s landscape.

Jalen Ramsey

Ramsey is arguably the best cornerback in the NFL. He is a physical specimen with excellent ball skills and coverage ability. Ramsey is also a vocal leader and a key part of any defense. He is expected to be one of the most sought-after free agents in 2025.

Jaire Alexander

Alexander is another top-tier cornerback who is expected to hit the open market in 2025. He is a quick and agile player with excellent instincts. Alexander is also a very good tackler. He is one of the most complete cornerbacks in the NFL.

Marshon Lattimore

Lattimore is a three-time Pro Bowler who is entering the final year of his contract with the Saints. He is a physical cornerback with good size and strength. Lattimore is also a very good tackler. He is expected to be one of the most coveted free agents in 2025.

Tre’Davious White

White is a two-time Pro Bowler who is entering the final year of his contract with the Bills. He is a quick and agile cornerback with excellent ball skills. White is also a very good tackler. He is expected to be one of the most sought-after free agents in 2025.

Denzel Ward

Ward is a two-time Pro Bowler who is entering the final year of his contract with the Browns. He is a physical cornerback with good size and strength. Ward is also a very good tackler. He is expected to be one of the most coveted free agents in 2025.

Additional Cornerbacks Who Could Be Available in Free Agency

In addition to the five players listed above, there are several other cornerbacks who could be available in free agency in 2025. These players include:

Player	Team
Casey Hayward	Falcons
A.J. Bouye	Broncos
Janoris Jenkins	Giants
Xavier Rhodes	Colts
Trae Waynes	Vikings

Safety Market Shake-Up

The NFL’s safety market is set to undergo a major shakeup in 2025, as a slew of top players hit free agency. Several teams will be looking to upgrade their defenses with these talented ballhawks.

Potential Free Agents

Some of the biggest names set to hit the market include:

Justin Simmons, Denver Broncos
Jessie Bates, Cincinnati Bengals
Minkah Fitzpatrick, Pittsburgh Steelers
Marcus Williams, Baltimore Ravens
Jordan Poyer, Buffalo Bills
Derwin James, Los Angeles Chargers

Teams in Need

Numerous teams are in dire need of safety reinforcements. Among the most notable are:

New England Patriots
New York Giants
Detroit Lions
Arizona Cardinals
Washington Commanders

Impact on the Market

The abundance of talented free agents is expected to drive up prices for safeties. Teams will be willing to pay a premium for players who can make an immediate impact on their defense. As a result, several players could sign deals in the $10 million per year range.

Projected Top Free Agents

Here’s a projected ranking of the top free agent safeties in 2025:

Rank	Player	Team
1	Minkah Fitzpatrick	Pittsburgh Steelers
2	Derwin James	Los Angeles Chargers
3	Jordan Poyer	Buffalo Bills
4	Justin Simmons	Denver Broncos
5	Marcus Williams	Baltimore Ravens

Market Outlook

The 2025 NFL safety market is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. Teams will be fiercely bidding for the services of these elite playmakers, leading to some potentially lucrative contracts and a major shift in the league’s defensive landscape.

Veteran Linebackers with Proven Experience

In the 2025 NFL free agent class, several veteran linebackers will be available. These players have a wealth of experience and can contribute immediately to a team in need of defensive help

Lavonte David

David is a 12-year veteran who has played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers his entire career. He is a two-time Pro Bowler and a one-time All-Pro. David is a versatile linebacker who can play inside or outside. He is a good tackler and has a knack for making big plays.

Bobby Wagner

Wagner is an 11-year veteran who has played for the Seattle Seahawks his entire career. He is a seven-time Pro Bowler and a five-time All-Pro. Wagner is one of the best linebackers in the NFL. He is a great tackler and has a good nose for the ball.

Darius Leonard

Leonard is a four-year veteran who has played for the Indianapolis Colts his entire career. He is a three-time Pro Bowler and a two-time All-Pro. Leonard is a young, ascending star. He is a dynamic playmaker who can make a difference in all phases of the game.

Micah Parsons

Parsons is a two-year veteran who has played for the Dallas Cowboys his entire career. He is a two-time Pro Bowler and a one-time All-Pro. Parsons is a versatile athlete who can play multiple positions on defense. He is a disruptive force who can make plays all over the field.

