For the full methodology behind these 2024 NFL free agency rankings, click here.
1. DI Chris Jones, Kansas City Chiefs
It’s rare for a player of Jones’ caliber to reach unrestricted free agency, and Kansas City did not give up the right to franchise tag him for a second time when the two sides agreed to a reworked contract this past offseason. A tag for Jones would land north of $33 million, which perhaps helps him test the open market for the first time in his career.
Jones is not only one of the best interior pass rushers in the game right now; he’s one of the best ever. He is also capable of lining up outside of tackles as a five-technique, bending around the edge and getting home.
Top free agent comparison: Ndamukong Suh, 2015
| Player | Run-defense grade | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Chris Jones | 59.9 | 90.3 | 92.3 | 18.5% | ? |
| Ndamukong Suh | 80.0 | 83.0 | 82.5 | 11.2% | 13.3% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
2. QB Kirk Cousins, Minnesota Vikings
An ill-timed torn Achilles derailed another strong season from Cousins, and he looked set to have a host of suitors in free agency, as he did back in 2018. Cousins still has the requisite arm strength to throw to all levels of the field and has been as accurate as ever in recent seasons.
Top free agent comparison: Philip Rivers, 2020
| Player | Clean-pocket grade | 1st & 2nd down grade | Standard dropback grade | Sack rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Kirk Cousins | 91.1 | 89.1 | 90.3 | 5.9% | ? |
| Philip Rivers | 91.2 | 89.0 | 87.3 | 5.5% | 12.6% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
3. EDGE Josh Allen, Jacksonville Jaguars
Allen backed up a strong 2022 with an extraordinary 2023 season, racking up career highs in quarterback pressures (90) and sacks (19), coupled with a 20.5% pass-rush win rate that was among the league’s best.
Top free agent comparison: Melvin Ingram, 2017
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Josh Allen | 89.4 | 91.4 | 17.5% | 82.4 | ? |
| Melvin Ingram | 89.2 | 90.5 | 13.6% | 68.4 | 9.6% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
4. WR Tee Higgins, Cincinnati Bengals
Injuries hampered almost the entire 2023 season for Higgins after his second consecutive 1,000-yard season in 2022 with a receiving grade above 75.0. A franchise tag already seemed likely heading into this season, and with little new data to impact the negotiation either way, that seems inevitable. The field-stretching, jump-ball receiver should have the chance to bounce back in 2024 along with the entire Bengals team following a disappointing campaign.
Top free agent comparison: Mike Williams, 2022
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Average depth of target | Yards after catch per reception | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Tee Higgins | 70.9 | 1.66 | 13.1 | 5.6 | ? |
| Mike Williams | 78.0 | 1.78 | 13.5 | 4.6 | 9.6% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
5. EDGE Brian Burns, Carolina Panthers
Burns cannot seem to escape Carolina as the team turns down trade offers and consistently loses football games, but he put together a strong second half of the 2023 season. He posted his fourth straight pass-rush grade above 70.0, keeping his stock high amid the chaos.
Top free agent comparison: Frank Clark, 2019
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Brian Burns | 75.6 | 80.8 | 11.6% | 56.3 | ? |
| Frank Clark | 80.4 | 83.6 | 14.3% | 63.2 | 11.1% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
6. DI Justin Madubuike, Baltimore Ravens
Madubuike has a strong case for being the player to earn himself the most money in 2023. With at least half a sack in 13 of 17 games this season, Madubuike more than doubled his prior season high. He also exactly doubled his total pressure output. His effort and intensity on backside pursuit plays have always been there, and now an improved arsenal of moves with a more explosive first step has Madubuike set to cash in big time.
Top free agent comparison: Javon Hargrave, 2020
| Player | Run-defense grade | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Justin Madubuike | 66.1 | 73.6 | 81.9 | 11.2% | ? |
| Javon Hargrave | 81.3 | 77.5 | 79.8 | 12.2% | 6.5% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
7. DI Christian Wilkins, Miami Dolphins
Wilkins hoped to get an extension done before the 2023 season but didn't let the lack of one amid many at the position slow him down. Wilkins is as good a run defender as any interior defensive lineman in the NFL, setting career highs in every pass-rushing category this season — including pass-rush win rate, pressure rate, sacks, quarterback hits and pressures.
Top free agent comparison: Malik Jackson, 2016
| Player | Run-defense grade | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Christian Wilkins | 78.5 | 74.5 | 75.7 | 10.0% | ? |
| Malik Jackson | 81.5 | 74.1 | 78.1 | 9.7% | 9.2% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
8. S Antoine Winfield Jr., Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Winfield can line up in the box, take on receivers in the slot and play as a roaming deep-third free safety, finding success in single-high and two-high coverage shells. The former second-round pick is a difference-maker on the backend, and his remarkable versatility carries value at a position that appreciates it more than perhaps any other.
Top free agent comparison: Jessie Bates III, 2023
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Antoine Winfield Jr. | 73.2 | 71.3 | 9.0% | 93.4 | ? |
| Jessie Bates III | 65.7 | 80.9 | 5.7% | 78.1 | 7.1% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
9. CB Jaylon Johnson, Chicago Bears
Johnson wasn’t quite able to have the third-year breakout in 2022 he hoped for as nagging injuries kept him off the field for several stretches, and he and the team were unable to find common ground on an early extension. Johnson continued to push for a new deal right up to requesting a trade at the deadline this year, but after conversations with other teams, Chicago elected to keep him around. Now, with edge defender Montez Sweat extended and the franchise tag freed up, another negotiation looks to be on the horizon.
The physical, technically sound wide cornerback boasts ball production and lockdown coverage abilities that prevent targets as well as anyone, never allowing a 60% completion rate in any NFL season thus far.
Top free agent comparison: Byron Jones, 2020
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Single coverage grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Jaylon Johnson | 86.8 | 90.1 | 16.7% | 68.5 | ? |
| Byron Jones | 78.1 | 77.5 | 13.2% | 73.7 | 8.3% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
10. CB L'Jarius Sneed, Kansas City Chiefs
Sneed was a fixture out wide in 2023 after lining up primarily in the slot over his first three seasons, and he held up quite well in several tough matchups. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo asks a lot of his cornerbacks, and Sneed is sticky in coverage, getting into receivers' hip pockets and becoming very hard to shake with lateral movement or in the air at the catch point.
Sneed could stand to cut down on penalties, but his aggressive nature would be welcome on many teams, and his inside-outside versatility is a nice benefit, as well.
Top free agent comparison: James Bradberry, 2020
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Single coverage grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| L’Jarius Sneed | 71.5 | 69.9 | 13.3% | 47.7 | ? |
| James Bradberry | 62.5 | 72.8 | 13.3% | 48.9 | 7.3% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
11. WR Michael Pittman Jr., Indianapolis Colts
Plenty of holes will be poked in Pittman’s game as he gets set to enter free agency, with some athletic limitations keeping his average depth of target down, especially compared to predominantly outside wide receivers.
Nonetheless, Pittman is as reliable a possession receiver as there is in the NFL, and it’s also fair to wonder if a carousel at quarterback in Indianapolis has limited his production. Pittman earned a career-best receiving grade with 100-plus catches and 1,000-plus receiving yards — that gets a player paid even if there is a perceived ceiling to his game.
Top free agent comparison: Allen Robinson, 2022
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Average depth of target | Yards after catch per reception | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Michael Pittman | 77.8 | 1.72 | 7.9 | 4.1 | ? |
| Allen Robinson | 83.8 | 1.72 | 10.8 | 3.0 | 7.4% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
12. EDGE Danielle Hunter, Minnesota Vikings
Hunter was a revelation in new Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ blitz-heavy scheme, though he was just as productive in 2022. Teams that run a 3-4 or 4-3 could probably find a way to effectively deploy Hunter, and injury concerns of a few years ago seem like distant memories. He finished another season with 900-plus snaps, 70-plus quarterback pressures and double-digit sacks.
Top free agent comparison: Jason Pierre-Paul, 2017
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Danielle Hunter | 83.8 | 88.6 | 15.8% | 61.5 | ? |
| Jason Pierre-Paul | 75.9 | 77.8 | 12.8% | 63.3 | 9% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
13. WR Mike Evans, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Another starting quarterback in Tampa Bay? Another 1,000-yard season from Mike Evans. The record-setting 10th straight season to start a career with 1,000-plus yards is one thing, but an 83.9 receiving grade with double-digit touchdowns for the third time in four years is extraordinary.
Evans’ free agency will be tricky and has a wide range of outcomes, with nagging soft-tissue injuries seemingly bothering him for years now. There could also be sticker shock with recent outcomes on 30-plus-year-old receivers. Nonetheless, there is no reason he should ask for less than the recent crop of players, including Davante Adams, who effectively signed a three-year, $67.7 million contract with the Las Vegas Raiders.
Top free agent comparison: Kenny Golladay, 2021
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Average depth of target | Yards after catch per reception | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Mike Evans | 82.6 | 2.03 | 14.5 | 3.5 | ? |
| Kenny Golladay | 82.2 | 2.12 | 15.8 | 4.1 | 9.8%** |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
**2021 salary cap of $182.5 million, dropped due to the pandemic
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
14. T Tyron Smith, Dallas Cowboys
When Tyron Smith is healthy, he is an impenetrable brick wall as a blindside protector, no matter the matchup. Smith playing through nearly the entirety of his eight-year extension signed in 2014 is something we will probably never see again, and he provided enormous surplus value to Dallas despite the time he missed here and there.
After agreeing to a revised one-year deal worth $6 million for 2023, Smith outplayed that deal once again. Perhaps he is more focused on remaining a career Cowboy and chasing a Lombardi Trophy, a la Andrew Whitworth with the Los Angeles Rams, but he deserves a solid payday if he wants to pursue one.
Top free agent comparison: Terron Armstead, 2022
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Negative run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Tyron Smith | 81.6 | 79.0 | 11.5% | ? | |
| Terron Armstead | 87.3 | 80.1 | 11.9% | 7.2% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
15. CB Kendall Fuller, Washington Commanders
Fuller was the lone bright spot in the Commanders' cornerback room in 2023, and while he is plenty capable as a wide cornerback, perhaps his prior experience in the slot and at safety could be attractive to teams that desire the ability to move the savvy veteran around as he and his game ages.
Top free agent comparison: Sean Smith, 2016
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Single coverage grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Kendall Fuller | 87.4 | 85.2 | 9.4% | 68.6 | ? |
| Sean Smith | 81.8 | 86.8 | 11.7% | 57.9 | 6.1% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
16. DI Leonard Williams, Seattle Seahawks
Williams' three-year, $63 million pact with the New York Giants in 2021 after he received a second franchise tag is one of the strongest contracts for a player in recent history. The leverage is strongly in his favor once again after the Giants traded him to the Seattle Seahawks at the deadline for second- and fifth-round picks.
After being labeled as a stout run defender with limitations as a pass rusher, Williams backed up his career-high 74.8 pass-rush grade in 2022 with an even better 76.2 mark in 2023. His pressure rate is above 10% for the first time since 2020.
Top free agent comparison: Fletcher Cox, 2022
| Player | Run-defense grade | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Leonard Williams | 66.0 | 76.2 | 84.2 | 11.8% | ? |
| Fletcher Cox | 63.1 | 75.1 | 81.8 | 12.0% | 6.7% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
17. WR Marquise Brown, Arizona Cardinals
The Ravens traded Brown and a third-round pick to the Cardinals for a 2022 first-round pick, and his time in Arizona was a journey, to say the least. Between his own injuries and Kyler Murray’s torn ACL, the former college teammates weren't able to team up as much as the old regime probably hoped, but he has flashed when in the lineup.
It’s hard to come up with a solid comparable player for a 5-foot-9, 180-pound outside wide receiver — although now the NFL is adding more of this archetype each year — and it’s also fair to wonder how badly Arizona wants to extend anyone, given the team's timeline and the emergence of rookie wideout Michael Wilson.
Top free agent comparison: Christian Kirk, 2022
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Average depth of target | Yards after catch per reception | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Marquise Brown | 70.5 | 1.35 | 12.2 | 3.5 | ? |
| Christian Kirk | 69.2 | 1.52 | 12.5 | 3.4 | 8.6% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
18. EDGE Bryce Huff, New York Jets
Huff set out to prove that his absurd pass-rushing efficiency in 2022 wasn’t an aberration, and he did just that in 2023 with a crazy high pass-rush win rate once again. Still, there’s a reason the team that developed the former undrafted free agent and saw him every day didn't like to deploy him against the run and hasn’t made much of an effort on an extension. This will be a nuanced negotiation for a designated pass rusher type — fortunately, that’s the richest facet to excel in for an edge defender.
Former Baltimore Raven and Chicago Bears pass-rush specialist Pernell McPhee comes to mind as a comparable player, as does Huff’s current teammate Carl Lawson.
Top free agent comparison: Carl Lawson, 2021
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Bryce Huff | 90.1 | 90.1 | 23.1% | 45.2 | ? |
| Carl Lawson | 79.6 | 89.3 | 15.3% | 61.3 | 8.2%** |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
**2021 salary cap of $182.5 million, dropped due to the pandemic
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
19. DI D.J. Reader, Cincinnati Bengals
Only injuries slowed Reader down in Cincinnati. Otherwise, he was a dominant force on the interior of a talented defensive line that was able to control the line of scrimmage and win big games up front over the past few seasons. The eighth-year pro was the anchor in the middle.
Reader is as stout as they come and nearly impossible to displace by just one blocker. And while he’ll never fill up the stat sheet with sacks, he can push the pocket and free up teammates as well as any nose tackle.
Reader, unfortunately, suffered a torn quadriceps injury in Week 15 that knocked him out for the remainder of the season. We will await more details on the recovery process before changing his projection, but the injury could obviously impact his market.
Top free agent comparison: Dalvin Tomlinson, 2023
| Player | Run-defense grade | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| D.J. Reader | 76.1 | 85.6 | 86.8 | 9.5% | ? |
| Dalvin Tomlinson | 67.4 | 79.1 | 85.8 | 7.6% | 6.3% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
20. LB Patrick Queen, Baltimore Ravens
Queen’s pass-rushing prowess is not captured below (much like Carolina Panthers linebacker Frankie Luvu highlighted above), but it carries significant value in addition to his strong play against the run and in coverage over the past two seasons. His 48 quarterback pressures and eight sacks over the past two seasons are both second among off-ball linebackers.
With Baltimore's addition of linebacker Roquan Smith — the highest-paid player at the position after last year’s extension — and the team having several other pending free agents, Queen should get to test the market and potentially do quite well for himself.
Top free agent comparison: Jamie Collins, 2017
| Player | Run-defense grade | Coverage grade in the box | Forced incompletion rate | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Patrick Queen | 71.3 | 67.9 | 3.4% | 6.4% | ? |
| Jamie Collins | 74.7 | 67.5 | 3.7% | 9.0% | 7.5% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
21. S Kyle Dugger, New England Patriots
Dugger is in the mold of the safety-linebacker hybrid that former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick loved as more teams shifted to dime packages and big dime looks with three safeties. Dugger fits in the run game as well as any defensive back in football, and he’s not a total liability in coverage, particularly against bigger slot receivers and tight ends, but it’s not exactly a strength.
