2025 NFL Top Free Agents Rankings: Post-Franchise Tag Deadline Projections

Last month, we talked through the top free agents and what to expect as they prepare to hit the market. With franchise tags, contract extensions and players cut, let’s revisit our 2025 free agents and reset expectations.

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2025 NFL Top Free Agents Rankings

Quarterbacks

The Rams have openly floated trading anyone and everyone, but Matt Stafford will stay put with a new contract. Post-combine, the incoming rookie quarterback class remains underwhelming. Quarterback-needy teams will secure a veteran quarterback before the draft. 

Is Sam Darnold the top quarterback on the market?

The playoff loss was a disaster. In Darnold’s defense, Minnesota’s offensive line was undermatched, and the Rams’ defensive line might be on the cusp of greatness. However, it was still a reality check that Darnold isn’t a true franchise quarterback, but he still warrants a starting job for a team that drafts a developmental quarterback and can use Darnold as a multi-year bridge. 

Which veteran is more appealing - Aaron Rodgers or Kirk Cousins?

Cousins was visually hampered in 2024, but two years removed from the injury, Cousins could return to his Minnesota form. Rodgers, on the other hand, recovered well from his Achilles injury and still has some juice. However, that juice comes with extra drama. Provided Rodgers doesn’t require the team to sign five of his closest friends, teams will likely lean towards Rodgers over Cousins.

Running Backs

Good news! Saquon Barkley got paid and reset the market for running backs!

Bad news! Saquon Barkley got paid and reset the market for none of these running backs.

If you’ve been following my draft coverage, you know I’m in love with the 2025 running back class. Teams may opt to save cash and simply draft from the ample talent pool, and young backs looking to cash in on a multi-year deal could be in for a rude awakening. 

Why sign Najee Harris when we’ve got five Najee Harrises in the draft?

Harris has shown strong reliability and is a true workhorse back, but in a league where speed and elusivity have become the standard, Harris feels a bit antiquated. His dependability and relative youth make him the clear top back in free agency. However, I wouldn’t be shocked if Harris finds himself in a committee. 

Is JK Dobbins the hidden gem?

In a perfect world, Dobbins is the premiere back in this group. Unfortunately, there’s still a significant injury risk associated with Dobbins. He won’t get the biggest contract, but he could easily find himself in the best opportunity from a fantasy perspective.

Wide receivers

Now the top target, is Chris Godwin out of Tampa?

Tee Higgins is officially franchise tagged, leaving Chris Godwin as the most coveted receiver in free agency. Last month, I discussed the likelihood of Tampa retaining Godwin. Now, Godwin is garnering serious attention from other teams. I still lean toward Godwin staying in Tampa, but this is a situation to monitor closely. 

Fresh off the chopping block - where does Davante Adams sit in free agency?

If Godwin stays in Tampa, Adams is the clear next man up in free agency. 32 years old isn’t ideal, but Adams is still one of the best in the game and has a wide range of landing spots. It’s important to note that Adams clearly wants to win but isn’t necessarily chasing another Super Bowl. His desires seem very location-based and situational.

***Note: While Higgins is tagged, that’s not a guarantee he plays in Cincinnati this year.

Tight Ends

• Still *Crickets*

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