Demario Davis

Davis is a nine-year veteran who has played for the New Orleans Saints and New York Jets. He is a two-time Pro Bowler. Davis is a solid all-around linebacker who can play inside or outside. He is a good tackler and has a good understanding of the game.

Tremaine Edmunds

Edmunds is a five-year veteran who has played for the Buffalo Bills his entire career. He is a two-time Pro Bowler and a one-time All-Pro. Edmunds is a young, athletic linebacker who can cover a lot of ground. He is a good tackler and has a good nose for the ball.

C.J. Mosley

Mosley is a nine-year veteran who has played for the Baltimore Ravens and New York Jets. He is a three-time Pro Bowler and a one-time All-Pro. Mosley is a versatile linebacker who can play inside or outside. He is a good tackler and has a good understanding of the game.

Jaylon Smith

Smith is a six-year veteran who has played for the Dallas Cowboys his entire career. He is a two-time Pro Bowler. Smith is a young, athletic linebacker who can cover a lot of ground. He is a good tackler and has a good nose for the ball.

Mason Foster

Foster is a 10-year Veteran who has played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Washington Redskins and Carolina Panthers. He has 105 starts in 154 games played, recording 755 tackles (516 solo), 12.5 sacks, 6 forced fumbles, 6 fumble recoveries, and 6 interceptions. He was a member of the Redskins team that won the NFC East in 2012 and 2015 and the Panthers team that won the NFC Championship in 2015 and Super Bowl 50.

Player	Tackles	Sacks	INT
Mason Foster	755	12.5	6
Lavonte David	1239	25.5	14
Bobby Wagner	1392	60.0	10

Rising Young Stars Seek Bigger Paydays

The 2025 NFL free agent class is expected to be one of the most talented in recent years. A number of rising young stars are set to hit the market, and they are likely to command big paydays.

Quarterbacks

The quarterback position is always one of the most important in the NFL, and the 2025 free agent class is no different. Several young quarterbacks are expected to be available, including:

Justin Fields, Chicago Bears
Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars
Zach Wilson, New York Jets

Running Backs

Running backs are another key position in the NFL, and the 2025 free agent class has a number of talented options. Some of the top running backs who could be available include:

Alvin Kamara, New Orleans Saints
Christian McCaffrey, Carolina Panthers
Ezekiel Elliott, Dallas Cowboys

Wide Receivers

Wide receivers are always in high demand, and the 2025 free agent class is no exception. Several young wide receivers are expected to be available, including:

Justin Jefferson, Minnesota Vikings
T.J. Hockenson, Detroit Lions
Tee Higgins, Cincinnati Bengals

Tight Ends

Tight ends are becoming increasingly important in the NFL, and the 2025 free agent class has a number of talented options. Some of the top tight ends who could be available include:

Travis Kelce, Kansas City Chiefs
George Kittle, San Francisco 49ers
Darren Waller, Las Vegas Raiders

Offensive Linemen

Offensive linemen are the backbone of any successful offense, and the 2025 free agent class has a number of talented options. Some of the top offensive linemen who could be available include:

Trent Williams, San Francisco 49ers
Orlando Brown Jr., Kansas City Chiefs
Andrew Whitworth, Los Angeles Rams

Defensive Linemen

Defensive linemen are responsible for pressuring the quarterback and stopping the run, and the 2025 free agent class has a number of talented options. Some of the top defensive linemen who could be available include:

Aaron Donald, Los Angeles Rams
Nick Bosa, San Francisco 49ers
Myles Garrett, Cleveland Browns

Linebackers

Linebackers are responsible for covering receivers, stopping the run, and pressuring the quarterback, and the 2025 free agent class has a number of talented options. Some of the top linebackers who could be available include:

Bobby Wagner, Los Angeles Rams
T.J. Watt, Pittsburgh Steelers
Fred Warner, San Francisco 49ers

Cornerbacks

Cornerbacks are responsible for covering receivers, and the 2025 free agent class has a number of talented options. Some of the top cornerbacks who could be available include:

Jaire Alexander, Green Bay Packers
Tre’Davious White, Buffalo Bills
Jalen Ramsey, Los Angeles Rams

Safeties

Safeties are responsible for covering receivers, stopping the run, and intercepting passes, and the 2025 free agent class has a number of talented options. Some of the top safeties who could be available include:

Tyrann Mathieu, Kansas City Chiefs
Derwin James, Los Angeles Chargers
Minkah Fitzpatrick, Pittsburgh Steelers

Underrated Gems Poised for Contract Year Breakouts

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, several under-the-radar players are poised to shine and earn lucrative contract extensions.