Top free agent comparison: Dashon Goldson, 2013
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Kyle Dugger | 61.2 | 54.1 | 3.8% | 82.3 | ? |
| Dashon Goldson | 50.1 | 44.1 | 6.2% | 80.7 | 6.7% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
22. S Kamren Curl, Washington Commanders
Curl has quietly been one of the more underrated players in the NFL over the past several seasons, with his status as a seventh-rounder and his name getting lost in the shuffle on a defense that, up until this year’s trade deadline, was riddled with first-round talent.
Curl can line up anywhere and is as consistent as safeties come on a down-to-down basis, possessing good instincts and a clear understanding of how to manipulate leverage and angles in the open field.
Top free agent comparison: Rodney McLeod, 2016
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Kamren Curl | 81.1 | 85.7 | 7.3% | 79.1 | ? |
| Rodney McLeod | 78.7 | 88.2 | 3.7% | 76.7 | 4.5% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
23. T Trent Brown, New England Patriots
Brown’s free agency will always be a unique case, with clauses in recent contracts rewarding him for keeping his weight down, and he probably fits only in a gap-heavy offensive scheme. Nonetheless, Brown stonewalls defenders in pass protection and is comfortable playing on either bookend of the line of scrimmage, which adds value as teams shuffle things around to get their best five on the field amid in-season injuries.
Top free agent comparison: Nate Solder, 2017
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Negative run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Trent Brown | 76.4 | 69.4 | 11.7% | ? | |
| Nate Solder | 76.5 | 69.3 | 8.0% | 8.7% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
24. G Kevin Dotson, Los Angeles Rams
Dotson was traded from the Pittsburgh Steelers to the Los Angeles Rams this offseason, and what first appeared like an odd fit should have instead been a signal that head coach Sean McVay was reinventing his offense to much success in 2023. McVay pivoted from a wide-zone rushing attack to a heavy gap scheme, and Dotson was a picture-perfect fit. He has always been a strong pass protector, which carried over, as well.
Top free agent comparison: Larry Warford, 2017
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Kevin Dotson | 73.6 | 67.4 | 15.0% | ? | |
| Larry Warford | 75.2 | 69.1 | 15.0% | 5.1% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
25. WR Calvin Ridley, Jacksonville Jaguars
Ridley’s contract situation is a true one-of-one. He returned to play in 2023 after missing all of 2022 while serving a suspension for sports gambling and had stepped away from football before the 2021 campaign was over but was a top wide receiver in 2020. There were drop issues in 2023 as Ridley returned to full speed, but he still proved capable of taking over a game while breaking off a series of explosive receptions.
Equally fascinating are the conditions on Ridley’s trade to Jacksonville, where the pick the Jaguars will send to the Atlanta Falcons escalates to a second-rounder if the two parties agree to an extension. We’re not 100% certain that the same language for the condition exists here as it did when Leonard Williams was sent from the New York Jets to the New York Giants, but there the Giants did not have to send a better pick by merely placing a franchise tag instead of signing Williams to a multi-year extension in 2020.
Top free agent comparison: Odell Beckham Jr., 2023
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Average depth of target | Yards after catch per reception | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Calvin Ridley | 69.2 | 1.47 | 14.0 | 2.6 | ? |
| Odell Beckham Jr. | 76.9 | 1.62 | 13.6 | 3.3 | 6.7% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
26. T Mike Onwenu, New England Patriots
Onwenu had been shuffled around endlessly throughout his rookie contract but returned to right tackle in Week 7 of 2023, the position he seems most comfortable playing as a solid pass protector and a strong gap scheme blocker with good footwork to combo block at the line and get to the second level fairly well.
Onwenu is not the quickest player off the line, given his massive frame, but has the strength to wall off backside pursuit defenders in the run game with a solid base and heavy hands when called upon.
Top free agent comparison: Daryl Williams, 2021
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Negative run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Mike Onwenu | 75.0 | 66.7 | 13.3% | ? | |
| Daryl Williams | 76.6 | 72.9 | 10.0% | 4.4% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
27. CB Chidobe Awuzie, Cincinnati Bengals
Awuzie was one of a series of slam-dunk free-agent acquisitions for the Cincinnati Bengals over the past few years, providing the team with a bona fide No. 1 outside cornerback for just $7.25 million annually. Awuzie tore his ACL in 2022, and the Bengals have used four Day 2 picks on defensive backs over the past two draft classes, which signals he should be testing out free agency once again. He returned to form nicely in 2023, though.
Top free agent comparison: Desmond Trufant, 2020
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Single coverage grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Chidobe Awuzie | 80.2 | 79.9 | 15.6% | 65.6 | ? |
| Desmond Trufant | 73.9 | 71.8 | 13.0% | 73.4 | 5% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
28. G Robert Hunt, Miami Dolphins
It came as a bit of a surprise that Hunt was not the young Dolphins offensive lineman agreeing to terms on an extension before the season concluded, but it could also be a signal that he knows he can command a strong contract on the open market with a large sample size of good play.
At 6-foot-6 and 335 pounds, Hunt got his NFL start at tackle, lining up on either side in his rookie season and holding up admirably. He found a home for the past three seasons at right guard and was a great fit in the team’s zone rushing attack under head coach Mike McDaniel.
Top free agent comparison: Brandon Brooks, 2016
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Robert Hunt | 75.1 | 67.4 | 14.5% | ? | |
| Brandon Brooks | 84.6 | 78.7 | 17.1% | 5.1% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
29. EDGE Chase Young, San Francisco 49ers
Finally healthy in 2023 after spending the better part of two seasons recovering from a torn ACL, Young exploded early in the year and finished among the top edge defenders in pass-rush win rate on the season. A strong run defender as a rookie, Young does lose contain at times and occasionally gets guided upfield beyond the play, but a half-season of working with defensive line coach Kris Kocurek in San Francisco is the best free agency preparation around.
The No. 3 overall pick in 2015, Dante Fowler Jr., signed a one-year, $12 million deal following his rookie contract that began with a torn ACL in his rookie season. Perhaps this type of framework could serve as a blueprint, and Young can bet on himself once again to repeat in 2024 and then truly cash in.
Top free agent comparison: Brian Orakpo, 2014
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Chase Young | 77.3 | 75.5 | 15.5% | 64.6 | ? |
| Brian Orakpo | 75.9 | 73.7 | 10.3% | 71.8 | Franchise tag |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
30. RB Saquon Barkley, New York Giants
Barkley held out for a short period this past offseason before returning to play on his franchise tag plus a few incentives that he had close to zero chance of earning. Unfortunately for him, the Giants' season was an abject disaster from the start … that is, until Tommy Cutlets became America’s quarterback for a few weeks.
Barkley is still capable of breaking off an explosive rush at any moment and made several highlight-reel catches in 2023, including a wheel route touchdown that ended with a dive for the pylon in Week 2 against the Arizona Cardinals. There’s no doubt Barkley’s highs are as high as any running back in the game, but the position market is a tricky landscape to navigate in 2024, especially with his missing extended time in three out of the past four seasons.
The good news for Barkley and all free agent running backs this offseason is that the 2024 running back draft class is not perceived to be strong.
Top free agent comparison: LeSean McCoy, 2015
| Player | Missed tackles forced per attempt | Yards after contact per attempt | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Saquon Barkley | 0.13 | 2.87 | 62.3 | 0.9 | ? |
| LeSean McCoy | 0.15 | 2.20 | 61.8 | 0.9 | 5.6% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
31. RB Josh Jacobs, Las Vegas Raiders
A year removed from winning the rushing title in 2022, Jacobs endured an ugly start to the year amid the implosion of the Josh McDaniels era, and his rushing grade finished nearly 10 points below any prior season. He averaged just 3.5 yards per carry in 2023. Fortunately, Jacobs being utilized more frequently and effectively was a focal point of the Antonio Pierce regime. He amassed at least 98 yards from scrimmage in three of those five games before a quad injury ended his season.
Jacobs will turn just 26 the month before free agency and should still have plenty left in the tank.
Top free agent comparison: Doug Martin, 2016
| Player | Missed tackles forced per attempt | Yards after contact per attempt | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Josh Jacobs | 0.21 | 2.98 | 58.2 | 1.2 | ? |
| Doug Martin | 0.15 | 2.83 | 62.3 | 1.01 | 4.6% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
32. RB Derrick Henry, Tennessee Titans
There is only one “Tractorcito,” with Henry's usage as a screen receiver in recent seasons adding another element to his game, causing comparisons to players like Steven Jackson and Chris Ivory to fall a bit short. Henry has not yet hit the proverbial wall, whether that is tied to a running back’s age or total carries. His 3.32 yards after contact per attempt in 2023 was still a top-tier mark.
Going forward, Henry may not break off as many explosives as in years past, but he looks to have a few more seasons of bowling over defenders and scoring double-digit touchdowns in him.
Top free agent comparison: Leonard Fournette, 2022
| Player | Missed tackles forced per attempt | Yards after contact per attempt | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Derrick Henry | 0.2 | 3.37 | 60.8 | 1.77 | ? |
| Leonard Fournette | 0.15 | 2.94 | 62.8 | 1.23 | 3.4 |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
33. G Kevin Zeitler, Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens adding Zeitler as a street free agent in 2021 after he was a cap casualty of the New York Giants has provided tremendous value, as he has played more than 1,000 snaps in every year with the team. The stalwart is still going strong at 33 years old, earning a pass-blocking grade above 80.0 for the second consecutive season in 2023.
The Ravens let left guard Ben Powers walk last offseason on a big contract, so perhaps they keep Zeitler around to pair on the right side with another stalwart veteran in Morgan Moses at right tackle, pushing to lift a Lombardi Trophy before the two hang it up.
However, Baltimore also didn’t appear to engage in extension talks this offseason as Zeitler skipped some activities. In their defense, they were a bit preoccupied with Lamar Jackson’s monster deal, among other matters.
Top free agent comparison: Josh Sitton, 2018
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Kevin Zeitler | 83.8 | 76.2 | 10.6% | ? | |
| Josh Sitton | 90.8 | 89.3 | 14.5% | 3.8% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
34. CB Stephon Gilmore, Dallas Cowboys
Gilmore’s trade from the Indianapolis Colts to the Dallas Cowboys this offseason got him back to playing contending football, and he hasn’t skipped a beat at any point as he’s moved around over the past few years. Gilmore still thrives in single coverage and can jostle with the more physical receivers who play through contact, timing his leap well on contested catches and jumping routes with top-end play recognition.
A matchup with A.J. Brown in Week 14 had him playing inspired football after Brown allegedly called him old early on in the contest. Gilmore rose to the occasion and locked Brown down until the game was out of reach in the second half.
Top free agent comparison: Darius Slay, 2023
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Single coverage grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Stephon Gilmore | 87.9 | 79.0 | 14.7% | 77.7 | ? |
| Darius Slay | 77.0 | 90.1 | 9.4% | 79.6 | 6.2% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
35. LB Frankie Luvu, Carolina Panthers
Luvu burst onto the scene in 2021 and has continued to be one of the best pass-rushing off-ball linebackers in the NFL, with his 43 pressures since 2022 ranking fourth at the position and his 9.5 sacks ranking first.
Luvu has also amassed 62 defensive stops against the run since 2022, which ranks 12th among linebackers over the span. Luvu has limitations in coverage but is a menace coming forward and rushing the passer or shooting through gaps to rack up tackles for loss.
Top free agent comparison: Kaden Elliss, 2023
| Player | Run-defense grade | Coverage grade in the box | Forced incompletion rate | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Frankie Luvu | 86.6 | 56.4 | 3.9% | 7.7% | ? |
| Kaden Elliss | 84.0 | 57.8 | 4.9% | 7.2% | 3.2% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
36. CB Steven Nelson, Houston Texans
Nelson was a great fit for the Houston Texans in back-to-back seasons, despite a defensive shift from Lovie Smith to DeMeco Ryans. He has logged a healthy dose of snaps in so many different coverage schemes dating back to his days with the Philadelphia Eagles, Pittsburgh Steelers and Kansas City Chiefs.
The ever-consistent Nelson played 950-plus snaps for the sixth consecutive season in 2023, best suited in off coverage with great lateral agility and the instincts to click and close still popping up on tape in coverage and run support.
Top free agent comparison: Jason McCourty, 2019
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Single coverage grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Steven Nelson | 72.3 | 87.3 | 11.2% | 63.9 | ? |
| Jason McCourty | 80.9 | 81.4 | 12.6% | 67.2 | 2.6% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
37. TE Dalton Schultz, Houston Texans
Schultz played on the franchise tag in Dallas in 2022 and was the victim of a very weak tight end free-agent class. So many poor outcomes for second-tier tight ends in free agency recently led to the group getting pinched last offseason. A year later, Schultz served as a reliable target for rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud in Houston. Schultz is sure-handed and has a respectable 867-yard average depth of target but doesn’t rack up a ton of yards after the catch.
As a blocker, Schultz is capable enough in line to be a positive in the run game, earning grades above 60.0 in five straight seasons.
Top free agent comparison: Jordan Cameron, 2015
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Dalton Schultz | 70.6 | 1.45 | 9.0% | ? | |
| Jordan Cameron | 71.7 | 1.59 | 7.7% | 5.2% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
38. C Connor Williams, Miami Dolphins
Williams started his career with the Dallas Cowboys at left guard and blossomed in Miami at center, thriving as a run blocker in Mike McDaniel’s zone-blocking scheme where he was able to quickly get to the second level and lead the way. While he doesn’t have the world’s strongest anchor in a phone booth, his fast first step off the line enables him to seal off defenders on the backside of runs by getting in position.
Williams unfortunately suffered a torn ACL in Week 14, which will negatively impact his free agent market as his recovery process coincides with the beginning of free agency in March.
Top free agent comparison: Evan Smith, 2014
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Connor Williams | 70.7 | 63.3 | 18.4% | ? | |
| Evan Smith | 77.8 | 69.2 | 12.7% | 2.7% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
39. EDGE Jonathan Greenard, Houston Texans
Greenard made the absolute most of his contract year under the tutelage of DeMeco Ryans and company, and he’s been productive as a pass rusher and run defender, with his 9.3% run-stop rate ranking eighth among qualifying edge defenders.
Greenard wins against the run because of a good first step, strong diagnosing skills and a solid ability to set the edge and avoid getting washed out at the point of attack. As a pass rusher, while he doesn’t have the deepest arsenal of moves, he is a good enough athlete to rack up clean-up and pursuit pressures if teammates chase quarterbacks his way, as he rarely gives up on a rep until the whistle blows.
Top free agent comparison: Nick Perry, 2017
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Jonathan Greenard | 68.0 | 68.0 | 10.8% | 73.8 | ? |
| Nick Perry | 66.7 | 71.2 | 10.3% | 80.9 | 7.2% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
40. LB Lavonte David, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
David earned his lowest regular-season overall grade since 2016 in 2023 but is still Mr. Reliable with a run-defense grade above 70.0 and a 65.0-plus coverage grade for the seventh consecutive year. David is one of the greatest coverage linebackers to ever play the game, and as more time passes, his thinking one step ahead of the opposing quarterback is on display more and more each week, overcoming some physical limitations through an unrivaled knowledge of the game.
