This version of the Top 101 has changed plenty since the start of the negotiating window on Mon., March 13. With free agency officially open, expect more veteran cuts like Ezekiel Elliott to add to a list that has had plenty of value throughout, even if the top-shelf starters at premium positions are mostly absent.
EDITOR’S NOTES:
- This article, originally published on Feb. 27, 2023, will be updated as the free agents on the list below are signed or notable players hit the open market. As players agree to deals and come off the market, they will be moved to the bottom portion of this list.
- Each player’s listed age represents how old he will be on Sept. 7, when the 2023 NFL season is set to kick off.
BEST AVAILABLE
On one hand, OBJ, who did not play at all in 2022, has had time to recuperate from his second ACL surgery last February. On the other, he’s had two ACL surgeries since 2020. In a dry season for free agent receiver talent, Beckham would still bring juice to any offense.
Sacks and QB hits sell, but Ngakoue’s inability to stop the run is probably why he’s likely headed to his sixth team in four years. This section of the Top 101 is where the 2023 crop begins to feel thinner than groups from previous years, because there aren’t as many plus starters available.
One big mistake I see in free agent evaluations is overrating the previous year instead of considering the full body of work over a player’s career. Like tight end Mike Gesicki, Ford is hitting free agency after a down year. Neither player fit in new schemes in 2022, but Ford previously showed enough traits as a high-level penetrator for me to believe there are more good seasons to come.
There is no other position with a greater variance than cornerback, even among quality starters. Griffin has the combination of youth, experience (72 career starts) and a track record of being an asset that is worth betting on as a bounce-back candidate.
Another year, another Top 101 free agents blurb for Clowney. He gets a little lower on the list each season; the ugly ending to his time in Cleveland doesn’t bode well for his value.
A physical corner who excels at press man coverage, Ya-Sin profiles as a solid enough starter who has never quite reached his top potential. I like those kinds of signings in free agency, because the floor is high and the ceiling is higher.
Yes, he was that dude who pushed Broncos backup quarterback Brett Rypien on the sidelines on Christmas Day. He’s also started 62 games at an above-average level since entering the league.
It’s a bad sign that Wynn seemed to fall out of favor with the Patriots before landing on injured reserve, but he’s still a young player with plenty of high-level tape — though it came during his first three seasons.
One of those cornerbacks who just knows how to play, Peters was effective in his first season back from ACL surgery. He still looks like a starter.
Floyd may not have hit double-digit sacks last season, but he played well down the stretch after getting over a knee injury. The veteran is a quality run stopper who can upgrade plenty of starting jobs around the league.
Every year, I rank Ingram high in this list. Then no NFL team seems to want him, and then he balls out for a while. Even if he goes off-script sometimes, the chaos is worth it.
Teddy Two Gloves had career highs in yards per attempt (8.6) and touchdown percentage (5.1%) on just 79 pass attempts for Miami, with both of his starts cut short by injury. There are more teams looking for quarterbacks than there are surefire starters in this market, so Bridgewater should have suitors.
This is not the Connor McGovern on the Cowboys. This is the one who took every snap for the Jets last season at center. The Jets should want to keep him, for the sake of continuity.
Smith was no longer worth his previous contract with the Bucs, but he’s barely missed a snap in eight seasons as a starter. He’s probably better in pass protection than run blocking, which is why he should find a starting job without much trouble.
Clark played a lot for the Chiefs — perhaps too much. That helped him rack up more than 50 pressures in each of the last two years, but he’d be better used as a rotational pass rusher at this stage in his career.
Injuries threatened Callahan’s career before a resurgent 2022 season with the Chargers playing the slot.
It’s just silly how Houston never gets old. He is like the edge version of Calais Campbell and isn’t that far from having a case to be in the Pro Football Hall of Fame someday.
The last time Johnson was a free agent, he was ranked No. 35 on this list and received a huge contract (three years, $33.75 million) from the Browns. It didn’t pan out, but his former coaches in Los Angeles (either team!) should still want to work with a true center fielder.
SEE: Sheldon Rankins.
Rapp is an excellent tackler who never quite developed into the playmaker the Rams hoped when they took him in the second round in 2019. He should still absolutely start in the league.
