We are just a few weeks away from the start of NFL free agency, which kicks off on March 13 at 4 p.m. ET. However, teams will have the opportunity to negotiate with free agents two days earlier, starting on March 11 at 12 p.m. ET, during the legal tampering window before the official start of the new league year.
The 2024 salary cap has yet to be determined, but sources predict it will exceed $240 million. This means that many NFL teams will have to make moves in the coming month to build their 2024 rosters.
Our editors at NFL Wire have identified one pending free agent for each team that they believe would improve their roster. Players like Chris Jones, Tee Higgins, Brian Burns, and Danielle Hunter are expected to be in high demand.
The Arizona Cardinals have significant needs on defense at multiple positions. They require defensive linemen, pass rushers, linebackers, and cornerbacks. While they may be set at safety unless they trade Budda Baker, their lack of a pass rush was evident in the last season. Adding a player like Young, who showed consistency with the 49ers in 2023, would be a cost-effective solution to bolster their pass rush.
The Atlanta Falcons are in need of a quarterback, but instead of pursuing free agents like Baker Mayfield or Kirk Cousins, they should focus on improving their defense. With uncertainty surrounding Jeff Okudah’s future, signing someone like L’Jarius Sneed would make sense. Sneed’s versatility and impressive stats over the past four seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs could elevate Atlanta’s secondary in 2024.
The Baltimore Ravens have the league’s top rushing attack, and adding a star free agent running back like Derrick Henry could take their offense to the next level. While it may be a risky move, Henry’s track record as a four-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro speaks for itself. His ability to carry the load and consistently produce yards would be a valuable asset for quarterback Lamar Jackson and the Ravens.
The Buffalo Bills would love to acquire players like Mike Evans or Tee Higgins, but their salary cap situation limits their options. It’s likely that Gabe Davis will leave in free agency, so drafting a wide receiver and considering someone like Calvin Ridley would be a more realistic approach. Ridley’s explosive playmaking ability would provide the offensive spark that Buffalo lacked in the latter part of the 2023 season.
The Carolina Panthers are in the midst of a proper rebuild under new head coach Dave Canales. While they may be tempted to make big moves in free agency, they should prioritize keeping standout defenders Brian Burns and Derrick Brown. However, if Tee Higgins becomes available, he would be a valuable addition to their receiving corps, providing young quarterback Bryce Young with a reliable No. 1 wide receiver.
The Chicago Bears need to bolster their edge rushing position opposite Montez Sweat. With a shallow draft class for edge rushers, they should turn to free agency for a veteran like Brian Burns or Danielle Hunter. Hunter, in particular, has garnered high praise from the Bears organization and would form a dominant duo with Sweat. Despite turning 30 next season, Hunter has shown no signs of decline and would greatly enhance the Bears’ defense.
The Cincinnati Bengals should prioritize signing Chris Jones if he becomes available. The defensive line struggled as the 2023 season progressed, exposing the team’s young secondary. Additionally, star interior defender DJ Reader’s injury further highlights the need for a game-altering player like Jones. Despite his age, Jones’ impact on the field and ability to line up in multiple positions would be a valuable asset for the Bengals.
The Cleveland Browns have never invested heavily in the linebacker position, but the injury history of Anthony Walker Jr. has taken a toll on the team. Pairing Walker with Jordyn Brooks, an underrated and disciplined linebacker, would provide stability and solidify the Browns’ defense. This move would round out their defensive overhaul over the past two seasons under new head coach Mike MacDonald.
The Dallas Cowboys should make a big splash in free agency by adding Chris Jones to their defensive line. Jones would strengthen their run defense and provide additional pass rush support for new defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer. While it may require some financial maneuvering, Jones’ championship pedigree and impact on the field would be a significant addition for the Cowboys.
The Denver Broncos are expected to release quarterback Russell Wilson and will likely seek competition for Jarrett Stidham if they part ways with Wilson. Jameis Winston would be a perfect fit to reunite with head coach Sean Payton. Winston’s previous success under Payton in 2021, combined with his affordability as a short-term option, would benefit the Broncos. He could also mentor a young prospect if the team decides to draft a quarterback in April.
The Detroit Lions have a promising young pass rusher in Aidan Hutchinson, but their defense requires a speedy complement on the opposite side. Brian Burns has proven to be a consistent stand-up pass rusher, and his addition would solidify the Lions’ defense. At just 25 years old, Burns would be a building block for the Lions and provide a formidable pass-rushing duo for years to come.
The Green Bay Packers have a pressing need at safety, and signing Kyle Fuller would be an ideal solution. Fuller has started 46 games over his first four NFL seasons and has experience playing safety under new defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley at Ohio State. His tackling ability, run defense, and overall reliability would make him a valuable addition to the Packers’ defense.
The Houston Texans are often mentioned as a potential landing spot for marquee free agent running backs, but they already have a talented back in Devin Singletary. Singletary’s performance over a 17-game season suggests that he can be a 1,000+ yard rusher, especially with a healthier offensive line in 2024. However, the Texans should focus on improving their front seven, and signing linebacker Frankie Luv would be a natural fit. Luv’s versatility and impressive stats with the Carolina Panthers make him an ideal partner for Christian Harris, creating a formidable linebacker duo.
The Indianapolis Colts typically don’t make big splashes in free agency, but signing Darnell Mooney would be a low-risk, high-reward move. Mooney’s deep-threat abilities would mesh well with offensive coordinator Shane Steichen’s system. Despite his smaller stature, Mooney’s speed and separation skills were evident in his 2021 season with 81 receptions for 1,055 yards. He has the potential to become an impact player and would provide a solid receiving corps for young quarterback Anthony Richardson.