As a free agent last year, David didn’t push very hard to maximize his earnings, and it appears he may be content entering his 13th season all with Tampa Bay.
Top free agent comparison: Karlos Dansby, 2014
| Player | Run-defense grade | Coverage grade in the box | Forced incompletion rate | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Lavonte David | 77.8 | 90.4 | 6.0% | 7.5% | ? |
| Karlos Dansby | 79.8 | 86.9 | 8.5% | 11.2% | 4.5% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
41. EDGE Jadeveon Clowney, Baltimore Ravens
Clowney enjoyed a career year with Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald dialing things up for him, deploying simulated pressures and exotic blitzes out of various fronts.
It seems Clowney will probably ride out the rest of his career on successive one-year deals that fluctuate based on his production the year prior, and he certainly earned himself a raise this season. With the Ravens in 2023, he recorded his highest pressure rate, highest pass-rush win rate and most total pressures in a season.
Top free agent comparison: Brian Orakpo, 2015
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Jadeveon Clowney | 76.3 | 80.5 | 14.2% | 74.4 | ? |
| Brian Orakpo | 69.8 | 75.5 | 10.3% | 72.5 | 5.4% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
42. CB Kenny Moore II, Indianapolis Colts
Moore pushed for an early re-up on the four-year extension he signed in 2019, but his efforts were to no avail as the Colts worked to overhaul the roster and get younger in the secondary, in particular. Fortunately for Moore, he earned a career-high 79.3 coverage grade along with a 71.5 run-defense grade — his sixth straight season going above 65.0.
At 5-foot-9 and 190 pounds, Moore never backs down from a tackle opportunity, doing a good job as the force defender to keep ball carriers inside or running the alley to make the tackle himself when called upon — a key role in Gus Bradley’s Cover 3 defense.
Moore became just the 28th player in NFL history to record two pick-sixes in the same game with his outstanding Week 9 performance and can now look to capitalize on a strong season. However, it will be an uphill battle in a completely dormant slot cornerback market.
Top free agent comparison: Buster Skrine, 2019
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Single coverage grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Kenny Moore II | 59.9 | 62.4 | 6.0% | 48.8 | ? |
| Buster Skrine | 63.8 | 58.9 | 13.7% | 58.5 | 2.9% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
43. EDGE Za'Darius Smith, Cleveland Browns
Smith was traded from the Minnesota Vikings to the Cleveland Browns this past offseason and revised his contract, converting it into a one-year pact for $11.677 million, a price tag he vastly outplayed once again. Smith has the size and explosiveness to rush from the A-gaps out to a two-point stance as a stand-up outside linebacker, and he has earned pass-rush grades above 80.0 in his past four full seasons.
Justin Houston’s two-year, $23 million contract with $18.5 million in total guarantees signed in 2019 with the Indianapolis Colts is another strong comparable deal here.
Top free agent comparison: Robert Ayers, 2016
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Za’Darius Smith | 87.9 | 90.4 | 18.6% | 67.9 | ? |
| Robert Ayers | 89.8 | 91.2 | 16.0% | 60.1 | 4.2% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
44. S Xavier McKinney, New York Giants
McKinney’s coverage grades as a free safety (81.4) and in the box (79.4) are top-10 marks among safeties in 2023, and there is a big enough sample size of box play despite his general deployment as a deep player. Over the past three seasons, McKinney’s 7.0 yards allowed per target in coverage ranks top-25 among safeties, and his 17 combined interceptions and forced incompletions put him in the top 20.
While he could make more plays at or near the line of scrimmage, he rarely whiffs on open-field tackles. The 24-year-old has missed just 7.8% of his tackle attempts over his career, 11th-best among 89 safeties with at least 100 tackles over the past four seasons, making him a reliable enough last line of defense.
Top free agent comparison: John Johnson III, 2021
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Xavier McKinney | 83.8 | 88.4 | 8.4% | 70.5 | ? |
| John Johnson III | 79.4 | 74.2 | 7.7% | 69.5 | 3.4% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
45. QB Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Mayfield made the most of his starting opportunity with the Buccaneers and at least left the door open to be involved in future training camp battles for starting jobs. He has brought his pressure-to-sack rate way down to 18.3% during the regular season, well below his rate over the past two seasons.
The former No. 1 overall pick kept his eyes downfield amid pressure and made more plays outside of structure than normal, with a heavy dose of RPO and play-action concepts from new offensive coordinator Dave Canales moving the pocket and simplifying his progressions. Mayfield still puts the ball in harm’s way too often, but he showed signs of individual growth in yet another new offense.
Top free agent comparison: Jameis Winston, 2022
| Player | Clean pocket grade | 1st & 2nd down grade | Standard dropback grade | Sack rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Baker Mayfield | 78.3 | 64.5 | 67.5 | 7.5% | ? |
| Jameis Winston | 84.1 | 65.5 | 70.3 | 6.3% | 6.7% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
46. C Andre James, Las Vegas Raiders
James clearly earned a lot of respect and trust from the previous Raiders regime, given that the team was willing to trade away franchise pillar Rodney Hudson to the Arizona Cardinals to have James supplant him at center.
The move proved to be a smart one. James is patient and a clean fit in pass protection, able to mirror the shiftier interior pass rushers and generally withstand power rushes, save for a few matchups with the true brute forces on the inside.
Top free agent comparison: Bradley Bozeman, 2023
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Andre James | 67.3 | 63.4 | 11.8% | ? | |
| Bradley Bozeman | 67.9 | 60.1 | 11.5% | 2.7% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
47. TE Hunter Henry, New England Patriots
Henry served as one of the few consistent and reliable targets for a New England Patriots passing attack that went through lengthy droughts since his arrival as a free agent in 2021.
In a weaker free-agent class at tight end, perhaps the high-floor veteran has a few suitors looking to add at a position where a known commodity is a value.
Top free agent comparison: Tyler Eifert, 2020
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Hunter Henry | 67.8 | 1.18 | 4.4% | ? | |
| Tyler Eifert | 68.2 | 1.36 | 1.9% | 2.4% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
48. T Mekhi Becton, New York Jets
The former No. 11 overall pick of the 2020 draft has always had the athletic ability to play at a high level in this league — injuries have just destroyed a promising young career.
More importantly than anything else, Becton played more snaps in 2023 than he did over his first three seasons combined. The 6-foot-7, 363-pound dancing bear looked leaner in training camp and performed admirably as a pass protector despite the revolving door of quarterbacks operating behind him. He has the ability to be the lead blocker to the play side but often got caught up in the muck this season when pull-blocking across the formation, getting his feet tangled and ending up on the ground.
Top free agent comparison: Greg Robinson, 2019
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Negative run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Mekhi Becton | 66.4 | 53.5 | 21.3% | ? | |
| Greg Robinson | 62.1 | 54.6 | 17.4% | 3.4% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
49. EDGE Josh Uche, New England Patriots
Similar to the New York Jets‘ Bryce Huff, Uche is a difficult evaluation. However, Huff increased his role despite the Jets drafting an edge defender in the first round, whereas Uche’s role diminished despite injuries to key contributors such as Matthew Judon in New England.
Uche is a pure designated pass rusher who can be deployed on late downs to pin his ears back and get home for timely pressures and sacks, which is still valuable. A one-year flier to boost his stock back up may be the best route at this juncture.
Top free agent comparison: Haason Reddick, 2021
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Josh Uche | 83.8 | 80.4 | 16.4% | 66.8 | ? |
| Haason Reddick | 80.4 | 88.0 | 10.9% | 56.7 | 3.3% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
50. EDGE Leonard Floyd, Buffalo Bills
Floyd was let go by the Los Angeles Rams as they dropped from the most expensive NFL team in 2022 to the cheapest in 2023. Still, he made a handful of splash plays this regular season, with several coming in key moments.
Floyd earned 65.0-plus pass-rush grades in three straight seasons prior to 2023, and his 38.5 sacks since then have flown under the radar as a top-10 mark among edge defenders.
Floyd is long and rangy, with good burst but only adequate bend around the edge. He tends to impact more plays than the box score indicates, thanks to his good instincts to get his hands up to deflect passes or disrupt throwing windows.
Top free agent comparison: Bruce Irvin, 2018
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Leonard Floyd | 66.1 | 69.7 | 11.1% | 55.4 | ? |
| Bruce Irvin | 65.7 | 70.7 | 9.7% | 77.5 | 1.8% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
51. LB Jordyn Brooks, Seattle Seahawks
Brooks draws tough assignments in coverage, which knocks his grade a bit, but it also illustrates the trust this defense has in him. His ability to return by Week 1 of 2023 from a torn ACL suffered in Week 17 of 2022 was extremely impressive, and he posted career highs in pass-rush grade and coverage grade this season. Brooks is a three-down player who could continue to grow with improved health and experience.
Perhaps it would be wise for Brooks to sign a shorter deal that enables him to get back on the market sooner for another bite at the apple, with more good play to put on tape another year removed from his torn ACL.
Top free agent comparison: Bobby Okereke, 2023
| Player | Run-defense grade | Coverage grade in the box | Forced incompletion rate | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Jordyn Brooks | 61.1 | 48.3 | 4.4% | 8.6% | ? |
| Bobby Okereke | 67.3 | 62.0 | 1.7% | 7.8% | 4.4% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
52. DI Grover Stewart, Indianapolis Colts
Stewart served a six-game suspension this season for performance-enhancing drugs but returned in Week 14 for the stretch run. On/off splits are largely noise, but Indianapolis ranked in the top half of the NFL in expected points allowed per rush with Stewart and dead last in the games without him in the lineup. Stewart’s presence frees up rushers around him because he takes on double teams and clogs up the middle.
Top free agent comparison: Terrance Knighton, 2016
| Player | Run-defense grade | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Grover Stewart | 72.8 | 60.2 | 62.6 | 8.9% | ? |
| Terrance Knighton | 77.3 | 57.1 | 55.9 | 7.4% | 1.3% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
53. S Geno Stone, Baltimore Ravens
In his first season playing in a full-time role on a defense that deploys three-safety looks as much as any team in the NFL, Stone boasted an 84.9 PFF coverage grade in the regular season that ranked seventh at the position and brought in a position-leading seven interceptions.
The knocks on Stone will be about his lack of deployment in the box or the slot and his poor run defense and tackling, missing 19% of tackle opportunities this season.
Top free agent comparison: Duron Harmon, 2017
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Geno Stone | 84.9 | 82.6 | 1.9% | 42.9 | ? |
| Duron Harmon | 76.9 | 80.3 | 6.3% | 47.5 | 2.5% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
54. TE Noah Fant, Seattle Seahawks
The former Denver Broncos first-round pick was sent to the Seattle Seahawks as a part of the Russell Wilson trade, and despite a decline in receiving yards in four consecutive seasons, Fant has had the potential for more production. Fant has breakaway speed in the open field for a tight end to go with a good understanding of how to let blocks develop in front of him and use the full field to avoid would-be tacklers.
Top free agent comparison: Eric Ebron, 2018
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Noah Fant | 68.3 | 1.35 | 4.4% | ? | |
| Eric Ebron | 72.5 | 1.46 | 3.3$ | 3.7% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
55. T Jonah Williams, Cincinnati Bengals
Williams requested a trade this past offseason after the Bengals signed free agent tackle Orlando Brown Jr. to take over on the left side, but he eventually rescinded the request and got back to work mastering his craft at right tackle, where he hadn’t started since his undergraduate days in college at Alabama. The former first-round pick has always been an above-average pass protector and has stayed healthy throughout 2023.
While Williams may not have the ceiling perceived coming out of college, a high-floor pass blocker with a strong pedigree should do fairly well in unrestricted free agency with the league-wide scarcity of solid tackle play.
Top free agent comparison: Ja’Wuan James, 2019
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Negative run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Jonah Williams | 63.2 | 60.9 | 12.6% | ? | |
| Ja’Wuan James | 72.5 | 64.2 | 14.1% | 6.8% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
56. RB Tony Pollard, Dallas Cowboys
Pollard was one of three running backs to play out the 2023 season on the franchise tag, and some of the concerns that Dallas cited during his days as the change-of-pace back to Ezekiel Elliott did bear out once he became the focal point of the Cowboys’ rushing attack.
Pollard’s efficiency on a per-touch basis came way down, which was to be expected, but the explosive plays in both the run and pass game were also far harder to come by as a result.
Top free agent comparison: Chris Carson, 2021
| Player | Missed tackles forced per attempt | Yards after contact per attempt | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Tony Pollard | 0.19 | 3.32 | 66.9 | 1.13 | ? |
| Chris Carson | 0.21 | 3.45 | 73.0 | 1.04 | 2.8% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
57. RB Austin Ekeler, Los Angeles Chargers
Ekeler pushed for a contract extension and then a trade before the season once it became clear the Chargers didn’t plan to add years to his contract.
The former undrafted free agent has lost some of his top-end speed and acceleration, but he is still shifty over the middle with good start-and-stop ability laterally and a natural pass-catching prowess that rivals any back in the NFL.
Top free agent comparison: Dion Lewis, 2018
| Player | Missed tackles forced per attempt | Yards after contact per attempt | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Austin Ekeler | 0.18 | 2.79 | 73.0 | 1.51 | ? |
| Dion Lewis | 0.19 | 2.72 | 73.4 | 1.46 | 2.8% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
58. C Lloyd Cushenberry III, Denver Broncos
Cushenberry was named the starting center as a rookie in 2020 and struggled early, as many players in the same situation have in recent years, with the added responsibility of calling out protections. Three different coaching staffs in his four years didn’t exactly bring stability, either, but Cushenberry put together a career year in 2023 and has grown as a run blocker while consistently showing up as one of the better pass-protecting centers in the NFL over the past few seasons.
Cushenberry uses heavy hands and a good anchor to win against quality pass rushers on the interior, bolstering his value more each year. He may be served better in a gap-heavy rushing scheme, but any limitations as a run blocker in space are vastly outweighed by his pass-blocking strength. Penalties could stand to come down a bit, but that’s nitpicking an ascending young player who looks the part of a centerpiece of an offensive line for years to come.
Top free agent comparison: Mitch Morse, 2019
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Lloyd Cushenberry | 76.5 | 73.2 | 11.8% | ? | |
| Mitch Morse | 80.4 | 74.0 | 7.8% | 5.9% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
59. LB Bobby Wagner, Seattle Seahawks
The ageless wonder may not be the elite coverage linebacker he was for the better part of a decade, but he is still a tackling machine sideline to sideline with dogged pursuit on every single snap and the requisite strength to shed blockers when coming forward. Wagner has lost athletic ability in space, but he’s made up a lot of that ground due to his play recognition and football IQ.
Top free agent comparison: Daryl Smith, 2016
| Player | Run-defense grade | Coverage grade in the box | Forced incompletion rate | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Bobby Wagner | 92.7 | 66.7 | 4.0% | 9.1% | ? |
| Daryl Smith | 77.5 | 62.7 | 5.0% | 8.5% | 1.6% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
60. Edge Andrew Van Ginkel, Miami Dolphins
Van Ginkel has been a productive player in a rotational capacity and closed out the 2023 season with strong efforts in a bigger role following the Jaelan Phillips loss. Van Ginkel makes up for a slender frame and shorter arms with good burst off the line and plus movement ability in space, but he can get swallowed up by blockers. When he does get a free release upfield, he’ll make the play more often than not in the backfield.