OFF THE MARKET
Undervalued in free agency three years ago, Hargrave should get bigger money this time after back-to-back monster seasons. The Eagles tend to pay younger free agents, so he may get his full value elsewhere.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Hargrave signed a four-year, $84 million deal ($40 million guaranteed) with the San Francisco 49ers, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 13.
Left tackle may not even be Brown’s best position, but he’s an above-average starter with great physical traits. Even if Chiefs fans have had mixed feelings, the Chiefs front office offered him a huge contract last offseason for a reason. Another franchise tag could be coming.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Brown signed a four-year, $64.092 million contract with the Cincinnati Bengals that includes a $31 million signing bonus, as NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 15.
NFL general managers probably won’t value an undersized slot corner/safety this highly, but I do! Gardner-Johnson is a dog, nipping at the heels of opponents. His versatility makes him ideal for this pass-happy era, and he can still deliver big hits.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Gardner-Johnson signed a one-year, $8 million deal with the Detroit Lions that includes $6.5 million fully guaranteed at signing, as NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 19.
Now famous for his costly penalty in Super Bowl LVII, Bradberry showed in Philadelphia he’s still a top-20 NFL cornerback. After signing a one-year prove-it deal last offseason, he proved it.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Bradberry re-signed with the Philadelphia Eagles on a three-year, $38 million contract ($20 million guaranteed) that has a max value of $44 million with incentives, as NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 14.
Bates, who played 2022 on the franchise tag, is likely out of Cincinnati after the Bengals drafted his presumed replacement, Daxton Hill. Bates has more value to a team that plays with a single high safety the majority of the time, although there are fewer of those teams every season.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Bates signed a four-year, $64.02 million contract that includes $23 million in Year 1, as NFL Network Insiders Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 13. Bates’ deal includes $36 million fully guaranteed, NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo added.
It helps McGlinchey that nearly half the league is running Kyle Shanahan’s offense; it’s not hard to project how he’d do for those teams as a plug-and-play right tackle. Supply-and-demand dynamics should lead to him becoming one of the richest free agents available.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: McGlinchey signed with the Denver Broncos on a five-year contract worth $87.5 million with more than $50 million guaranteed, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 13.
Raise your large defensive-line-playing children to become pass rushers. No one will get too caught up in Jones’ inconsistencies as a run-stopper when he was tied for fifth among interior linemen in pressures at the time he went down to a late-season hip injury (through Week 14), according to Pro Football Focus.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Jones signed a three-year, $51.53 million contract that will pay him $35.02 million over two years ($23.5 million in Year 1), as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport and NFL Network’s James Palmer initially reported on March 13.
Allen just kept getting better and better in his fourth NFL season, graduating from a solid starter to one of the Cardinals’ best players. Few players made themselves more money in 2022.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Allen signed with the Denver Broncos on a three-year, $45.75 million contract that includes $32.5 million guaranteed, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 13.
For most of last season, Dean was the Bucs’ best cornerback. He doesn’t have the physical skills of teammate Carlton Davis, but something similar to the contract Davis signed last year to stay in Tampa (three years, $45 million) could be in store for Dean as a young, experienced starter.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Dean signed a four-year deal to stay with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the team announced.
The man was a second-team All-Pro last year! He doesn’t fit the Rams’ timeline hence his release, but Wagner proved in 2022 he’s still playing at an elite level and could be the final piece for a team needing help.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Wagner signed a one-year, $7 million deal with the Seattle Seahawks, NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 25, per sources.
Just watch him run routes. Meyers can fit into any offense as a No. 2 or No. 3 receiver; he’s able to win inside and out, depending on the team’s need that week or season.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Meyers signed with the Las Vegas Raiders on a three-year, $33 million contract that includes $21 million guaranteed, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 14. Meyers will earn $11 million in Year 1 and will receive a $5.5 million roster bonus (which is guaranteed for injury and skill at signing) if he’s on the team on the third day of the 2024 league year. On that same day, his $5 million base salary for the 2024 season becomes fully guaranteed, per NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero.
David clearly outplayed Bucs teammate Devin White last season — because David outplayed most linebackers. While his age is a concern, Bobby Wagner’s success last season in Los Angeles proved that smarts and savvy linebacker play can still sell.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: David re-signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on a one-year, $7 million deal that is fully guaranteed, as NFL Network Insiders Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 15.