The Jacksonville Jaguars need to address their offensive line, and Tyler Biadasz would be an excellent addition. Biadasz has been a multi-year starter and made the Pro Bowl in 2022. His presence would significantly upgrade the Jaguars’ interior offensive line, which struggled with inconsistency. Starting with Biadasz would be a positive step in rebuilding the offensive line.
The Kansas City Chiefs have a glaring need at wide receiver, and Tee Higgins would be a substantial upgrade. Higgins may not be a household name, but his consistency with the Cincinnati Bengals has proven valuable. Pairing him with Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs’ talented offensive roster would provide an additional boost to their Super Bowl aspirations.
The Las Vegas Raiders may lose Andre James in free agency, making it crucial for them to strengthen the center position. Tyler Biadasz would be an ideal replacement, as he is a proven multi-year starter with Pro Bowl experience. His addition would solidify the Raiders’ offensive line and provide stability in the middle.
The Los Angeles Chargers are placing a strong emphasis on improving their running game under head coach Mike McDaniel. Gus Edwards, who played under McDaniel during his time as the Ravens’ play-caller, would be a perfect fit. Edwards has consistently averaged at least five yards per carry and had his most productive season in 2023. Adding Edwards would bolster the Chargers’ ground game and contribute to their offensive development.
The Los Angeles Rams are in desperate need of an edge rusher, and signing Nick Bosa would be a game-changer. Bosa’s talent and potential availability make him an enticing option for the Rams. At just 25 years old, he has the athleticism and explosiveness to significantly improve their defense. Pairing Bosa with Aaron Donald would create a formidable defensive front.
The Miami Dolphins have struggled to find a tight end who can both block and threaten as a pass-catcher. Dalton Schultz’s impressive performance with the Dallas Cowboys makes him an ideal candidate. With more receiving yards and touchdowns than Durham Smythe, Schultz would provide a much-needed boost to Miami’s offense. However, the Dolphins’ salary cap situation will determine their ability to pursue Schultz.
The Minnesota Vikings lacked consistency on the defensive line in the 2023 season. Pairing Harrison Phillips with Christian Wilkins would address this issue and provide explosive players on the interior. Wilkins’ previous experience with Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores during their time with the Miami Dolphins makes him a natural fit. Regardless of Danielle Hunter’s future with the Vikings, adding players like Wilkins is crucial for their defensive improvement.
The New England Patriots have historically not prioritized elite wide receivers, but signing Tee Higgins would be a statement move. This would dispel the notion that the Patriots are unwilling to invest in premium offensive talent. Higgins’ deep-threat abilities would inject much-needed excitement into their offense and provide a legitimate No. 1 receiver for young quarterback Mac Jones.
The New Orleans Saints have a pressing need for a pass rusher, and Danielle Hunter would be an excellent addition. Hunter’s potential availability in free agency presents a golden opportunity for the Saints. Despite the risks associated with signing a 29-year-old defender, Hunter’s track record and impact on the field make him a valuable asset. His ability to generate sacks would greatly enhance the Saints’ defense.
The New York Giants must address their offensive line, particularly the interior. Signing Kevin Dotson would be a significant upgrade over their current options. Dotson’s performance with the Pittsburgh Steelers has showcased his ability as a reliable pass protector. His addition would improve the Giants’ offensive line and provide better protection for their quarterback.
The New York Jets need to add firepower to their offense, and signing Mike Evans would be a game-changer. Evans’ consistent production and ability to stretch the field would greatly benefit the Jets’ offense. Pairing him with Garrett Wilson and Aaron Rodgers would provide a much-needed spark to their passing game.
The Philadelphia Eagles need to bolster their pass rush, and signing Brian Burns would be a perfect replacement for Haason Reddick. Burns’ impressive stats and impact on the field make him an attractive option for the Eagles. His addition would provide a younger and more athletic version of Reddick, solidifying their pass rush and complementing their emerging defensive stars.
The Pittsburgh Steelers must find a quarterback to replace the departing Kenny Pickett. Ryan Tannehill would be an ideal fit in offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s system. Tannehill’s success under Smith during their time together in Tennessee demonstrates their compatibility. His addition would maximize the Steelers’ offensive potential and provide stability during the transition period.
The San Francisco 49ers have limited salary cap space, but signing linebacker Fred Warner would be a priority. Warner’s familiarity with the 49ers’ defense and his ability to fill in for the injured Dre Greenlaw make him an ideal short-term replacement. He could also serve as a long-term option if Greenlaw leaves in free agency after the 2024 season.
The Seattle Seahawks should pursue Trent Brown to address their offensive line needs. Brown’s size and experience at both tackle positions make him an attractive option. Pairing him with a promising young tackle from the draft and moving current tackles inside to guard would be a quick fix for the Seahawks’ offensive line.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers need to improve their interior offensive line play to bolster their rushing attack. Signing Dalton Risner would be a cost-effective solution to address this need. Risner’s consistency and reliability would significantly upgrade the Buccaneers’ interior offensive line, improving their run game and overall offensive performance.
The Tennessee Titans must upgrade their center position after Aaron Brewer’s struggles in pass protection. Lloyd Cushenberry would be an ideal addition, providing a substantial improvement over Brewer. Cushenberry’s solid pass-blocking skills and overall performance make him a valuable asset for the Titans.
The Washington Commanders have multiple needs to address in free agency, starting with the offensive line. Signing Jonah Williams would be a significant step in improving their right tackle position. Williams’ experience and versatility as a left tackle would make him an ideal fit for the Commanders. This move would provide stability on the offensive line and allow them to focus on finding a left tackle in the draft.
According to the Source touchdownwire.usatoday.com