Dolphins defensive coordinator Vic Fangio asks his outside linebackers to drop in coverage rather frequently, and Van Ginkel was up to the task in 2023, including recording three batted passes and a pick-six against the Washington Commanders after reading a screen perfectly and taking it to the house unassisted.
Top free agent comparison: Shaq Barrett, 2019
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Andrew Van Ginkel | 86.0 | 85.8 | 15.5% | 80.7 | ? |
| Shaq Barrett | 80.1 | 83.5 | 12.0% | 80.1 | 2.1% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
61. WR Darnell Mooney, Chicago Bears
In Mooney’s second season in 2021, he put up 1,055 receiving yards on 81 receptions with a career-best 74.9 receiving grade. Since then, Mooney has unfortunately dealt with a few minor injuries and one of the lower-volume passing attacks in the league. Nonetheless, he creates separation on intermediate and deep routes consistently, and he could be the ultimate buy-low for a team that can tap into the potential we saw a few years back.
Top free agent comparison: Emmanuel Sanders, 2014
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Average depth of target | Yards after catch per reception | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Darnell Mooney | 64.3 | 1.20 | 12.3 | 5.1 | ? |
| Emmanuel Sanders | 70.0 | 1.43 | 11.5 | 4.7 | 3.8% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
62. T Jermaine Eluemunor, Las Vegas Raiders
Eluemunor is a longtime swing tackle who found a home last year at right tackle for the Raiders, signing a one-year, $3 million deal in free agency to return for 2023. Eluemunor backed up a strong 2022 with another good year, posting pressure rates allowed below 5% in each season. Bendier edge rushers who can flatten out their rush paths at the top of the arc and get around the corner will beat Eluemunor at times, but he handles speed to power well and has proven to be a starting-caliber tackle.
Top free agent comparison: Austin Howard, 2017
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Negative run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Jermaine Eluemunor | 72.0 | 74.7 | 12.6% | ? | |
| Austin Howard | 70.2 | 64.7 | 10.5% | 3% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
63. DI Sheldon Rankins, Houston Texans
Rankins plays with good leverage, engaging in blocks with a low center of gravity and often driving his blocker back several steps into the lap of the quarterback. He also has a suddenness to his game as a pass rusher, quickly getting on the toes of opposing guards and deploying his inside spin move or flashing across the line on stunts. When blockers are able to latch onto him, he struggles to disengage, getting driven past the quarterback or limiting his ability to complete the play, but he continues driving his legs through contact nonetheless and doesn’t stop until the whistle.
Top free agent comparison: Nick Fairley, 2017
| Player | Run-defense grade | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Sheldon Rankins | 54.1 | 71.5 | 80.3 | 10.2% | ? |
| Nick Fairley | 65.6 | 71.6 | 77.0 | 9.9% | 4.2% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
64. WR Gabriel Davis, Buffalo Bills
Davis is your typical vertical threat out wide, averaging more than 15 yards per reception in every season of his career and coming down with a fair amount of contested catches with good high-pointing skills. However, Davis doesn’t have the fastest release off the line and doesn’t snap off in-breakers with a sharpness to create separation over the middle. He’ll help stretch the field outside the numbers for an acquiring team and can have some huge outings on occasion, but he can also be absent from the box score at times.
Top free agent comparison: Devin Funchess, 2019
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Average depth of target | Yards after catch per reception | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Gabriel Davis | 67.3 | 1.35 | 16.2 | 3.1 | ? |
| Devin Funchess | 72.1 | 1.51 | 13.7 | 3.3 | 5.3% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
65. Edge Denico Autry, Tennessee Titans
Autry is still one of the strongest five-technique defensive ends in the game, splitting double teams by lowering his shoulder and barreling through blocks with sheer power or sometimes utilizing a jump chop across the tackle’s face to the inside. The wily veteran also does a good job of using a blocker's momentum in a backpedal to slingshot himself forward, always finding a way to end up around the quarterback, even if only to deliver a shot just after the ball gets thrown. Autry will be 34 years old in 2023 but still has good football in his future.
Top free agent comparison: Everson Griffen, 2020
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Denico Autry | 73.7 | 80.3 | 12.8% | 60.6 | ? |
| Everson Griffen | 72.6 | 80.7 | 13.5% | 70.8 | 3.0% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
66. G Dalton Risner, Minnesota Vikings
Risner’s 2023 free agency didn’t pan out as he’d hoped, so he bided his time before joining the Minnesota Vikings a few weeks into the 2023 season on a one-year flier. Risner quickly supplanted Ezra Cleveland at left guard and has been a plus pass protector for the fifth season in a row.
Risner does well to initiate contact with a solid punch, ensuring he doesn’t expose his chest or get his hands swatted away. Even on bull rushes where Risner is driven back and gives up pressure, he keeps his feet square and stays in front of the rusher to prevent a hit on the quarterback, frequently providing this signal-caller with just enough time to still get a pass off.
Top free agent comparison: Connor McGovern, 2023
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Dalton Risner | 71.6 | 67.4 | 9.0% | ? | |
| Connor McGovern | 75.0 | 64.8 | 8.8% | 3.3% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
67. S Julian Blackmon, Indianapolis Colts
Blackmon started for two seasons in college at cornerback, and he has logged more than 350 slot snaps since 2022. In Gus Bradley’s Cover 3-heavy scheme, Blackmon spent plenty of time as a single-high safety. Almost half of his snaps were down in the box in 2023.
Blackmon appears to be a better fit near the line of scrimmage due to his average recovery speed, but his plus lateral movement and solid ball skills from his days spent as a cornerback show up more often when closer to the line of scrimmage. Blackmon’s 30 defensive stops in 2023 were more than his career total before this season, and he missed a career-low 7.4% of tackle opportunities.
Top free agent comparison: Jayron Kearse, 2022
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Julian Blackmon | 63.7 | 60.3 | 2.7% | 66.6 | ? |
| Jayron Kearse | 60.8 | 63.7 | 9.4% | 64.6 | 2.4% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
68. LB Jerome Baker, Miami Dolphins
Baker will get caught on blocks at times or fail to enthusiastically fill a gap in the run game, but he's still one of the stronger coverage linebackers in the NFL with the long speed and effort to chase down ball carriers. On the play where he injured his wrist, which required surgery and may have spurred his release, he ran across the field to the far pylon and was just a second late to making a potential stop right before the touchdown.
69. G Ezra Cleveland, Jacksonville Jaguars
Cleveland was traded to the Jaguars at this year’s deadline after logging more than 1,100 snaps at left guard for the Minnesota Vikings in 2021 and 2022. The former second-round pick out of Boise State kicked inside at the NFL level and has been a great run blocker since Day 1 in a predominantly zone scheme.
Cleveland passes off double teams well, getting to the defender's play-side shoulder and down-blocking them away from the ball carrier while setting himself free to square up a second-level defender. In pass protection, Cleveland can set a bit upright with his weight distributed to the back of his feet, which makes him susceptible to rushers pushing him off his spot at times or crossing his face without much resistance.
Top free agent comparison: Austin Corbett, 2022
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Ezra Cleveland | 59.1 | 57.8 | 17.5% | ? | |
| Austin Corbett | 62.5 | 50.2 | 15.2% | 4.2% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
70. QB Ryan Tannehill, Tennessee Titans
Tannehill will be 36 years old in 2024, coming off a $27 million salary on the final year of his extension signed in 2020, but he could still be a bridge starter to a young quarterback, much like he was this season with the Tennessee Titans and Will Levis. Tannehill is a good athlete who wins off play action and with solid intermediate accuracy on rollouts to both the right and left. His pressure-to-sack rate has been too high for a few years now, but in his defense, he’s been operating behind a very porous offensive line with a pass-catching corps that does not create quick separation.
Top free agent comparison: Andy Dalton, 2023
| Player | Clean pocket grade | 1st & 2nd down grade | Standard dropback grade | Sack rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Ryan Tannehill | 88.1 | 84.3 | 77.0 | 9.3% | ? |
| Andy Dalton | 81.7 | 75.8 | 79.0 | 6.3% | 2.2% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
71. WR Odell Beckham Jr., Baltimore Ravens
Beckham progressively looked more and more like his old self as 2023 wore on. His 90.0 receiving grade from Weeks 9-14 trailed only Tyreek Hill among wide receivers.
Top free agent comparison: N/A
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Average depth of target | Yards after catch per reception | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Odell Beckham Jr. | 77.7 | 2.03 | 14.9 | 4.8 | ? |
| N/A | – | – | – | – | – |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
72. LB Azeez Al-Shaair, Tennessee Titans
Al-Shaair was the 49ers’ third linebacker while working behind star Fred Warner and the hard-hitting Dre Greenlaw from 2019-22 before signing a one-year, $5 million deal with the Titans last offseason. Al-Shaair is completely fearless coming forward and attacking gaps in the run game, bursting through blocks or fighting with a second effort to make a play. There are limitations in coverage, but if any team needs an early-down thumper in the run game, Al-Shaair is the guy.
Top free agent comparison: Todd Davis, 2018
| Player | Run-defense grade | Coverage grade in the box | Forced incompletion rate | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Azeez Al-Shaair | 76.5 | 57.2 | 2.8% | 8.0% | ? |
| Todd Davis | 85.3 | 52.5 | 2.6% | 9.1% | 2.8% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
73. DI Teair Tart, Tennessee Titans
Tart had a very strange and tumultuous 2023 season with the Titans after the two sides were unable to come to terms on an extension before the year. Tart played on the second-round restricted free agent tender for $4.3 million, but his effort and focus were questioned at times by the coaching staff before he was ultimately waived ahead of Week 15. The Houston Texans claimed Tart, with two other teams also putting in claims, so clearly the concerns weren’t so bad as to scare off suitors.
On the field, Tart is difficult to displace with just one blocker in the run game, and he has solid juice as a pass rusher. He makes a great member of a platoon as a zero- or one-technique who can push a pocket or knife through double teams, and he shows good recognition as to when to get his hands up for a batted pass.
Top free agent comparison: D.J. Jones, 2022
| Player | Run-defense grade | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Teair Tart | 60.0 | 73.8 | 76.4 | 8.6% | ? |
| D.J. Jones | 64.0 | 66.9 | 69.1 | 8.2% | 4.8% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
74. DI Fletcher Cox, Philadelphia Eagles
Cox bounced back in 2023 after the first down season of his illustrious 12-year career in 2022. Cox has generated 35-plus quarterback pressures, racked up 15-plus defensive stops and logged at least 600 snaps in every year since 2013. While he may not be at the peak of his abilities any longer, he is still a handful for any offense to deal with on all three downs.
Top free agent comparison: Akiem Hicks, 2022
| Player | Run-defense grade | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Fletcher Cox | 55.2 | 69.3 | 70.5 | 9.8% | ? |
| Akiem Hicks | 65.0 | 75.7 | 78.5 | 12.3% | 3.8% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
75. LB Devin White, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
White carries top-five-pick pedigree into free agency, which will always lead to a stronger market, and he’s consistently one of the most productive pass rushers among off-ball linebackers, using his elite athleticism to explode into the backfield. White’s issue at the NFL level has been biting on play action too frequently, freelancing at times and struggling in coverage generally, and it’s not great timing that 2023 was his least productive year by far in terms of defensive stops, tackles and pressures.
Top free agent comparison: N/A
| Player | Run-defense grade | Coverage grade in the box | Forced incompletion rate | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Devin White | 29.7 | 42.6 | 5.1% | 6.3% | ? |
| N/A | – | – | – | – | – |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
76. WR Tyler Boyd, Cincinnati Bengals
It will be fascinating to see if and how Cincinnati attempts to keep the elite trio of Ja’Marr Chase, fellow free agent Tee Higgins and Tyler Boyd together in 2024 and beyond, but Boyd could be the odd man out looking for a third contract after playing out the term of his four-year extension signed in 2020.
Boyd is a big slot receiver with solid blocking chops in the run game. He rarely ever drops a target and does well to sit down in soft spots of zones on key passing downs. However, Boyd posted several career-low marks in 2023, and with so many big financial decisions facing Cincinnati, the Bengals may not be willing to offer him as much as other teams looking to upgrade their unit over the middle.
Top free agent comparison: Robert Woods, 2023
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Average depth of target | Yards after catch per reception | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Tyler Boyd | 70.0 | 1.26 | 8.6 | 4.2 | ? |
| Robert Woods | 70.2 | 1.38 | 8.7 | 3.8 | 3.4% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
77. WR Curtis Samuel, Washington Commanders
Samuel was an efficient target in Eric Bienemy’s Washington offense that spread the ball around more than any team in the NFL, hauling in just shy of 73% of passes thrown his way with just four drops on 85 targets in 2023. Samuel was used as a ball carrier in 2023 like he was in 2022 and previous seasons dating back to his Ohio State days. His Swiss Army knife skill set shows up with good change of direction in space and start-stop ability that is still above average at this stage of his career.
Top free agent comparison: Adam Humphries, 2019
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Average depth of target | Yards after catch per reception | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Curtis Samuel | 73.4 | 1.41 | 7.1 | 4.3 | ? |
| Adam Humphries | 70.1 | 1.35 | 6.4 | 5.3 | 4.8% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
78. C Aaron Brewer, Tennessee Titans
Brewer is a pretty remarkable success story, going from an undrafted 275-pound prospect to logging 500-plus snaps in three consecutive seasons while earning the starting job at left guard in 2022 and taking over at center in 2023. Brewer belongs in a zone rushing scheme where he can use his quick first step and springiness at the second level to reach linebackers quickly or wall off backside defenders by beating them to the spot.
Brewer needs to continue to add good weight, both to his lower half and through his shoulders, because he’s prone to bigger rushers bulling through him with regularity. However, in the right spot, he’s a great fit, and his plus athleticism suggests he could continue to excel even after bulking up to improve in other areas.
Top free agent comparison: Mason Cole, 2022
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Aaron Brewer | 45.0 | 32.7 | 16.3% | ? | |
| Mason Cole | 44.0 | 29.8 | 12.3% | 2.5% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
79. LB Josey Jewell, Denver Broncos
Jewell may not be great in any one facet of linebacker play, but he’s good in all of them. And a well-rounded linebacker is an asset to any defense. Jewell covers well in zone, with good spatial awareness to get proper depth, and he has the ability to come forward and blitz up the middle on occasion.
Jewell wears the green dot on defense and gets everyone lined up, and he rarely seems out of position. A team looking for a field general with several years of starter experience could do much worse.
Top free agent comparison: Wesley Woodyard, 2014
| Player | Run-defense grade | Coverage grade in the box | Forced incompletion rate | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Josey Jewell | 74.1 | 72.4 | 3.6% | 6.0% | ? |
| Wesley Woodyard | 61.2 | 75.5 | 1.6% | 8.8% | 2.9% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
80. S Jordan Fuller, Los Angeles Rams
Fuller is a ball-hawking free safety who spends the majority of his time patrolling his deep quarter, as the Rams have deployed as many two-high safety looks as any team in the NFL over the past few years. Fuller has good ball-tracking ability and times his jumps well, contesting at the catch point but avoiding penalties.