1. Michael Carter II, CB, New York Jets

Carter is a versatile corner who can play outside or in the slot. He has been a key part of the Jets’ improved defense, posting 4 interceptions and 10 pass breakups in 2022. With his impressive athleticism and ball skills, Carter is primed for a breakout season.

2. Trey Hendrickson, DE, Cincinnati Bengals

Hendrickson is a relentless pass rusher who has quietly become one of the most effective edge defenders in the NFL. In 2022, he recorded 14 sacks, 4 forced fumbles, and 29 tackles for loss. Hendrickson is due for a big payday in 2025.

3. Darius Slayton, WR, New York Giants

Slayton is a speedy wide receiver who has shown flashes of brilliance. With his 4.3 speed and ability to make big plays, Slayton is a potential X-factor for the Giants in 2023. If he can stay healthy and produce, he will be in line for a significant contract extension.

4. AJ Dillon, RB, Green Bay Packers

Dillon is a bruising runner who has emerged as a valuable asset for the Packers. He is a powerful inside runner who can create yards after contact and score touchdowns. Dillon is due for a bigger role in 2023, and a strong season will put him in line for a big payday.

5. Jabrill Peppers, S, Carolina Panthers

Peppers is a versatile safety who can play both the box and the deep middle. He is a physical tackler and has shown a knack for making big plays. With the Panthers in need of a playmaker in the secondary, Peppers is poised for a breakout season.

6. Preston Smith, OLB, Green Bay Packers

Smith is a veteran pass rusher who has shown he can still be effective. He is a good athlete with a knack for getting to the quarterback. With the Packers likely to rely more on him in 2023, Smith is motivated to prove he is still a valuable player.

7. Will Fuller V, WR, Dallas Cowboys

Fuller is a speedy wide receiver who has had some injury issues in the past. However, when healthy, he is a dangerous deep threat. With the Cowboys in need of another playmaker at wide receiver, Fuller is primed for a big season.

8. Gerald Everett, TE, Los Angeles Chargers

Everett is a solid all-around tight end who has shown flashes of brilliance. He is a good receiver and blocker, and he has the potential to be a key part of the Chargers’ offense in 2023. With a strong season, Everett could earn himself a big contract extension.

9. Darius Phillips, CB, Cincinnati Bengals

Phillips is a versatile cornerback who can play outside or in the slot. He is a good tackler and has shown a knack for making big plays. With the Bengals looking for a new starter at corner, Phillips is poised for a breakout season.

10.

Table of Potential Contract Details for Underrated Gems

Player	Position	2025 Salary	Potential Market Value
Michael Carter II	CB	$5 million	$12-15 million/year
Trey Hendrickson	DE	$7 million	$15-18 million/year
Darius Slayton	WR	$1 million	$8-10 million/year
AJ Dillon	RB	$2 million	$6-8 million/year
Jabrill Peppers	S	$4 million	$10-12 million/year

2025 NFL Free Agents: A Look Ahead

The 2025 NFL season is still a few years away, but it’s never too early to start thinking about the upcoming free agent class. Several talented players will be hitting the open market, and teams will be vying to sign them.

One of the most intriguing players available in 2025 will be quarterback Lamar Jackson. Jackson is one of the most dynamic players in the league, and he’s still just 25 years old. He’s coming off a season in which he threw for 3,651 yards and 36 touchdowns, and he also rushed for 1,005 yards and seven touchdowns. Jackson is a game-changer, and he could be the missing piece for a team looking to make a Super Bowl run.

Another player who could be a significant impact in 2025 is wide receiver Deebo Samuel. Samuel is a versatile playmaker who can line up in the slot, out wide, or even in the backfield. He’s coming off a season in which he caught 77 passes for 1,405 yards and six touchdowns, and he also rushed for 365 yards and eight touchdowns. Samuel is a nightmare for defenses to match up with, and he could be a huge weapon for a team looking to improve its passing attack.

Several other talented players will be available in 2025, including running back Saquon Barkley, cornerback Jalen Ramsey, and defensive end Nick Bosa. These players are all entering the prime of their careers, and they could all have a significant impact on their new teams.