Poyer is coming off one of his best seasons, and he’s been one of the cornerstones of the Sean McDermott era in Buffalo. He could be the Bills’ Devin McCourty, refusing to age as he directs the secondary.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Poyer re-signed with the Buffalo Bills on a two-year deal, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 15.
Sutton is typical of the good young players who hit free agency: He steadily improved throughout his time with the Steelers, only looking like a future star in his sixth season. There just aren’t many other young starters available.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Sutton signed a three-year contract worth $33 million ($22.5 million guaranteed) with the Detroit Lions, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 13.
Schultz gained 619 yards with eight touchdowns in 13 games after he and Dak Prescott returned from injury in Week 7, including a monster playoff game in Tampa (seven catches, 95 yards, two scores). The Cowboys essentially chose Schultz over receiver Amari Cooper last offseason, when they tagged Schultz and traded Cooper away, and they should try to keep the tight end.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Schultz signed a one-year deal worth up to $9 million with the Houston Texans, as NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 20.
If Davenport had entered free agency after his 2021 season, when he had nine sacks, rather than playing 2022 with the Saints on the fifth-year option of his rookie contract, he would probably have been in the top 10. He creates production with incredible power, but his inability to stay on the field and finish plays showed up as a bad reminder in his contract year. You can’t count on him for more than 500 snaps.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Davenport signed a one-year, $13 million deal with the Minnesota Vikings, as NFL Network Insiders Mike Garafolo, Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 13.
An incredible penetrator and run-stopper, Long has an innate ability to knife through offensive lines to create negative plays. He’s an excellent blitzer and terrific tackler. Long can look stiff in coverage occasionally, but that’s true of most linebackers. He’s a three-down player.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Long signed a two-year, $11 million deal with the Miami Dolphins, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 13.
Smith-Schuster has had great career production as a possession receiver and is still somehow only 26 years old. A quiet playoffs with the Chiefs in 2022 shouldn’t detract from a nice bounceback campaign in Kansas City, during which he gained 933 yards, second most in his six pro seasons.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Smith-Schuster signed a three-year, $25.5 million contract ($16 million guaranteed) with the New England Patriots worth up to $33 million with incentives, as NFL Network’s Taylor Bisciotti and NFL Network Insiders Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 15.
His two most recent games tell the story of his Bills career: He was electric against the Dolphins on Super Wild Card Weekend and lacking against the Bengals in the Divisional Round. Edmunds timed his free agency well coming off his best pro season, but I worry about an inconsistent player leaving an ideal setup in Buffalo.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Edmunds signed a four-year, $72 million contract that includes $50 million guaranteed, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 13.
Kelce will almost certainly re-sign with the Eagles or retire, but he should technically be a free agent after signing a one-year contract a year ago with a void. Kelce has said he’s not the player he used to be, but he‘s still the centerpiece of the best offensive line in football.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Kelce has re-signed with the Philadelphia Eagles on a one-year deal, the team announced on March 13. NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero later reported that Kelce’s deal is worth $14.25 million with another $500,000 in incentives.
When he went down with a foot injury in Week 13, Jimmy G was playing his best ball since 2017. But his injury history (including 18 games missed over the past three seasons) can’t be ignored. I’d like to see him with Raiders coach Josh McDaniels, because the best Garoppolo ever played was with McDaniels as his offensive coordinator in New England’s system, not in Kyle Shanahan’s paint-by-numbers cheat-code attack in San Francisco.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Garoppolo signed with the Las Vegas Raiders on a three-year, $72.75 million deal that includes $24.25 million in Year 1, as NFL Network Insiders Mike Garafolo, Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 13.
Tomlinson signed a two-year, $21 million contract in Minnesota in 2021 that turned out to be a bargain after an especially strong 2022 season. Versatile defensive linemen like him are hard to find.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Tomlinson signed a four-year, $57 million deal ($27.5 million guaranteed) with the Cleveland Browns, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 13.