He runs the alley well and doesn’t miss many tackle attempts. He’s not necessarily crashing and making plays at or behind the line of scrimmage often, but he’s a sound tackler and a reliable last line of defense when called upon.
Top free agent comparison: Chris Conte, 2016
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Jordan Fuller | 57.3 | 67.7 | 14.9% | 82.7 | ? |
| Chris Conte | 67.5 | 73.0 | 7.7% | 78.7 | 1.9% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
81. LB Blake Cashman, Houston Texans
Cashman was acquired via trade from the New York Jets before the 2022 season but went on to play just 149 defensive snaps due to a concussion sidelining him for a while. Flash-forward to 2023 with the arrival of new head coach and former NFL linebacker DeMeco Ryans, and Cashman is having a career year.
Cashman’s pass-rush ability has been the value add we’ve known about even when he logged limited snaps in past years, but his eight tackles for loss or no gain against the run is a top-15 mark, and his 79.7 coverage grade ranks 15th. Among 55 linebackers with at least 50 tackles in 2023, Cashman’s 7% missed tackle rate is a top-15 mark.
Over the past two seasons, Cashman has racked up 19 pressures, five sacks and five quarterback hits on just 94 pass-rush snaps, and that will be the skill he hangs his hat on in free agency.
Top free agent comparison: Zaire Franklin, 2022
| Player | Run-defense grade | Coverage grade in the box | Forced incompletion rate | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Blake Cashman | 82.7 | 71.9 | 7.8% | 8.0% | ? |
| Zaire Franklin | 74.9 | 73.0 | 5.6% | 6.0% | 1.6% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
82. LB Drue Tranquill, Kansas City Chiefs
It came as a surprise last offseason when Tranquill’s free agent market didn’t pan out, but he eventually joined the Chiefs on a one-year, $3 million flier. Tranquill is light on his feet and can get washed out of plays against the run, but he more than makes up for it in coverage and as a free rusher. Tranquill has recorded 33 quarterback pressures and 10 sacks dating back to 2022.
As a coverage backer, Tranquill has recorded 36 stops in coverage since 2022, and his 0.85 yards per coverage snap allowed over the span is a top-25 mark. Tranquill possesses the change-of-direction ability to carry running backs on out-breaking routes to the flat, as well as the backpedaling speed to patrol the deep middle in a variety of Tampa 2-esque looks that Steve Spagnuolo likes to deploy and disguise, making his fit and big role in this defense unsurprising despite a lot of draft capital invested at the position in recent years.
Former Minnesota Vikings linebacker Eric Wilson had a similar profile before signing a one-year, $2.75 million contract in 2021.
Top free agent comparison: Kyzir White, 2022
| Player | Run-defense grade | Coverage grade in the box | Forced incompletion rate | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Drue Tranquill | 47.3 | 73.4 | 3.1% | 7.0% | ? |
| Kyzir White | 53.5 | 70.6 | 3.7% | 6.3% | 1.4% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
83. CB Adoree' Jackson, New York Giants
Jackson cross-trained this offseason for a move to a full-time slot role but ended up moving back out wide after just two games. The first half of the Giants’ season featured an aggressive defense that ranked second in blitz rate but still couldn’t get home on the quarterback with any consistency, leaving their cornerbacks on islands with extremely difficult assignments on a regular basis.
Wink Martindale’s unit turned a corner over the second half of the year, and Jackson looked improved once returning from injury. Injuries have limited Jackson in four of the past five seasons, but he has true inside-outside versatility with good lateral agility and a knack for making plays on the football, often laying out for acrobatic pass breakups after goading quarterbacks into the occasional throw into his coverage area.
Top free agent comparison: Leodis McKelvin, 2013
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Single coverage grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Adoree'Jackson | 62.8 | 65.2 | 10.4% | 56.3 | ? |
| Leodis McKelvin | 67.6 | 69.6 | 9.1% | N/A | 3.4% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
84. TE Gerald Everett, Los Angeles Chargers
Everett earned Justin Herbert’s trust on critical downs and in the red zone over the past two seasons and has forced 28 missed tackles since 2022, the second most among tight ends. Everett does well to plant his foot in the ground on his first step after the catch and then bounce off contact, and he consistently shakes out of arm tackles by continuing to drive his feet.
Everett is more of a check-down and tunnel screen outlet, averaging more than five yards after the catch in five consecutive seasons with an average depth of target around just six yards, but he can make the occasional contested catch — which was particularly on display in 2022 when he made eight contested snags.
Top free agent comparison: Austin Hooper, 2022
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Gerald Everett | 73.2 | 1.35 | 4.1% | ? | |
| Austin Hooper | 68.3 | 1.28 | 8.1% | 2.9% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
85. G Damien Lewis, Seattle Seahawks
Lewis has made strides over the past few seasons, especially in pass protection after a tough start to his NFL career, holding up fairly well against bigger interior defenders but struggling at times with the quicker, twitchier interior pass-rushers. The former third-round pick was a starter for the 2019 national championship LSU team at right guard and has starting experience in the NFL at both guard spots, although he appears to have found a home on the left side.
Lewis is a mauler at 332 pounds but moves well enough in a Seahawks rushing attack that primarily utilizes zone rushes in addition to a healthy dose of gap concepts, which should expand his options in free agency.
Top free agent comparison: Brian Winters, 2017
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Damien Lewis | 70.1 | 60.6 | 13.9% | ? | |
| Brian Winters | 75.0 | 66.0 | 12.2% | 4.3% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
86. Edge Dorance Armstrong, Dallas Cowboys
Armstrong has been the unsung contributor on this loaded Cowboys defensive front, recording pressure rates above 11% in each of the last three seasons and an ability to line up all over the formation. Armstrong has played snaps inside the tackles, as a wide nine-technique primarily on the right side and as a standup player in the box spying on opposing quarterbacks or mugging the A-gap.
Armstrong’s long arm is a problem for blockers, and he quite literally has extremely long arms at 34.75 inches. He pairs that with good bend around the edge. He can get displaced in the run game but is a great asset getting after the quarterback.
Top free agent comparison: Samson Ebukam, 2023
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Dorance Armstrong | 64.0 | 68.5 | 9.2% | 57.4 | ? |
| Samson Ebukam | 64.9 | 70.8 | 11.3% | 61.3 | 3.6% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
87. S Jordan Whitehead, New York Jets
Whitehead is a great fit in a defense that predominantly deploys single-high looks, bringing solid ball skills as the deep-third center-fielder over the past few seasons in addition to his true strength as a box defender roaming near the line of scrimmage. Whitehead has multiple interceptions in four straight seasons to go along with 20-plus defensive stops in every campaign of his career.
The primary knock on Whitehead is that he’s prone to missing tackles in one-on-one situations, at times taking questionable angles or overshooting an opportunity. The 2018 fourth-round pick of the Buccaneers will be only 27 years old for the duration of the 2024 season, his seventh at the NFL level.
Top free agent comparison: Bradley McDougald, 2018
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Jordan Whitehead | 69.4 | 66.1 | 9.0% | 64.3 | ? |
| Bradley McDougald | 67.3 | 79.4 | 12.2% | 64.9 | 2.5% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
88. WR Kendrick Bourne, New England Patriots
Bourne unfortunately tore his ACL in Week 8 after serving as the clear No. 1 option in the Patriots’ passing attack for the first half of the season. He has inside-outside ability and is a willing run blocker.
Bourne makes up for his lack of elite athleticism with suddenness to his game, including crisp breaks out of routes and late hands to avoid as many contested targets by catching defensive backs off guard. Bourne can make a catchable but inaccurate throw look better with good ball-tracking ability, and he runs hard after the catch.
Top free agent comparison: James Jones, 2014
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Average depth of target | Yards after catch per reception | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Kendrick Bourne | 70.3 | 1.58 | 10.5 | 4.9 | ? |
| James Jones | 71.1 | 1.41 | 11.2 | 4.8 | 2.5% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
89. DI Calais Campbell, Atlanta Falcons
Campbell is an ageless wonder who continued to be one of the strongest players in the NFL at his new stop in Atlanta this past season, with a dip in burst off the line when rushing the passer made up for by an anchor against the run as difficult to displace as any defensive lineman in the NFL.
Top free agent comparison: Julius Peppers, 2018
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Calais Campbell | 72.0 | 77.5 | 11.1% | 81.3 | ? |
| Julius Peppers | 71.2 | 78.4 | 10.2% | 73.8 | 2.8% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
90. Edge Brandon Graham, Philadelphia Eagles
Much like Fletcher Cox above, Graham is an ageless wonder for the Philadelphia Eagles, but he’s seen his usage come way down in 2023. Nonetheless, Graham is still an efficient pass-rusher who always seems to come up with a huge play late in games on high-leverage downs, with a pressure rate above 15% on the year. Odds are Graham will play his age-36 season as an Eagle or nowhere, much like center Jason Kelce.
Graham still has great bend around the edge, seemingly shrinking into his stocky 6-foot-2 frame to avoid contact and dip under the outstretched hands of tackles. He’s a perfect member of the platoon in Philadelphia.
Top free agent comparison: James Harrison, 2015
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Brandon Graham | 89.3 | 91.3 | 19.2% | 69.9 | ? |
| James Harrison | 84.5 | 89.5 | 16.1% | 78.0 | 1% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
91. DI DaQuan Jones, Buffalo Bills
Jones finished 2023 with 19 quarterback pressures — including 2.5 sacks — on just 135 pass-rush snaps. He had been as durable as any veteran in the league prior to 2023, logging more than 600 snaps in four straight seasons with three different teams.
Jones can win as a rusher lined up anywhere from a zero-technique to a 4i, with good use of his hands to swat away blockers. But he’s a bit stiff in the hips and gets home with dogged pursuit north to south. He was a perfect fit on a Bills defensive line that has a long list of pass-rushers who all command attention and can chase quarterbacks into each other’s laps.
Top free agent comparison: Mike Daniels, 2019
| Player | Run-defense grade | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| DaQuan Jones | 69.6 | 78.5 | 79.4 | 12.8% | ? |
| Mike Daniels | 75.4 | 76.7 | 82.5 | 11.8% | 4.3% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
92. QB Gardner Minshew, Indianapolis Colts
Minshew accompanied Colts head coach Shane Steichen on his move from Philadelphia to Indianapolis and made the most of his opportunity once he was quickly made the full-time starter following a season-ending injury for Anthony Richardson in Week 5. Minshew generally takes what the defense gives him and matriculates the ball down the field with underneath throws. The Colts have run the most RPOs of any team in the league this season, which leads to simpler “either-or” decisions and schemed-up first reads. However, when necessary, Minshew isn’t afraid to uncork the ball to the intermediate and deep parts of the field.
At the same time, Minshew still has an erratic nature to his game, with frantic feet in the pocket that at times cause him to miss throwing windows or lead to inaccurate throws. Minshew has put the ball in harm's way far too many times in 2023, but the high-variance nature of his play can also win games.
Top free agent comparison: Brian Hoyer, 2015
| Player | Clean pocket grade | 1st & 2nd down grade | Standard dropback grade | Sack rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Gardner Minshew | 73.8 | 63.2 | 64.1 | 6.0% | ? |
| Brian Hoyer | 69.8 | 58.3 | 57.2 | 4.9% | 3.7% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
93. G Jon Runyan, Green Bay Packers
Runyan is a plus pass protector on the interior with considerable starting experience at both guard spots over his rookie contract, operating well in a phone booth with a solid anchor against power rushers. However, the former sixth-rounder can get his feet crossed up and end up on the ground more frequently than you’d like, particularly when asked to pull or reach block.
Top free agent comparison: Quinton Spain, 2020
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Jon Runyan Jr. | 72.3 | 64.3 | 9.4% | ? | |
| Quinton Spain | 74.1 | 62.4 | 11.2% | 2.5% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
94. C Tyler Biadasz, Dallas Cowboys
Biadasz’s extensive starting experience dating back to his Wisconsin days shows up with clean technique and good hand usage, but he’s prone to getting driven off the ball by power rushers. He could help a young quarterback adjust to the NFL by calling out protections, and he reacts well to twists and stunts, but he’ll cause the pocket to collapse at times, even if he stays in front of rushers.
As a run blocker, Biadasz executes combo blocks well — though it helps to work alongside Zack Martin and Tyler Smith. Prospective teams could do a lot worse in adding a mid-tier center with football smarts.
Top free agent comparison: Ted Karras, 2022
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Tyler Biadasz | 61.9 | 57.1 | 10.8% | ? | |
| Ted Karras | 64.6 | 67.3 | 11.3% | 2.9% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
95. G Jonah Jackson, Detroit Lions
Jackson is a force in space in the run game who climbs to the second level well once he gets a head of steam and adjusts laterally to plant his heavy hands into the chests of defenders with balanced feet. Jackson has continued to struggle in pass protection, which is a bit surprising given his athletic ability. He can be slow out of his stance and/or flat-footed at times, which causes him to lose early on in reps.
Top free agent comparison: J.R. Sweezy, 2016
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Jonah Jackson | 56.6 | 49.2 | 15.8% | ? | |
| J.R. Sweezy | 59.5 | 43.9 | 15.5% | 4.2% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
96. DI Maurice Hurst, Cleveland Browns
Hurst was in the midst of a great campaign as a rotational interior pass-rusher before going down with a pectoral injury, which unfortunately has been the story of his NFL career at various stops. After logging just 41 snaps in 2021 due to a calf injury, Hurst missed the entire 2022 season with a torn biceps suffered in training camp.
Hurst had a pressure rate above 10% on the year, a strong number for an interior defender, with a pass-rush grade above 75.0. He may not receive contracts far above the minimum in his career until he proves to be more available on a consistent basis, but he has great burst off the line for an interior rusher and a springiness to his game that makes him quite effective on stunts and twists.
Top free agent comparison: Zach Kerr, 2021
| Player | Run-defense grade | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Maurice Hurst | 76.5 | 75.9 | 76.7 | 14.1% | ? |
| Zach Kerr | 78.3 | 77.2 | 84.4 | 10.9% | 0.7% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
97. LB Jordan Hicks, Minnesota Vikings
Hicks was having his best season in a half-decade through Week 10 before a scary injury required a trip to the hospital and an extended absence from football, but he did return in Week 16. Hicks moves well north to south and packs a punch as a tackler, rarely missing many opportunities despite a very high volume in defensive stops and total tackles over the past five years. He has some limitations in coverage at this stage of his career, with average stop-and-start ability horizontally, but Hicks is a tone-setter over the middle who makes a ton of plays each week.
Top free agent comparison: Kevin Burnett, 2013
| Player | Run-defense grade | Coverage grade in the box | Forced incompletion rate | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Jordan Hicks | 83.8 | 49.5 | 4.5% | 8.7% | ? |
| Kevin Burnett | 73.2 | 50.8 | 4.6% | 9.2% | 2.3% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
98. C Coleman Shelton, Los Angeles Rams
Shelton has proven over the past two seasons that he is capable of playing guard in addition to center after earning the starting right guard job in 2022 and holding up very well as a pass protector at both spots throughout the season. He can also effectively run block in zone or gap concepts, which was proven amid the Rams’ shift to a gap-heavy scheme in 2023. The positional versatility on the interior, and Shelton’s agility could make him a fit for many teams.
Top free agent comparison: Spencer Long, 2019
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Coleman Shelton | 60.2 | 54.6 | 11.3% | ? | |
| Spencer Long | 54.1 | 58.1 | 8.6% | 2.2% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
99. DI Quinton Jefferson, New York Jets
The veteran may be looking for his fifth team in five seasons but part of that is because his pass-rush production requires solid contracts even despite his severe limitations against the run. Jefferson shows up, delivers a pressure rate above 10% and is good for a decent number of sacks each year. He makes sense as a member of a rotation, though he has logged more than 450 snaps in six straight seasons.
Top free agent comparison: Henry Melton, 2015
| Player | Run-defense grade | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Quinton Jefferson | 34.6 | 63.5 | 66.2 | 10.2% | ? |
| Henry Melton | 43.9 | 72.0 | 71.2 | 9.6% | 2.6% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
100. Edge Carl Lawson, New York Jets
Lawson signed a reworked contract heading into the 2023 season that lowered his salary to $6 million, but he has still found himself as a healthy scratch for much of the season as part of a crowded edge defender room.
The seventh-year pro has good burst off the line and wins with a combination of speed-to-power and quick hands, but he isn’t necessarily the bendiest edge rusher.
Lawson earned a 72.8 pass-rush grade with 49 pressures and eight sacks in 2022, his first season back from the torn Achilles he suffered in 2021. Injuries have unfortunately impacted his career, but he’s still a productive player off the edge.
This season has effectively been a throwaway year, but perhaps his fresh legs and yearlong recovery could make him a great buy-low candidate.
Top free agent comparison: Dante Fowler Jr., 2023
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Carl Lawson | 71.1 | 72.3 | 13.6% | 50.9 | ? |
| Dante Fowler Jr. | 68.5 | 68.6 | 10.5% | 53.0 | 1.3% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
101. DI Javon Kinlaw, San Francisco 49ers
San Francisco traded DeForest Buckner to the Indianapolis Colts in exchange for the first-round pick that became Kinlaw. And while he hasn’t delivered much over his rookie contract, he has flashed in his contract year.
Kinlaw profiled as a freakish athlete with a lack of refinement, and he may have relied too much on his athleticism to start his career — without much success.
He has produced a 70.3 pass-rush grade and 31 total pressures in 2023, career-high marks by a distance, and he is showing his bursty first step and bull-rush prowess once he leans into a blocker with momentum. However, he still gets blown off the ball against the run too often, given his poor anchoring and recovery ability if his first step isn’t upfield.
Top free agent comparison: Jordan Phillips, 2019
| Player | Run-defense grade | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Javon Kinlaw | 27.6 | 69.5 | 77.5 | 9.6% | ? |
| Jordan Phillips | 48.7 | 70.6 | 73.7 | 8.1% | 2.4% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
102. S C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Detroit Lions
Gardner-Johnson missed almost the entire 2023 season with a torn pectoral injury suffered in Week 2, but he returned in Week 18 for Detroit’s playoff run. He plays fast, physically and with a lot of trash talk between snaps. Gardner-Johnson’s versatility as a safety or high-end nickel makes him an intriguing target for any team looking to add talent to the secondary.
Top free agent comparison: Keanu Neal, 2021
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| C.J. Gardner- Johnson | 71.2 | 60.2 | 6.6% | 59.0 | ? |
| Keanu Neal | 70.4 | 67.5 | 1.5% | 64.9 | 2.2% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
103. EDGE Mike Danna, Kansas City Chiefs
Danna is the epitome of a solid, high-floor player who understands his role, controls his gap and makes plays when they come to him. He’s not the burstiest player off the line but does well to drive opposing tackles back into the pocket. He took on an increased role in 2023 and improved in detaching his hands from blockers to get after the quarterback.
Top free agent comparison: Derek Barnett, 2022
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Mike Danna | 63.9 | 69.1 | 8.4% | 59.0 | ? |
| Derek Barnett | 62.0 | 70.0 | 11.0% | 69.6 | 3.4% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
104. DI Shelby Harris, Cleveland Browns
Harris is still capable against the run and as a pass-rusher, but he is not a full-time player at this stage of his career. He fits in well with Browns defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz’s platoon approach, showing a good motor and making plays on backside pursuits. A decreased snap count could lead to a highly efficient rotational player.
Top free agent comparison: Chris Baker, 2018
| Player | Run-defense grade | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass rush win rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Shelby Harris | 76.8 | 68.4 | 71.7 | 9.8% | ? |
| Chris Baker | 67.7 | 67.2 | 73.6 | 7.7% | 1.4% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
105. RB D'Andre Swift, Philadelphia Eagles
Swift enjoyed a bounce-back year operating behind the best offensive line in the NFL after an up-and-down tenure with the Detroit Lions. Still, he will carry the same question marks Miles Sanders did last offseason, and Sanders lost the starting job to Chuba Hubbard in Carolina about halfway through his first year of a four-year contract.
Swift is a shifty back who can make defenders miss in a phone booth but rarely seeks out or runs through contact and doesn’t always have the best eyes for developing holes between the tackles. He has good breakaway speed if there are large holes created before contact and is a natural hands-catcher, but he is prone to the occasional focus drop when he takes his eyes off the football and thinks about his first move before securing the ball.
Top free agent comparison: David Montgomery, 2023
| Player | Missed tackles forced per attempt | Yards after contact per attempt | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| D’Andre Swift | 0.2 | 2.63 | 58.5 | 1.17 | ? |
| David Montgomery | 0.2 | 2.7 | 68.5 | 1.1 | 2.7% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
106. LB Willie Gay, Kansas City Chiefs
Gay is perhaps the best lateral athlete within the Chiefs' loaded linebacker corps, often drawing the quarterback spy role and earning some of the more challenging coverage responsibilities after starting his career as a pure downhill attacker. The former second-round pick is a quality weakside linebacker who appears to have grown better at reading and reacting, and he also did well in the occasional blitz package dialed up by defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo.
Top free agent comparison: Cody Barton, 2023
| Player | Run-defense grade | Coverage grade in the box | Forced incompletion rate | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Willie Gay | 63.6 | 56.2 | 1.0% | 6.7% | ? |
| Cody Barton | 64.5 | 53.3 | 3.3% | 7.3% | 1.6% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
107. EDGE A.J. Epenesa, Buffalo Bills
Epenesa has developed into a very solid rotational edge defender, using his straight-line athleticism to get upfield well and showing some proficiency on stunts with decent stop-and-start ability despite lacking great lateral agility. Epenesa also reads the quarterback's eyes very well to get his hands up and into passing lanes for potential batted passes if he does not win his initial rush.
Top free agent comparison: Deatrich Wise Jr., 2021
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| A.J. Epenesa | 75.0 | 79.0 | 10.6% | 49.3 | ? |
| Deatrich Wise Jr. | 79.6 | 85.8 | 15.6% | 51.0 | 3% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
108. EDGE Derek Barnett, Houston Texans
Barnett’s journey to the open market is unique and circuitous. The Philadelphia Eagles, his original team, agreed to a revised contract ahead of 2023 after he sparsely played the prior year, and when that trend continued, Barnett made his way to Houston via waivers — and flourished.
From Weeks 14-18, Barnett earned an 86.1 pass-rush grade with a 22.7% pass-rush win rate, two-and-a-half sacks and nine more quarterback hits. Barnett appears to fit best in an even front with his hand in the dirt, and while he doesn’t have the fastest first step at this stage of his career, he absorbs contact really well and utilizes an inside spin move and slip move to the outside to get past tackles.
Top free agent comparison: Alex Okafor, 2018
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Derek Barnett | 75.3 | 77.4 | 15.5% | 79.7 | ? |
| Alex Okafor | 77.3 | 83.8 | 12.5% | 70.9 | 2% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
109. WR D.J. Chark, Carolina Panthers
Chark has struggled to separate at the intermediate and deep levels in recent years, and inopportune drops also plagued him a bit over the tail end of the 2023 campaign. That said, he still brings field-stretching ability and should be more productive in an offense outside of Carolina.
Top free agent comparison: Kenny Britt, 2015
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Average depth of target | Yards after catch per reception | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| D.J. Chark | 64.9 | 1.24 | 15.5 | 3.5 | ? |
| Kenny Britt | 65.2 | 1.27 | 15.4 | 2.9 | 3.2% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
110. TE Colby Parkinson, Seattle Seahawks
Parkinson was a key component of Seattle's run blocking, lining up in the backfield for multiple snaps per game in addition to his inline duties. His presence on the field is by no means a run tell for defenses, as he saw increased passing game work over the past two years with a solid average depth of target.
111. LB Tyrel Dodson, Buffalo Bills
Dodson took over as a starter in Week 8 and filled in admirably for a defense that sorely missed Matt Milano. Dodson is undersized at 6-foot and 237 pounds, but he makes up for it with a good understanding of angles and leverage, getting to his spot quickly and staying springy on the balls of his feet.
Top free agent comparison: Nick Kwiatkoski, 2020
| Player | Run-defense grade | Coverage grade in the box | Forced incompletion rate | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Tyrel Dodson | 77.2 | 66.2 | 4.7% | 10.3% | ? |
| Nick Kwiatkoski | 69.3 | 64.8 | 4.7% | 7.7% | 3.5% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
112. G John Simpson, Baltimore Ravens
There are times when Simpson gets over his skis a bit in space, but if he keeps his feet under him and finds the chest of a defender, he has some pulling reps on tape where he launches linebackers/defensive backs to Neptune.
Top free agent comparison: John Miller, 2020
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| John Simpson | 61.1 | 64.8 | 12.1% | ? | |
| John Miller | 65.4 | 59.3 | 10.5% | 2% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
113. DI A'Shawn Robinson, New York Giants
Robinson is still one of the game’s best early-down run stuffers on the interior, nearly impossible to move off his spot as he soaks up double-teams and enables the players around him to play fast and free.
Top free agent comparison: Bennie Logan, 2017
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Run-defense grade | Run stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| A’Shawn Robinson | 51.1 | 56.3 | 64.8 | 12.6% | ? |
| Bennie Logan | 49.1 | 50.8 | 78.2 | 12.6% | 4.8% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
114. LB Oren Burks, San Francisco 49ers
Burks will always carry special teams value, which should establish a higher floor for him contractually, in line with recently signed linebackers Zaire Franklin and Jalen Reeves-Maybin, among others.
Top free agent comparison: Zaire Franklin, 2022
| Player | Run-defense grade | Coverage grade in the box | Forced incompletion rate | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Oren Burks | 76.1 | 76.5 | 2.4% | 6.8% | ? |
| Zaire Franklin | 74.9 | 73.0 | 5.6% | 6.0% | 1.6% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
115. TE Adam Trautman, Denver Broncos
Trautman is a good in-line blocker and can serve as a check-down outlet against soft zone coverage. His run blocking is the major value add, including some impressive reps in 2023 of displacing defensive ends and outside linebackers at the point of attack with good drive and a low center of gravity.
Top free agent comparison: Geoff Swaim, 2019
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Adam Trautman | 54.6 | 0.84 | 8.1% | ? | |
| Geoff Swaim | 57.3 | 0.99 | 8.1% | 1.7% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
116. T Josh Jones, Houston Texans
Jones does well in the run game to get on the play side of defenders and wall off his assignment with heavy hands. As a pass protector, his pass set can be a bit slow out of the gate, which then leads to some frantic recovery efforts, but when he is square in front of the rusher, he is not easy to discard. He looks more comfortable with his footwork on the left side, but it helps he has experience at both bookend spots.
Top free agent comparison: Andre Dillard, 2023
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Negative run block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Josh Jones | 71.6 | 64.0 | 5.1% | ? | |
| Andre Dillard | 72.6 | 66.0 | 10.4% | 4.3% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
117. WR Michael Thomas, New Orleans Saints
Thomas is still a smooth glider who can make contested catches with great hands and footwork along the sideline. He doesn’t quite have the same explosiveness of his heyday, but elite athleticism was never necessarily how he won as more of a master technician, so it’s all a question of health.
Top free agent comparison: A.J. Green, 2021
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Average depth of target | Yards after catch per reception | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Michael Thomas | 72.6 | 1.45 | 10.6 | 2.4 | ? |
| A.J. Green | 69.2 | 1.28 | 13.6 | 2.7 | 3.3% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
118. WR Josh Reynolds, Detroit Lions
Reynolds does not have the best release package or the quickest jump off the line, but he has a good feel for where he is on the field and is generally sure-handed. Reynolds’ struggles in the Lions' playoff loss to the 49ers are not indicative of who he is as a player, usually a reliable go-to weapon on third and fourth downs. Reynolds also does quite well from condensed splits to square-up linebackers and safeties at the second level as a run blocker.
Top free agent comparison: Kamar Aiken, 2017
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Average depth of target | Yards after catch per reception | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Josh Reynolds | 69.5 | 1.31 | 12.1 | 4.0 | ? |
| Kamar Aiken | 71.3 | 1.29 | 12.4 | 3.0 | 1.6% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
119. T Donovan Smith, Kansas City Chiefs
Smith struggled in 2023 with oversetting and then losing to the inside, often grabbing defenders and taking penalties once he was beaten. But he’s still a functional pass-protecting left tackle over the course of a season.
Top free agent comparison: George Fant, 2023
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Negative run block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Donovan Smith | 67.6 | 60.2 | 19.2% | ? | |
| George Fant | 63.9 | 59.1 | 17.1% | 1.3% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
120. TE Austin Hooper, Las Vegas Raiders
Hooper is still a solid in-line tight end with good straight-line speed once he gets a head of steam going. He also flashes an ability to make the first defender miss on check-down opportunities, on occasion.
Top free agent comparison: Benjamin Watson, 2013
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Austin Hooper | 69.2 | 1.15 | 4.1% | ? | |
| Benjamin Watson | 69.8 | 1.26 | 6.4% | 1.3% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
121. TE Mike Gesicki, New England Patriots
The big slot receiver moves well for his size and has a gigantic catch radius with good hands-catching ability away from his body. He may not find an every-down role, but as a move tight end who can add value on third downs and in the red zone, Gesicki still offers intrigue, especially with an uninspiring draft class at the tight end position.
Top free agent comparison: N/A
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Mike Gesicki | 60.4 | 0.86 | 2.0% | ? | |
| N/A | – | – | – | – | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
122. DI Raekwon Davis, Miami Dolphins
The big nose tackle can have a delayed get-off and tends to cede ground in the run game more often than you’d like to see, often standing up too upright — which is understandable at 6-foot-7 — and not having a low enough pad level to anchor and drive. Nonetheless, there are still flashes here and there of what made Davis a second-round selection. He does well to hold his spot, read and react and, occasionally, get late pressure on quarterbacks after shuffling across the formation.