He’s much more than bad versions of the Griddy and the scant production he registered in his first season under Mike McDaniel in Miami. A rocked-up slot receiver, Gesicki needs to find an offense that will treat him as such again.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Gesicki signed with the New England Patriots on a one-year, $4.5 million deal with $3.55 million guaranteed and a max of $9 million with incentives, as NFL Network Insiders Mike Garafolo and Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 17.
Murphy proved with the Cardinals in 2022 he can play on the outside; his bona fides in the slot were already established. At a position with high variance, Murphy has been a steady starter since a rocky rookie year.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Murphy signed with the Minnesota Vikings on a two-year, $22 million deal, as NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 14.
Like an offensive version of Ngakoue, Taylor is good on passing downs and a liability in the running game. He’s also been durable enough to play more than 1,000 snaps in all four of his NFL seasons.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Taylor signed with the Kansas City Chiefs on a four-year, $80 million deal with $60 million guaranteed, as NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and James Palmer initially reported on March 13.
McGary wouldn’t have qualified for this list if he’d been a free agent in 2022, but he developed under Arthur Smith into a nasty run blocker in Year 4. Atlanta declined his fifth-year option for 2023, but they could use the franchise tag here to see if McGary’s growth sticks.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: McGary re-signed with the Atlanta Falcons on a three-year, $34.5 million contract, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 14.
Speed is sorely lacking in this thin wideout market. Chark is absolutely getting a bump because he can stretch the field in a league where each team needs three to four quality wideouts.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Chark signed a one-year deal with $5 million guaranteed with the Carolina Panthers, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported on March 24.
One of the best slot cornerbacks in the league for years, Jones was asked to play on the outside last year by the Patriots because Bill Belichick didn’t have options. Jones was fine there, but a move back to the inside makes sense as he gets older.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Jones is re-signing with the Patriots on a two-year, $20 million deal with $13 million guaranteed, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported on March 13.
Just based on his 2022 tape, Peterson should get a multi-year contract. But his previous two seasons were less impressive, and he’ll turn 33 years old before this coming season. He figures to be a hired gun once again.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Peterson signed a two-year, $14 million deal ($5.85 million guaranteed) with the Pittsburgh Steelers, as NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 13.
Not guaranteed to start heading into training camp, Powers became a favorite of the interior-lineman cognoscenti, as well as the Ravens coaching staff. Will other teams think he was a product of the Ravens’ system?
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Powers signed with the Denver Broncos on a four-year, $52 million deal that includes $28.5 million guaranteed, as NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo initially reported on March 13.
The longest-tenured 49er played any position the team asked with smarts and toughness. He’s the type of short-term quality veteran that often gets undervalued in free agency when he could upgrade so many teams.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Ward signed with the Houston Texans, the team announced on March 18.
The Titans’ offensive line was mostly a mess, but Davis proved to be a reliable starter before landing on injured reserve with an ankle injury at the end of the season. I struggle with where to rank most of this top tier of guards, because they are all plug-and play-guys, yet a team’s money is probably better spent on a great offensive line coach than on chasing mid-level guards in free agency.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Davis signed with the Chicago Bears, on a three-year, $30 million deal that includes $19.25 million guaranteed, as NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo initially reported on March 13.
Brissett is coming off his best season, with a few of his former bosses (Raiders coach Josh McDaniels, who worked with Brissett in New England, and Panthers coach Frank Reich, who worked with him in Indianapolis) looking for quarterbacks. Jacoby is probably the No. 1 choice to pair with a first-round draft pick as a mentor/fallback plan; in terms of a starter, New Orleans could do worse than rolling with Brissett.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Brissett signed a one-year, $8 million base contract ($7.5 million guaranteed with a max value of $10 million) with the Washington Commanders, as NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 15.
Everyone could use a tight end-stopper. Bell was one of the better values as a free-agent signings three years ago, when the Bengals brought him in on a deal for just $18 million, and he is still young enough to get another good contract.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Bell signed with the Carolina Panthers, as NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 13.
I love me some Drue Tranquill. He can play every down, excelling in coverage and as a blitzer.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Tranquill signed with the Kansas City Chiefs, per the team.
Here come off-ball linebackers! Even if the position isn’t valued as highly in today’s NFL, it’s important to have players who don’t kill your coverage on passing downs. Holcomb would have been a star 20 years ago, and he’s still a great addition to any defense.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Holcomb signed a three-year, $18 million deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers, as NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 16.