Top free agent comparison: Angelo Blackson, 2021
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Raekwon Davis | 60.9 | 60.9 | 6.9% | 41.1 | ? |
| Angelo Blackson | 56.2 | 58.2 | 6.1% | 36.4 | 1.5% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
123. EDGE Tyquan Lewis, Indianapolis Colts
Lewis had an under-the-radar career year on a defensive line that excelled with more of a platoon approach on the edge. Lewis can end up on the ground a bit more often than you’d like to see, but oftentimes it’s due to an all-out pursuit with his good closing speed and long arms.
Lewis primarily excels as a wide-nine rusher, but there were good reps on tape of him kicking inside. The next thing you’d like to see more of is an increased use of counter moves and his hands/long-arm, as he often just runs into the chest of blockers and tries to bull his way through.
Top free agent comparison: Adrian Clayborn, 2016
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Tyquan Lewis | 73.3 | 77.0 | 15.4% | 54.5 | ? |
| Adrian Clayborn | 65.9 | 72.6 | 13.1% | 51.7 | 2.7% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
124. G Graham Glasgow, Detroit Lions
Glasgow is at his best with a head of steam in the run game. He put a few great pull lead reps to his side on tape in 2023, with Penei Sewell down-blocking and Glasgow either quickly getting into the chest of edge defenders looking to contain the rush to the inside or blowing up defensive backs working as the force defender on the edge. As a pass protector, he can get caught flat-footed, and interior rushers will push past him or easily cross his face.
Top free agent comparison: MARK GLOWINSKI, 2022
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Graham Glasgow | 59.8 | 51.2 | 15.6% | ? | |
| Mark Glowinski | 65.3 | 57.8 | 13.9% | 3% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
125. G Greg Van Roten, Las Vegas Raiders
Van Roten does a nice job of keeping his chest clean with fully extended arms on double-teams, enabling him to quickly disengage and get to the second level, but he can lose ground at the line off the snap when he doesn’t have a confident first step. The veteran has always been a solid pass protector, absorbing contact well if he stays in front of the rusher.
Top free agent comparison: Chris Chester, 2015
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Greg Van Roten | 74.2 | 67.1 | 11.0% | ? | |
| Chris Chester | 73.8 | 66.4 | 13.6% | 1.9% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
126. T George Fant, Houston Texans
Fant would be a solid swing tackle for many teams, with good movement ability often landing him in outside zone-heavy rushing attacks. However, he’s not quite the athlete he was when Seattle was using him in jumbo packages.
Top free agent comparison: Mike Remmers, 2021
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Negative run block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| George Fant | 60.4 | 58.0 | 17.4% | ? | |
| Mike Remmers | 70.4 | 60.8 | 17.1% | 1.8% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
127. EDGE Kyle Van Noy, Baltimore Ravens
Van Noy had a great 2023 campaign, as did virtually every Ravens defender, producing well after operating again as more of a pure pass-rushing outside linebacker. Van Noy will be 34 years old in 2024 but still has some juice as a rotational edge rusher who can dip his inside shoulder to avoid contact and get around the corner with an efficient path to the quarterback.
Top free agent comparison: Markus Golden, 2021
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Kyle Van Noy | 73.3 | 71.3 | 12.4% | 59.3 | ? |
| Markus Golden | 69.9 | 75.5 | 12.2% | 53.3 | 1.4% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
128. QB Jacoby Brissett, Washington Commanders
Brissett should’ve had a nice runway to start a few games to close out the 2023 season, stepping up in Week 15 and cooking for an 8-of-10, 124-yard and two-touchdown stat line. Unfortunately, the journeyman was injured in Week 16 and missed the rest of the year. Brissett is a solid pocket passer who can stand in and take a hit. He showed improved pocket manipulation over his time in Cleveland and is a quarterback sneak savant.
Top free agent comparison: Andy Dalton, 2023
| Player | Clean pocket grade | 1st & 2nd down grade | Standard dropback grade | Sack rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Jacoby Brissett | 90.3 | 76.8 | 86.7 | 5.4% | ? |
| Andy Dalton | 81.7 | 75.8 | 79.0 | 6.3% | 2.2% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
129. EDGE Marcus Davenport, Minnesota Vikings
Davenport’s 2023 season was lost to injury after he logged just 118 snaps on a one-year, $10 million flier. When healthy, Davenport is sturdy at the point of attack and uses his long arms and strong lower half to set up blockers. For his size, Davenport has efficient footwork, and he gets onto the toes of guards in a few quick steps and seems quite comfortable rushing from interior alignments.
Top free agent comparison: Takk McKinley, 2021
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Marcus Davenport | 72.5 | 75.7 | 15.5% | 66.2 | ? |
| Takk McKinley | 65.7 | 67.8 | 11.2% | 64.9 | 2.3% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
130. RB J.K. Dobbins, Baltimore Ravens
Injuries have derailed Dobbins’ career, but in Week 1 of 2023, we saw a patient runner who lets his blocks develop, with good contact acceleration to explode into a gap or get to the edge. Dobbins has always had good contact balance and never shows signs of playing timid when he returns from injury. The team that gets a full year out of him will be very pleased.
Top free agent comparison: Damien Harris, 2023
| Player | Missed tackles forced per attempt | Yards after contact per attempt | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| J.K. Dobbins | 0.17 | 3.02 | 69.4 | 1.01 | ? |
| Damien Harris | 0.15 | 2.84 | 63.9 | 1.09 | 0.8% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
131. RB Devin Singletary, Houston Texans
Singletary was a good fit in Houston’s rushing attack and continued to bounce off the first defender at a decent clip for his size, with sharp initial cuts to make first tacklers miss. He can be a solid member of a committee who isn’t great in any area but isn’t particularly deficient in any area either.
Top free agent comparison: Miles Sanders, 2023
| Player | Missed tackles forced per attempt | Yards after contact per attempt | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Devin Singletary | 0.22 | 2.92 | 55.8 | 0.71 | ? |
| Miles Sanders | 0.17 | 2.90 | 45.0 | 0.51 | 2.8% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
132. RB Gus Edwards, Baltimore Ravens
Edwards found the end zone nine times over a five-week stretch in the middle of this past season, illustrating his short-yardage and goal-line prowess. He also forced a career-high 29 missed tackles on a larger workload than expected before the season.
133. QB Jameis Winston, New Orleans Saints
Winston’s 2023 season will go down in infamy for his running a scoring play against the NFC South rival Atlanta Falcons out of a victory formation … respectfully. What we saw from Winston as a passer was largely more of the same: an average depth of target on a small sample above 12 yards downfield. Jameis is a gunslinger at his core, and that comes with the good and bad.
Top free agent comparison: Joe Flacco, 2022
| Player | Clean pocket grade | 1st & 2nd down grade | Standard dropback grade | Sack rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Jameis Winston | 65.9 | 67.5 | 58.9 | 7.3% | ? |
| Joe Flacco | 70.0 | 64.3 | 62.3 | 4.7% | 1.7% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
134. C Evan Brown, Seattle Seahawks
Brown can get pushed backward by heavier-handed interior defenders who get underneath him and drive him into the quarterback’s lap, but he does a solid job of keeping his feet and staying in front of them. As a run blocker, Brown has a quick first step off the ball that enables him to build up momentum fairly quickly, but there are reps where, once he gets going a certain way, it can be tough for him to redirect.
Top free agent comparison: Austin Blythe, 2022
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Evan Brown | 52.0 | 46.3 | 12.2% | ? | |
| Austin Blythe | 52.8 | 41.3 | 14.4% | 1.9% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
135. RB A.J. Dillon, Green Bay Packers
Dillon is rarely brought down by the first defender, churning his legs to play through first contact. Any team looking for a short-yardage back who can also leak out for the occasional screen pass has that in the 6-foot, 247-pound Dillon, but a lack of explosiveness will limit the chunk plays. A very high success rate but fewer explosives is the Dillon profile.
Top free agent comparison: Jordan Howard, 2020
| Player | Missed tackles forced per attempt | Yards after contact per attempt | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| A.J. Dillon | 0.12 | 2.8 | 57.9 | 0.92 | ? |
| Jordan Howard | 0.11 | 2.8 | 57.9 | 0.69 | 2.4% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
136. RB Zack Moss, Indianapolis Colts
Moss is, in some ways, the inverse of the above profile on A.J. Dillon. He forces a lot of missed tackles in space and broke off a 10-plus yard gain on over 10% of carries in 2023, but he also has a higher stuff rate. Moss can be highly efficient on a split volume of touches as a member of a committee, but it was good to see he is also capable of shouldering the load if he has to, doing so after an injury to Jonathan Taylor.
Top free agent comparison: Alexander Mattison, 2023
| Player | Missed tackles forced per attempt | Yards after contact per attempt | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Zack Moss | 0.22 | 2.88 | 42.7 | 0.7 | ? |
| Alexander Mattison | 0.24 | 2.78 | 51.0 | 0.9 | 1.6% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
137. WR Nick Westbrook-Ikhine, Tennessee Titans
Westbrook-Ikhine is a vertical field-stretcher with good run-blocking chops who can find a home in almost any offense as an auxiliary piece of a receiving corps. Tennessee also used him more in 2023 on now routes and quick in-breakers out of the slot, looking to use his speed after the catch closer to the line of scrimmage with schemed-up free releases. He will struggle to create his own separation due to a bit of a delayed start out of the blocks and not the sharpest breaks, but he can be a nice receiving option as a straight-line weapon.
Top free agent comparison: Demarcus Robinson, 2020
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Average depth of target | Yards after catch per reception | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Nick Westbrook- Ikhine | 59.7 | 1.03 | 13.1 | 4.2 | ? |
| Demarcus Robinson | 57.6 | 1.01 | 12.5 | 4.2 | 1.2% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
138. S Deshon Elliott, Miami Dolphins
Elliott has solid range as a free safety and is a reliable last line of defense as a sound tackler in the run game, even if he may not always come up to make defensive stops consistently. Elliott played some nickel and more down in the box in past seasons, as well. He is a master of none but solid at everything.
Top free agent comparison: Louis Delmas, 2015
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| DeShon Elliott | 66.3 | 59.2 | 12.3% | 78.3 | ? |
| Louis Delmas | 69.4 | 60.3 | 6.0% | 65.3 | 1.7% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
139. S Tashaun Gipson, San Francisco 49ers
The reliable veteran was a staple as the deep-third free safety in San Francisco’s defense the past few years, keeping everything in front of him and making plays on the ball on the infrequent instances when he was targeted.
Top free agent comparison: Mike Adams, 2015
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Tashaun Gipson | 63.8 | 76.8 | 7.0% | 90.5 | ? |
| Mike Adams | 58.0 | 80.5 | 4.4% | 81.5 | 1.5% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
140. S Alohi Gilman, Los Angeles Chargers
There is some selection bias in Gilman’s outstanding 2023 coverage grade, with Gilman making the most of nearly every opportunity when the ball was thrown into his coverage area. Nevertheless, the stocky safety had a really good first season as a full-time player and has a nose for the football, often looking to punch out fumbles if a teammate has the ball carrier wrapped up.
Top free agent comparison: Tre Boston, 2019
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Alohi Gilman | 85.8 | 90.6 | 14.8% | 71.2 | ? |
| Tre Boston | 89.8 | 87.8 | 19.0% | 67.1 | 1.1% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
141. EDGE Darrell Taylor, Seattle Seahawks
Taylor is quick and springy with a solid inside spin move to get out of an offensive lineman’s grasp, but he often finds himself caught on his initial move and trapped with no way out. When he does get through the protection, Taylor’s lateral agility helps him get quarterbacks on the ground because he doesn’t get “olé’d” very often.
Top free agent comparison: Andre Branch, 2016
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Darrell Taylor | 67.5 | 72.9 | 7.5% | 39.0 | ? |
| Andre Branch | 62.9 | 70.6 | 7.6% | 50.3 | 1.8% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
142. EDGE Anfernee Jennings, New England Patriots
Lost in the shuffle of a forgettable Patriots season is the fact that Anfernee Jennings had one of the most impressive seasons defending the run from an edge that we’ve seen in years. Jennings’ 38 stops against the run tied for the most among edge defenders with Las Vegas Raiders superstar Maxx Crosby, despite his logging 80 fewer snaps against the run. His 11% run-stop rate is one of the top marks in PFF history.
Jennings missed all of 2021 with an injury and doesn’t currently offer a ton as a pass rusher, but one elite skill could make him a target for teams that utilize a platoon approach along the defensive line and want Jennings for early-down usage.
Top free agent comparison: Devon Kennard, 2017
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Anfernee Jennings | 51.3 | 55.1 | 5.8% | 87.5 | ? |
| Devon Kennard | 56.8 | 58.7 | 6.0% | 78.0 | 3.2% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
143. LB Nicholas Morrow, Philadelphia Eagles
Morrow is a solid three-down linebacker who can play at the Mike or Will spots and rack up tackles, missing a low percentage of opportunities if he has a clear pursuit path to the ball carrier. He is a proficient spot-dropper in zone coverage but did struggle to stick with running backs out of the backfield.
Top free agent comparison: Kyzir White, 2023
| Player | Run-defense grade | Coverage grade in the box | Forced incompletion rate | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Nicholas Morrow | 58.5 | 63.9 | 3.4% | 7.9% | ? |
| Kyzir White | 64.8 | 67.0 | 4.4% | 7.8% | 2.2% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
144. EDGE D.J. Wonnum, Minnesota Vikings
Wonnum is a solid snap-eater on the edge who carved out a rather significant role out of the gate as a fourth-round rookie. He can set the edge with good length and fit well as a straight-line attacker with solid explosiveness in Brian Flores’ blitz-heavy scheme, but he won’t win many one-on-ones with bend or nuanced pass-rush moves.
Top free agent comparison: Al-Quadin Muhammad, 2022
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| D.J. Wonnum | 55.1 | 60.7 | 8.2% | 65.7 | ? |
| Al-Quadin Muhammad | 58.2 | 64.1 | 9.0% | 68.6 | 1.9% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
145. WR K.J. Osborn, Minnesota Vikings
Osborn had an unfortunate drop issue crop up in 2023 but has generally been a reliable WR3/4 who knows where to sit down against zones and pick up yards after the catch underneath.
Top free agent comparison: Parris Campbell, 2023
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Average depth of target | Yards after catch per reception | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| K.J. Osborn | 60.0 | 1.02 | 8.9 | 4.5 | ? |
| Parris Campbell | 61.9 | 1.09 | 8.4 | 4.2 | 2.1% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
146. T Cam Fleming, Denver Broncos
Fleming is a capable swing tackle in an offseason that doesn’t offer many legitimate veterans who can hold up well enough on both sides of the line. The high-floor pass-protecting veteran is limited in space as a run blocker but would offer a sense of security to any team that wants a third tackle to count on.
Top free agent comparison: Jermon Bushrod, 2016
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Negative run block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Cam Fleming | 74.4 | 73.4 | 12.6% | ? | |
| Chris Clark | 79.0 | 76.2 | 10.1% | 1% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
147. WR Noah Brown, Houston Texans
Brown had a great year in Houston, with C.J. Stroud often finding him downfield on scramble drills — an underappreciated skill for wide receivers in an era where more and more plays are made outside of structure, many of which can tilt the outcomes of games.