When Key replaced 2022 No. 1 overall draft pick Travon Walker in the lineup, the Jaguars’ pass rush improved. He is a perfect rotational piece for virtually any system.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Key signed with the Tennessee Titans on a three-year, $21 million deal with a max value of $24 million, as NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo initially reported on March 14.
Whenever Darius Slayton plays football, he makes quality catches and runs faster than the guys covering him. Sometimes the Giants didn’t let him play football, and sometimes they tried to replace him, which was confusing. But playing fast and making big plays (he boasts a 15 yards-per-reception career average) seem like good things to me!
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Slayton re-signed with the New York Giants on a two-year, $12 million deal with a max value of $16.5 million, as NFL Network Insiders Mike Garafolo and Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 16.
Everyone likes their safeties to play linebacker these days, and that’s where Wilson does his best work.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Wilson re-signed with the Dallas Cowboys on a three-year deal worth up to $24 million, NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo reported on March 14. The first two years of Wilson’s contract are fully guaranteed, Garafolo added.
The instincts weren’t always there for Sanders in 2022, even if the production was (1,347 total yards). Five yards per carry and 4,650 yards from scrimmage in just four seasons shouldn’t be overlooked.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Sanders signed with the Carolina Panthers on a four-year, $25.4 million deal that includes $13 million guaranteed, as NFL Network Insiders Mike Garafolo and Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 15.
Campbell’s snap totals and PFF score dipped in Baltimore from his otherworldly previous totals, but he was still an above-average pocket pusher and run stopper at age 36. If he wants to play, he can help a team while adding great leadership and a beautiful baritone.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Campbell intends to sign with the Atlanta Falcons on a one-year deal, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported on March 29.
Edwards has improved every season as a pro, especially on passing downs. He was a plus starter who racked up more than 1,100 snaps on the way to the Super Bowl.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Edwards signed with the Chicago Bears on a three-year, $19.5 million contract that includes $12 million guaranteed, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 13.
Onyemata lived up to the three-year, $27 million contract he signed before the 2020 season; he was routinely the best defensive tackle on the Saints’ roster. He holds up well for someone who plays a lot of snaps.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Onyemata signed with the Atlanta Falcons on a three-year, $35 million deal that includes $24.5 million fully guaranteed, as NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo initially reported on March 13.
Like Halapoulivaati Vaitai, Seumalo is a mauler with position flexibility who figures to get a bump heading into free agency because he played on a ferocious Eagles offensive line.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Seumalo signed a three-year, $24 million deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers, as NFL Network Insiders Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 19.
Score another win for the 49ers’ defensive-line car wash; 95 pressures over the last two seasons (including playoffs) is terrific production for a part-time player. Playing opposite Nick Bosa certainly helps.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Ebukam signed a three-year, $27 million contract ($11 million in Year 1) with the Indianapolis Colts, as NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 14.
Beachum is a team leader who produces more than 1,000 capable snaps every season without ever seeming to age.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Beachum re-signed with the Arizona Cardinals on a two-year, $5.15 million deal that includes $3.26 million guaranteed, as NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 14.
The Eagles recognized value when they signed White last offseason and immediately installed him as a starter. He fit in well, keeping promising rookie Nakobe Dean on the bench all season.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: White signed a two-year deal with the Arizona Cardinals, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported on March 14.
Flanked by outstanding guards and coached up by Bill Callahan in Cleveland, Pocic finished in the top five in both pass block and run block win rate last season, per PFF. He’s earned a starting job somewhere, although the Browns should be most motivated to re-sign him.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Pocic has re-signed with the Cleveland Browns on a three-year, $18 million contract, NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo reported on March 13.
The Bengals are likely going to let Pratt walk, because a Logan Wilson contract extension is coming eventually.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Pratt re-signed with the Cincinnati Bengals on a three-year, $21 million deal that will pay him $15.15 million over the first two years ($10.35 million in Year 1), NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported on March 13.
Okoronkwo has shown he can play with energy in any scheme, developing into a fun pass rusher down the stretch last season. He’s absolutely getting a bump because of how thin the position is in free agency.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Okoronkwo is signing with the Cleveland Browns on a three-year, $19 million deal (max value of $22 million) that includes $12.5 million guaranteed, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported on March 13.
Cox will likely still get around 45 pressures per season, and he finished with his most combined sacks and QB hits since his 2018 All-Pro season. Like Brandon Graham, Cox would probably do more with fewer snaps.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Cox re-signed with the Philadelphia Eagles on a one-year, $10 million contract, as NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo initially reported on March 15.
An injury-plagued year and limitations as a receiver limits Harris’ value, but he’s one of the most violent and explosive pure runners in football when healthy.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Harris signed a one-year deal with the Buffalo Bills, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 20.
I get why Aaron Rodgers gassed up Lazard all last offseason as his No. 1 receiver. It seems like Lazard can do it all, but in reality, he looked overstretched when asked to be anything more than a quality role player.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Lazard signed a four-year, $44 million contract with the New York Jets, as NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo initially reported on March 14.
Like a lot of Rams players, Gaines took a step back in 2022. He still is a surprisingly good pass rusher for a 312-pound player.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Gaines agreed to terms with the Buccaneers, NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported on March 18.
Al-Shaair took a backseat to the best linebacker duo in football (Fred Warner and Dre Greenlaw) and deserves a chance to become a star on his own elsewhere. He’s a sleeper.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Al-Shaair signed with the Tennessee Titans, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 14. Al-Shaair’s one-year, $5 million deal could be worth up to $6 million with incentives, per NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero.
Okereke stepped in for an injured Shaquille Leonard last season and played the best football of his life. Did I mention there are a lot of good off-ball linebackers available this offseason?
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Okereke signed a four-year, $40 million contract ($22 million guaranteed) with the New York Giants, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 13.
It was fun to watch the Vander Eschaissance in Dallas. Even if his old quickness isn’t all the way back to his rookie form, he anticipates so well.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Vander Esch re-signed with the Dallas Cowboys on a two-year, $11 million contract, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 14.
Vibes, toughness, touchdowns and great quotes, all in one delicious package.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Williams signed a three-year, $12 million contract with the New Orleans Saints, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 15. The deal includes $8.15 million in guarantees, per NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero.
Giants defensive coordinator Don “Wink” Martindale got the best out of Love, using him all over the field in a variety of roles.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Love signed a deal with the Seattle Seahawks, the team announced on March 17.
In Cincinnati on a one-year deal, Hurst had the season I expected him to have in Baltimore (where he was drafted in the first round in 2018) or Atlanta (where he was traded in 2020). This feels like a marriage the Bengals should want to continue.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Hurst signed with the Carolina Panthers on a three-year, $21.75 million deal that includes $13 million guaranteed, as NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Mike Garafolo initially reported on March 15.
A defensive tackle that logs 500 quality snaps is usually available in free agency for about $5 million annually.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Rankins signed a one-year, $10.5 million contract with the Houston Texans, as NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo initially reported on March 15.
Ladies and gentleman, introducing your sixth-ranked PFF passer of 2022 … Andy Freaking Dalton! He avoided mistakes in a tough situation and truly wasn’t the reason the Saints lost most weeks. (Although they did lose most weeks.)
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Dalton signed with the Carolina Panthers on a two-year, $11 million deal ($8 million guaranteed), as NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 14.
Singletary scores well annually in PFF’s “elusive” ranking, matching the eye test that he usually gets more yards than what’s blocked for him by the O-line.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Singletary signed a one-year deal worth up to $3.75 million with the Houston Texans, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 20.
It’s not a good sign the Vikings couldn’t keep Thielen when he’s a local favorite. He’s still useful in the red zone and on third downs as a possession receiver.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Thielen signed a three-year, $25 million deal with the Carolina Panthers, as NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 19.
Mostert quietly set a career high with more than 1,000 yards from scrimmage — seemingly always a threat for a big play. He works best in a rotation.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Mostert is re-signing with the Miami Dolphins on a two-year, $5.6 million deal with $2.2 million guaranteed, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported on March 14.
Tonyan was not as explosive in his first season back from a torn ACL, although he set a career high with 52 catches. It’s realistic to expect him to play better in 2023.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Tonyan signed a deal with the Chicago Bears, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported on March 16.