Top free agent comparison: Cecil Shorts, 2015
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Average depth of target | Yards after catch per reception | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Noah Brown | 67.7 | 1.50 | 11.8 | 4.8 | ? |
| Cecil Shorts | 67.4 | 1.41 | 10.0 | 4.7 | 2.1% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
148. S Darnell Savage, Green Bay Packers
When the ball is thrown Savage’s way, the ball skills that made him a first-round pick are put on display. It’s more the snaps when Savage has to come down and make plays in the box that keep him lower on this list.
Top free agent comparison: J.J. Wilcox, 2017
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Darnell Savage | 66.2 | 69.0 | 13.0% | 66.0 | ? |
| J.J. Wilcox | 66.9 | 75.8 | 11.4% | 53.3 | 1.9% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
149. CB Keisean Nixon, Green Bay Packers
Nixon’s special teams ability will boost his value, as he’s a threat to break off a big return on every kick. He showed continued growth as a starter in the nickel spot, with good recovery speed on vertical routes but a need for more advancement in clicking and closing with comeback routes and in-breakers.
Top free agent comparison: Desmond King II, 2022
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Single coverage grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Keisean Nixon | 56.0 | 56.8 | 3.4% | 62.1 | ? |
| Desmond King II | 55.3 | 59.6 | 4.2% | 40.2 | 1.7% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
150. EDGE Bud Dupree, Atlanta Falcons
Dupree had a solid bounce-back 2023 campaign after missing time over the 2021 and 2022 seasons. He can still convert speed to power off the edge. He’s a bit stiff in his hips and has lost some explosiveness after injuries but can be a solid rotational piece in a defensive line platoon.
Top free agent comparison: Sam Acho, 2018
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Bud Dupree | 54.0 | 59.3 | 7.3% | 64.8 | ? |
| Sam Acho | 56.1 | 60.4 | 7.8% | 64.1 | 1.6% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
151. S Mike Edwards, Kansas City Chiefs
Edwards seemingly always forces a turnover if the ball hits his hands. The former Tampa Bay Buccaneer carved out a solid role in a Chiefs secondary that utilized a lot of three-safety looks both before and after the loss of Bryan Cook.
Top free agent comparison: Tashaun Gipson, 2020
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Mike Edwards | 60.1 | 61.8 | 6.9% | 45.3 | ? |
| Tashaun Gipson | 59.9 | 63.0 | 9.8% | 61.4 | 1.4% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
152. CB Sean Murphy-Bunting, Tennessee Titans
Murphy-Bunting was thrust into a more prominent role in Tennessee and struggled to mirror the better receivers he was matched up with. He’s a solid athlete who could fit better in a zone-heavy scheme where he gets to come forward.
Top free agent comparison: Eli Apple, 2022
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Single coverage grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Sean Murphy-Bunting | 68.2 | 63.2 | 8.8% | 33.7 | ? |
| Eli Apple | 63.1 | 73.2 | 10.5% | 38.4 | 1.7% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
153. S Jeremy Chinn, Carolina Panthers
Chinn was not viewed as a fit in Ejiro Evero’s defense in 2023, and with the defensive coordinator retained, it appears the safety is on the way out. Chinn is a big hybrid safety/linebacker who also spent time in the nickel spot, and he is not afraid to make plays in the muck at or behind the line of scrimmage.
Top free agent comparison: Andrew Sendejo, 2016
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Jeremy Chinn | 57.2 | 56.4 | 8.3% | 52.0 | ? |
| Andrew Sendejo | 57.4 | 63.8 | 5.6% | 65.5 | 2.6% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
154. CB Emmanuel Moseley, Detroit Lions
Top free agent comparison: Ahkello Witherspoon, 2022
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Single coverage grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Emmanuel Moseley | 83.9 | 90.1 | 15.0% | 74.4 | ? |
| Ahkello Witherspoon | 78.5 | 88.2 | 14.3% | 89.7 | 1.9% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
155. G Jon Feliciano, San Francisco 49ers
Top free agent comparison: Graham Glasgow, 2023
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Positive run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Jon Feliciano | 66.1 | 57.3 | 11.9% | ? | |
| Graham Glasgow | 65.9 | 59.0 | 11.7% | 1.2% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
156. CB Myles Bryant, New England Patriots
Top free agent comparison: Brian Poole, 2019
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Single coverage grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Myles Bryant | 58.2 | 58.1 | 7.2% | 42.7 | ? |
| Brian Poole | 65.0 | 62.9 | 5.7% | 53.7 | 1.6% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
157. S Micah Hyde, Buffalo Bills
Analysis coming soon!
158. QB Tyrod Taylor, New York Giants
Top free agent comparison: Ryan Fitzpatrick, 2019
| Player | Clean pocket grade | 1st- & 2nd-down grade | Standard dropback grade | Sack rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Tyrod Taylor | 84.6 | 74.3 | 85.2 | 8.4% | ? |
| Ryan Fitzpatrick | 91.0 | 78.2 | 81.9 | 4.5% | 2.9% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
159. LB Cody Barton, Washington Commanders
Top free agent comparison: Nigel Bradham, 2016
| Player | Run-defense grade | Coverage grade in the box | Forced incompletion rate | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Cody Barton | 52.5 | 57.7 | 1.6% | 6.3% | ? |
| Nigel Bradham | 55.4 | 63.4 | 3.3% | 7.3% | 2.2% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
160. QB Sam Darnold, San Francisco 49ers
Analysis coming soon!
161. QB Drew Lock, Seattle Seahawks
Top free agent comparison: Kyle Allen, 2022
| Player | Clean pocket grade | 1st & 2nd down grade | Standard dropback grade | Sack rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Drew Lock | 65.1 | 50.7 | 62.9 | 7.1% | ? |
| Kyle Allen | 77.9 | 58.8 | 76.3 | 7.5% | 1.2% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
162. DI Kevin Givens, San Francisco 49ers
Top free agent comparison: Akeem Spence, 2017
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Kevin Givens | 64.6 | 69.3 | 8.2% | 35.7 | ? |
| Akeem Spence | 63.3 | 67.5 | 8.2% | 38.5 | 1.8% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
163. DI Bilal Nichols, Las Vegas Raiders
Top free agent comparison: Adam Butler, 2021
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Bilal Nichols | 61.4 | 69.1 | 7.7% | 46.9 | ? |
| Adam Butler | 62.9 | 62.5 | 5.7% | 52.8 | 2% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
164. DI Sebastian Joseph-Day, Los Angeles Chargers
Top free agent comparison: Tyson Alualu, 2017
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Sebastian Joseph-Day | 55.6 | 56.8 | 6.1% | 50.0 | ? |
| Tyson Alualu | 55.7 | 61.9 | 6.3% | 59.5 | 1.8% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
165. T Chukwuma Okorafor, Pittsburgh Steelers
Top free agent comparison: Germain Ifedi, 2021
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Negative run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Chukwuma Okorafor | 62.3 | 61.3 | 12.4% | ? | |
| Germain Ifedi | 64.7 | 65.6 | 16.5% | 2.3% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
166. EDGE Yannick Ngakoue, Chicago Bears
Top free agent comparison: Bud Dupree, 2023
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Yannick Ngakoue | 50.8 | 55.1 | 6.0% | 37.3 | ? |
| Bud Dupree | 57.3 | 59.1 | 7.3% | 56.0 | 1.3% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
167. LB Zach Cunningham, Philadelphia Eagles
Top free agent comparison: Denzel Perryman, 2023
| Player | Run-defense grade | Coverage grade in the box | Forced incompletion rate | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Zach Cunningham | 64.9 | 70.9 | 7.5% | 9.5% | ? |
| Denzel Perryman | 78.5 | 63.4 | 2.8% | 11.1% | 1.1% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
168. CB Ahkello Witherspoon, Los Angeles Rams
Analysis coming soon!
169. EDGE Clelin Ferrell, San Francisco 49ers
Top free agent comparison: Tyquan Lewis, 2022
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Clelin Ferrell | 59.8 | 61.6 | 9.4% | 51.3 | ? |
| Tyquan Lewis | 62.5 | 64.7 | 10.2% | 65.4 | 1.2% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
170. T Andrus Peat, New Orleans Saints
Top free agent comparison: Andre Smith, 2016
| Player | Pass-block grade | True pass set pass-block grade | Negative run-block grade percentage | APY as % of Cap at signing | |
| Andrus Peat | 49.0 | 37.7 | 12.7% | ? | |
| Andre Smith | 64.6 | 53.8 | 12.8% | 1.9% | |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
171. WR Cedrick Wilson Jr., Miami Dolphins
Top free agent comparison: Seth Roberts, 2019
| Player | Receiving grade | Yards per route run | Average depth of target | Yards after catch per reception | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Cedrick Wilson | 66.4 | 1.07 | 11.4 | 3.3 | ? |
| Seth Roberts | 57.4 | 1.11 | 9.4 | 3.8 | 1% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
172. EDGE Romeo Okwara, Detroit Lions
Top free agent comparison: Efe Obada, 2023
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Romeo Okwara | 60.6 | 64.0 | 8.6% | 61.4 | ? |
| Efe Obada | 63.5 | 63.0 | 9.1% | 47.9 | 0.9% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
173. DI Adam Butler, Las Vegas Raiders
Top free agent comparison: Hassan Ridgeway, 2023
| Player | Pass-rush grade | True pass set pass-rush grade | Pass-rush win rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Adam Butler | 70.2 | 72.6 | 9.2% | 39.4 | ? |
| Hassan Ridgeway | 65.0 | 66.5 | 7.5% | 33.9 | 1.4% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
174. QB Tyler Huntley, Baltimore Ravens
Top free agent comparison: N/A
| Player | Clean pocket grade | 1st- & 2nd-down grade | Standard dropback grade | Sack rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Tyler Huntley | 59.2 | 53.7 | 60.8 | 6.0% | ? |
| N/A | – | – | – | – | – |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
175. CB Ronald Darby, Baltimore Ravens
Top free agent comparison: Rashaan Melvin, 2019
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Single coverage grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Ronald Darby | 74.5 | 66.5 | 13.8% | 62.1 | ? |
| Rashaan Melvin | 67.3 | 67.0 | 12.2% | 64.3 | 1.1% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
176. S Jayron Kearse, Dallas Cowboys
Top free agent comparison: N/A
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Jayron Kearse | 45.3 | 53.9 | 6.1% | 66.2 | ? |
| N/A | – | – | – | – | – |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
177. S Brandon Jones, Miami Dolphins
Top free agent comparison: Clayton Geathers, 2019
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Run-defense grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Brandon Jones | 61.4 | 71.6 | 7.0% | 71.8 | ? |
| Clayton Geathers | 64.9 | 70.7 | 6.0% | 71.9 | 1.4% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
178. CB Dane Jackson, Buffalo Bills
Top free agent comparison: Davon House, 2017
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Single coverage grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Dane Jackson | 61.4 | 66.8 | 14.5% | 49.9 | ? |
| Davon House | 60.1 | 66.3 | 15.6% | 52.6 | 1.7% |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
179. CB Jourdan Lewis, Dallas Cowboys
Top free agent comparison: N/A
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Single coverage grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Jourdan Lewis | 48.9 | 53.2 | 3.9% | 42.1 | ? |
| N/A | – | – | – | – | – |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
180. LB Sione Takitaki, Cleveland Browns
Top free agent comparison: N/A
| Player | Run-defense grade | Coverage grade in the box | Forced incompletion rate | Run-stop rate | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Sione Takitaki | 68.2 | 65.0 | 5.1% | 5.7% | ? |
| N/A | – | – | – | – | – |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
181. CB Kristian Fulton, Tennessee Titans
Top free agent comparison: N/A
| Player | Coverage grade w/ no pressure | Cov. grade on throws in ≤ 3s | Forced incompletion rate | Single coverage grade | APY as % of Cap at signing |
| Kristian Fulton | 55.2 | 66.7 | 6.4% | 28.3 | ? |
| N/A | – | – | – | – | – |
*All data in tables reflects two years prior to UFA contract signing
Contract projection: Available in PFF's free agency rankings
182. CB Amik Robertson, Las Vegas Raiders
Analysis coming soon!
183. WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Kansas City Chiefs
Analysis coming soon!
184. DI Poona Ford, Buffalo Bills
Analysis coming soon!
185. LB Anthony Walker Jr., Cleveland Browns
Analysis coming soon!
186. CB Jeff Okudah, Atlanta Falcons
Analysis coming soon!
187. LB Shaquille Leonard, Philadelphia Eagles
Analysis coming soon!
188. S Taylor Rapp, Buffalo Bills
Analysis coming soon!
189. DI Justin Jones, Chicago Bears
Analysis coming soon!
190. WR Braxton Berrios, Miami Dolphins
Analysis coming soon!
191. DI Solomon Thomas, New York Jets
Analysis coming soon!
192. S Jalen Mills, New England Patriots
Analysis coming soon!
193. LB Denzel Perryman, Houston Texans
Analysis coming soon!
194. CB Rock Ya-Sin, Baltimore Ravens
Analysis coming soon!
195. WR Donovan Peoples-Jones, Detroit Lions
Analysis coming soon!
196. WR Mack Hollins, Atlanta Falcons
Analysis coming soon!
197. T Yosh Nijman, Green Bay Packers
Analysis coming soon!
198. RB D'Onta Foreman, Chicago Bears
Analysis coming soon!
199. EDGE Jerry Hughes, Houston Texans
Analysis coming soon!
200. RB Antonio Gibson, Washington Commanders
Analysis coming soon!
201. EDGE Markus Golden, Pittsburgh Steelers
Analysis coming soon!
202. QB Josh Dobbs, Minnesota Vikings
Analysis coming soon!
203. LB Isaiah Simmons, New York Giants
Analysis coming soon!
204. CB Michael Davis, Los Angeles Chargers
Analysis coming soon!
205. DI Taven Bryan, Indianapolis Colts
Analysis coming soon!
206. EDGE Rasheem Green, Chicago Bears
Analysis coming soon!
207. EDGE Charles Harris, Detroit Lions
Analysis coming soon!
208. QB Mason Rudolph, Pittsburgh Steelers
Analysis coming soon!
209. S Kevin Byard, Philadelphia Eagles
Analysis coming soon!
210. S Eddie Jackson, Chicago Bears
Analysis coming soon!
METHODOLOGY
Using PFF's extensive database of both player performance and contract information, we aim to provide important context for every 2024 NFL free agent's situation this offseason.
That includes comprehensive position market data spanning the past decade and research to identify stable PFF performance metrics that do the best job of predicting a player’s future performance based on past results. From that data, we will identify one or multiple comparison players from the 2013-2023 unrestricted free agent classes that may inform how an upcoming free agent’s market may shape up. These comparisons may not be perfect from a style of play standpoint, akin to a comparable player for a draft guide, but we will discuss these differences in the accompanying write-ups where necessary.
We will filter by other factors such as age, height, weight, alignment on the field/how the players are generally deployed and injury history, among others. There are always other variables at play that may influence where a contract ultimately ends up, but we will be sure to do our best to highlight these instances and how they have altered our projections.
Finally, we will then focus more of our written work on a player’s film — traits, strengths, weaknesses, etc. — as well as potential scheme fits and landing spots. Our goal is to provide the most complete picture for each player, closer to a pro scouting report than ever before, with the best data in football putting us over the edge.
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