Perryman is one of the last linebackers left who makes his money with monster hits and brutal efficiency on running downs. He’s great at it, but I’m still afraid to pay anyone who is a liability in coverage.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Perryman is signing a one-year contract with the Houston Texans, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported on March 22.
Mattison reminds me of a young Chester Taylor, in that I’ve always thought he could thrive if given a team of his own. The Vikings may even consider cutting Dalvin Cook and signing Mattison at a lesser rate.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Mattison and the Minnesota Vikings agreed to a two-year, $7 million deal ($6.35 million guaranteed) with a max value of $8 million with incentives, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported on March 15.
It was a small sample size, but Elliss flew around the field at a preposterously productive clip when given the chance to start late last season for New Orleans. It was enough for him to make this list and surely open some eyes league-wide.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Elliss signed a three-year, $21.5 million deal with the Atlanta Falcons that includes $11 million guaranteed, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 13.
Bradberry fits in a zone scheme that can use his movement skills. He can get overwhelmed against bigger defenders — like Dexter Lawrence in Minnesota’s playoff loss.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Bradbury is re-signing with the Minnesota Vikings, NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo reported on March 14. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport later reported Bradbury’s deal is for three years and worth $15.75 million.
Logging more than 1,200 snaps on the best offense in the league says something, even if Wylie ranks only just above a replacement-level starting right tackle.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Wylie signed a three-year, $24 million deal with the Washington Commanders, as NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 13.
An up-and-down tenure in Kansas City figures to end after the Chiefs’ championship run. The team is just too good at finding inexpensive talent in the secondary.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Thornhill signed with the Cleveland Browns on a three-year, $21 million contract that includes $14 million guaranteed, as NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 13.
I’d take Minshew over Baker Mayfield and Sam Darnold because he’s more consistent. He’ll get a backup job.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Minshew signed a fully guaranteed one-year, $3.5 million contract with the Indianapolis Colts that has a max value of $5.5 million with incentives, as NFL Network Insiders Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 16.
Lost in the shuffle in Miami last season, Van Ginkel is a jack of all trades, not unlike his old “Van” partner, Kyle Van Noy.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Van Ginkel re-signed with the Miami Dolphins, per the team.
The Panthers’ offensive line improved when Bozeman was inserted into the lineup after six games. They should want to bring him back.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Bozeman re-signed with the Carolina Panthers on a three-year, $18 million contract, as NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 13.
Ogunjobi is one of those free agents every season who winds up producing, but he also leaves his coaches wanting more, because he gambles so much in an effort to make a big play.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Ogunjobi re-signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers on a three-year, $28.75 million contract that includes $17 million guaranteed, as NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 15.
Because of injuries, Smith’s skill set is more of an idea than something we’ve been able to see on display over the last four years. He moves well enough to try out.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Smith agreed to a one-year deal with the Cincinnati Bengals, NFL Network’s Peter Schrager reported on March 27.
Signing Agholor at a discount isn’t a crazy idea. He’s still fast and was dragged down by the mismanaged Patriots offense last season.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Agholor is signing a one-year, $3.25 million contract with the Baltimore Ravens, NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo reported on March 24.
Montgomery’s best years are probably behind him. He can make defenders miss, but his lack of big plays is too much to overlook.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Montgomery signed a three-year, $18 million deal with the Detroit Lions, as NFL Network Insiders Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport initially reported on March 14.
Hollins is a good contested catch receiver who can get vertical. He would best be used as a third or fourth receiver on a good offense.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Hollins signed a one-year, $2.5 million deal with the Falcons, as NFL Network Insiders Tom Pelissero and Mike Garafolo initially reported on March 19.
In over 1,500 snaps in the last two seasons, Mayfield has profiled as a limited, if intriguing player. There are clear strengths (arm talent, accuracy) and obvious shortcomings in processing and decision-making. He plays like a quality backup, someone who can inject life for a handful of games, but who will be exposed the more he plays.
EDITOR’S UPDATE: Mayfield signed a one-year deal worth up to $8.5 million ($4 million in guarantees) with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, as NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero initially reported on March 15.
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